Public comment period closed as wildlife officials delay decision to 2024 on future of wild horses in North Dakota National Park

(Bismarck, ND) -- The National Park Service is expected to decide next year whether it will move the 200 wild horses that reside in Theodore Roosevelt National Park.

Advocates fear a predetermined outcome that will remove the animals. An extended public comment period ended Friday on the recent environmental assessment of the park's three proposals: reduce the horse population quickly, reduce it gradually, or take no immediate action.

Governor Burgum and other officials are advocating for the horses, and hope the park service will realize how important they are to the annual visitors.