Saguaro National Park -- as with many national parks in the West -- has a strong equestrian tradition, both for law enforcement rangers and with volunteers, as the park's trails receive high equestrian usage in both districts.
At the same time, the park maintains a string of pack mules -- essential for transporting backcountry supplies and equipment, and for conducting fire patrols in the upper elevations of the Rincon Mountain District of the park.
Tightened federal budgets have reduced the Park's ability to sustain its equestrian and stock mule programs, and Arizona's persistent drought has dramatically increased the cost of hay -- meaning that it's no longer possible for the Park to support these animals with federal funding alone.
Friends of Saguaro has established a dedicated fund to support the Park's equestrian and stock mule programs -- providing over $25,000 in funding since 2013.
If you'd like to support the Equestrian and Stock Mule program at Saguaro National Park, just click on the "Donate" link above, and dedicate your gift to our Horses and Mules Fund.