The article reflects on the wild Salt River horses and the ongoing discussions surrounding their management, particularly in light of a new Request for Proposal (RFP) from the Arizona Department of Agriculture. A father and son encounter a wild horse, highlighting the freedom these animals enjoy, which raises concerns about their future as management policies evolve. The child’s enthusiastic response underscores the emotional connection people have with these horses.
The author references John Mack’s opinion on ARS 3-1491, which clarifies the legal status of the horses and grants the Arizona Department of Agriculture authority for humane management. This law allows for the removal of horses under specific circumstances but emphasizes that such actions should only be taken for humane reasons. The article argues that the RFP’s requirement to remove three healthy horses for every foal born contradicts the intent of ARS 3-1491.
The Salt River Wild Horse Management Group, established in 2015 to protect the horses from removal, is advocated for in the article. The author urges that no removals should occur and encourages readers to voice their opinions to support the humane management of the herd.
