Government May Pay for Wild Horses' Care

LAS VEGAS - The government is considering paying ranchers in Nevada and other Western states to care for wild horses removed from federal rangeland, instead of sending the animals to sanctuaries in the Midwest.

Officials at the Bureau of Land Management said the practice could save money and be healthier for the horses.

"The idea is trying to find a way to satisfy the habitat needs and care of the excess animals," said Jeff Rawson, the agency's wild horse manager. "We're always trying to do this as efficiently and as cost-effectively as we can."

The nation has an estimated 38,000 wild horses, more than half of them roaming across Nevada.

Some horses are now shipped to privately contracted ranches in Oklahoma and Kansas. The government pays an average of $1.25 a day per horse for care at the ranches. The total cost in 2004 is projected to be $6.8 million.

Veterinarian Joseph Merriam, a member of the bureau's Wild Horse and Advisory Board, said leaving wild horses in their natural habitat would be less stressful for the animals.

"They should absolutely stay close to where they are born and raised," he said.