
Wilderness Study Area &
Spring Creek Horse Herd Monitoring Program
Three of the 7 WSA’s are monitored by SJMA volunteers who love
to be in remote parts of the countryside enjoying the scenery. Cahone
Canyon, Cross Canyon and McKenna Peak WSA’s are breathtaking areas
in SW Colorado’s canyon country. In addition, the Spring Creek
Wild Horse Herd Management area overlaps the McKenna Peak WSA. Horsemen
and hikers with an eye for beauty are encouraged to participate.
McKenna Peak is a BLM Wilderness Study Area (WSA) located in Disappointment
Valley, north of Dove Creek Colorado. WSA’s are managed for their
wilderness qualities but have not been designated by congress. As in
designated wilderness, there are no roads or motorized or mechanized
vehicles allowed. WSA’s have the potential to become designated
wilderness in the future.

The Spring Creek Wild Horse Herd is adjacent to this WSA. The Spring
Creek Herd Area encompasses about 22,000 acres with a portion of the
area within the McKenna Peak Wilderness Study Area. There are approximately
54 horses in the herd.
The San Juan Mountains Association has trained volunteers to monitor
the McKenna Peak WSA and the Spring Creek Horse Herd Area. They report
on fence and gate conditions, vehicle traffic, water and feed conditions,
wildlife, and count the horses observed in the area. Volunteers ride
their own horses and some hike. It is a beautiful area full of exploration
opportunities.
For more information how you can get involved, contact SJMA
Kathe Hayes (970) 385-1310.