USFS keeps word; horse roundup delayed

MARICOPA COUNTY, Ariz. (KSAZ) - The Forest Service is upholding their promise to place plans to pause a plan to round up wild horses at the Salt River.

Friday was the deadline given by the USFS for horse owners to round up their animals, or else they would start removing them from the Tonto National Forest.

Then earlier this week the service announced they would place the plans on hold after several people spoke out against the plan.

"I'm just glad they are still here, it means America is still America, and the government is listening to us," said Greg Hoddy.

The USFS says nearly 100 horses along the Salt River in the Tonto National Forest pose a safety risk. Friday was the earliest they could have rounded them up and turned them over to the state for auction.

Instead after mounting pressure from activists groups the plan was placed on hold and for now the horses can roam free.

"They've always been here since I was a kid, and way before that. they belong here, so I think it's the right thing to do to let them be," said Kim Lenski.

The USFS has agreed to delay any roundup until after Congress resumes in September, and lawmakers have time to discuss steps.

"These horses are a part of Arizona, part of us that are from the valley, and people do come from out of state to see them, and this is where they belong, and I hope they get to stay here," said a visitor.

It's the site that has attracted generation after generation to the area. Horses grazing, raising their family, and making this place home.