Arizona Officials Push for Reduced Wild Horse Population at the Salt River: ‘It’d Be Devastating’

The management group overseeing the Salt River Wild Horses has raised concerns over a proposal from the State Department of Agriculture to drastically reduce the wild horse population, potentially removing more than 100 animals.

MESA, Ariz. — Tubing along the Salt River has long included sightings of these wild horses, but that experience may soon change. The Salt River Wild Horse Management Group claims that the Department of Agriculture aims to cut the population significantly, stirring alarm among horse advocates.

Simone Netherlands, founder and president of the salt river management group, expressed her dismay at the proposal. She emphasized the organization’s commitment since 2018 to protect the horses through a contract with the state. This non-profit relies on about 100 volunteers who monitor the horse population and manage their welfare, utilizing methods like fertility control to maintain a balance.

Currently, Netherlands estimates there are approximately 280 wild horses along the river. Their strategies have successfully decreased annual foal births from 100 to just two, an achievement she feels prevented an overpopulation crisis.

Despite these efforts, Netherlands now faces uncertainty. With her contract nearing expiration, the state is pushing for a reduction in the herd size, proposing to remove three horses for every new foal born. She fears that if her group is not re-contracted, future management may not prioritize humane practices.

“It would be devastating if we couldn’t manage these wild horses humanely anymore,” she stated, highlighting concerns about the potential for horses being sold for profit instead of treated with care.

Netherlands warned that reducing the population to around 100 horses would leave them vulnerable to extinction. Amidst this pressing issue, some advocates for the horses are calling for enhanced transparency in how the animals are cared for.

Dr. John Mack from the Wild Horses Transition Team emphasized the need for collaborative input on management strategies. “We just think there’s a better way to do it, positive, working together,” he remarked, advocating for a holistic approach.

Though not opposed to managing the horse population, Mack expressed concerns about the land availability for the horses in the future. He noted the impact of wild horses on local vegetation, which in turn affects other wildlife. His perspective diverges from Netherlands’, yet both agree on the necessity of finding a sustainable solution.

As the Salt River Wild Horse Management group’s contract approaches its end, discussions about the future of these revered animals intensify. Netherlands has even considered relocating some horses to a 34-acre sanctuary, mindful of the need for a balanced compromise with the state.