Deadline on Wild Horses Passes Without Action

After setting a deadline of July 1 for the federal government to address the overpopulation of wild horses, Iron and Beaver County commissioners have opted to collaborate with Rep. Chris Stewart. This decision marks a shift from their initial stance of taking independent action.

The conflict began in April when the commissioners threatened to manage the wild horse herds themselves if the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) proceeded with rounding up Cliven Bundy's cattle. Bundy, a rancher, has a long-standing dispute with the federal government over grazing rights on public lands in Nevada.

Despite previous ultimatums, the commissioners recently met with key figures in Washington D.C., facilitated by Rep. Stewart. This meeting led them to realize the necessity of pursuing a legislative solution through Congress.

Beaver County Commissioner Mark Whitney emphasized the importance of adhering to the law, even if they believe the federal government has violated the Wild Horse and Burro Act. This act, passed in 1971, mandates the BLM to manage horse populations at appropriate levels.

“Just because they’ve broken the law, doesn’t mean we’re going to do the same thing,” Whitney said. “Two wrongs don’t make a right. And they have the right to arrest us if they think we broke the law — we don’t have the right to arrest them if we think they have.”

While the commissioners assert their right under Utah law to manage the horses for public safety, they acknowledge the federal government's differing interpretation.

Commissioner Dave Miller advocates for working with Stewart's office and applying pressure on the federal government. Stewart plans to propose a bill transferring wild horse management to the states, though Miller notes the need for federal assistance during a transition period due to the high costs of horse roundups.

Miller also highlights conflicting directives given to the BLM, which complicate effective management. The commissioners remain vigilant in monitoring range conditions, which they consider critical.

For more details, visit the original article by The Spectrum.