As a Georgia federal judge weighs whether to dismiss a lawsuit alleging mistreatment of a feral horse herd on Cumberland Island, advocates are calling for urgent intervention to save the animals. The environmental groups and individual plaintiffs are seeking a court order to compel the government to provide emergency food and water to the horses as the case unfolds.
Georgia National Park Horses Lawsuit : Urgent Plea for Horse Welfare
The lawsuit, filed last year against the U.S. National Park Service and Georgia’s natural resources and agriculture departments, represents the interests of about 100 horses. On Friday, the plaintiffs argued that the harsh summer conditions—characterized by extreme heat, dwindling water supplies, and increasing disease outbreaks—worsen the already dire situation on Cumberland Island National Seashore.
The groups emphasized that “good conscience and fair dealing” necessitate immediate action to alleviate the suffering of the horses. They argue that the court’s delay in addressing these issues could lead to further harm and fatalities among the animals. The plaintiffs have invoked the All Writs Act, requesting that the court mandate the delivery of essential supplies such as water, hay, and mineral blocks to ensure the horses’ survival.
Ongoing Legal Battle
The motion comes as U.S. District Judge Sarah Geraghty deliberates on whether to grant the National Park Service and its co-defendants’ request to dismiss the lawsuit. The suit is supported by the Georgia Equine Rescue League, the Georgia Horse Council, author Will Harlan, and island resident Carol Ruckdeschel.
