Black Hills Wild Horse Sanctuary: A Dream Realized
When Susan Watt, Executive Director of the Black Hills Wild Horse Sanctuary, moved from Florida to South Dakota 28 years ago, she embarked on a journey that would help realize Dayton O. Hyde's dream of creating a sanctuary for wild horses. Today, the sanctuary stands as a testament to their dedication and passion for preserving these majestic creatures.
Hyde's Vision
Dayton O. Hyde, a veteran and former rodeo cowboy, was inspired to create a sanctuary after witnessing wild horses in government pens. His love for horses and desire to see them free led him to Washington, D.C., where he worked tirelessly to establish a haven for them.
“I owed these horses something,” Hyde has said. “All my life as a rancher I’ve been riding mustangs, training them, using them. I needed the horses, but some part of me always hated to pull them in from their freedom.”
Hyde's efforts culminated in the creation of the Institute of Range and the American Mustang (IRAM) and the acquisition of 8,300 acres of prairie land in South Dakota, where the first wild horses were released in 1988.
Challenges and Growth
The early days of the sanctuary were challenging, with financial struggles and concerns about the Bureau of Land Management reclaiming the horses. However, through community support and strategic partnerships, the sanctuary expanded, acquiring additional land and resources to support the growing herd.
Films like Crazy Horse and Hidalgo brought attention to the sanctuary, boosting tourism and income. Today, it spans approximately 14,000 acres and is a top tourist destination in Hot Springs.
Susan Watt's Journey
Susan Watt's path to the sanctuary was as remarkable as Hyde's. After personal tragedies, she sought a new direction and found it at the sanctuary. Her dedication and hands-on approach have been instrumental in its success.
Watt focuses on maintaining the habitat, showcasing wild horses to the public, and fostering economic development through tourism. Her efforts have created a healing environment where people and horses thrive together.
For more information about the sanctuary, visit the website http://www.wildmustangs.com/.