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A band of wild horses in Nevada.

Rarely does anything stir the imagination like the sight of horses and burros roaming free in the rugged American west. But to ensure they are there forever for us to enjoy, the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) must protect and manage the land — and the animals — in a thriving natural ecological balance.

 
The Wild Free-Roaming Horses and Burros Act

of 1971, As Amended (The Act)

Requires the BLM to:

  • Protect wild horses and burros in the area where presently found (1971) as an integral component of the public lands.

  • Manage in a manner designed to achieve and maintain a thriving natural ecological balance.

  • Determine appropriate management levels (AMLs).

  • Maintain a current inventory.

  • Determine if overpopulation exists, and whether AML should be achieved by the removal or destruction of excess animals, or other options such as sterilization or natural population controls.

  • Immediately remove excess animals so as to achieve AML.

  • Adopt excess animals to individuals who can provide a good home.

  • Humanely euthanize or sell without limitation any unadoptable wild horses or burros.

  • Consult with wildlife agencies and scientific experts.

  • Appoint an Advisory Board.


For more information, refer to www.blm.gov