There are two main viewpoints around managing mustang populations. Animal welfare advocates view mustangs as an iconic symbol of the American West that deserve protection. Land managers aim to monitor herd sizes to appropriate levels to prevent overgrazing of resources and damage to rangelands. It is important to monitor herd sizes to ensure a sustainable balance between protecting mustang herds and conservation of public lands and resources for all species. The Bureau of Land Management is responsible for managing mustang populations under the Wild Free-Roaming Horses and Burros Act.