NDA Cancels Cooperative Agreement with AWHC: A Response
Reno, NV (October 25, 2017) - The American Wild Horse Conservation (formerly American Wild Horse Campaign) was notified this morning by the Nevada Department of Agriculture (NDA) that it is terminating its Cooperative Agreement with the American Wild Horse Conservation (formerly American Wild Horse Preservation Campaign), including its successful humane fertility control program for the Virginia Range horses, which prevents those horses from entering the slaughter pipeline. Through this public/private partnership, AWHC works with local wild horse advocacy organizations including the Virginia Range Wildlife Protection Association (Virginia City Highlands), Wild Horse Preservation League (Dayton), and Wild Horse Connection (Reno).
AWHC has always adhered to the letter and spirit of the Cooperative Agreement and never "refused" to execute any portion of the Agreement. In fact, AWHC met with NDA Director Jim Barbee on March 22, 2017, at which time the director noted that he was pleased with the progress of the program. The Department has not communicated any change in that positive perception of the program or concerns about its implementation until this morning when AWHC received notice that the agreements were being terminated.
AWHC has responded to NDA requesting that we work together to continue the Cooperative Agreement and continue to implement the humane birth control program, which is reducing population growth for this historic horse population in the Reno area.
The American Wild Horse Conservation, through the Cooperative Agreement, has contributed substantial financial resources toward the humane management of the Virginia Range horses and is optimistic about resuming work with the NDA to continue this community-based program.
AWHC is requesting an immediate meeting with the NDA and we stand ready to work with the department to address any issues or possible problems to allow this very successful public-private partnership to continue.
The American Wild Horse Conservation (AWHC) (formerly known as the American Wild Horse Preservation Campaign) is dedicated to preserving American wild horses and burros in viable, free-roaming herds for generations to come, as part of our national heritage. Its grassroots mission is endorsed by a coalition of more than 60 horse advocacy, humane, and public interest organizations.