Advocates for wild horses are raising concerns that a suggested fence in the Virginia Range could obstruct the horses from accessing water at Washoe Lake. There was significant attendance for public feedback during the Nevada Department of Agriculture (NDA) meeting held today, December 6. Attendees advocating for wild horses indicated that they do not oppose […]
Advocates for wild horses are raising concerns that a suggested fence in the Virginia Range could obstruct the horses from accessing water at Washoe Lake.
There was significant attendance for public feedback during the Nevada Department of Agriculture (NDA) meeting held today, December 6.
Attendees advocating for wild horses indicated that they do not oppose the repair of the existing fencing around Washoe Lake. However, they are opposed to the idea of extending the fence for 23 miles in the Washoe Valley vicinity.
Meanwhile, the Nevada Department of Agriculture clarifies that this fencing is currently merely a proposal.
Carrie Tschida, an advocate for wild horses and a resident of Washoe Valley, remarked, “I fully supported the repairs of the fences because they are noticeable along the route. They are damaged, horses get trapped in them – it has been in disrepair for quite some time. But then I understood that they intend to erect an entirely new fence, and I am uncertain where – but it would completely restrict the horses.”
A letter from the governor’s office indicates that over five miles of the fencing near Washoe Lake has been repaired in an effort to guide the horses away from environmentally sensitive areas like Washoe Lake.
JJ Goicoechea, the Director of the Nevada Department of Agriculture, stated that there is currently no fence stretching 23 miles.
He elaborated, “The 23-mile fence is a comprehensive proposed project spanning many years that will necessitate compliance with the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) to be executed by the BLM.”
He described their collaboration with the BLM to identify existing fences, assess which ones require repairs, and determine potential locations for new fences to close gaps that allow horses access to frequently traveled areas, such as 395, Veterans Parkway, and East Lake Boulevard, where horse collisions are a concern.
Some advocates for wild horses expressed worries about how the fencing might limit the resources available to the horses.
Tschida questioned, “Firstly, I am not aware of the locations of other resources. I would like evidence of it because they claim there are ponds and streams – but where are they?”
Louise Martin, a local and Nevada resident, commented, “It is positioned higher on the range and will obstruct access for horses and wildlife to Steamboat Creek, various water sources, springs, and Washoe Lake.”
However, Goicoechea stated, “The Virginia Range is home to numerous plentiful resources. You heard a wealth of testimonies today about the rich wildlife and abundant forage found in the Virginia Range; and we are hopeful that the horses will venture further into the range where they can better sustain themselves.”
He also noted that the belief—apart from cases in south Reno—that the fences are being erected due to development is a misconception. He explained that the purpose of the fencing is to facilitate easier access for horses to the range and reduce their habituation.
Numerous residents were apprehensive about the future presence of the horses post-fencing.
Goicoechea reassured the audience, “These horses will remain in the Virginia Range; people can still view them, and you can drive around many regions in the Virginia Range and continue to see those horses.”
As a reminder, today’s meeting consisted solely of public commentary, and no actions were taken.
The governor’s office letter states, “The NDA and its partners are observing the horses’ transition to guarantee a safe and effective process. In certain instances, horses may be relocated to safer areas within the range, away from high-risk locations, where they can access water and food. Our primary concern continues to be the health and well-being of these horses and the public. Preserving the integrity of fences is essential, as tampering with or damaging fences increases risks to the horses by exposing them to roads and urban dangers.”
