Wild horses to be offered for adoption during Idaho Horse Expo

NAMPA, Idaho (KIFI) – 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 April 5- 7.

The young wild horses will be available for public viewing April 5-7, during the Idaho Horse Expo at the Ford Idaho Horse Park in Nampa. The dedicated efforts of 4-H club member’s will come to fruition during an exciting competitive bid adoption event, scheduled for 1:15 p.m. on Sunday, April 7.

Youth from seven different Treasure Valley area 4-H Clubs picked up their young charges in late February, and have been working with the animals to lead, load into a trailer and pick up their feet. All wild horses were gathered from Idaho’s public rangelands in the Owyhee Front last fall.

To qualify, adopters must be at least 18 years old and have facilities that meet the BLM’s requirements. Title to the animals remains with the federal government for one year, after which adopters can apply for title. Detailed information about adopter qualifications and facility requirements can be found online.

Since 2009, the BLM Idaho Wild Horse and Burro program in concert with University of Idaho Extension 4-H youth development, has successfully paired youth with young wild horses. More than 400 wild horses have been placed into private care, hundreds of youths have developed wild horse handling skills and since the BLM shares a portion of the adoption proceeds, more than $99,000 has been raised to support Idaho 4-H Clubs. This year, youth from Desert Sage, Desperados, Oasis Riders, Ranchers & Riders, Reynolds Creek, Saddle Tramps and Willow Creek 4-H Clubs are participating.