Judge Hears Arguments in Utah Lawsuit Over Wild Horse Removal

In a significant legal battle, Utah ranchers and wild horse advocacy groups presented their arguments in federal court regarding the removal of wild horses. The case, which centers on ecological impacts and management responsibilities, awaits a decision from U.S. District Judge Dee Benson.

Ranchers Demand Action

A group of ranchers is demanding that the federal government remove wild horses in Utah, arguing that the mustangs are overrunning the range, causing ecological damage, and reducing livestock grazing areas. They assert that the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) should immediately remove horses exceeding the designated 'appropriate management level' from public and private land.

Advocacy Groups' Defense

Wild-horse advocacy groups countered in federal court, urging Judge Benson to dismiss the ranchers' case. They argue that the government is not obligated to remove the mustangs. Caitlin Zittkowski, an attorney for the advocacy groups, emphasized that the appropriate management level is just one tool among many used by the BLM to assess wild horse populations. The BLM's handbook explicitly states that removal based solely on this level is not acceptable.

BLM's Position

The BLM acknowledges that the wild-horse population exceeds the appropriate level of 1,956, estimating about 4,500 mustangs on the range. However, the agency has not acted on the ranchers' requests, citing a lack of funds and space for removal.

Legal Interpretations

Judge Benson expressed difficulty interpreting the statute that requires the BLM to determine excess wild horses and decide on removals. He noted the statute's lack of clarity, stating, "It would be nice if the statute was a little more direct."

Meanwhile, Karen Budd-Falen, representing the ranchers, argued that previous court cases have defined populations exceeding the appropriate management level as excessive, thus mandating government action.

Recent Developments

Earlier this month, a Nevada judge dismissed a similar lawsuit, labeling it an unsubstantiated attack on the BLM's wild horse policy.

Ranchers' Concerns

Steven Yardley, a rancher from Beaver County, Utah, highlighted the efforts ranchers make to maintain the land's pristine condition. He argued that wild horses disrupt the ecosystem by consuming desirable plants, allowing invasive weeds to thrive. Yardley urged the BLM to round up the horses to protect the range's health.

Judge Benson will take a few days to review the statute before making a decision.

Originally Posted By Salt Lake Tribune