The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) currently oversees wild horse and burro herds spanning over 26.9 million acres of public land. Under the Wild Free-Roaming Horses and Burros Act, the BLM is mandated to establish the Appropriate Management Level (AML) for each Herd Management Area (HMA) to ensure the sustainable balance of these populations. This initiative aims to maintain the long-term health of both the range and the herds, while also preserving the ecological equilibrium for various plant and wildlife species that inhabit these lands.

When the numbers of wild horses and burros surpass the designated AML, the BLM takes on the responsibility of relocating excess animals to holding facilities. These facilities serve as temporary homes where these animals are made available for adoption by the public.   

The BLM website offers a wealth of information and additional resources. They have compiled a list of frequently asked questions from the public, providing clear and concise answers regarding gathers, adoption programs, population control, and a dedicated section debunking myths and presenting facts.

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Additionally, the website features a schedule of adoption events where you can explore opportunities to bring a wild horse or burro into your own home.