Established in 1950 by three dedicated and enthusiastic cowboys and ranchers, the Northwest Cutting Horse Association began with a grand vision that encompasses the goal and purpose of the association even today, over 50 years later. With the promotion of the cutting horse as it's focus and purpose, the association has benefited from tremendous growth and popularity of the sport.

NWCHA is one of 110 affiliates of the National Cutting Horse Association, which has members of close to 16,000. NCHA has played a key role in standardizing the contest rules and provided an avenue to certify judges for NCHA approved contests.

Members of the NWCHA can qualify for the NCHA Western National Championships, qualify for the NWCHA year end awards by competing at the many NWCHA approved shows throughout the Northwest, competing in the Ranch Festival & Aged Event held in August and receive an annual subscription to the RoundUp, NWCHA's official newsletter.