FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
August 18, 2026
Two-Year Reprieve Reached for Salt River Wild Horses as Genetic Study Moves Forward
Governor Hobbs announces suspension of removals in 2026 and 2027 while genetic viability study is conducted and independently reviewed
PHOENIX, Ariz. — The Salt River wild horses have received a two-year reprieve from removals following an agreement that will allow a genetic viability study to be conducted before future removal decisions are made.
Governor Katie Hobbs announced Tuesday that the Arizona Department of Agriculture will amend the Salt River Horse Herd Management Plan to suspend removals of horses for adoption to state-approved sanctuaries and refuges during 2026 and 2027. The pause is intended to allow a new genetic study to be completed and used to inform future management decisions.
The Governor also announced that she has worked with the Arizona Board of Regents to identify funding for the genetic viability study, which would be conducted by Arizona’s public universities and independently reviewed before its release. The Board of Regents is scheduled to vote on the funding August 27.
For Friends of the Salt River Wild Horses and the thousands of Arizonans who have called for removals to be halted until additional science is completed, the announcement provides critical breathing room for the herd.
“We are extremely grateful that the horses will remain on the Salt River for the next two years while this important research is completed,” said Karen Schutte with Friends of the Salt River Wild Horses. “For months, we have asked that horses not be removed before the science needed to guide such an irreversible decision is available. This reprieve gives Arizona an opportunity to obtain important genetic information before determining the future of this treasured herd.”
The decision comes after growing public concern over plans to begin removing Salt River horses as early as September. Advocates have urged state officials to ensure that any long-term population target protects the genetic health and sustainability of the herd.
Governor Hobbs said the action is intended to protect the herd for future generations while providing time for research into its genetic needs and characteristics. She said her administration remains committed to the health, safety and integrity of both the horses and the ecosystem on which they depend.
Simone Netherlands, president of the Salt River Wild Horse Management Group, also welcomed the decision, saying the suspension of removals and the new study will allow continued management of the herd while providing science needed to help ensure the horses remain healthy and thriving.
Friends of the Salt River Wild Horses views Tuesday’s announcement as an important step toward science-based management of one of Arizona’s most recognized and beloved wild horse herds.
“This is what we have been asking for: give the horses time, do the science and use that science before making decisions that cannot be undone,” Schutte said. “Today, the Salt River horses have that time.”
See Governor Hobbs announcement here: Governor Hobbs Takes Action to Ensure Sustainability of Salt River Horse Herd for Generations | Office of the Arizona Governor