Man Completes 6,000-Mile Solo Adventure Across the U.S. to Shine a Light on Mustang Preservation Initiatives [Interview]

## The Amazing Adventure of Jake Harvath: Promoting Awareness for America’s Wild Horses

Jake Harvath is far from an ordinary horse trainer. This native of Utah has transformed his lifelong dedication to animals into a meaningful mission to spotlight the difficulties encountered by America’s wild horses. Joined by his three mustangs—Bella, Denver, and Eddy—Jake set out on a life-changing 6,000-mile expedition across 25 states to highlight the resilience, beauty, and unexplored potential of these legendary creatures.

Named the *Year of the Mustang*, his journey, which runs from September 2023 to September 2024, has captured the hearts of thousands while raising awareness about the plight of wild horses held in government facilities. Harvath’s accomplishment of undertaking what could be the longest continuous horse ride in the U.S. within a single year is significant; however, for him, the experience was about much more than setting records—it was about spreading knowledge and nurturing a deeper appreciation for mustangs.

### A Lifelong Affection for Horses

Jake’s love for animals sparked at a young age, but his connection to horses deepened as he grew older. His first meaningful experience with horse training arrived at 14, when he worked alongside veteran trainers who revealed to him the remarkable bond that can develop between horse and rider.

In our conversation, Jake shared that his vision for the *Year of the Mustang* was the result of years of aspiration and preparation. Motivated by the fortitude of the mustangs he trained, Jake yearned to convey their story and provide insights into their remarkable capabilities and characteristics. “My encounters with mustangs revealed their innate resilience and strength,” Jake stated. “They aren’t just trainable; they can thrive in any situation.”

### The Legacy of the American Mustang

The history of the American mustang dates back to the Spanish colonists who arrived in the Americas in the 1500s. Over the years, horses that escaped from Spanish settlements roamed freely across the expansive western terrains, flourishing and multiplying. Over time, these horses mingled with various equine breeds introduced by settlers, resulting in the rich genetic diversity found in today’s mustangs.

Nonetheless, the narrative of the mustang has faced many difficulties. By the 20th century, wild horse populations were severely dwindling due to hunting, encroachment on their habitats, and competition for resources with livestock. It wasn’t until 1971 that federal protections were enacted through the Wild Free-Roaming Horses and Burros Act, which made it illegal to capture or harm them without permission. Since that time, their numbers have rebounded, with populations now estimated at around 85,000 on public lands. Nevertheless, this increase has put pressure on Western ecosystems, leading the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) to perform regular roundups to control the population.

These roundups, although vital for conservation, have resulted in the relocation of over 50,000 wild horses to off-range holding facilities. Finding homes for these horses has been challenging, as there aren’t enough individuals capable or willing to adopt them.

### Mustang Adoption: A Personal Journey

Jake’s dedication to mustangs goes beyond simply training them—he has personally adopted three from the BLM. His first mustang, Bella, was a gift from his employer and quickly became both his friend and mentor in appreciating the distinctive qualities of wild horses. Denver and Eddy followed, specifically adopted for the *Year of the Mustang*, showcasing Jake’s confidence in their readiness for rigorous adventures.

Mustangs, often cautious of humans, necessitate patience, consistent training, and comprehension. “Training a wild horse differs significantly from handling a domestic horse,” Jake warns. While the process can be fulfilling, he advises aspiring adopters to recognize that building a relationship and effectively training a mustang requires significant time, skill, and commitment. For those with less experience, he recommends working with younger mustangs, which are generally more manageable.

### The Trials and Triumphs of a 6,000-Mile Expedition

The *Year of the Mustang* was not without its hurdles. Jake acknowledged that maneuvering through rural roads with heavy traffic was a constant concern. Semi-trucks passing just inches from his horses tested their composure, and although they managed to cope most of the time, numerous tense moments arose. However, safety was always Jake’s priority, and his meticulous planning ensured he and his horses completed the journey without any incidents.

Yet, the benefits of the journey eclipsed the challenges. Jake expressed the immense joy he experienced spending each day with his horses, traversing some of the most breathtaking landscapes across the United States. “Being with my horses every day while slowly taking in the beauty of this country was incredibly fulfilling,” he reflected. It provided him with a renewed appreciation for America’s natural