NDA signs cooperative agreement for feral horse management

The Nevada Department of Agriculture (NDA) entered into a second non-exclusive cooperative agreement with Wild Horse Connection (WHC), a Nevada-based nonprofit, for the management of feral and estray horses in the Virginia Range. The new cooperative agreement is in addition to a fertility control agreement the NDA signed earlier this year.

WHC, with approval from the NDA, will respond to citizen concerns regarding public safety hazards, horse removal and adoption, diversionary feeding and fencing projects.

“Entering into a cooperative agreement for the management of the Virginia Range feral horse population is critical for the protection of public safety,” NDA Director Jennifer Ott said. “I look forward to working with the volunteers of WHC and our shared goal of managing the population.”

The new agreement addresses feral horse management for the safety of the public and the horses, and leaves room for additional agreements. NDA staff will continue to address public safety concerns as-needed in cooperation with WHC. Horses on highways or roadways should be reported to local law enforcement or by calling NDA’s Animal Industry division 775-353-3608.

“Wild Horse Connection is honored to have the added privilege of working with the Nevada Department of Agriculture to manage the Virginia Range horses, along with aiding community concerns, public education and working actively to limit public safety issues,” Corenna Vance, WHC president, said.

The Virginia Range area includes highway 395 to 95A and I-80 to Highway 50. Nevada is a “fence-out” state, which means if landowners do not want livestock on their property, they must construct a legal fence in accordance with NRS Chapter 569.431. Horses in the Virginia Range cross roadways in search of feed and water sources. Drivers should remain alert and aware at all times.

The Nevada Department of Agriculture (NDA) promotes a business climate that is fair, economically viable and encourages a sustainable environment that serves to protect food, fiber and human health and safety through effective service and education. The NDA includes the divisions of Administration, Animal Industry, Consumer Equitability, Food and Nutrition and Plant Industry.