Staff Writer | Mayor of Scottsdale
Scottsdale Mayor Lisa Borowsky is applauding new actions to protect Arizona’s iconic Salt River horses while urging state leaders to pursue lasting, science-based safeguards that ensure the herd remains healthy and protected for future generations.
Gov. Katie Hobbs recently directed the Arizona Department of Agriculture to pause planned removals of Salt River horses and announced a genetic viability study in coordination with the Arizona Board of Regents and Arizona’s three public universities.
The study will evaluate the long-term genetic health of the herd and is expected to help guide future management decisions. The Arizona Department of Agriculture also amended its herd management plan to halt removals while the study is conducted and increased the herd’s target population from approximately 120 horses to about 170. Advocates estimate the current herd numbers roughly 267 horses.
Mayor Borowsky, who has advocated and lobbied the Governor’s Office for protecting the Salt River horses, said the governor’s action represents an important step forward after months of public concern over planned removals.
“These horses are an irreplaceable part of Arizona’s natural and cultural heritage,” Mayor Borowsky said.
“I am encouraged that the planned removals have been paused and that a scientific study will be conducted to help determine the best path forward. Arizonans have made it clear that they value these animals and want decisions about their future to be guided by sound science and transparency.”
The governor’s announcement followed months of advocacy by conservation groups, horse advocates, local residents and elected officials who raised concerns that reducing the herd could threaten its long-term genetic health. The newly announced study will be conducted by Arizona’s public universities and independently reviewed before its findings are released. The Arizona Board of Regents is expected to consider funding for the study on Aug. 27.
Mayor Borowsky noted that while the pause on removals is welcome news, long-term protections remain important.
“This decision gives Arizona an opportunity to get the science right before irreversible actions are taken,” Mayor Borowsky said. “The Salt River horses deserve a management strategy that protects both the health of the herd and the unique role these animals play in our state’s identity. I will continue supporting efforts that put responsible stewardship and conservation first.”
Earlier this year, legislation sponsored by Rep. Cody Reim would have established a three-year moratorium on population-control removals while a genetic study was completed. The measure ultimately failed to receive a Senate vote. Reim has since argued that stronger protections could have been enacted sooner and that additional safeguards should be incorporated into any future management plan.
Mayor Borowsky said the focus should now remain on ensuring the scientific review is thorough, transparent and used to inform future decisions.
“The goal should be simple: preserve a healthy, genetically viable herd while respecting the values of the thousands of Arizonans who care deeply about these remarkable animals,” Mayor Borowsky said.
