Contentious Wild Horse Gather Awaits Ruling

Ranchers and horse advocates are eagerly awaiting a judge's decision on whether 186 wild horses, gathered amid a controversial roundup, will be released back onto the range. This decision follows a tense situation involving the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and local stakeholders.

The BLM recently gathered over 420 horses from the Fish Creek Herd Management Area, located southwest of Eureka. Of these, 186 horses were treated with fertility control and were initially set to be released back into the wild. However, ranchers and Eureka County filed an appeal with the Interior Board of Land Appeals, arguing that the appeal necessitates an automatic 30-day stay on the BLM's decision.

Eureka County Sheriff Keith Logan expressed concerns about overcrowding, noting that the BLM had set the appropriate management level cap at 170 horses in the area. Despite the BLM's insistence on their right to return the horses to the range, they eventually agreed to hold the horses in short-term facilities until the issue is resolved.

Logan mentioned that BLM rangers were present to maintain peace, although he described the ranchers as calm and cooperative. In contrast, horse advocate Laura Leigh, who was present at the gathering, reported that ranchers were angry and vocal towards BLM staff. Leigh argued that a full force and effect record of decision had been signed, which she believes nullifies the stay.

Leigh criticized the decision not to release the horses, calling it "short-sighted." She emphasized that fertility control is a crucial strategy for range conservation, especially during ongoing drought conditions. Leigh remains hopeful that the horses will soon return to the range, as their current placement in short-term holding facilities occupies space needed for horses from more critical areas.

In a related incident, an alleged death threat was made to a rancher by an out-of-state horse advocate, as reported by Logan. Authorities are investigating the threat, which has been referred to federal agencies. Additionally, the postmaster has been alerted to watch for suspicious packages.

A decision from the Interior Board of Land Appeals is anticipated in the coming weeks.

Original Posted By Elko Daily Free Press