RAC Recommends BLM to Sell Excess Wild Horses Amid Drought Concerns

In response to ongoing drought conditions, the Bureau of Land Management's (BLM) advisory board has recommended the sale of excess wild horses. This proposal, aimed at addressing overpopulation and resource scarcity, has sparked significant debate among stakeholders.

Background of the Recommendation

The recommendation was passed byBLMNevada’s three resource advisory councils during their annual meeting in Elko. Debbie Lassiter, chair of the Sierra Front Great Basin Northeast RAC, presented the resolution, emphasizing the need for sustainable wild horse populations.

Current Practices and Challenges

Currently, theBLMgathers and auctions wild horses, with those unsold placed in long-term holding facilities. However, as these facilities reach capacity, theBLMhas slowed down its horse-gathering operations.

Concerns from Horse Advocates

Horse advocates, including the American Wild Horse Conservation (formerly American Wild Horse Campaign), argue that theBLM'sroundupsare harmful and that long-term holding equates to warehousing. They criticize the term “unconditional sale” as a euphemism for selling horses for slaughter.

Deniz Bolbol, a spokesperson for the organization, suggested, “Instead of focusing on slaughter, why don’t we work together on afertility controlprogram to humanely manage horses on the range?”

BLM's Position and Legal Context

Erica Szlosek,BLM’s state communications chief, clarified that the RAC’s vote does not alterBLMpolicy, which prohibits selling horses for slaughter. She noted that any changes would require congressional action.

Legal and Community Involvement

The Nevada Association of Counties has filed a lawsuit against the federal government, claiming that current wild horse management practices harm the land and its users. The lawsuit argues that an amendment to the Wild Horse and Burro Act already permits theBLMto sell horses for slaughter.

Szlosek also mentioned the ongoing need for RAC members, encouraging interested parties from various sectors to join.

Those interested in serving on one of the state’s three 15-person panels can contact the state office at 775-861-4480. Each RAC meets quarterly, and the Tri-RAC meets annually.

Originally Posted By Elko Daily Free Press