Wildlife Officials Seek Funding for Horse Gathering Initiative

The DWR RAC Meeting for the Northeastern Region took place on April 17, 2025, focusing on critical wildlife management issues, particularly concerning horse population control and habitat conservation.

The meeting began with discussions on the complexities of managing wild horse populations. A representative highlighted the need for immediate action to gather horses, emphasizing the potential legal challenges if relationships with local tribal families are not maintained. The urgency was underscored by the fact that horse populations can reproduce at a rate of 40% annually, leading to a crisis if not addressed regularly.

A proposal was made to utilize conservation permit money to fund a helicopter operation for gathering horses, which would bypass the lengthy bureaucratic processes typically required for other funding sources. The representative expressed optimism that with the right funding, they could manage horse populations effectively every two to three years, preventing overpopulation and its associated challenges.

The conversation then shifted to habitat management, with participants discussing the importance of creating more open spaces for wildlife. One member expressed excitement about a monastery plan aimed at enhancing habitat for upland game, noting that increased habitat would benefit both animals and hunters.

The meeting concluded with a reminder of an upcoming board meeting scheduled for May 1 at the Eccles Wildlife Center, where further discussions on these topics will continue. The session ended with a motion to adjourn, reflecting a collaborative spirit among participants eager to address wildlife management challenges effectively.