The writer of a column in the Arizona Capitol Times argues that decisions affecting public resources, such as wild horses, should be supported by transparent data and sound science, not by consensus or a show of hands.
The piece contains misleading information about herd size and genetic health while ignoring facts about long-term use of PZP. That information is in the ISPMB report, starting on page 30.
Here’s the money quote:
Through fertility control and natural attrition, the population has fallen from approximately 450 horses five years ago to about 271 today — a reduction of more than 40% without mass removals.
Except the time frame is closer to eight years. A reduction of that magnitude would require a death rate of about 10% per year, twice the normal rate.
If science and transparency had a role, the author would have told you that you can’t use PZP to shrink a herd by 40% without sterilizing the mares.
The population will continue to decline, even if the darting program is stopped.
Where does that leave the debate?
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