TRNP Wild Horses Act (S. 1377)

Summary

Makes sure a healthy group of at least 150 wild horses is kept in Theodore Roosevelt National Park and creates a plan for their care.

What problem does this solve?

The wild horses in Theodore Roosevelt National Park faced potential removal because they lacked specific legal protection. This act requires the park to maintain a herd of at least 150 horses and develop a management plan to ensure their survival.

What does this bill do?

Establishes minimum horse population

Requires the Secretary of the Interior to maintain a herd of at least 150 genetically diverse horses in the South Unit of the park.

Requires a horse management plan

Directs the Secretary to develop a cost-effective management plan for the horses within 120 days, ensuring natural resources are not harmed.

Restricts removal of horses

Prohibits the Secretary from removing horses from the park unless it is to maintain genetic diversity, for an emergency, or to protect public health and safety.

Mandates annual public monitoring

Requires the Secretary to annually monitor the horse population's size, structure, and health and make the findings available to the public.

Who does this affect?

Wild horses in Theodore Roosevelt National Park
National Park Service
Park visitors and wildlife advocates

What is the real world impact?

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Preserves a historic animal population

Ensures the continued presence of the wild horses, which are a significant cultural and historical attraction for visitors to Theodore Roosevelt National Park.

When does this start?

The rules in this bill will start as soon as it becomes a law, with one specific deadline for creating a management plan.

Horse management plan deadline

The Secretary of the Interior must create a management plan for the horses no later than 120 days after the bill becomes law.