The Virginian-Pilot
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The U.S. House has approved a bill that would expand Corolla's wild horse herd to help maintain the herd's genetic viability.
Unanimously approved by the House of Representatives on Monday, the bill would increase the maximum number of horses in the herd to 130 from 60. Equine genetic scientists have found that at least 110 horses are necessary to maintain genetic viability, a news release from Rep. Walter Jones, R-N.C., said. The Corolla Wild Horse Fund would still pay the cost of managing the horses.
For at least the past five years, the herd has averaged more than 100 horses, said Karen McCalpin, director of the Corolla Wild Horse Fund. Last year, an aerial count showed the herd had ballooned to 144 horses, the most recorded since the fund was founded in 1989.
The Corolla Wild Horses Protection Act, introduced by Jones, now heads to the U.S. Senate.
"North Carolina has designated the Colonial Spanish Mustang as our state horse and we must make sure they survive for future generations to enjoy," Jones said in the news release.
Wild horses roam parts of the Currituck National Wildlife Refuge. Federal wildlife officials do not consider the horses to be part of the natural wildlife. They are believed to be descended from Spanish mustangs left there more than 400 years ago.
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Federal Debt, Anyone?
If there was any question that Republicans are just as bad as the Democrats in managing public money, this should answer it.
Message to Walt Jones
If the Mustangs are the state's horses, why is the state of NC paying for their upkeep?
Along with State's Rights there is States Responsibility. Stop asking the Feds for money so you can look at "pretty" horses.
Corolla Wild Horses Protection Act
No state or federal money is used to manage the wild horses on the Currituck Outer Banks nor will the passage of the legislation require any. They are managed by a nonprofit who pays all management related expenses themselves.