WILD HORSE (K'u-see) PROJECT

Wild Horses of the Yakama Homeland have been around for generations and as long as our people can remember. The oral history kept by our people tells of the cultural and traditonal value this prized animal has among the Yakama People. Revered for its endurance and strength, the horse has become a symbol of the true Yakama Spirit and strength that survived the most difficult times over the last 180 years. Today, the horse remains at the same status and is often a prized possession with most tribal members who remember the days when horse chasing and catching was an art itself. Used for various activities such as berry and root gathering to rodeos, the wild horse made a way for the Yakama people and continues today to survive in the utmost of harsh climate conditions. Most agree, that the wildhorse is here to stay and to the appreciation of its Yakama Tribal members will remain so for many generations to come.

An aerial count survey has been conducted in 2006 for nearly 90% of the Reservation. The total count reached 4,534 horses on the Yakama Reservation. Our program has developed a draft Wild Horse Management Plan for the Yakama Reservation.

Wild horses are available for sale from our program. Prices are $100 each for unbroken horses. Tribal members will halter break and train horses for a negotiated price. For more information, please contact Jim Stephenson: office: 865-5121, x6310, cell: 949-2189.

To obtain a Special Permit for horse chasing, contact our program. This permit is for tribal members only.

Click here and look under Special Permits for more information.