Nokota - Legend of the Badlands

The Nokota Horse Conservancy and the Kuntz Family
At this decisive moment in the Nokotas history, in stepped two brothers, Leo and Frank Kuntz – native North Dakotans, lifelong horsemen, and fourth-generation ranchers. Raised a mere hundred or so miles from the Little Missouri Badlands, the Kuntz brothers were long familiar with Park horses. But their interest turned personal when they began seeking to improve the durability of their Quarter Horse and Thoroughbred horses.

Bad Toe and Leo Kuntz

Leo Kuntz purchased one of his first Nokotas, Bad Toe, from the Dickinson, North Dakota Horse Auction as a prospect for the Great American Horse Race circuit – grueling cross-country races across the Badlands. What he found in Bad Toe – and others like him – would forever change the course of the Kuntz family’s life.

Yes, Bad Toe possessed incredible stamina. He was the “gas horse” – always guaranteed to be in the money at these horse races and pay for the gas home. In addition, he had incredible natural jumping ability. He could stay on his feet under the most treacherous of conditions. He could disentangle himself from the worst predicaments, without a scratch. When he did sustain a nick or two – it healed incredibly fast. His feet were like iron and his legs like steel.

All admirable qualities – but this was not what convinced Leo Kuntz that he had something very special in his possession. Despite the fact Bad Toe came from Park – raised in the wild – he was the most generous and giving horse Leo had ever encountered. A 100-percenter. The horse tried his heart out. Bad Toe was not unique in this quality. This was the trait that stood out above all others with all the Park horses.

As horsemen, the Kuntz brothers were profoundly affected by the qualities of the Park horses. The Kuntz family – led by brothers Leo and Frank – were about to embark upon their life’s mission. They have been at the forefront of the effort to save the Park horses – which they named Nokota by pushing together the name North Dakota.

They did the research – with the help of others – and pieced together the story of the evolution of these horses from Indian pony to ranch horse to wild horse to Park horse. They were convinced that these horses were not simply random feral horses. They have invested a lifetime into studying bloodlines and history books and pursuing scientific data to back up their claims.

It was a truly remarkable effort by a few individuals. There has been no economic benefit to the Kuntz family for their struggles. Quite the opposite – they’ve been poised on the brink of bankruptcy for over 25 years in their quest to save the Nokota. They’ve achieved support at a painstakingly slow pace. In 1999, the non-profit Nokota Horse Conservancy was officially formed with the help of their supporters.

The greatest need is to provide a permanent sanctuary for the Nokota. Although they campaigned to have the Park accept these horses back into the Badlands under protected status – the Park was unmoving. Today, the Nokota herds reside on the Kuntz family ranch and on rented pastures found and funded through the Conservancy. The emotional toll upon this family is incalculable. Yet they persevere – convinced of the worth and uniqueness of the Nokota horses.

Nokota Gelding "Chico"

The Long Saga
Yes, such a long saga for such an obscure breed of horse. Who are the Nokota? The only way to truly understand the passion these horses inspire is to own one. The 100-percenter. The horse that has no reason to place their trust in Man. But when you earn the respect of a Nokota – you have a friend for life.

It is an extraordinary experience in our mostly ordinary lives. Some will own a Nokota and think they are an okay kind of horse. Others will own a Nokota and look into their heart – and feel a connection unlike one ever experienced with ordinary horses. And then, the spirit of the Sioux Indian will look upon and smile. The great horse society still exists – in the Nokota horse.

Learn more about how to help the Nokotas at www.nokotahorse.org