❗️Urgent Courtroom Update – Wyoming Checkerboard
The following is from the American Wild Horse Campaign:
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wild horses
We want to hear from you! Let us know what’s best →
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?
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You can choose to:
- Receive all of our updates and action alerts;
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- 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.
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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.
Help us protect their home before it’s too late!
The following is from the American Wild Horse Campaign:
As a donor to our mission, you probably have heard about our Land Conservancy Project, the bold initiative we pioneered in 2023.
This program was established to preserve key habitats so our iconic wild herds can live wild and free in ecological balance in America’s western landscapes. The funding devoted to this project supports land acquisition, habitat restoration, and humane treatment of the wildlife that lives there.
This transformative, successful project would not be possible without the generous support from advocates like you. Thank you.
The long-term success of this initiative depends on your financial support. That’s why we’d like you to consider becoming a monthly donor. By giving consistently, you provide American Wild Horse Conservation with steady resources that allow us to protect more of our land, restore more habitats for our wild herds, and safeguard wild horses and burros for generations to come.
| MAKE MY GIFT MONTHLY |
The Bureau of Land Management’s (BLM) own range data indicates that private livestock overgrazing, along with fire and drought, has depleted habitats for all wildlife, including federally protected species like wild horses and burros.
This preventable habitat deterioration is one reason we took a huge step forward by acquiring 3,300 acres of prime habitat within Nevada’s picturesque Carson Valley. The land supports a diverse array of wildlife including the federally protected Fish Springs wild horse herd. We aim to use this innovative project to help set a new conservation standard for wild horse and burro protection. Our dedicated land manager, along with a team of passionate experts, works on the ground, actively tracking wild horse movements, studying the intricacies of the land, and undertaking vital habitat restoration projects.
With your support, we can continue to expand this vital work — securing land, restoring fragile ecosystems, and ensuring wild horses and burros remain free where they belong.
| MAKE MY GIFT MONTHLY |
Thank you again for being a champion for our wild herds,
Team AWHC
7 things you should know if you’re WILD about wild horses…
The following is from the American Wild Horse Campaign:
Did you know that wild horses have the largest eyes of any land mammal? With nearly 350-degree vision, they can spot danger from almost every angle — one of the many ways American wild horses have survived and thrived across the West for centuries. These incredible animals aren’t just running free — they’re carrying the spirit of the open range and keeping nature in balance, one hoofbeat at a time!
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Saddle up, because we’re about to share seven WILD facts about our cherished icons:
They’ve got spring in their step! Wild horses have a built-in shock absorption system in their legs, helping them cover miles of rugged terrain without breaking stride.
Herds stick together. A lead mare charts the course, while a dominant stallion stands guard. Young bachelors eventually break away to start their own herds.
Foals find their footing fast. Within just one hour of birth, a wild foal is already up and trotting alongside Mom — because in the wild, there’s no time to horse around!
They have a secret language. Wild horses “talk” through ear flicks, tail swishes, and subtle shifts in body posture — but when words fail, a well-placed squeal or kick gets the message across.
Nature’s lawnmowers at work! Unlike cattle, wild horses don’t rip grass up by the roots, keeping grasslands healthy and thriving. You could say they have a knack for natural landscaping.
They don’t hit the snooze button. Wild horses get very little REM sleep and often sleep standing up, ready to flee at a moment’s notice if danger approaches.
They’re a native reintroduced species! Wild horses evolved in the North American continent. Research shows they crossed the Bering Land bridge, going locally extinct, but they never went globally extinct and were reintroduced by Spanish colonizers.
| Chip in to Protect America’s Wild Horses |
The wild horses of the American West are in a race against time. Government helicopter roundups are driving them from their homes, replacing freedom with fences.
In fact, as we speak, more “federally protected” wild horses are living in captivity than roaming free on public lands.
| Chip in to Protect America’s Wild Horses |
One more thing! On March 1 — National Horse Protection Day — we’re taking action for wild horses. You can get a headstart by clicking here to sign our petition to #HaltTheHelicopters and end cruel, costly government helicopter roundups!
For the wild ones,
Team AWHC
A Love Story as Wild as the Nevada Wind
The following is from the American Wild Horse Campaign:
In the untamed beauty of Nevada’s Fish Springs Range lives a love story like no other.
Blue and Lady are the king and queen of this wild desert landscape. Blue embodies the spirit of a true wild stallion — fiercely protective and resilient, shaped by grit and molded by the harsh desert sun. Lady, a stunning and wise mare, has raised generations of wild horses, her innate intuition keeping her family safe and free.
Photos of Blue and Lady at Fish Springs Range by John T. Humphrey
For years, these two remarkable wild horses have stood by each other’s side. When Blue naps, Lady stands watch. When visitors spot Lady, they know that Blue is never far away. Their unwavering love has withstood fierce challenges from rival stallions, bitter winters, and the ever-changing demands of life in the wild.
This Valentine’s Day, will you join us in honoring a love as wild and enduring as that of Blue and Lady by supporting the American Wild Horse Conservation (AWHC)?
| Make a Valentine’s Day Gift Today |
Looking for more Blue and Lady content?! Check out the Wild Hearts Project, which we launched just this month to shine a light on powerful stories of family and freedom — stories like this one.
| Explore the Wild Hearts Project |
Thank you for standing by wild horses and the enduring love stories they inspire.
For love that runs free,
Team AWHC
How one teenage voice sparked change for wild horses
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!
The following is from the American Wild Horse Campaign:
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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. 
$120K roundup vs. $30 vaccine
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.
| 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.
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.
| DONATE $30 ON JANUARY 30 |
Thank you for standing with us in defense of these iconic animals.
Sincerely,
Team AWHC
Thank you
The following is from the American Wild Horse Campaign:
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Rare Wild Horses Under Attack in Nevada
The following is from the American Wild Horse Campaign:
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The government is rounding up the Devil’s Garden wild horses AGAIN
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!
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.
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Thank you,
American Wild Horse Conservation
93 Lawmakers. 15 Million Advocates. And we’re just getting started…
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.
| 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
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
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.
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With gratitude,
Sage the Burro
DOGE’s Chance to Reform the BLM
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.
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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.
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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.
Best,
American Wild Horse Conservation
Announcing the 2025 Membership Card!
The following is from the American Wild Horse Campaign:
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This week’s e-news: L.A. Fire Victim Resources
The following is from the American Wild Horse Campaign:
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FWD: LAST CHANCE! Help us pick our official 2025 AWHC Member Card >>
The following is from the American Wild Horse Campaign:
Did you see our email on Thursday?
We’re announcing the winning design for our Official 2025 American Wild Horse Conservation Member Card on Wednesday! Make sure to cast your vote now and have a say on the final design! >>
A 2025 AWHC Member Card is *the perfect way* to show the world your commitment to standing up for America’s wild horses and burros.
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Thank you for your input!
Team AWHC
It’s that time of year!
Option # 1
Option #2
Option #3
A 2025 AWHC Member Card is a great way to show off your dedication to protecting America’s wild herds. Will you cast your vote and let us know which design is your favorite? We’ll be announcing the winner next Wednesday!
| VOTE |
– American Wild Horse Conservation