Update-Federal Land Managers seek public input on Wild Horse Management in Eastern Oregon

By on Monday, June 12th, 2023 in Eastern/Southeast Oregon News More Top Stories

John Day (Released by US Forest Service)-The U.S. Forest Service Malheur National Forest and the Bureau of Land Management Oregon-Washington are seeking public input on wild horse management in the Murderer’s Creek Wild Horse Joint Management Area. The purpose of the project is to protect and manage wild horses to promote the health and vitality of the Murderer’s Creek horse herd. This project also helps to achieve and maintain a thriving natural ecological balance and multiple-use relationship on public lands.

The current wild horse herd is estimated at more than 500 horses. This has caused degradation to natural resources in and around the 143,000-acre joint management area located in Grant County.

The preliminary environmental analysis describes options for herd size and management methods as well as a no action alternative. Each alternative proposes a suite of tools consistent with the respective herd management area plan to include gathering methods, population growth controls, and monitoring.

The 30-day public comment period is open through July 14, 2023. Documents are available for review at https://www.fs.usda.gov/project/?project=44570.The environmental assessment is also available for review and at the Malheur National Forest’s Supervisor’s Office and the Prineville Bureau of Land Management District Office.

Comments can be submitted electronically (preferred method) to the Comment Analysis and Response Application (CARA) database: https://cara.fs2c.usda.gov/Public//CommentInput?Project=44570

Comments may also be submitted in-person or by mail to: Attn: Wild Horse; Blue Mountain Ranger District; Malheur National Forest; 431 Patterson Bridge Road; PO Box 909; John Day, Oregon 97845. Faxed comments can also be submitted to (541) 575-3319.

For additional information, contact Ryan Falk, U.S. Forest Service Environmental Coordinator by phone, 541-575-3181, or email, ryan.falk@usda.gov.