Pahrump: A Potential Serengeti for Wild Horses?
Arlene Gawne of the Spring Mountain Alliance, a project of America’s Wild Horse Advocates, envisions Nevada's wild horse population as a tourist attraction akin to Africa's Serengeti. This innovative proposal aims to boost local economies while preserving these majestic creatures.
“The State of Nevada and the American West is sitting on the same billion-dollar tourist industry that third world Africa enjoys,” Gawne told Nye County commissioners. “Imagine this as a way to make a good living on public land. In the spring and fall, tourists and photographers would pay $50 per day to arrive at your ranch or town to view wild horses.”
European, Asian, and American tourists seek the thrill of witnessing events like a stallion chasing off a herd of bachelors or young foals playing. The Spring Mountains' colorful herds and spectacular scenery are unique and cannot be replicated elsewhere.
The alliance proposes an experimental wild horse and burro management area east of Highway 160 and the town of Pahrump, excluding certain wilderness areas. This plan aims to work with agencies to manage the wild horse population effectively.
Gawne emphasized the need for collaboration, stating, “What good were we doing getting a lot of press if the horses were still multiplying? We must manage wild horses and burros.”
The U.S. Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and U.S. Forest Service will consider the Spring Mountain Alliance plan. Gawne urged public support for the proposal, noting that former BLM Director Bob Abbey agreed with the plan before his retirement.
Gawne highlighted the financial implications, stating, “This would be a huge financial loss to Nye and Clark County. Let's create new jobs in Nevada, not on Midwestern farms where the BLM places our Mustangs.” She also opposed sending horses to slaughterhouses.
The alliance suggests treating mares with PZP for birth control while maintaining family bands for social stability. About 65 of the most adoptable horses would be captured for adoption to maintain genetic diversity.
Gawne proposed setting up water guzzlers and retention basins for the horses, requiring volunteer patrols to prevent undesirable interactions.
Commissioner Lorinda Wichman praised the alliance's approach, stating it followed the Wild Horse and Burro Act's recommendations. She emphasized the opportunity for volunteer programs to demonstrate effective herd management.
Wichman suggested relocating some horses to national parks like Yosemite and Yellowstone, allowing them to thrive through natural selection.
Originally Posted By Pahrump Valley Times