Statement on Mono Lake Wild Horses Stranded In Snow

We have been aware of and monitoring the groups of stranded Mono Lake wild horses and have been collaborating with local partners on the ground.

AWHC supports the tribal plan to rescue stranded wild horses at Mono Lake. A group of horses is currently stranded and starving. Local tribes have proposed an immediate humanitarian response: providing food and water in line with the horses' natural diet, using humane methods to guide them to safety, and monitoring their welfare until they can rejoin their herd or reach safer ground. The tribes will cover all costs and consult with experts to address health concerns including following standard refeeding protocols.

The U.S. Forest Service has a legal requirement to protect these horses and as such we are calling on the agency to accept this tribal proposal immediately. These horses need help now, and tribal stewardship offers the most responsive and culturally appropriate solution.

If removal becomes necessary after rescue efforts, tribes should be given first opportunity to place these horses before they enter the overburdened federal holding system.