Elko County Allocates $10,000 for Wild Horse Lawsuit

Elko County has decided to financially support a lawsuit against the federal government's management of wild horses, agreeing to contribute up to $10,000. This decision is part of a broader effort by the Nevada Association of Counties (NACO) and the Nevada Farm Bureau Federation to address concerns over wild horse populations.

The lawsuit, filed in a federal court in Reno, argues that wild horse and burro populations have exceeded sustainable management levels, impacting Nevada's landscape and heritage. Jeff Fontaine, NACO president, noted that the lawsuit's costs could reach $90,000, with NACO already spending $56,000. However, NACO funds will not be used directly for the lawsuit.

"So far we have received financial support from a variety of groups, including nongovernment organizations and counties," Fontaine stated. The county commission has approved an immediate $5,000 contribution to NACO, with an additional $5,000 available if needed.

NACO's statement highlights concerns over wild horse overpopulation, citing environmental impacts on rangelands and economic consequences for counties. The lawsuit seeks to compel the U.S. Department of the Interior to manage wild horse populations more effectively, including gathering excess animals and adhering to multiple-use principles.

Meanwhile, wild horse advocates, including Suzanne Roy of the American Wild Horse Conservation (formerly American Wild Horse Preservation), oppose the lawsuit. Roy argues that the lawsuit reflects a minority opinion favoring horse slaughter and disputes claims about horse population levels. She emphasizes that wild horses are significantly outnumbered by livestock on public lands, suggesting the lawsuit diverts attention from livestock-related environmental damage.

For more details, visit the Elko Daily Free Press.