Survey of Eden-Monaro candidates on feral horse control in Kosciuszko National Park
Kosciuszko National Park was designated a national park more than 75 years ago to protect native species and water catchments from the impact of stock animals. Not only is it an Australian natural wonder it is a key part of the local economy in the Eden-Monaro electorate both through tourism and Snowy Hydro 2.0, which has been touted as a nation building renewable energy project that will provide thousands of local jobs.
Feral horses, also called brumbies, are an introduced animal found in Kosciuszko National Park. As the horse population grows, they are impacting the fragile ecosystems and degrading the springs and alpine waterways that are the very source of the iconic rivers that feed into the Murray and Murrumbidgee river systems.
A scientific survey undertaken and released by the Australian Alps Liaison Committee in 2019 indicated the feral horse population across the Australian Alps national park network is growing by over 20% per year, despite efforts to manage horses through trapping and removal programs. As of May 2019, it was estimated 20,000 feral horses roamed Kosciuszko National Park.
Feral horses in Kosciuszko National Park:
- Are listed as a key threat to the health of native wildlife and ecosystems.
- Pose a significant traffic hazard and safety risk on major roads through the national park and visitors have reported feeling threatened when feral horses have displayed aggressive behaviour or intruded on tourist camps.
- Face suffering from starvation and threats from bushfires and vehicle collisions.
As a candidate for the Eden-Monaro by-election we are seeking your answers to the following questions to inform our supporters and the Eden-Monaro electorate about your party’s position on feral horses in Kosciuszko National Park.
We would appreciate your response prior to the Monday 21st June 2020 at 5.00pm. Your answers (including non-responses) will be published the following day and used in the media, social media and by various NSW environmental groups.
If you have any questions regarding the survey please contact Candice Bartlett at [email protected]