Scottsdale Mayor Proposes Sanctuary for Salt River Wild Horses Amid State Herd Reduction Plans

Scottsdale Mayor Lisa Borowsky has proposed relocating 50-60 of the approximately 280 Salt River wild horses to the McDowell Sonoran Preserve as a humane alternative to the Arizona Department of Agriculture's plan to reduce the herd size. The proposal aims to align with Scottsdale’s identity as 'The West’s Most Western Town' and potentially boost the city's international appeal, while ensuring the horses have a sanctuary in a habitat with similar terrain and access to water. Mayor Borowsky emphasized the need for thorough evaluation of the preserve's capacity to sustain the horses and has presented a preliminary report for review. The state’s effort to thin the herd includes new contract regulations requiring the removal or adoption of three horses for every new birth, which has met with public concern over the fate of auctioned horses. Scottsdale is seeking public input on the plan before making any formal decisions, and the current management group is unable to comment due to procurement laws. The discussion reflects a balance between wildlife management goals and community interest in preserving the wild horses’ welfare.