Wild Horse News, Updates, Events & Opportunities
There are many ongoing issues and events surrounding wild horses in the United States. Here are some of the latest news and updates on wild horse issues, as well as upcoming events and opportunities for people to get involved in advocacy efforts.
News and Updates:
In March 2021, the Biden administration announced that it was reviewing the previous administration’s policies on wild horse management. This review could potentially lead to changes in policy and more protections for wild horses on public lands.
In April 2021, a federal court in Montana ruled that the BLM’s plan to remove 1,500 wild horses from public lands violated federal law. The ruling highlights the need for more effective and humane management practices for wild horse populations.
In May 2021, the Safeguard American Food Exports (SAFE) Act was reintroduced in Congress. This bipartisan bill aims to permanently ban the slaughter of horses for human consumption in the United States and prohibit the export of American horses for slaughter abroad. If passed, this legislation will significantly impact the fate of wild horses, ensuring their protection from slaughter.
In June 2021, the House of Representatives passed a spending bill that includes language that would prevent the BLM from using funds to conduct sterilization experiments on wild horses. The language is a response to a controversial plan by the BLM to sterilize wild mares using a surgical procedure.
In July 2021, a federal judge in Nevada issued a preliminary injunction that halted a BLM roundup of wild horses in the Caliente Complex. The injunction was issued in response to a lawsuit filed by wild horse advocates who argued that the roundup would have been inhumane and unnecessary.
The ongoing drought in the western United States is posing a significant threat to wild horse populations, as it limits their access to food and water. Many advocacy groups are working to raise awareness about the issue and to promote conservation efforts that can help protect wild horses and their habitats.
In July, 2021 The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) announced new plans to increase fertility control measures and improve the adoption and sale program to address overpopulation issues. These plans aim to balance ecological health with the well-being of wild horse herds.
Upcoming Events and Opportunities:
Significant Events
1. National Wild Horse and Burro Advisory Board Meeting
The National Wild Horse and Burro Advisory Board held its biannual meeting in September 2021. Key topics included fertility control, adoption programs, and strategies to reduce the number of horses in holding facilities. The board’s recommendations continue to influence policy and management practices.
2. Wild Horse Roundups
Several high-profile wild horse roundups took place in 2021 and 2022. These roundups, often controversial, aim to manage populations and prevent overgrazing on public lands. Notable roundups include those in the Antelope Complex in Nevada and the Sand Wash Basin in Colorado. Advocacy groups have voiced concerns about the impact of these roundups on horse welfare and have called for more humane management practices.
Conservation and Advocacy Efforts
1. Wild Horse Sanctuary Projects
New sanctuary projects have been launched to provide safe havens for wild horses. In 2022, the American Wild Horse Campaign (AWHC) announced the establishment of a new wild horse sanctuary in Nevada. This sanctuary aims to provide a natural habitat for horses removed from public lands, ensuring their well-being and preserving their freedom.
2. Educational and Advocacy Campaigns
Various organizations have intensified their efforts to educate the public and advocate for wild horse protection. The AWHC and the Cloud Foundation have launched campaigns to raise awareness about the plight of wild horses and promote humane management practices. These campaigns include public outreach, social media initiatives, and lobbying for legislative changes.
Opportunities for Involvement
1. Adoption and Fostering Programs
The BLM and several non-profit organizations continue to offer adoption and fostering programs for wild horses. These programs provide an opportunity for individuals to give a wild horse a second chance at life. Potential adopters and fosters can attend events such as the Wild Horse and Burro Adoption and Expo, held annually in various locations.
2. Volunteer Opportunities
Numerous organizations offer volunteer opportunities for those passionate about wild horse conservation. Volunteers can participate in activities such as habitat restoration, monitoring wild horse herds, and assisting with educational programs. Organizations like the AWHC and Return to Freedom welcome volunteers to support their missions.
3. Advocacy and Fundraising
Advocacy groups encourage the public to get involved by supporting legislative efforts, participating in advocacy campaigns, and contributing to fundraising initiatives. Donations to organizations like the AWHC, the Cloud Foundation, and the Wild Horse Education help fund vital programs and legal efforts to protect wild horses.
Conclusion
Since March 2021, the wild horse community has witnessed significant developments, events, and opportunities for involvement. Legislative efforts, policy changes, and conservation projects continue to shape the future of America’s wild horses. By staying informed and getting involved, individuals can contribute to the protection and preservation of these iconic animals, ensuring their legacy for generations to come.