Dear Dave:
Thank you for your letter of December 13th letting me know that Y0U have been awarded the contract to gather the excess wild horses for the Elko, Nevada District near Curry, Nevada, and for your invitation to observe the gathering. we plan to be in attendance.
I agree, there have been many abuses and injuries to wild horses gathered by mounted riders, from various Bureau of Land Management and Forest Service Districts, from lack of knowledge in handling the animals. A lot of time and money wasted, stress and injuries to the horses, and very, very few gathered. This is why we oppose to gatherings such as done in roping by mounted riders.
However, I, also, agree there is no concievable reason why we should object to capture and removal of excess wild horses by qualified contractors who have proven themselves capable in similar difficult capture situations. I strongly feel if a contract is properly let, payment should be made to the contractor only when removal was accomplished .•• thus no possibility should exist of wasting taxpayers dollars on any unsuccessful attempts.
Again, I do commend you, and your crew, for the excellent work done in the Red Desert area in Wyoming. I was very much impressed with your work, especially your patience when working around the gathered horses.
With best wishes to you and your family for a Very Happy Holiday season.
Most sincerely yours,
Helen A. Reilly (Mrs. John W.)
Wild Horse & Burro Sanctuary – Carey Ranch, Alturas, California
