Wild Horses

While wild horses have become a familiar sight along the riverways, they were not always protected. Read below for information on their management and origins.

Courtesy of Rob Barth

 

Wild as the River

The exact origin of Shannon County’s wild horses is unknown. Some sources indicate they were left behind during the Great Depression, while local lore claims they may have been in the area since the 17^th century. The original act of congress actually refers to the horses as “feral,” since they may have descended from domesticated horses. However, after decades without human ownership, most people simply call them “wild.”

Regardless of title, these horses are like the riverways they call home: Both are wild in nature, protected by acts of congress, and treated with a hands-off approach when possible.

Just as Ozark National Scenic Riverways manages the riverways, the Missouri Wild Horse League manages the herds living within. Established in 1992, the league provides veterinary services, field restoration, adoption services, and more. Ultimately, they work to maintain the health, safety, and protection of Shannon County’s free-roaming horses.

See the Wild Horses

To learn how to safely see the wild horses, visit our "See the Wild Horses" page! This page has tips for viewing, plus important safety information.

 

The "wild" horses trace their lineage from various locations, including domesticated horses released by local landowners.

Courtesy of Rob Barth, edited by Wil Marischen

History of the Missouri Wild Horse League

For decades, horses have freely roamed the Current and Jacks Fork river valleys. Today, this area is the only place in Missouri where wild horses still run free. Many people now see them as a scenic addition to the cultural landscape.

However, around 1990, Ozark National Scenic Riverways management officials almost removed wild horses from the park. The primary argument was that the horses were non-native, and therefore they had to be removed.

Not long after, a plan was enacted to remove wild horses from the park. This action sparked a grassroots campaign, wherein thousands of people demanded that the horses be allowed to stay. Advocates for the horses argued that they were a “cultural resource” – one that predated the park itself. “Wild and free” became the rallying cry of those wishing for the horses to remain. Demonstrations ensued, and the park halted the removal process.

After much debate, one thing could be agreed upon: long-term, accountable horse management was needed. So, in 1992, the Missouri Wild Horse League was formed. The organization was tasked with maintaining healthy herds within Shannon County.

In 1996, federal law finalized protections for free-roaming horses within Ozark National Scenic Riverways. This act also solidified a partnership between the Wild Horse League and the park. Since then, the league has worked to protect and manage our wild horse herds.

 

Services Provided by the Organization

Health Monitoring

The league ensures the well-being of our wild horses through regular monitoring. Reports have described the animals as healthy and thriving. To reduce disturbance to the herds, checkups are only carried out when necessary - for example, during the adoption process. 

Field Maintenance

As part of the original agreement, the league is responsible for maintaining fields for the roaming horses. When needed, they will clear brush or weeds and reseed grass. This allows the horses to have safe feeding areas, away from traffic and private property.

Adoption Services

For the health and safety of both horses and humans, there is a limit of 50 horses within the park. When the population approaches this number, the Wild Horse League will adopt out horses. For information on adoption of free roaming horses, please contact the league at  [phone].