The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) in partnership with the University of Idaho Extension 4-H program will offer wild horse weanlings for adoption during the Idaho Horse Expo. These horses have been handled by 4-H youth and will be available for public viewing during the event. The adoption event is scheduled for 1:30 p.m. on Sunday, April 6, and adopters must be at least 18 years old with facilities that meet BLM requirements.
Since 2009, the BLM Idaho Wild Horse and Burro program has successfully paired youth with young wild horses through the University of Idaho Extension 4-H program. Over 400 wild horses have been placed into private care, saving taxpayers over $6 million in caring costs for unadopted wild horses. This year, youth from Desert Sage, Desperados, and Saddle Tramps 4-H Clubs participated in the program, raising over $99,000 to support Idaho 4-H Clubs.
The BLM is responsible for protecting and managing wild horses and burros on public lands under the Wild Free-Roaming Horses and Burros Act. The agency periodically removes animals from the range when populations exceed established levels, making them available for adoption at events throughout the country. More information about the BLM’s Wild Horse and Burro program can be found online.
