Hi everyone, and happy summer—I can’t believe we’re already past Summer Solstice!
Summer Solstice, sometimes called Midsummer’s Eve, is a magical time of the year when we horse folks can really dig into trail riding and enjoying the great outdoors with our horses. I plan to trail ride as much as possible in the Owyhee Mountains, just 20 minutes south of us, and we have a few backcountry rides planned on Forest Service land, too.
But this year, our summer plans were tempered by a sobering possibility: the proposed Budget Reconciliation Bill (the “One Big Beautiful Bill Act”) included the sale of up to 3 million acres of USFS and BLM land. The Sierra Club put together a map showing the 250 million acres potentially on the chopping block, including many of the areas where Matt and I ride—and where I suspect many of you ride as well!
Thankfully, this language has been struck from the bill—for now. Those involved in the process advise us that legislators are still looking for ways to rework the issue and get federal lands back up for sale. They are trying to do so by next week to get the bill passed by July 4!
Since we are the public in public lands, we must remain vigilant in our efforts to persuade our legislators to protect this incredible natural resource of ours. After all, these lands are a big part of what makes America great! Please consider contacting your representatives to let them know you oppose the sale of federal lands. At this late stage in the process, phone calls will be more effective than emails. Keep it brief, but make sure they know that you live in their jurisdiction and express how a land dispersal would negatively impact your loved ones and community.
On another note, last month, we hosted a free online class on Spring Horse Pasture Management, which was attended by over 90 people! Because it was so popular, I’ve decided to offer another one. Join us on Monday, July 14th, from 6-7 PM (Pacific Time) for a FREE class about Reducing Wildfire Risk on Horse Properties. Register here.
Until then, enjoy and protect your public lands—and keep in touch!
Alayne
