In this episode of The Working Dog Report, we head into the heart of Arizona’s White Mountains to tackle one of the most heated and misunderstood issues on the landscape—the wild vs. feral horse controversy in the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest.

Joined by longtime local Monte Williams, we dig into the history of horses in the region, what “wild” really means, and how today’s growing populations are impacting wildlife, habitat, and land management. Monte shares firsthand stories of growing up in the White Mountains, offering a perspective rooted in experience, tradition, and a deep understanding of the land.

We break down the science, the emotion, and the politics behind the debate—looking at how unmanaged horse populations affect native species, public lands, and the future of conservation in Arizona.

Whether you’re a hunter, dog handler, conservationist, or just someone who cares about the truth behind the headlines, this is a conversation you won’t want to miss.

Topics Covered:

• The difference between wild and feral horses
• Historical context of horses in Arizona
• Impacts on wildlife, habitat, and water resources
• Management challenges and public perception
• Stories from growing up in the White Mountains

Real conversations. Real issues. Working dogs and the people who depend on them.

Mountain Daily Star

mountaindailystar.com

https://mountaindailystar.com/free-roaming-arizona-horses-series-episode-1-heber-horses/

Cold Strike Gear

https://coldstrikegear.com

Arizona Working Dog Alliance

https://azwda.com

Where we talk a lot of politics that effects the American Sportsman

https://www.youtube.com/@awda24

CMW Investigations, LLC

http://cmwpi.com

"Anecdote of a Houndsman"

https://www.youtube.com/@AnecdoteofaHoundsman

Watch these podcast live every Wednesday night at 6PM MST!