Congressman criticizes Nevada wild horse roundup

CREATED Jun. 10, 2012

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RENO, Nev. (AP) -- An Arizona congressman is lashing out against federal land managers' emergency roundup of wild horses in northern Nevada, saying it poses a risk to the animals because it's taking place during the height of foaling season.
 
Rep. Raul Grijalva says the operation in the Jackson Mountains northwest of Winnemucca involves the use of a helicopter to drive horses for miles to corrals in hot weather, and the Bureau of Land Management should have considered "less dangerous alternatives."
 
Grivala, in a letter sent Thursday to BLM Acting Director Mike Pool, says he'll be monitoring the roundup to ensure mustangs are protected.
 
BLM spokeswoman JoLynn Worley says her agency is working closely with the helicopter pilot under contract to ensure the gather is conducted in the most humane manner possible.