Tonto National Forest Defends Wild Horses While Apache Sitgreaves Fails

The Tonto National Forest (TNF) has taken a commendable stand in defending the humane treatment of wild horses, contrasting sharply with the Apache Sitgreaves National Forest (ASNF), which recently transported 45 Alpine wild horses to a Texas kill pen. The TNF's efforts are part of a humane management program under Arizona State law, implemented by the Salt RiverWild Horse ManagementGroup (SRWHMG) in partnership with the AZ Department of Agriculture. This program includes a successful fertility control initiative that reduces the population size without resorting to removals.

Legal Victory for Tonto National Forest

The lawsuit against the TNF, filed by the Center for Biological Diversity and sport hunting groups, aimed to overturn this humane management program. However, it was dismissed with prejudice, meaning it cannot be refiled. This legal victory underscores the effectiveness and necessity of the TNF's approach.

Stark Contrast with Apache Sitgreaves National Forest

The difference between the TNF and ASNF's approaches towild horse managementis stark. While the TNF is celebrated for its humane practices, the fate of the 45 Alpine wild horses at the Bowie, Texas slaughter auction remains uncertain. This facility is notorious for shipping horses to Mexico for human consumption.

Take Action

Contact U.S. Forest Service Officials and demand immediate action:

• Randy Moore, Chief of the US Forest Service: (202) 205-1661
• Tony Scardina, Chief of Staff: (202) 205-1132
• Christopher French, Deputy Chief: (202) 205-1689
• Michiko Martin, Region 3 Forest Supervisor: (505) 842-3301
• Gina Sampson, Chief of Staff (Region 3): (505) 842-3305