Albuquerque, New Mexico is taking a unique approach to protecting its vast Gila Wilderness in southwestern New Mexico. The U.S. Forest Service has approved the use of a helicopter with a shooter to kill feral cows that have been damaging streams and rivers in the nation’s first designated wilderness area.
Ranchers and rural advocates have voiced their concerns, arguing that the shooting of cows from a helicopter is inhumane and a violation of federal regulations. They fear that the action taken in New Mexico could set a precedent as more grazing parcels become vacant across the West.
Environmentalists, on the other hand, have applauded the decision, citing the damage caused by the feral cows to streams and rivers. The New Mexico Cattle Growers’ Association estimates that roughly 90 grazing parcels are vacant in New Mexico and Arizona due to worsening drought, skyrocketing costs for feed and other supplies, and the increased use of public lands for activities such as hunting and hiking.
The plan is to fly the helicopter with the shooter over a section of the Gila Wilderness starting on Monday, and spend four days looking for feral cattle in rugged areas that include the Gila River. The Forest Service has gone as far as to close a portion of the Gila Wilderness to the public while the operation is taking place.
In order to minimize disruption to the environment and wildlife, the Forest Service has issued strict regulations regarding the removal of carcasses. No carcasses are to be left in or adjacent to waterways or springs, or near designated hiking trails or known, culturally sensitive areas. In addition, the work, namely noise from the helicopter, is not allowed to interrupt the breeding season for the Mexican spotted owl, the southwestern willow flycatcher and other endangered species.
The feral cattle problem in the Gila Wilderness has been ongoing for half a century, with hundreds of unauthorized cattle removed over the years. The upcoming operation will cover about 160 square miles and is expected to be complete before April, when the season begins for Mexican gray wolves to have pups.
The decision to shoot cows from a helicopter has sparked a debate between those advocating for humane treatment of animals and those arguing for the protection of the environment. While it remains to be seen how the situation will play out, one thing is certain: the protection of the Gila Wilderness is of utmost importance to both sides.
