As with just about every hot-button issue, there are no easy answers, no simple one-step solution that will make every interested party happy.

We suppose that’s why the word “compromise” was invented a long time ago…

Take the wild horses that live on the Tonto National Forest along the Salt River. Most parties were relieved that the U.S. Forest Service decided last week to withdraw a July notice that it would start rounding up and impounding the approximately 100 wild horses.

That notice set off a firestorm of protests and outcries. And a few lawsuits. Press releases. Press conferences. Yes, this was definitely another hot-button topic.

While everyone appears to breathing a sigh of relief about the withdrawn notice, this doesn’t mean a simple solution is waiting in the wings, only to be unveiled in grand style with fireworks at midnight on Dec. 31.

No, this involves the Forest Service, other government officials, politicians, competing wildlife and conservation groups and plenty of other interested parties. Not to mention the general public.

Safety concerns remain, especially for motorists along with the Bush and Beeline highways. There is a dispute on whether or not the wild horses are actually negatively affecting the riparian ecosystem along the Salt River. There are even questions whether the Forest Service has actual jurisdiction over the horses. They are not listed as wild herd under federal law and could be viewed as stray livestock. Arguments fly back and forth regarding the use of possible birth control within the herd.

We don’t know what the best answer is. We just hope all interested parties can deal in good faith and come up with a compromise. The horses will be spared, but perhaps there is a better plan for their management? Just remember – not every group will get everything it wants. The horses, meanwhile, will remain there for the public’s enjoyment.