Extensive droughts and wildfires ravaged the range in 2000. Much of the grass was destroyed by fire, then did not reemerge due to a lack of substantial snow and rainfall. Many of the bands were in serious trouble. Using private donations the VRWPA set up state approved feeding stations where grass-alfalfa mix is spread out in areas where it is safe for the horses to congregate and supplement their diets. The sight of the feed truck often brings bands galloping down from the hillsides. Note: It is against the law to feed estray horses except with formal approval from the Nevada Department of Agriculture! As one can see from the images, the horses are doing well in spite of recent hardships.
6 AM - loading up the truck at the feeding station	Horses starting to arrive
Cliff and Janet Tipton throwing hay (Olivia Fiamengo driving)	A small band approaches the truck
Another group eating hay	The valley filling up with hungry horses
An important goal of this program is to reduce the numbers of horses that drift down into more urbanized areas when forage becomes scarce. As the seasonal grass crop improves fewer horses show up at the feeding stations and most return to their familiar grazing areas. This program is entirely dependent on private contributions. Continue to Wild Horse Mentors in Virginia City! See more horses in "Virginia Range Seasons" Return to Part Two Return to Beginning Return to "Wild Horses in Nevada" Page Return to KBR World of Wild Horses & Burros Go to other Wild Horse Links Go To KBR Horse Net All images © KBR Horse Net and/or VRWPA.