The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is hosting a wild horse adoption event at the Eastern Idaho State Fair in Blackfoot on August 30, featuring yearling mustangs trained by 4-H youth from eastern Idaho counties. These youths have spent months gentling and teaching the horses skills such as leading, trailer loading, and hoof care, which they will demonstrate during the fair. Ten horses will be available for adoption, with requirements including adopters being at least 18 years old and having suitable facilities. Ownership titles remain with the federal government for one year before adopters can apply for full title.

Since 2009, the BLM Idaho Wild Horse and Burro Program, in partnership with University of Idaho Extension 4-H, has successfully placed over 400 wild horses into private care, saving taxpayers more than $6 million in care costs and raising over $121,000 to support 4-H clubs. The program helps manage wild horse populations on public lands under the Wild Free-Roaming Horses and Burros Act by removing excess animals to maintain ecological balance. Adoption events like this provide opportunities for the public to care for these horses while supporting youth development and wild horse management efforts.