Arizona Aims to Cull Salt River Wild Horses Amid Growing Protests

By Staff Reporter |

The Arizona Department of Agriculture (AZDA) has announced plans to reduce the population of Salt River wild horses, prompting widespread concern from animal advocates. This decision faces opposition due to protections established under the Salt River Wild Horse Protection Act, enacted in 2016. The law, signed by former Governor Doug Ducey, explicitly forbids actions such as harassment, injury, or killing of these horses without proper authorization.

Critics argue that AZDA’s outlined strategy for the removal of these wild horses contradicts humane treatment mandated by the law. The department’s recent request for proposals (RFP) seeks a management company to implement immediate removal, aiming to bring the population down to about 100 horses by adopting out three horses for every new foal. Currently, fewer than 300 horses reside along the Salt River.

The Salt River Wild Horse Management Group (SRWHMG) currently oversees the herd and has expressed disagreement with the AZDA’s removal approach. Despite this, SRWHMG has applied for the new RFP, preparing to establish a sanctuary for the horses if awarded the contract. Previously, the group utilized humane methods such as birth control, resulting in a significant population decrease from 460 in 2016 to approximately 260 today.

SRWHMG President Simone Netherlands raised concerns about the challenges of adopting out wild horses, noting the difficulties in finding suitable homes capable of meeting their needs. “Even if you adopt a horse out, it’s very hard to find good adopters for completely wild horses,” she remarked, emphasizing the ideal living conditions they currently enjoy.

In defense of its strategy, AZDA stated that immediate action is necessary for effective resource management in the area. “The humane management of the herd, including population reduction to match the available resources, is an ongoing effort,” an AZDA spokesperson noted.

Public sentiment remains strong against the removals, with many fearing the future well-being of the horses. Protesters are particularly concerned about the potential fate of removed horses under a competing management bid, recalling distressing past instances where horses were sent to slaughter auctions.