"Federal officials will begin rounding up wild horses in the Eastern Sierra on July 8, citing trampled wetlands and highway hazards, with the animals to be offered for adoption. The helicopter-assisted operation is praised by some environmentalists but condemned by others, including local tribes and animal advocates."

"Federal officials have set a date to round up and relocate 450 wild horses they say are damaging Mono Lake’s famed limestone tufas and posing a threat to drivers. The move is hailed by environmentalists but heartbreaking for tribes and horse lovers who have fought to stop it.

On July 8, the Inyo National Forest will begin rounding up horses from the Montgomery Pass herd roaming beyond the roughly 200,000 acres designated for them along the California-Nevada border, according to a recent news release.

Contractors will use helicopters and other vehicles to drive the horses into a large catch pen with holding corrals. Officials say the use of helicopters is humane and carried out with measures to protect the horses, whereas many animal welfare advocates claim it can lead to injury and even death. A federal bill introduced last year seeks to ban the practice."

Lila Seidman reports for the Los Angeles Times June 30, 2026. [2]