Join LRT Radio HR 2 for an in-depth conversation with William E. Simpson II, founder and executive director of the Wild Horse Fire Brigade. In this compelling episode, Simpson shares his unique journey from ranch life to wilderness advocate, revealing how wild horses play a crucial role in wildfire prevention and land management across North America. Discover the science behind how these majestic animals naturally reduce wildfire fuels, support healthy ecosystems, and save taxpayer dollars—contrasting sharply with current government policies that round up and confine wild horses at great public expense.

Simpson, along with expert guests, discusses the economic, ecological, and human costs of mismanaged public lands, the impact of catastrophic wildfires, and the urgent need for sustainable solutions. Learn about the award-winning documentary "Horse of Nature," the latest research, and the real-life stories behind the headlines. This episode is a must-listen for anyone concerned about the environment, public policy, and the future of America’s wild lands.

Key Topics & Time Markers

• Introduction & Show Opening
• 0:00 – Welcome to Liberty Round Table Radio, introduction of guests
• William Simpson’s Background & Wild Horse Fire Brigade
• 1:00 – William Simpson’s journey from ranch life to wilderness advocate
• 2:07 – Discovering wild horses and their impact on wildfire fuels
• How Wild Horses Help Prevent Wildfires
• 2:54 – The science behind wild horses as natural wildfire abatement
• 3:46 – Wild horses vs. other grazing animals: ecological benefits
• Government Policy & Land Management Issues
• 5:08 – Bureau of Land Management (BLM) practices and wild horse roundups
• 5:29 – Economic mismanagement and “welfare ranching” explained
• Ecological Impact & Fire Science
• 8:44 – The role of hoofed animals in land maintenance
• 10:44 – How horses create fire-resilient landscapes
• 12:21 – The collapse of deer populations and wildfire fuel buildup
• 13:39 – Soil health, microbiome, and catastrophic fire consequences
• Advocacy, Research, and Solutions
• 20:04 – Misinformation, public education, and bridging gaps with ranchers
• 21:24 – The Natural Wildfire Abatement and Forest Protection Plan
• 22:31 – Economic and human costs of wildfires; research findings
• Personal Stories & The Human Toll
• 23:06 – William Simpson’s personal loss and experience on the fire line
• Call to Action & How to Help
• 28:09 – How listeners can support the Wild Horse Fire Brigade
• 29:05 – The importance of public involvement, donations, and advocacy
• 30:45 – Where to find more information and resources
• Documentaries & Further Learning
• 24:47 – Discussion of the award-winning film "Horse of Nature"
• 45:58 – Where to watch the documentary and learn more
• Closing Remarks
• 54:34 – Final thoughts, website info, and episode wrap-up

Call to Action:

Support the Wild Horse Fire Brigade’s mission to protect wild horses and promote natural wildfire abatement. Visit wildhorsefirebrigade.org to learn more, watch the documentaries, and find out how you can donate, volunteer, or write to policymakers. Together, we can make a difference for our land, our communities, and future generations.