Roundup Report: Sand Wash Basin Wild Horses, September 2021
The Sand Wash Basin Herd Management Area (HMA) in Colorado spans 157,730 acres and is home to a significant population of wild horses. In September 2021, the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) conducted a controversial roundup, citing insufficient forage and water for the estimated 896 wild horses, including foals. Despite these claims, the BLM continues to authorize sheep grazing in the area, raising questions about the management of wild horse habitats.
This roundup, costing taxpayers $289,000, aimed to remove 783 horses, with only 50 planned for return to the HMA. The lifetime cost of housing the remaining horses in government facilities is estimated at $36,650,000. The contractor for this operation was Troy Cattoor.
On September 12, 2021, 49 wild horses were released back into the Sand Wash Basin, reducing the net removals to 479, thanks to public concern and intervention by Governor Jared Polis. The Sand Wash Basin Wild Horse Advocate Team (SWAT) played a crucial role in advocating for these horses.
Photographer Carol Walker documented the events, highlighting the challenges faced by the horses and the advocacy efforts on the ground. Despite the BLM's actions, the American Wild Horse Conservation (formerly American Wild Horse Campaign) continues to work with local groups to protect these iconic animals.
September 10, 2021: 18 wild horses outside the HMA were captured. Carol Walker reported the BLM's ongoing roundup efforts, capturing horses outside the HMA boundaries.
September 9, 2021: 23 wild horses were captured outside the HMA. The BLM's actions continued despite the cessation of removals within the HMA.
September 8, 2021: 107 wild horses were captured, with one death reported. Concerns were raised about the BLM's management practices and the welfare of the horses.
September 7, 2021: 79 wild horses were captured, bringing the total to 501. Observers noted the harsh conditions and the impact on the horses.
September 6, 2021: 93 wild horses were captured. A young foal was left alone on the range, highlighting the challenges faced by the horses during the roundup.
September 5, 2021: 122 wild horses were captured. The horses appeared healthy, contradicting BLM's claims of starvation risk.
September 4, 2021: 126 wild horses were captured, with one death reported. The roundup continued with significant public observation and concern.
September 3, 2021: 16 wild horses were captured. The operation took place outside the HMA, with public observers present.
September 2, 2021: No roundup occurred.
September 1, 2021: 65 wild horses were captured. The operation faced challenging weather conditions and significant public interest.
The American Wild Horse Conservation (formerly American Wild Horse Campaign) remains committed to advocating for the humane treatment and protection of wild horses on public lands.