County and Federal Officials Discuss Wild Burro Herd Control

Federal and county officials recently convened in Washington to address the pressing issue of wild burro overpopulation in Arizona's western counties. The discussions centered on finding humane, long-term solutions, with options ranging from adoption and contraception to, ultimately, culling the herd.

Initial Steps Towards a Solution

Mohave County Supervisor Steve Moss described the meetings as a crucial first step, despite acknowledging that the solutions discussed are merely a "Band-Aid." Supervisors from Yuma and La Paz counties joined Moss and Supervisor Hildy Angius in discussions with the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and the Arizona Department of Game and Fish, facilitated by Sen. John McCain's office.

Angius emphasized the need for collaborative efforts between governments and citizens, citing significant damages caused by burros in her district. "People don’t realize it … but there’s a huge cost involved to taxpayers," she noted.

Environmental and Economic Impacts

Kurt Davis, Chairman of the Arizona Game and Fish Commission, highlighted the environmental toll, describing wild burros as "ferocious eaters" that devastate the desert's fragile plant life. Despite these challenges, the animals are protected under the Wild Free-Roaming Horses and Burros Act of 1971, which aims to prevent inhumane population control methods.

The BLM estimates the current wild burro population in Arizona at 4,411, significantly exceeding the sustainable number. Moss expressed satisfaction that McCain's involvement prompted acknowledgment from both the BLM and Game and Fish regarding the population imbalance.

Exploring Humane Solutions

While humane techniques have been the focus, Moss argued for pragmatic approaches, even suggesting controversial measures like hunting permits to draw attention to the issue. Meanwhile, the BLM, in collaboration with the Humane Society of the United States, is exploring innovative population control methods, including a new birth-control drug.

Deniz Bolbol from the American Wild Horse Conservation (formerly American Wild Horse Preservation) criticized past strategies like removal and sterilization, advocating for roadside fencing and contraception instead. Sandy Bahr of the Sierra Club's Grand Canyon Chapter echoed the call for humane management, emphasizing adoption and targeted birth control.

Future Directions

Angius acknowledged the diverse perspectives from conservation and humane groups, underscoring the need for continued dialogue. A statement from McCain's office urged state and federal collaboration to manage the burro overpopulation effectively.

Davis stressed the importance of long-term solutions to maintain population levels within sustainable limits, beyond short-term measures like expanding burro adoption marketing.

– Cronkite News reporter Katie Bieri contributed to this story.

Originally posted by Cronkite News