Potential Agreement to Manage Wild Horses Near Salt River

MARICOPA COUNTY, Ariz. - A potential agreement may be on the horizon to save the wild horses in the Salt River area. The U.S. Forest Service had planned to remove these horses, but following significant public outcry from politicians and the local community, the plan was postponed. Supporters of the horses initiated a lawsuit, and now both parties are reportedly working towards a resolution.

All parties involved have declined to release details of the settlement. However, in Federal Court, lawyers indicated that both sides are actively working on a resolution. Advocates for the horses have long desired for the animals to remain in their current habitat, and it seems this may soon be possible.

"We had a real good discussion yesterday, very positive, they brought in the A-Team, and we're really hopeful that we can structure something in short order," said Miller. In court, attorneys for the wild horse group and the federal government informed the judge they are negotiating a settlement to end the legal battle.

The lawsuit was filed after the USFS announced plans to round up the horses and auction them off. "We'd prefer not to have the lawsuit, we would prefer to settle it," said Miller.

The Forest Service has claimed the horses pose a safety risk. Recently, a 2-year-old colt was tragically hit and killed on Bush Highway, with the driver fleeing the scene. Horse advocates argue that such incidents are preventable with improved management, and they believe the USFS is taking their concerns seriously.

"We can never be confident I guess, but it does appear that way," said Simone Netherlands. Since both sides agreed to keep negotiations confidential, the details of the settlement remain undisclosed.

Originally Posted By Fox 10