This beautiful little mustang family is safe, for now. The U.S. Department of the Interior put a halt to the Bureau of Land Management’s (BLM) imminent and inhumane roundup of the world-famous Fish Springs wild horse herd. This is a moment to celebrate an important victory, but we must remain vigilant to make sure that the Bureau does not, in short order, reinstate this herd’s removal!

Last week, the U.S. Department of the Interior actually listened to the small community of Gardnerville, Nevada and spared this small herd of 78 wild horses who have captured the attention of people from all over the world. Because of the herd’s significant social media presence, with continual stories of individual personalities, family love, protection, and interactions, this herd brings the daily life of wild horse bands to life for its followers. 

Besides being so beloved, this Fish Springs herd is successfully managed for population control with the safe and effective fertility control vaccine, PZP. This is all done by volunteers in a cooperative effort between the BLM, animal advocates, and the local community, using donations rather than government dollars.

Thanks to you and other supporters who took action by calling and contacting Secretary Zinke’s office at the Department of the Interior in Washington, DC, they took notice and listened to the rational voices and ideas of the Pine Nut Wild Horse Advocates whose members mediated with them for this happy reprieve. The planned removal of 2/3 of the horses in this herd would have destroyed the genetic viability, thereby causing their demise. It would have cruelly ripped apart families, causing outright terror in the foals, their parents, and extended families. Captured wild horses are sent to cramped, unsheltered holding facilities where many, ultimately, end up being sold to slaughter buyers.

We must now ensure that the further negotiations necessary between this advocate group and the BLM create a plan for this herd that is both manageable and humane for these iconic mustangs, who are devoted to their families and their freedom! The work is not yet done! Please consider a donation to help these horses, and other wild horse herds throughout the west.