Protecting Alto's Wild Horse Herd: A Community's Fight for Preservation
This article explores the community's efforts to protect the wild horse herd of Alto, New Mexico, following the controversial sale of some of its members. Advocates express their disappointment and frustration but remain hopeful for the future. The article delves into the strategies being considered to prevent similar incidents and the legal complexities involved.
Community Outrage and Initial Reactions
The first reaction was rage. Residents around Alto, who have protected and cared for a herd of wild horses, were outraged when a gelding, mare, and her yearling were penned, hauled away, and possibly sold for slaughter. Social media was ablaze with anger.
Advocacy and Strategic Planning
A week later, wild herd advocates began discussing strategies to protect the horses from similar tragedies. They sought public backing for the herd's protection, explored ways to change how such herds are classified and handled, and worked with the District 20 supervisor for the New Mexico Livestock Board's inspection arm.
Amid the tears over the possible loss of the gelding called Rock Star, there was a glimmer of hope as the mare and her yearling were purchased by a Capitan resident.
Investigation and Reports
The Ruidoso News requested reports about the horses filed by Brand Inspector Don Hatfield, confirming that the mare and colt were sold by bid to a Capitan landowner. However, Rock Star was sold for $42 after being held for $85, raising concerns about the auction process.
Lynda Blaney, a key wild herd advocate, attempted to contact the auction company owner to rescue Rock Star but was unsuccessful. She discovered the auction's history of animal cruelty charges, describing it as the largest kill auction in the southwest.
Community Efforts and Legal Challenges
Residents met to discuss the situation, seeking thoughts and suggestions for future actions. They plan to distribute a petition for signatures to present to local authorities.
Bruna Campos, who had Rock Star gelded, emphasized the importance of keeping the herd safe and highlighted the community's efforts to protect them. She formed a foundation called Ruidoso's Wild Horses to support these efforts.
Legal and Procedural Concerns
The herd is not protected under the wild horse laws commonly applied to herds on Bureau of Land Management ranges. They are treated as stray animals, complicating their protection.
Residents were upset about changes in the Livestock Board's notification procedures, which now list stray horses online instead of in newspapers.
Future Plans and Community Involvement
Lee and Rima Davis, residents of the Alto area, expressed their desire to help protect the herd without engaging in a "witch hunt." They emphasized the need for a system that fits into the state network.
To contribute suggestions or sign a petition, email [email protected]. Learn more about the wild herd at http://wildhorsesofalto.blogspot.com.