Theodore Roosevelt National Park in North Dakota is considering a proposal that could result in the removal of the beloved wild horses that freely roam the park. This proposal has raised concerns among advocates who view the horses as an important cultural link to the past. The horses, often seen by visitors driving along the park road, are not only a symbol of the West but also a tourist attraction that adds to the park’s charm. Park officials, however, consider the horses to be “livestock,” which has sparked disagreement with advocates who want to see the horses continue to roam the Badlands.
The National Park Service is currently revising its livestock plans and conducting an environmental assessment to evaluate the impact of various actions, including the possibility of removing the horses altogether. Removal would involve capturing the horses and either giving them to tribes or auctioning them off to other entities. Alternatively, measures could be taken to prevent future reproduction, allowing the existing horses to live out their lives in the park.
The horses have garnered support from government leaders and advocacy groups. Chris Kman, the President of Chasing Horses Wild Horse Advocates, expressed concern that the park may remove the horses despite their popularity among visitors. Kman emphasized that the park belongs to the people and that they should have a say in the fate of the horses.
The park currently maintains a population of around 200 horses, but a 1978 environmental assessment suggests a reduction to 35-60 animals. Kman believes that science should guide the management of the horses and that a minimum of 150-200 reproductive horses is necessary for genetic viability. The park’s use of contraceptives on the mares and its potential impact on their well-being remain unclear.
Advocates argue that removing the horse population would have a detrimental impact on the park’s ecosystem. The horses are not only a historical fixture but also reflect the ranching era and the presence of Native people in western North Dakota. In fact, the horses may even have ties to Hunkpapa Lakota leader Sitting Bull.
Theodore Roosevelt, after whom the national park is named, has deep roots in North Dakota. His hunting and ranching activities in the Badlands during the 1880s have solidified his connection to the region. Recognizing the importance of preserving this legacy, North Dakota Governor Doug Burgum has offered the state’s collaboration with the Park Service to manage the horses. The state’s Republican-controlled Legislature has also passed a resolution in support of preserving the horses.
Senator John Hoeven, another advocate for preserving the horses, has included legislation in the U.S. Interior Department’s appropriations bill to ensure that the park retains a similar number of horses to what existed during Roosevelt’s time. Hoeven emphasizes that public opinion strongly supports the presence of horses in the park.
The park plans to release the environmental assessment this summer, providing an opportunity for public comment. The assessment will evaluate the impact of the proposed actions on various aspects of the park. Previous public comments on the park’s proposals overwhelmingly opposed the complete removal of the horses.
Advocacy groups like Chasing Horses Wild Horse Advocates have been actively gathering support for the horses. They have reached out to congressional offices, tribal leaders, and similar organizations to emphasize the importance of preserving the horses.
While there is uncertainty about the final decision and timeline, the determination and public support for the horses suggest a higher likelihood of success this time. The state of North Dakota’s fight for the horses has been stronger than ever before.
Given that Theodore Roosevelt National Park is one of the few national parks with wild horses, their presence sets it apart from others. The economic impact of the horses on tourism cannot be quantified, but they are highly regarded by the media, photographers, travel writers, and social media influencers who promote the park. Removing the horses would eliminate a feature that park visitors have come to expect and enjoy.
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