The Conquistador Equine Rescue & Advocacy Program

For Immediate Release

attorney, Equine Welfare organization & Arizonans reaffirm commitment to protect rim country wild horses

Anthony Merrill, JD, of the law firm Bryan Cave, LLP, and Conquistador Program President sign agreement to continue protection of Rim wild horses 

(Phoenix, August 14, 2007).  The Conquistador Equine Rescueand Advocacy Program has signed an agreement with attorney Anthony Merrill, JD, and his firm Bryan Cave LLP that continues Mr. Merrill and his firm, Bryan Cave LLP, as the attorneys representing all unbranded, unclaimed, free-roaming horses in the Heber Wild Horse Territory and on all associated lands in the Apache-Sitgreaves National forests.

In March 2007, plaintiffs for the horses, including national animal welfare organizations and Arizona community members, represented by Mr. Merrll, signed an historical agreement with the US Forest Service that stipulated, among other things, the US Forest Service agreed that the wild horses were an integral part of the public lands and that the Forest Service would manage the Heber wild horse territory and horses in the territory and on associated public lands in the Sitgreaves National Forest of Eastern Arizona.

The Forest Service has begun the required study under the National Environmental Protection Act (NEPA).  However, some concerns have been raised by community members living in Apache-Sitgreaves and on the Rim area who attended public comment meetings by the Forest Service on the horses and who have read statements from the Forest Service regarding the 200 to 400 unbranded free-roaming wild horses and their foals.  Dr. Pat Haight, President of the Conquistador Program said, “While we hope the Forest Service will manage the horses in viable herds, we felt it was necessary for the horses to be continually represented by Mr. Merrill and Bryan Cave LLP for their protection.”

Individuals who would like to contribute to the preservation of the Heber wild horses as they have come to be known by donating to their legal fees may send donations directly to Bryan Cave LLP marked for Rim Country wild horses or may telephone Dr. Patricia Haight at (480) 232-8068 or Mr. Joe Wager at (928) 535-9258.  Community members who donate $2500.00 or more will receive a two-night stay at Bison ranch and a personally guided photo safari to the horses by Mr. Wager, former Arizona horseman of the year.    Donations not used for legal fees for the Heber wild horse will be returned on a pro rata basis.  Supporters of the horses also have organized the Heber Wild Horse Preservation Coalition.  Anyone wishing to join the coalition may contact Mr. Wager or Dr. Haight or email:  heberhorses@yahoo.com.

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Contact:  Anthony Merrill, JD – (602) 364 -7174

               Patricia Haight, Ph.D. – (480) 232-8068