Take Action to Protect the Theodore Roosevelt National Park Wild Horses

The iconic wild horses of Theodore Roosevelt National Park (TRNP) are at risk, and we need your help to secure their future.

This week, the North Dakota Legislature is considering two critical pieces of legislation that could lay the foundation for federal protection and humane, science-based conservation of this historic herd.

AWHC applauds Chasing Wild Horses for their excellent advocacy for the TRNP wild horses, including getting this legislation introduced. We urge you to support their efforts by taking action below!

Upcoming Hearings: Submit Your Testimony Today!

🔹 SCR 4006 – A Resolution Calling for Federal Protection
📅 Hearing Date: February 6, 2025, at 3:15 PM
📥 Testimony Deadline: 1:30 PM (CST) on February 6, 2025
🔗 Submit Testimony: Click to Submit Testimony

SCR 4006 urges the U.S. Congress to pass federal legislators to protect this historic herd. While a resolution cannot require federal protections, it will provide a strong showing to Congress that these wild horses are important to North Dakotans and all Americans as an integral part of this popular national park. 

🔹 SB 2331 – A Bill to Establish a Wild Horse Working Group
📅 Hearing Date: February 7, 2025, at 9:30 AM
📥 Testimony Deadline: 8:30 AM (CST) on February 7, 2025
🔗 Submit Testimony: Click to Submit Testimony

SB 2331 calls for the formation of a state-led working group to collaborate with the park and interest groups to ensure the long-term management and protection of the wild horses. AWHC led the effort to pass legislation in Colorado creating a successful model for state participation in wild horse protection. In North Dakota, this model would help ensure the wild horses remain a treasured part of North Dakota’s landscape.

Talking Points To Guide Your Testimony:

• These Horses Are a Living Tribute to Theodore Roosevelt

They symbolize Roosevelt’s conservation legacy and the untamed spirit of the American West. Protecting them honors the park’s namesake and his contributions to public land preservation.

• They Have No Federal Protection

Unlike other wild horse herds, TRNP’s horses are not covered under the Wild Free-Roaming Horses and Burros Act. Without protection, they can be removed at any time.

• Wild Horses Boost North Dakota’s Economy

These horses are a major tourism draw, bringing visitors to Medora and surrounding areas. Their removal could negatively impact local businesses and jobs.

• Public Support Is Overwhelming

North Dakotans and people across the country want these horses protected. SCR 4006 will encourage the U.S. Congress to recognize and act on this broad support by passing federal legislation that ensures the TRNP wild horses are protected. 

• A North Dakota Wild Horse Working Group will promote humane wild horse conservation. 

Modeled after Colorado’s success,  SB 2331 will create a North Dakota wild horse working group that would unite state officials, advocates, experts, and interested parties to ensure collaborative, humane, science-based conservation of the Theodore Roosevelt National Park wild horses, prevent removals, and provide long-term oversight.