Friday, February 27, 2009

Canada to form a "Wild Horse" Task Force

Regional district forming task force to investigate wild horse problem
By Joyce Langerak - Penticton Western News


Published: February 26, 2009 10:00 AM
Updated: February 26, 2009 4:28 PM

The Regional District of Okanagan Similkameen unanimously supported Area F Director Michael Brydon’s motion to direct staff to investigate the wild horse issue and create a task force to propose solutions.

West Bench isn’t the only area in the regional district that has problems with wild horses, Brydon told the board during their meeting Thursday.

“Summerland has had problems in the past with horses, parts of Area D has problems on Green Mountain road, down near the airport and Riva Ridge. I personally talked to Chief Jonathan Kruger (of the Penticton Indian Band) and they’re on board, at least in terms of yes, something needs to be done, and yes, we can co-operate and work together.”

Ultimately, addressing the problem could involve taxation, fencing or other things, said Brydon.

“Our goal is to get as much senior government support as possible. Ultimately, if we make a service area, the residents will benefit. Owners would have to agree that this is the service they want.”

When it comes to accidents involving wild horses on roadways, the Ministry of Transportation and ICBC would also benefit from a program that keep horses off the road, noted Brydon.

There have been efforts made in the past to control the wild horses, but there has never before been any motion presented to the board, he said.

Brydon had been confident that the board would support the motion, but he did admit that it will take time to make the changes.

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