Wild and Free in Sand Wash Basin: The Legacy of America's Wild Horses

Wild horses have roamed the North American continent since prehistoric times. The modern horse arrived in the early 1500s with the Spanish Conquest, and when the Spanish left, these horses adapted to their new environment. The American Indians embraced the horse in the 17th and 18th centuries, marking a significant cultural shift.

Despite being labeled as a “non-native” species by some agencies, horses have a deep-rooted history in North America. They originated here and have co-evolved with their habitat. The federal government recognized their significance with the Wild Free-Roaming Horse and Burros Act of 1971, declaring them living symbols of the historic and pioneer spirit of the West.

Today, Herd Management Areas (HMAs) exist in ten western states, including four in Colorado: Piceance-East Douglas, Little Book Cliffs, Spring Creek, and the renowned Sand Wash Basin. Sand Wash Basin attracts visitors and photographers worldwide, eager to see the iconic stallion Picasso, known for his striking tri-color pinto markings.

Picasso, now around 25 or 26 years old, is a symbol of the wild horse's allure. Though he spends much of his time alone, having been displaced by younger stallions, he remains a beloved figure. Other notable stallions in the area include Tag, Lightning, and Nomad, each contributing to the rich tapestry of the Sand Wash Basin's equine community.

Social media has brought the daily lives of these horses to a broader audience, allowing us to follow generations of offspring. Sand Wash Basin is a treasure for those who visit and learn about the history of its wild horses.

Pat and Patti Mosbey have been involved with the wild horses at Sand Wash for over 15 years. Patti regularly contributes to the Sand Wash Advocate Team Facebook page, and her books on Sand Wash Basin are available in Craig at Downtown Books.

Originally Posted By Craig Daily Press