A HOUSE RESOLUTION urging congress to protect the corolla wild horses.
Whereas, the Corolla wild horses living along the Outer Banks of Currituck County, North Carolina, are descendants of horses brought to the Americas by Spanish explorers and colonists beginning in the 16th century; and
Whereas, the Corolla wild horses are known as Colonial Spanish Mustangs; and
Whereas, these Colonial Spanish Mustangs have played a significant role in the history and culture of North Carolina's coastal area for hundreds of years; and
Whereas, in 2009, the General Assembly adopted these Colonial Spanish Mustangs as the official horse of the State of North Carolina; and
Whereas, the Corolla wild horses freely roam 7,500 acres of public and private land in Currituck County; and
Whereas, the Corolla wild horses have been managed through a public‑private partnership that includes representatives of the United States Fish and Wildlife Service, the State of North Carolina, Currituck County, and the Corolla Wild Horse Fund; and
Whereas, the United States Fish and Wildlife Service is insisting that no more than 60 horses be allowed in the herd; and
Whereas, world‑renowned genetic scientists have determined that a herd of at least 110 horses, with a target population of 120 to 130 horses is necessary to maintain the genetic viability of the Corolla herd; and
Whereas, 110 to 130 horses is well within the carrying capacity of the land the Corolla wild horses roam; and
Whereas, the Corolla wild horses are a critical component of the heritage and economy of Currituck County; Now, therefore,
Be it resolved by the House of Representatives:
SECTION 1.  This body urges Congress to pass legislation to protect the Corolla wild horses so that they can survive as a free‑roaming wild herd for future generations to enjoy.
SECTION 2.  The Principal Clerk shall transmit certified copies of this resolution to the President of the United States, the Speaker and Clerk of the United States House of Representatives, the President Pro Tempore and the Secretary of the United States Senate, and the members of the North Carolina Congressional delegation.
SECTION 3.  This resolution is effective upon adoption.