The Wild Horses of Alberta Society

The Wild Horses of Alberta Society (WHOAS) is a Canadian nonprofit charitable organization dedicated to the protection, conservation, and humane treatment of wild horses in Alberta. Established in 2002, WHOAS advocates on behalf of Alberta’s wild horses and actively works to ensure their preservation in their natural environment along the Eastern slopes of the Rocky Mountains[^1][^2].

History and Formation

WHOAS was formed in response to public concern over the destruction of wild horses living in Alberta’s mountainous regions. Since its inception, the organization has engaged in advocacy, education, rescue, and rehabilitation efforts to support these free-roaming horses. In March 2015, WHOAS gained official status as a registered charitable organization, allowing it to operate through membership fees, donations, adoption fees, and fundraising activities without government financial support[^1].

Mission and Goals

The core mission of WHOAS is to ensure comprehensive conservation and humane treatment of Alberta’s wild horse populations. Their objectives include:

• Collaborating with government agencies to develop humane and effective wild horse population management strategies.
• Operating a rescue and handling facility to protect and rehabilitate injured or abandoned wild horses.
• Running an adoption program that gently rehomes wild horses to suitable environments and owners.
• Providing public education through workshops and presentations on the history and significance of wild horses in Alberta.
• Supporting scientific research by collecting data to enhance understanding and improve wild horse management policies[^2].

Activities and Programs

WHOAS manages a dedicated facility near the forestry lands west of Sundre, Alberta, which serves as a rescue and rehabilitation center for wild horses. This sanctuary allows the society to provide veterinary care, gentling training, and safe public visitation opportunities. The organization also participates in government advisory committees, such as the Feral Horse Advisory Committee (FHAC), where it is the only volunteer nonprofit member representing the interests of wild horses[^1][^5].

The society emphasizes humane population management and works with private landowners adjacent to crown lands to maintain fences that help keep wild horses on public lands where they belong. Education and research are critical components of their efforts to increase public awareness and contribute to scientific knowledge about wild horses in Alberta[^1][^2].

Funding and Support

WHOAS operates independently of government funding, relying instead on membership fees, donations, adoption fees, and fundraising endeavors. Detailed information about their funding sources is maintained transparently to support their charitable activities[^1].

Significance

As the sole registered charitable group focused exclusively on Alberta’s wild horses, WHOAS plays a vital role in advocating for these animals' welfare and ensuring their continued presence as a valued part of Alberta’s natural heritage. Their work bridges conservation, education, and community engagement to foster coexistence between wild horses and human activities.