27th October 2023
The Nature Conservation Council of NSW (NCC), the state’s leading environmental advocacy organisation, has welcomed today’s announcement that the NSW Government will allow aerial shooting as an additional control option for feral horses in the Alpine National Park.
“We commend Minister Sharpe for the leadership she has shown on this issue, which has for too long been tied up in politics rather than science. This evidence backed approach delivers for the environment, and for everybody wishing to enjoy the majestic natural environment of the Australian Alps.”
Statements attributable to Jacqui Mumford, NCC CEO
“The damage done to the alpine environments by feral horses cannot be overstated.
“The unique and complex ecosystems of the Australian Alps have been trampled for too long.
“Now we need to repair and restore these native habitats that have been decimated by feral horses, and are facing even further challenges brought about by climate change.
“Feral horse numbers are out of control and have grown rapidly since the previous government ended evidence based control actions, with recent estimates suggesting the population has surged from 7,500 in 2013/14 to over 24,000 across the Australian Alps.
“At least 25 threatened alpine flora and 14 threatened alpine fauna species, including the iconic corroboree frog, the broad toothed rat and rare alpine orchids.(see images below)
“We have received an overwhelming level of engagement from our members on this issue, demonstrating the strong support amongst the NSW environment movement.
“We believe this is representative of a broader shift in public sentiment as awareness of the impact of feral horses has grown.”
Statement ends
