Even though I’m not a resident of Nevada, I feel that their legislators should be more aware of and take action when the BLM abuses animals in their state.

In hindsight, I should have focused on more immediate action such as a third-party investigation of the abuse and punishment for the responsible individual and his boss (BLM contractor). Also, I thought Senator Rosen has spoken out on behalf of wild horses in the past, but I may be wrong?

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Dear Senator Rosen,

The Bureau of Land Management claims to have the highest concern for the welfare of horses and burros on public lands. However, their actions contradict those claims, most notably during the recent Blue Wing Roundup in Nevada. This round-up was conducted in brutal temperatures, often exceeding 95 degrees, which led to severe stress and dehydration for the horses. Not surprisingly, the Blue Wing round-up has recorded the highest death ratio among recent round-ups – 4 times the death rate as North Lander in Wyoming and Swasey in Utah. 

The issue is the lack of transparency and accountability for the BLM and their contractor’s actions. Time and time again, we see helicopters chasing down herds with young foals and prolonging the suffering of injured horses. Most worrisome is that horse advocates and observers are often far from the trap site and/or with obstructed views.

I am writing to you because you have demonstrated concern for our wild horses in the past. I truly believe that you can lead concrete and impactful changes to the way that BLM conducts round-ups.

My goal is to introduce amendments to the Wild and Free-Roaming Horses and Burros Act of 1971 that will ensure safer, humane round-ups.

We need clear definitions of temperature and weather conditions, including air quality, at which round-ups must be halted. Temperature should be below 90 degrees at the very least, considering it is brutal for horses that are running for their lives. 

We need to strengthen enforcement mechanisms to ensure compliance with welfare standards and hold accountable any parties that fail to meet these standards. I propose implementing fines for each horse death or injury during round-up. The amount must be high enough to prevent inhumane behavior and outright abuse. Not only would this reduce deaths and injuries, it will also save taxpayers thousands per year.

The well-being of wild horses is a reflection of our commitment to humane and ethical stewardship of our natural resources. I hope that you will consider taking concrete action to ensure the BLM practices humane wild horse management and care.  

I am not one of your constituents. However, due to my concerns regarding Senate control, I have donated to your campaigns in the past, most recently in April of 2024. I have also donated to several solicitations where money is split among Democrats in  battleground states. While I certainly cannot vote you in for office, I will certainly do my part to help fellow horse advocates stay in the Senate.

Thank you for your attention to this important matter. 

Advocate letter: Tracy Stone-Manning – Wild horse management (Blue Wing round-up)