Are BLM decisions to remove excess wild horses or burros subject to public review?
A – Yes. Gather Plan environmental assessments are made available to the public for a thirty day review and comment period unless there is an emergency situation which threatens the animal’s survival. Any person adversely affected by a decision to remove excess animals may also file an appeal of that decision. Q – Why can’t BLM haul water or feed to the animals instead of removing them? A – The 1971 WFRHBA requires BLM to manage horses and burros as wildland species and not as livestock. The agency does not typically haul feed or water to the animals, but does intervene in cases of extreme drought, fire or freezing weather. In managing the animals, BLM uses the minimum feasible level of management necessary to achieve healthy populations of horses and burros in balance with other uses and the land’s capability. This direction is consistent with Congress’ intent in passing the 1971 WFRHBA (refer to Senate Conference Report 92-242) which states: “An intensive management program of…physic
