Community addresses feral horse management challenges in Willow Creek region

The Utah Department of Wildlife Resources (DWR) is making strides in managing the feral horse population in the Northeastern Region, as discussed in the recent Regional Advisory Council (RAC) meeting. A significant focus was placed on the ongoing efforts to control the feral horse numbers, particularly in the Willow Creek area, where the population had previously surged to around 300 horses.

Since the construction of a fence in 2011, the horse population has decreased significantly, now trending towards double digits. This reduction is attributed to collaborative efforts that have successfully removed approximately 1,500 horses over the years. However, challenges remain, as new horses continue to enter the area, complicating management efforts.

Funding is a critical issue in these ongoing efforts. A recent discovery of $100,000 allocated for feral horse management was at risk of being reallocated by the state legislature. Fortunately, the funding has been preserved, allowing DWR to proceed with necessary actions to manage the horse population effectively. The process to utilize these funds involves obtaining bids and public notices, which are essential steps in ensuring transparency and accountability.

The discussions at the meeting highlighted the importance of continued collaboration and funding to address the feral horse issue, which remains a pressing concern for wildlife management in the region. As DWR moves forward, the focus will be on implementing effective strategies to maintain the declining trend of the feral horse population while ensuring the health of the ecosystem.