BLM Evaluates Wild Horse Sanctuary Proposal in Nevada

Federal land managers are evaluating a proposal to establish a wild horse ecosanctuary over 820 square miles in northeast Nevada. This plan addresses various issues, including the impact on neighboring mustangs, livestock, wildlife, fencing, water supplies, and the local economy.

The U.S. Bureau of Land Management (BLM) has released a 228-page public scoping document to develop alternatives for the proposed Northeast Nevada Wild Horse Ecosanctuary. This initiative, led by Madeline Pickens and her group Saving America's Mustangs, aims to offer visitors an up-close experience with free-roaming mustangs while supporting the local economy.

Many commenters agree that the current BLM horse management policy is ineffective. The ecosanctuary could become a vacation destination, potentially boosting the local economy by millions of dollars. However, ranchers express concerns about possible reductions in livestock grazing.

Public comments reveal a divide: some believe BLM limits wild horse populations excessively, while others advocate for their removal due to ecological damage. Suggestions include reducing wild horses in holding facilities and livestock grazing, though the latter raises concerns about economic impacts on ranchers.

"No big surprises," said Terri Dobis, BLM project manager based in Elko. "A lot of it already was on our radar, but we wanted to make sure we don't miss anything," she added.

Pickens proposes the ecosanctuary stretch in Elko County, from 25 miles south of Wells on U.S. Interstate 80 to near the Utah border along U.S. Highway 93-A. The project requires amending the agency's Resource Management Plan, dating back to 1985. BLM officials are developing alternatives for a draft environmental impact statement, estimated to cost $872,000.

The BLM aims to decide on the ecosanctuary by spring 2014. Regardless of the outcome, the plan must address the rising costs of managing the wild horse program and the inefficiencies of the current system.

Link to BLM Scoping Report here.

Originally Posted By The Associated Press