[Congressional Record Volume 158, Number 21 (Wednesday, February 8, 2012)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E161]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                   COROLLA WILD HORSES PROTECTION ACT

                                 ______
                                 

                               speech of

                        HON. DENNIS J. KUCINICH

                                of ohio

                    in the house of representatives

                        Monday, February 6, 2012

  Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of H.R. 306, the 
Corolla Wild Horses Protection Act. This bill is a responsible and 
well-studied solution to the on-going debate regarding wild horse 
populations. Generally, when we discuss wild horse populations we are 
trying to find answers on how to curb the rapidity of herd growth. Yet 
today we are here attempting to support the expansion of the dwindling 
Colonial Spanish Mustangs that roam on the Outer Banks of North 
Carolina.
  These graceful and social wild animals have captured the hearts and 
minds of Americans for hundreds of years. They are stunning to watch as 
they roam free on public lands and remain an historical national 
treasure. It is imperative that we protect and ensure a viable future 
for the Corolla wild horse population.
  Currently, the Corolla wild horses are at risk of being reduced to a 
herd of 60 horses. According to scientific research led by Texas A&M 
University's Dr. Gus Cothran, a herd of horses that small is 
unsustainable because it lacks sufficient genetic diversity. A healthy 
population for the herd would be in the range of 110 to 130 horses. 
H.R. 306 takes heed of this warning and ensures that steps to 
responsibly increase the herd population are taken without affecting 
the other endangered species and refuge lands in the Currituck National 
Wildlife Refuge.
  In the past, I have advocated for significant changes to current herd 
management practices to ensure humane and responsible population 
management on public lands. Such concerns are shared by the public and 
Members of Congress alike. I support this bill and will continue to 
work to ensure that wild horse populations are protected.

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