Managing Wild Horses Humanely
We, the Salt River Wild Horse Management Group (SRWHMG), perform the scope of work under contract with the State, with excellence, integrity and humanity for all of the horses in the Salt River Herd.
Their management includes many different aspects, from administering humane birth control, to rescuing injured wild horses when needed. With our large volunteer force we monitor the horses daily, help them cross the roads when necessary and we are available for emergencies 24/7.
Components of successful wild horse management:
- A data collection program that monitors the health of the herd and keeps records of each individual in it.
- A fertility control program backed by the Science and Conservation Center to stabilize population growth.
- A rescue program for critically injured wild horses that would otherwise die a cruel death.
- An emergency response program, including a feed program because of the long lasting and severe drought. We have sustained the entire herd in good condition even during the worst of natural conditions.
- A habitat improvement program; cleanups and downed barbed wire removal plus any other safety hazards to wild horses.
- A road patrol program to keep horses off the roads and out of dangerous areas. (and close gates that people forget to close)
Our programs are 100% paid for by the public at no charge to the State of Federal government. Our programs enjoy broad public support, because it keeps these cherished horses where they belong, on the range. Our non profit organization is a public asset, and the Salt River wild horses are an economic boon for the State of Arizona and a historic treasure that we carry into the future.
What is Humane Birth Control and Why is it Important?
We use PZP (Porcine Zona Pelucida) immuno-contraception to stabilize population growth. It is darted in the field by our certified volunteers, without capturing wild horses. PZP is the only acceptable form of birth control for wild horses, as it does not harm nor influence their hormones and therefore does not harm or influence their reproductive behaviors and herd dynamics.
Any other form of birth control, such as geldings or overie-ectomies, are cruel, expensive, and will influence their hormones, which is why we do not support those forms of birth control for wild horses.
Birth control is important, because the herd is fenced in by civilization on all sides and their resources are limited; therefore they cannot grow exponentially. The goal of this program is for each horse born in the wild, to be able to live out its life in the wild.
PLEASE Join us in this historic movement to ensure that these beautiful wild horses remain wild and free and managed humanely.