Volunteer Spotlight: Deb Sutherland

For this volunteer highlight, the Pinto Post interviewed Deb Sutherland, a longtime wild horse photographer and newly-signed-up AWHC documenter. She has such a deep history in the Virginia Range horses and we love to hear her stories and see her beautiful photographs! Take it away, Deb!

Deb Sutherland's journey into wild horse photography began twelve years ago when a band of wild horses, known as Bodie Braveheart’s band, wandered through her neighborhood. Living at the base of the Virginia Range, Deb started following and photographing them in the canyon.

As a teacher in Lyon County, Deb was captivated by a mare standing guard over two sleeping foals one morning. This moment sparked her passion for documenting these majestic creatures. She spent countless hours observing their interactions, amazed by their familial bonds and survival instincts.

Deb meticulously tracked the lineage of the horses over a decade, noting their births and growth. Her dedication extended beyond photography, as she assisted in reuniting separated horses with their bands, capturing these heartwarming moments.

Recently, Deb embraced the role of a documenter for the fertility control program, combining her love for photography and wild horses to support the American Wild Horse Conservation (formerly American Wild Horse Campaign). She and her husband have also adopted two wild horses, Spirit Keeper and Diamond, who bring joy to their lives.