Wild horses in North Dakota’s Theodore Roosevelt National Park will remain in the park, according to Republican U.S. Sen. John Hoeven. There are around 200 horses that currently roam the park, and while the exact number of horses to be kept in the park is still to be determined, the National Park Service has committed to maintaining them. Park visitors enjoy seeing the wild horses and view them as a part of America’s heritage, making their presence significant in the park’s landscape.
The decision to maintain the wild horses in the park comes after a proposed removal under an environmental review process was abandoned, with the Park Service opting to continue under an existing 1978 environmental assessment that calls for a reduction in their numbers. The termination of the review process was made after careful consideration of public comments. Thousands of people expressed support for keeping the horses, including North Dakota’s Republican-controlled Legislature and Governor Doug Burgum.
The Park Service has stated that the wild horses have the potential to impact the park’s resources, including vegetation, erosion, and competing for food and water resources. While there were proposals to quickly or gradually remove the horses or take no action at all, park officials are still aiming to reduce the herd to 35-60 animals as outlined in the 1978 environmental assessment. The management of longhorn cattle in the park’s North Unit will also continue as before.
Park Superintendent Angie Richman has indicated that the horses may still have to be reduced in numbers, even if they remain, to avoid potential risks. Hoeven’s announcement followed an appropriations bill passed by Congress, with a provision recommending the Park Service to maintain the horses. The legislation suggested that funding to remove the horses might be denied, signaling support for their presence in the park.
Chris Kman, president of Chasing Horses Wild Horse Advocates, was emotional upon hearing Hoeven’s announcement and plans to pursue federal protection for the horses to ensure their long-term presence in the park. The horses in Theodore Roosevelt National Park have historical significance, descending from Native American tribes and area ranches, as well as domestic stallions introduced in the late 20th century. Maintaining the wild horses in the park preserves not only their heritage but also the natural beauty and ecosystem of the landscape.
