Eagle County Wild Horse Advocates Challenge BLM Roundups

Eagle County is witnessing a significant movement led by two local women, Roxanne Graznow and Theresa Thissen, who are advocating against the Bureau of Land Management's (BLM) wild horse roundups. These advocates argue for more humane and ecologically sound methods of managing wild horse populations on public lands.

The BLM justifies these roundups due to limited corral and pasture space. However, Graznow, a seasoned wildlife photographer, and Thissen, along with their group, are pushing for alternatives to helicopter roundups, advocating for natural herd regulation.

“These mustangs are an American icon. They represent the freedom that built America,” Graznow said.

“They deserve protection. They deserve someone to speak for them,” Thissen added.

Controversy surrounds the BLM's handling of wild horses, with lawsuits alleging poor conditions for horses awaiting adoption or slaughter. BLM spokesman Tom Gorey refutes these claims, citing a lack of adoption demand due to economic factors.

Gorey explains that overpopulation is managed through fertility control, which requires gathering horses. He acknowledges the agency's struggle with holding capacity, stating, “We’re running out of holding capacity in both corrals and pastures.”

Opponents argue for natural population control, citing studies on habitat capacity. However, Gorey warns of the brutal realities of self-limitation, where mares may become too weak to breed.

Wildlife ecologist Craig Downer supports the advocates, emphasizing the ecological role of wild horses as native species filling their niches.

The BLM plans to remove thousands of wild horses and burros across the West, despite criticism from groups like the American Wild Horse Conservation (formerly American Wild Horse Campaign). Spokeswoman Suzanne Roy criticizes the roundups as inhumane and unsustainable.

The Wild Free-Roaming Horses and Burro Act of 1971 mandates the BLM to balance wild horse populations with public land use. The agency monitors animal and range conditions, providing supplemental water where necessary.

The nearest herd to Vail Valley is in Sand Wash Basin, with other herds in Colorado and Nevada facing similar challenges.

Originally Posted By Vail Daily