The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is seeking public comments on its plan to manage wild horse populations in three herd management areas (HMAs) located in northeast California and northwest Nevada. The environmental assessment focuses on the Carter Reservoir, Coppersmith, and Buckhorn HMAs, where horse populations have exceeded the appropriate management levels.
Craig Drake, manager of the BLM Applegate Field Office, emphasized the importance of maintaining healthy herds in balance with the ecosystem, as required by the Wild Free-Roaming Horses and Burros Act. Current estimates indicate there are over 700 wild horses in the areas, while the combined appropriate management level is set between 134 and 195.
The BLM plans to gather excess horses and offer them for adoption or sale to private owners. The 30-day public comment period is open until November 22. Comments can be submitted through the BLM National NEPA Register or by contacting the Surprise Field Station in Cedarville.
