Wyoming Stands Firm in Wild Horse Management Lawsuit

Wyoming is embroiled in a legal battle with the U.S. Bureau of Land Management (BLM) over the management of wild horses. Governor Matt Mead is determined to see the lawsuit through, despite motions to dismiss it. The state argues that the BLM is not adhering to legal management practices, while wild horse advocates claim the lawsuit lacks merit.

Background of the Lawsuit

The State of Wyoming filed the lawsuit in December, aiming to compel the BLM to remove excess wild horses from herd management areas. State officials assert that the BLM's management is unlawful, but advocates for wild horses, including the American Wild Horse Conservation (formerly American Wild Horse Campaign), argue that Wyoming's case is unfounded.

“The lawsuit asks that BLM be directed to follow the law,” Mead said. “These motions to dismiss claim Wyoming is trying to rewrite the law – this is inaccurate. BLM has failed to remove excess horses in accordance with the law in seven Wyoming herd management areas.”

Governor Mead highlighted that mustang populations could grow significantly on federal, state, and private lands, with annual growth rates ranging from 25% to 58%.

BLM's Actions and Advocacy Response

Last year, the BLM removed 1,263 horses from the checkerboard lands of southwest Wyoming, following a federal court decree to maintain proper management levels. However, advocates from the American Wild Horse Conservation and the Cloud Foundation argue that the state's lawsuit does not specify actionable grounds for review.

The advocacy groups contend that the lawsuit is an attempt to force legislative changes to the federal Wild Free-Roaming Horses and Burros Act. They argue that the state's case lacks a viable basis for a court to order the BLM to take immediate action.

Governor Mead's Position

Governor Mead insists that the lawsuit is not about changing laws but about holding the federal government accountable for the impact of wild horses on Wyoming's rangelands, which are crucial for sage grouse and big game species.

“BLM’s failure to manage the horses has forced Wyoming to court because excess horses threaten the range and the animals that rely on it,” Mead said. “The court should deny these motions to dismiss.”

As the U.S. District Court deliberates, the BLM is seeking bids to house wild horses on private lands.

Originally Posted By Star Tribune