For decades, thousands of burros have roamed the hills of Reche Canyon, east of Colton. It’s estimated that between 9,000 and 10,000 burros inhabit the area, wandering neighborhoods in the rural community.
“The donkeys are part of our Western lifestyle,” said resident Brandi Augenstein. “They’re a part of our community and the culture of Reche Canyon.”
But many of the burros are expected to no longer call San Bernardino County home, with County officials recently signing an agreement with nonprofit rescue organization Peaceful Valley Donkey Rescue in San Angelo, Texas, to remove the vast majority of the wild donkeys.
County officials say there are just too many of the burros to manage.
Over the years, many burros have been struck and killed by vehicles on Reche Canyon Road, and some have died after being struck by freight trains moving through the area.
“Countless burros are suffering and dying after wandering onto roadways and railroad tracks,” said Dawn Rowe, chairperson of the San Bernardino County Board of Supervisors. “And (they’re) being injured themselves when encountering manmade objects such as fences.”