Pryor Mountain Range Study
A groundbreaking multi-year ecological study of the Pryor Mountain Wild Horse Range.
Science. Stewardship. A Future for Wild Horses and the Land They Call Home.
The Pryor Mountain Wild Horse Range is one of America's most iconic wild horse landscapes—a place where wild horses, wildlife, and people have shared a connection for generations.
In 2026, The Cloud Foundation launched an ambitious multi-year ecological study of the Pryor Mountain Wild Horse Range in partnership with Dr. J. Boone Kauffman and other leading researchers.
This groundbreaking project is designed to better understand the relationship between wild horses, wildlife, vegetation, water resources, climate, and overall ecosystem health. Through long-term monitoring and field research, this project will help build the scientific foundation needed to inform future management decisions while building a stronger scientific foundation for the protection of America's wild horses and public lands.
Why This Study Matters
For decades, debates over wild horse management have often proceeded without comprehensive, long-term ecological data from the ranges where horses live.
The Pryor Mountain Range Study seeks to fill that gap by collecting real-world data on vegetation, wildlife, soils, water resources, weather patterns, and ecosystem conditions across the range.
By establishing a scientific baseline and monitoring changes over time, this study will provide valuable insights into the health and resilience of one of America's most iconic wild horse ranges.
Meet the Research Team
Dr. J. Boone Kauffman
Dr. Boone Kauffman is a Research Professor of Ecosystem Ecology in the Department of Fisheries, Wildlife, and Conservation Sciences at Oregon State University and one of the nation's leading experts in rangeland ecology.
Over the course of his distinguished career, Dr. Kauffman has conducted ecological research on rangelands and ecosystems around the world, publishing extensively on conservation, restoration, and ecosystem management.
The Cloud Foundation is honored to partner with Dr. Kauffman and his team on this important effort.
Current Progress
The study began in June of 2026 with the establishment of long-term monitoring sites throughout the Pryor Mountain Wild Horse Range.
Current work includes:
Vegetation monitoring
Wildlife observations
Soil assessments
Climate and weather monitoring
Range condition evaluations
Long-term ecological data collection
As field seasons continue, updates and findings will be shared here.
Study Goals
Understand
Gather critical data about rangeland health, vegetation, wildlife, climate, and ecosystem function.
Inform
Provide science-based information that can help guide future management decisions.
Protect
Support the long-term conservation of wild horses and the public lands they inhabit.
Inspire
Connect people with the science, stewardship, and beauty of the Pryor Mountains.
Latest Updates
Coming Soon
Future updates will include field reports, project milestones, preliminary findings, photos from the field, and opportunities for public engagement.
How You Can Help
This study is a significant undertaking that will continue to yield valuable insights throughout 2027 and beyond.
Supporters can help by:
Making a tax-deductible donation
Sponsoring weather stations and field equipment
Connecting us with grant opportunities
Sharing information about the project
Helping fund future field seasons
Every contribution helps advance independent scientific research and supports the long-term protection of wild horses and their habitat.