#United States #Lompoc #Return to Freedom #wild horse management #fertility control

Return to Freedom Celebrates Support for Wild Horse Fertility Control

Return to Freedom Wild Horse Conservation recently commended several lawmakers for advocating the use of fertility control as a humane solution for managing wild horse and burro populations. With lawmakers such as Reps. Vern Buchanan, David Schweikert, Brian Fitzpatrick, and Juan Ciscomani at the forefront, a letter was sent to Interior Secretary Doug Burgum urging significant reforms focused on humane fertility measures to stabilize wild horse herds.

President of Return to Freedom, Neda DeMayo, expressed gratitude for the lawmakers' support, underscoring the organization's belief in the necessity of implementing proven, safe, and humane fertility control options. The available data suggests that relying solely on capture-and-removal strategies has failed to achieve sustainable management of wild horse populations. Instead, DeMayo argues, it is critical for agencies like the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) to adopt fertility control methods.

The congressional letter urged Secretary Burgum to:

• - Increase the adoption of humane, reversible fertility control methods by the BLM.
• - Direct budgetary reallocations focusing more on fertility control rather than traditional capture techniques.
• - Uphold established congressional and departmental guidelines that advocate for non-lethal wildlife management practices.

Return to Freedom has been an active voice in wild horse welfare, collaborating with Congressman Buchanan to advocate against horse slaughter and promote comprehensive management strategies. Their ongoing effort includes the reintroduction of the SAFE Act, designed to shield American horses from the perils of slaughter.

Typically, less than 4% of the funding allocated for wild horse management has been utilized for fertility control, despite the growing support from Congress and the public for its implementation. Current estimates indicate that around 73,000 wild horses inhabit BLM-managed lands, while nearly 65,000 are kept in off-range facilities—signifying a concerning trend in population management.

DeMayo remarked, “We must enhance our approach towards protecting America's wild horse populations by employing viable and humane tools to foster a successful conservation legacy.” The advocacy group is determined to see the incorporation of these methods within modern management frameworks.

Since its inception in 1997, Return to Freedom has pioneered numerous efforts to protect and conserve wild horses and burros, including developing sanctuaries and implementing fertility control practices that can be mirrored on rangelands. The American Wild Horse Sanctuary, operated by RTF, serves as a model for the humane management of wild horse populations.

In an era where ecological and ethical considerations are paramount, the support from Congress noted by Return to Freedom highlights a shift toward more humane and effective management strategies for wild horses. This is not only about conserving a cherished American symbol but ensuring that future generations will inherit a legacy of responsible wildlife management. RTF continues to engage with various stakeholders, promoting awareness and support for sustainable measures to protect these magnificent animals through educational initiatives and active outreach on social media platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok.

As the call for reform grows, it is essential for stakeholders to come together to adopt strategies that not only respect the natural world and its inhabitants but also foster collaborations that ensure all voices are heard and valued. The future of wild horses—an integral part of America's landscape—depends on our willingness to embrace humanity in wildlife management decisions.