The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) has approved a controversial plan to remove over 3,000 free-roaming horses from designated areas in southwest Wyoming, with roundups set to begin on July 15, 2025. This decision follows an environmental review that garnered 2,138 public comments, reflecting a mix of opinions on wild horse management. BLM officials have stated that the operation will span two months and will focus on the Salt Wells Creek and Adobe Town herds, with further removals planned for the Great Divide Basin in 2026.
The plan has sparked ongoing disputes between wild horse advocacy groups and local grazing associations, particularly the Rock Springs Grazing Association, which has opposed the presence of feral horses on its land for over 15 years. Legal battles have ensued, with recent rulings favoring the BLM, although appeals are still pending in the 10th Circuit Court. The outcome of these appeals could influence the planned gather, and BLM has committed to updating the public if any changes occur.
Following the removal, horses will be made available for adoption or sale through BLM programs, while those not adopted will be relocated to private pastures. The BLM’s decision marks a significant step in the management of wild horse populations in the region, amidst a backdrop of complex land use conflicts and legal challenges.
