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The Looming Fight to Save Wyoming’s Rare Curly Mustangs

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The following is from the American Wild Horse Conservation:

Wyoming’s Checkerboard is home to something truly extraordinary: wild curly-haired mustangs, a rare and mysterious lineage of horses with thick, curly coats, manes, and tails. Roaming in the Salt Wells Creek and White Mountain Herd Managment Areas (HMAs), their origins remain a scientific curiosity and a wild legacy they still carry.


Photo by Carol Walker

But this living piece of history is now at risk of disappearing forever.

The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) plans to slash the population of the iconic Adobe Town herd, and even worse, completely eradicate the Great Divide Basin and Salt Wells Creek HMAs. If this plan moves forward, every last horse in those HMAs faces removal and lifetime confinement.


Photo by Carol Walker

Worse still, this initiative isn’t about what’s best for the land — it’s about livestock.

The BLM’s population limits are based on allocating 91% of available forage in these areas to private cattle and sheep, leaving almost no room for wild horses to coexist.

We are now in a critical moment. The future of these herds — and the survival of the curly mustangs’ unique genetic legacy — hinges on AWHC’s ongoing legal battle for their freedom and public outcry.

Here are a few things you can do right now:
Learn more about this critical issue. Here’s a great article to get started!
Share this email with others who care.
Follow American Wild Horse Conservation (@freewildhorses on Instagram, X and Facebook) for more updates on how to take action for our cherished wild herds.

Together, we can speak up for the Wyoming Curlies — and ensure these rare horses remain wild and free for generations to come.

Read More via Cowboy State Daily →

Thank you, as always, for your support of American wild horses and burros!

Stay wild,

Team AWHC

6 years. 0 helicopter roundups. Lives saved.

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The following is from the American Wild Horse Conservation:

Six years ago today, American Wild Horse Conservation (AWHC) relaunched the world’s largest humane fertility control program for wild horses on Nevada’s Virginia Range!

Since then, our team, powered by an incredible group of volunteers and supporters like you, has been working tirelessly to protect wild horses with humane conservation solutions that keep wild horses wild!

So today, we’re celebrating what we’ve accomplished together:

67% reduction in the foaling rate in 2024 compared to 2020
2,692 individual mares treated
0 helicopter roundups
The Virginia Range wild horses still roam free on the range

All of this is possible thanks to PZP, a scientifically proven fertility control vaccine that is administered remotely. It’s safe, reversible, and doesn’t interfere with the horses’ natural behaviors or family bonds — allowing them to live wild, as nature intended.

This lifesaving program has changed countless lives — including Zinnia’s, the mare we told you about last week who’s stayed healthy and free on the range for years thanks to our fertility control program. Through stories like hers, we’re proving that there is a better way to manage wild horse populations.

We’re working to expand this humane model to more herds across the West. But we can’t do it without your support. Will you make a donation today in honor of 6 years of keeping wild horses wild on the Virginia Range?

DONATE NOW

Thank you for being part of this movement.

With gratitude,

American Wild Horse Conservation

Exclusive Webinar: Landmark Court Ruling & The Future of Wild Horse Adoptions

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The following is from the American Wild Horse Campaign:

We invite you to join us for an important webinar discussing the recent court ruling that shut down the Bureau of Land Management’s (BLM) Adoption Incentive Program (AIP) and our next steps in promoting responsible wild horse and burro adoptions.

Date: Wednesday March 19th
  Time: 2 PM PST
Location: RSVP for the webinar link

This decision is a major victory in our fight to protect wild horses and burros, but with 66,000 animals still in government holding facilities, we must now focus on ensuring adoptions are ethical, transparent, and humane.

Featured Speakers:
  Amelia Perrin, AWHC – Led the investigation that exposed the link between the AIP and the slaughter pipeline, culminating in a New York Times front-page exposé and congressional outrage.
  Clare Staples, Skydog Sanctuary – Has rescued hundreds of AIP horses and burros from kill pens, saving lives while gathering critical documentation that played a key role in shutting down the program.

Together, we’ll explore solutions—including replacing cash incentives with more responsible approaches like veterinary vouchers—and discuss how we can prevent future policies that put wild horses and burros at risk.

Don’t miss this opportunity to learn more, ask questions, and be part of the movement shaping the future of wild horse and burro protection.

RSVP NOW

Thank you for your continued support. We look forward to seeing you there!

Team AWHC

One Woman Sparked a Movement. Now It’s Our Turn.

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The following is from the American Wild Horse Campaign:

This Women’s History Month, we’re celebrating the legacy of Velma Bronn Johnston — better known as Wild Horse Annie — the fierce advocate who changed the course of history for America’s wild horses and burros. Thanks to her tireless activism, the Wild Free-Roaming Horses and Burros Act is law, protecting our iconic wild herds from “capture, branding and harassment.”

But today, Wild Horse Annie’s fight is far from over.

Every year, helicopter roundups continue to endanger and remove wild horses from public lands, threatening the freedom Wild Horse Annie fought so hard to defend. It’s time to continue the work she started and demand change.

Take action today to not only honor her legacy, but celebrate ALL of the strong women who have come after her in the fight to keep wild horses wild. Will you sign our petition to end cruel helicopter roundups and protect wild horses for generations to come? 

Sign the Petition

Together, we can keep Wild Horse Annie’s vision alive and ensure that our wild horses and burros remain free — exactly where they belong.

With gratitude,

Team AWHC

An act of care for America’s wild horses

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The following is from the American Wild Horse Campaign:

America’s wild horses and burros represent the spirit of freedom and resilience. At American Wild Horse Conservation, we are dedicated to ensuring they remain protected—now and for generations to come. Because of compassionate supporters like you, we can fight for their right to roam freely, advocate for humane policies, and preserve the lands they call home.

As you think about the future, we invite you to complete an act of care—both for yourself and for the wild horses you cherish. By creating or updating your will, you can ensure your loved ones are safeguarded while also making a lasting impact on the causes closest to your heart.

CREATE MY FREE WILL!

Including American Wild Horse Conservation in your estate plans is a powerful way to protect wild horses long into the future. It costs nothing today, yet ensures that your love for these iconic animals continues for years to come.

If you’d like to learn more about this simple way to make a difference, we’re here to help. Feel free to reach out to us with any questions at
contact@americanwildhorse.org, or by responding directly to this email.

Thank you for being part of this movement—your compassion is what keeps wild horses safe and free.

With gratitude,

Suzanne Roy
Executive Director
American Wild Horse Conservation

P.S. If you’ve already included American Wild Horse Conservation in your estate plans, please let us know.

It’s almost National Horse Protection Day!

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The following is from the American Wild Horse Campaign:

March 1st is almost here, and with it comes a powerful opportunity to take a stand for America’s wild horses. On National Horse Protection Day, we’re rallying advocates like you to send a loud and clear message: helicopter roundups must end.

Download the graphic below and share it to your social media networks to spread the word! Be sure to tag @freewildhorses on Facebook, X and Instagram!

Right now, more wild horses are warehoused in government holding pens than roaming free on public lands. Families are torn apart, foals are pushed to the brink of death, and taxpayers are footing a $150 million bill for this cruelty — despite the existence of humane, cost-effective alternatives.

We can change this, but we need you with us. Will you be part of our National Day of Action on March 1?

TAKE ACTION

There are three main ways you can help:

Sign the petition to demand an end to brutal helicopter roundups.

Use #HaltTheHelicopters and #NationalHorseProtectionDay on social media to raise awareness.

Contact your members of Congress to support humane management of America’s wild herds.

So what do you say? Will you join us for our National Day of Action next Saturday and amplify our collective voice as we demand protections for our wild herds?

TAKE ACTION

Finally, don’t forget to forward this email to your friends and family to encourage THEM to take action for our iconic wild herds.

Thank you!

Amelia Perrin
American Wild Horse Conservation

❗️Urgent Courtroom Update – Wyoming Checkerboard

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The following is from the American Wild Horse Campaign:
Greetings,

The fight to protect America’s wild horses is at a critical moment. On March 18, our legal team, led by Eubanks and Associates, will present oral arguments before the 10th Circuit Court of Appeals at the United States Courthouse in Denver. This case is vital — not just for the Wyoming wild horses we’re fighting for, but for every other herd across the West.

Standing up for wild herds in the courtroom is one of the foremost ways we can fight for their wellbeing and hold the federal government accountable. Will you chip in to support our legal fund?

FUEL OUR LEGAL FUND

This fight is part of a decades-long battle we’ve fought to protect over 2 million acres in the southwestern area of the state known as the “Wyoming Checkerboard” from the demands of organizations like the Rock Springs Grazing Association (RSGA), which wants to eradicate the wild horses that live there.

Clearly, we’re up against very powerful interests who view wild horses as competitors to their private livestock on our public lands.

A huge legal principle continues to be at stake: Will private interests be allowed to dictate the use of public lands and decide whether our federally protected wild horses and burros can live on them?

FUEL OUR LEGAL FUND

But our legal advocacy doesn’t end there. We also filed a lawsuit against the implementation of the Adoption Incentive Program, which continues to funnel hundreds of wild horses and burros into the slaughter pipeline every year. We are waiting for a decision from the judge on this case. We will continue to hold the BLM accountable through legal actions and strategic litigation.

Litigation is one of our most powerful tools to protect wild horses, but it’s also one of the most costly. Your support makes these legal battles possible. Will you stand with us?

FUEL OUR LEGAL FUND

Thank you for following along in our fight to protect wild horses and burros across the American West. Our success depends on the support of advocates like you.

Forward with hope and gratitude,

Team AWHC

We want to hear from you! Let us know what’s best →

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The following is from the American Wild Horse Campaign:

We’re so grateful to have your support in the fight to protect America’s iconic wild horses and burros. But we know your inbox can get busy, so we want to make sure we’re sending you the right amount of updates about our shared mission.

Would you take just a few seconds to let us know your email preferences by completing this survey?

Update Your Preferences

You can choose to:

  • Receive all of our updates and action alerts;
  • Receive some emails (the most important updates + actions);
  • Hear from us only when there’s urgent action needed;
  • Or, if you love staying informed, sign up to receive even more emails!

No matter what you choose, we appreciate you being a part of this movement. Your voice makes a difference for wild horses and burros, and we want to make sure you’re hearing from us in the way that works best for you.

Update Your Preferences

Thank you!

– Team AWHC

P.S. if you would prefer to stop receiving emails from us, that’s okay too! Click here to unsubscribe from our mailing list.

How one teenage voice sparked change for wild horses

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The following is from the American Wild Horse Campaign:

At the American Wild Horse Conservation (AWHC), we are constantly inspired by the dedication and passion of our supporters.

Today, we want to share the incredible story of Kristie Churchly and her teenage daughter, Layla, whose advocacy for America’s wild horses has sparked meaningful change.

Their journey began with a family trip to Sand Wash Basin Herd Management Area (HMA) in northwest Colorado, where they were captivated by the beauty and strong family bonds of the wild mustangs living there. Seeing the iconic stallion Picasso sealed their passion for wild horse conservation.

That passion continued to grow over the years, culminating in a remarkable moment in Layla’s high school biology class. After a lesson on wild horse management that left out critical details about the challenges these animals face and the humane conservation solutions available, Layla saw an opportunity.


Photo by Tandin Chapman

Determined to make a difference, she conducted research, met with her teacher, and helped expand the curriculum to present a more comprehensive and accurate portrayal of wild horse issues. Her courage and enthusiasm inspired her classmates and demonstrated the power of one thoughtful voice to spark positive change.

Layla’s advocacy didn’t stop there — she even gentled a yearling mustang named Story through the Meeker Mustang Makeover, and her family ultimately adopted him.

At AWHC, we’re proud to work alongside passionate advocates like Kristie and Layla, who show that every action, big or small, can make a difference for America’s wild horses.

There are so many ways you can join this important mission:

Volunteer: Whether it’s participating in events or advocating for humane management practices, your involvement directly impacts the future of wild horses.

Donate: The most powerful way to make a lasting difference is by donating. Your gift supports AWHC’s vital work to protect wild horses and ensure they remain wild and free.

DONATE

Together, we can build a future where wild horses continue to roam freely as a living symbol of freedom and resilience.

Thank you for standing with us.

Warmly,

Team AWHC

In this week’s eNews: AWHC at Desert International Horse Park!

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The following is from the American Wild Horse Campaign:

In this edition of eNews, we’re sharing exciting updates in the fight to protect our wild herds, including American Wild Horse Conservation’s (AWHC) participation in an educational summit on wild horse advocacy, as well as our time at Desert International Horse Park last weekend, where we connected with the equestrian community. We’re also monitoring a troubling development at the Devil’s Garden roundup and taking action to protect public observation rights.

Read on to learn more!

Tune in: Unveiling the Flaws in the BLM’s Adoption Programs

AWHC’s Amelia Perrin is participating in an online educational summit, joining other wild horse advocates and experts to discuss advocating for wild horses and burros. She will be presenting on the flaws of the Adoption Incentive Program and how in-the-wild conservation could modernize wild horse management. Tune in on February 3, 7:30 pm EST!

REGISTER NOW!

 

AWHC in the Big Arena

Last week, AWHC had the honor of being the presenting sponsor of week three at Desert International Horse Park! We were honored to also be the title sponsor for the Grand Prix event on Saturday evening. It was a great week of connecting with the equestrian community and even introducing them to once wild, rescued mustang Blazey! Read about the whole week below!

READ THE BLOG!

 

A Troubling Start to the 2025 Observation Season

Last week, the United States Forest Service (USFS) suddenly restarted the Devil’s Garden wild horse roundup. The restart came with little-to-no notice and troubling restrictions: the USFS limited public observation to just two days and capped attendance at four individuals. AWHC is on alert to ensure this does not signal a change in the public’s already diminished right to view and document wild horse roundups. Read more about this shift and how AWHC took action.

READ MORE

 

Recapping Our Florida Lunch & Learn

In partnership with the Wild Horse Rescue Center (WRC), AWHC hosted a lunch and learn event to bring together advocates from Florida to talk all about wild horses and meet WRC’s rescued mustangs. Read more to learn about the event and see some of the horses!

READ MORE

Thank you for reading!

Team AWHC

$120K roundup vs. $30 vaccine

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The following is from the American Wild Horse Campaign:

Porcine Zona Pellucida.

Better known as the PZP vaccine, this fertility control tool is a safe, effective, and humane solution for managing wild horse herds. Unlike cruel and costly helicopter roundups carried out by federal agencies, PZP allows wild horses to remain free on the range. Best of all, a single dose costs just $30.

Will you help us celebrate the 30th of January with a gift of $30 to cover the cost of protecting one wild mare and her family from becoming the target of another cruel, costly government roundup operation?

DONATE $30 ON JANUARY 30

Meet Empress, a wild mare from Nevada’s Virginia Range who has greatly benefited from American Wild Horse Conservation’s (AWHC) groundbreaking PZP program. Between 2014 and 2019, she has had five beautiful foals, contributing to the genetic health of her herd. Not only has our PZP program kept her free, but it has also kept her healthy. With a break from pregnancy, she is able to live out her golden years, thriving in the wild where she belongs.

Will you help us protect mares like Empress? Donate $30 now to help us deliver sustainable, humane solutions to our iconic wild herds.


Empress, a Virginia Range wild mare.

Despite PZP’s proven success, the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is failing to use this humane management strategy at scale. One blatant example is Nevada’s Fish Creek roundup, which ended with nearly 200 horses captured earlier this month. This cruel, costly helicopter roundup could have been prevented.


Photo of Fish Springs HMA roundup taken by an AWHC observer.

Five years ago, AWHC submitted a formal proposal to launch a humane PZP fertility control program in the Fish Creek Herd Managment Area (HMA). The proposal underwent extensive review, but the BLM withheld final approval without explanation.

Despite this, we’re continuing to expand groundbreaking fertility control programs in other areas, proving the safety and efficacy of PZP. Since 2019, our groundbreaking fertility control program in northern Nevada has seen a 67% decline in foal births, stabilizing this population in areas where development is encroaching on their habitat.

The PZP vaccine keeps mares wild and free on the range for a mere lifetime cost of just over $3,500 — pennies on the dollar when you look at the staggering $48,000 it costs to keep just one horse in government holding for life.

By donating $30 today, you can help cover the cost of one PZP dose, directly contributing to the long-term solution for keeping wild mares like Empress safe, free, and wild. This January 30, will you help us make a difference for America’s wild horses by supporting a humane, lasting solution?

DONATE $30 ON JANUARY 30

Thank you for standing with us in defense of these iconic animals.

Sincerely,

Team AWHC

Thank you

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The following is from the American Wild Horse Campaign:

Thank you for your incredible support in our mission to protect America’s wild horses and burros. Whether you took action this month or generously gave to support our cause, you have fueled our fight to stop the cruel, costly helicopter roundups that threaten these magnificent creatures.

With your help, we are amplifying our voice in Congress, strengthening advocacy efforts state by state, and pushing for science-forward, humane fertility control alternatives.

We couldn’t do this critical work without champions like you. Every dollar you contribute and every action you take brings us one step closer to ending the federal government’s outdated, destructive herd management program and ensuring American wild horses and burros roam free as nature intended.

Please know that wild horses have a brighter future because of you.

I will personally continue to keep you updated on the progress your generosity makes possible. Thank you for being part of this movement.

With gratitude,

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Suzanne Roy
Executive Director
American Wild Horse Conservation

 

 

 

Rare Wild Horses Under Attack in Nevada

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The following is from the American Wild Horse Campaign:

Just six days into the new year, the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) launched a roundup of wild horses in the Fish Creek Herd Management Area (HMA) in Nevada. Over the course of four days, and in snowy, bitterly cold conditions, the BLM captured nearly 200 wild horses, threatening their lives and families and wasting thousands of taxpayer dollars in the process. Will you help us fight back against the BLM’s cruel, unnecessary campaign against our wild ones? 

POWER OUR FIGHT

This roundup posed a direct threat to the curly-coated wild horses who call the Fish Creek HMA home. And rather than ensuring their freedom, the BLM is spending $127,195 of our taxpayer dollars to remove them from the wild.


Photo from the Fish Creek HMA by AWHC observers

The Fish Creek HMA spans 230,675 acres south of U.S. Highway 50 in Nevada, and was home to an estimated 245 wild horses following the Spring 2024 foaling season. However, the BLM’s arbitrary and unscientific Appropriate Management Level (AML) for the area is just 101-170 horses — far too few to sustain a genetically healthy population.

This roundup should never have happened, and this is not the first time the Fish Creek herd has been the center of controversy.

  • 2015: Ranchers blocked the release of mares treated with fertility control back onto the range.
  • 2020: American Wild Horse Conservation (AWHC) submitted a formal proposal to the BLM to launch a humane PZP fertility control program in the Fish Creek HMA. The proposal underwent extensive review, but the BLM never granted final approval. No reason was ever provided.

Now, the BLM is removing horses that AWHC’s fertility control program could have prevented from being born, could have saved taxpayer dollars and preserved the genetic legacy of this herd. Both the horses and the taxpayers are paying the price for the BLM’s fiscally irresponsible and short-sighted decisions.

AWHC was on the ground to document this tragic roundup and advocate for the Fish Creek wild horses. We’ll continue to fight for humane, science-based management that protects wild horses and respects the will of the American people.

Will you donate $10, $25, or whatever makes sense for you right now, to power our fight for the horses of Fish Creek? 

DONATE NOW

Thank you for being a voice for America’s wild herds.

For the wild ones,

Team AWHC

The government is rounding up the Devil’s Garden wild horses AGAIN

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The following is from the American Wild Horse Campaign:

The wild horses of the Devil’s Garden Plateau Wild Horse Territory in California are once again under threat. This roundup, initiated by the U.S. Forest Service (USFS) in October 2024, has officially resumed with almost no notice and alarming restrictions on public observation. Our observers were only allowed to attend the roundup for two days, and they were restricted from visiting the holding facility where the recently captured horses were held.

Before the observation period started, AWHC sent a legal letter demanding full and transparent public observation of the roundup. When our observers reported even more restrictions while on the ground, we reached out again to the USFS.

Here’s what we know:

  • According to the incoming Modoc Forest Supervisor, the new administration has issued a communications freeze and the USFS is not able to post any roundup updates to its website or social media.
  • Our observation continued to be restricted at the roundup and the corrals. Without full access or any information shared, the public is fully in the dark and there is no opportunity to hold the government accountable.

Every American taxpayer has the right to witness how the government is treating these iconic animals. And we stand ready to defend that right. 

POWER OUR ACTION


Devil’s Garden Plateau Roundup by an AWHC observer.

Will you join us in our fight to protect the right to observe government operations? Your support will help us:

  • Continue legal efforts to ensure transparency and accountability.
  • Provide on-the-ground advocacy to protect wild horses.
  • Fight for humane, sustainable conservation practices.
SUPPORT OUR ADVOCACY

Together, we can stand up for the wild horses of Devil’s Garden and all our wild herds to ensure they are treated with the respect and care they deserve.

Thank you for standing with us,

Team AWHC

Wild Horses are good for the economy!

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The following is from the American Wild Horse Campaign:

Did you know that wild horses are not only iconic symbols of the American West, but also powerful drivers of ecotourism?


Photo by Yasmin Tajik

In a recent article featured in Bustle, the spotlight was on the growing potential of wild horse ecotourism. As word gets out that America’s public lands are home to these iconic animals, people want to travel to them and experience the beauty and freedom of wild horses in their natural habitats.

This isn’t just great news for wild horses and those who love them — it’s great for local economies too! Research shows that thriving wild horse ecotourism could help support local communities, and small businesses like tour operators, hotels, and restaurants near wild horse habitat.

But here’s the thing: This incredible economic and cultural boon is at risk due to the federal government’s mismanagement. And with a new Congress just sworn in, it’s more important than ever that we highlight the role wild horses play — not just as a symbol of our heritage, but as contributors to thriving communities and ecosystems.

American Wild Horse Conservation (AWHC) is fighting to protect these animals and keep them where they belong: in the wild. From implementing humane fertility control programs to safeguarding and enhancing critical habitats, our team is on the ground every day, making a difference for our wild herds.

Will you stand with us as we work to conserve these iconic animals so we can protect this vital economic lifeline for communities across the West?

DONATE

Thank you,

American Wild Horse Conservation

93 Lawmakers. 15 Million Advocates. And we’re just getting started…

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The following is from the American Wild Horse Campaign:

Over the past couple of years, we’ve chartered new frontiers in the conservation of America’s wild herds. In 2024 alone, we worked with 93 members of Congress to serve as a clear voice for wild horses and burros on Capitol Hill. Last year our grassroots advocacy reached a staggering 15 million people on social media and earned 278 media mentions, which reached an additional 5.4 million viewers. Our team spent nearly 200 days in the field documenting every major government helicopter roundup. We defended wild horses in the court room and preserved their future through humane, science-backed fertility control on the range.

Our work in advocacy, litigation, documentation, and conservation have all led us to this moment — and to our impactful agenda for 2025. This year, our wild herds continue to face serious threats including habitat destruction, federally funded abuse, and more.

Will you help us build on unprecedented progress and continue the fight to ensure these iconic animals thrive for generations to come?

SUPPORT OUR 2025 ACTION

Our plan for this year is straightforward and impactful, but we know we have challenges ahead. Here’s what we plan to achieve in 2025: 

  • Protect public lands from competing interests such as private livestock grazing.
  • Secure stronger wild horse protections at the state and federal levels.
  • Fund humane, science-based wild horse and burro conservation.
  • Partner with local organizations to rescue at-risk wild horses.

But we can’t do it alone. Your contribution directly impacts our fight to save wild horses and burros. A gift of $25, $50, $100, or any amount will help us target our advocacy efforts toward key decision-makers, rescue wild horses in immediate danger, and develop innovative programs that balance conservation and public land use.

SUPPORT OUR 2025 ACTION

Every dollar makes a difference. Together, we can ensure wild horses continue to roam free across America’s open spaces — just as they were meant to.

Wild horses embody our shared heritage and the spirit of freedom. By donating today, you’re not just supporting a cause — you’re standing with thousands of others who believe in a future where wild horses thrive.

Let’s do this together.

For the wild ones,

Team AWHC

Special Thanks to Wild Horse Champions in the 119th Congress

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The following is from the American Wild Horse Campaign:

Both a new administration and a new Congress have been sworn in.

Please join us in celebrating with renewed thanks and congratulations to four members of Congress who have gone above and beyond for America’s wild herds. The following wild horse and burro champions were sworn in earlier this month after being reelected to serve their constituencies:

  • Congresswoman Dina Titus (D-NV)
  • Congressman David Schweikert (R-AZ)
  • Congressman Juan Ciscomani (R-AZ)
  • Congressman Steve Cohen (D-TN)

To these members of Congress: Thank you for standing firmly by our side in the fight to reform the Bureau of Land Management’s (BLM) cruel, costly herd management practices. Thank you for your unwavering commitment to protecting these majestic symbols of the American West. Your work on Capitol Hill exemplifies hope and progress toward our mission to preserve the freedom and dignity of American wild horses and burros.

We look forward to continuing this vital work together with the 119th United States Congress.

Will you join us in thanking these members of Congress for their past work and renewing the call for meaningful reform to conserve our iconic wild herds in 2025? Save this graphic to your camera roll and share it on your personal social media accounts. Don’t forget to tag @freewildhorses!

Together, we can keep America’s wild horses free and thriving. Thank you for being an essential part of this mission!

Stay Wild,

Team AWHC

Everything changed when the helicopters came

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The following is from the American Wild Horse Campaign:

My name is Sage. For years, I called the Buffalo Hills in Nevada my home. I lived peacefully on the open range, where the air was crisp, the mornings were peaceful, and the only thing that mattered was keeping my little one, Washoe, safe.


Photo by Steve Paige

But one day this past November, everything changed.

I will never forget the roar of the helicopter that shattered the quiet morning. I ran as fast as I could, Washoe stumbling by my side, trying to stay close. The ground beneath us trembled as I fought to protect him, but there was no escape. They cornered us, roped us, and took us away from the only home we’ve ever known.


Photo by Steve Paige

After the roundup, we were held captive in a Bureau of Land Management (BLM) holding facility. Washoe still doesn’t understand what’s going on, and I fear what comes next — for him and for me.

No animal deserves to be treated like this, Meredith. Thankfully, there are people who are fighting for change — like American Wild Horse Conservation. 

AWHC is working tirelessly to end the cruel helicopter roundups that rip wild families apart and rob us of our freedom. They work around the clock to rescue burros and horses like us from being funneled into the slaughter pipeline before it’s too late. They are fighting for a future where we can live in peace on the public lands we’ve called home for generations.

But they can’t do it without your help.

Please, if you can, make a donation today to help AWHC continue their critical work to protect America’s wild horses and burros. Your support could make all the difference — not just for us, but for the thousands of wild horses and burros still out there, clinging to their freedom. Every donation helps AWHC push for humane, common-sense solutions to keep us wild and free.

DONATE

With gratitude,

Sage the Burro

DOGE’s Chance to Reform the BLM

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The following is from the American Wild Horse Campaign:

As a new administration is coming into power, so is the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). This new government department, led by Vivek Ramaswamy and Elon Musk, has made a commitment to improving government efficiency and fiscal responsibility and the Wild Horse and Burro Program is a prime candidate for reform.

TAKE ACTION

Why Reform Is Needed:

  • Outdated and Costly Practices: The BLM continues to rely on traumatic helicopter roundups, confining tens of thousands of wild horses in costly holding facilities. This approach ignores repeated Congressional directives and recommendations from the National Academy of Sciences, which criticized roundups as “expensive and unproductive.”
  • Skyrocketing Costs: The BLM’s Wild Horse and Burro Program spent $158 million in 2023 alone, with costs projected to reach $360 million annually. This spending prioritizes ineffective methods over proven, humane fertility control strategies that save taxpayers millions.
  • Humane Solutions Work: On Nevada’s Virginia Range, American Wild Horse Conservation (AWHC) has demonstrated that fertility control programs are not only effective but also financially sound, costing a fraction of the price of roundups and confinement.
TAKE ACTION

Both Musk and Ramaswamy’s commitment to fiscal responsibility, along with Ramaswamy’s concern about animal cruelty, aligns perfectly with the urgent need to overhaul the BLM’s current approach.

This is a rare chance to demand a better way forward — one that respects science, saves taxpayer dollars, and ensures humane treatment of federally protected wild horses.

Take action now and call on DOGE to reform the BLM’s Wild Horse and Burro Program and prioritize humane, science-based management solutions over the current cruel and costly approach. 

Best,

American Wild Horse Conservation

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