RAC Recommends BLM to Sell Excess Wild Horses Amid Drought Concerns
In response to ongoing drought conditions, the Bureau of Land Management's (BLM) advisory board has recommended the sale of excess wild horses. This proposal, aimed at addressing overpopulation and resource scarcity, has sparked significant debate among stakeholders.
Background of the Recommendation
The recommendation was passed by BLM Nevada’s three resource advisory councils during their annual meeting in Elko. Debbie Lassiter, chair of the Sierra Front Great Basin Northeast RAC, presented the resolution, emphasizing the need for sustainable wild horse populations.
“Due to drought and the increasing number of wild horses, lack of long-term holding, and for the preservation of the range and humanitarian treatment of the horses, the BLM should explore all options, including supporting gathers and the unconditional sale of wild horses,” Lassiter stated.
Current Practices and Challenges
Currently, the BLM gathers and auctions wild horses, with those unsold placed in long-term holding facilities. However, as these facilities reach capacity, the BLM has slowed down its horse-gathering operations.
“It’s time to think outside of the box,” Lassiter said. “Gathers do need to happen, and this is not the end-all solution, but it’s an immediate action.”
Concerns from Horse Advocates
Horse advocates, including the American Wild Horse Conservation (formerly American Wild Horse Campaign), argue that the BLM's roundups are harmful and that long-term holding equates to warehousing. They criticize the term “unconditional sale” as a euphemism for selling horses for slaughter.
Deniz Bolbol, a spokesperson for the organization, suggested, “Instead of focusing on slaughter, why don’t we work together on a fertility control program to humanely manage horses on the range?”
BLM's Position and Legal Context
Erica Szlosek, BLM’s state communications chief, clarified that the RAC’s vote does not alter BLM policy, which prohibits selling horses for slaughter. She noted that any changes would require congressional action.
“Congress could change the Act to do something differently,” Szlosek said. “We’re always open to hearing new solutions.”
Legal and Community Involvement
The Nevada Association of Counties has filed a lawsuit against the federal government, claiming that current wild horse management practices harm the land and its users. The lawsuit argues that an amendment to the Wild Horse and Burro Act already permits the BLM to sell horses for slaughter.
Szlosek also mentioned the ongoing need for RAC members, encouraging interested parties from various sectors to join.
Those interested in serving on one of the state’s three 15-person panels can contact the state office at 775-861-4480. Each RAC meets quarterly, and the Tri-RAC meets annually.
Originally Posted By Elko Daily Free Press