Feds Cease Roundup of Nevada's Wild Mustangs

The Bureau of Land Management (BLM), arguably the Federal government's strongest arm in the Western states, abruptly stopped its roundup of wild mustangs in Nevada. The story, which appeared in today's online editions of the LA Times, noted that the BLM denied the halt involved the impact of funding cuts, congressional agida, or public sentiment toward the animals.

The mustangs, reminders of the West's romance, glorious landscapes, and free spirit, have a most important, politically connected benefactor in Madele

ine Pickens. Better known as Mrs. T. Boone Pickens, she has embraced the mustangs' cause and owns a 1.2 million acre ranch adjacent to the area where the horses live. This is one case where private philanthropy trumps civil servants.

In addition to mustangs, wild burros also call Western states home. They lack a patron or patroness with Pickens' DC clout and media connections. It's a blank space that needs a name.

PS. I can't resist comparing the photo of wild mustangs with the Lascaux cave painting of wild animals next to it. Both images have a primeval sense that move me. How about you?