MEDORA – Wild horses will remain in Theodore Roosevelt National Park with the decision of the National Park Service to terminate an environmental assessment that included a controversial proposal for removal.

“The decision was made after careful consideration of the information and public comment received during the EA process,” the park service stated in an announcement. “The park appreciates the comments and public engagement over the last three years. Information gathered will be used to inform future efforts to manage livestock, horse and cattle herds.”

Sen. John Hoeven, R-ND, said the decision means the existing management plan for the wild horses will remain in place, allowing for a healthy herd to be maintained and managed in a way that supports genetic diversity and preserves the park’s natural resources.

“These wild horses are emblematic of President Theodore Roosevelt’s time in North Dakota, a formative experience that shaped his presidency and lasting legacy,” Hoeven said. “Given the broad public support for maintaining the wild horses at Theodore Roosevelt National Park, as well as the measure we passed through Congress, this is the right call by NPS.”

The park began a livestock planning effort in the winter of 2021. The Livestock Plan and Environmental Assessment was released in September 2023, and the planning team spent several months reviewing the public comments received during the process. The team held three public comment periods and the park consulted with tribes, state officials and the North Dakota congressional delegation.