Federal Plan to Remove Wild Horses in Wyoming Sparks Debate

The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) has announced plans to permanently remove wild horses from more than 2.1 million acres of public and private land in southwestern Wyoming, a decision that has sparked legal battles and concerns from advocacy groups.

The removal, scheduled to begin in July 2025, targets the “checkerboard” region, a mix of private and federal lands. The BLM cites land health concerns and management disputes as key reasons for the decision. However, critics argue that the move sets a troubling precedent for wild horse protection across the West.

According to the BLM’s environmental assessment, an estimated 3,371 wild horses will be removed over the next several years, with the number possibly reaching 5,000. The first round of removals will focus on the Salt Wells Creek and Adobe Town herds in 2025, followed by the Great Divide Basin herd in 2026.

The Rock Springs Grazing Association, which manages private lands within the checkerboard, originally requested the horse removal in 2010. Under the Wild Free-Roaming Horses and Burros Act, the BLM is obligated to remove wild horses from private land upon request.

Wild horse advocacy groups, including the American Wild Horse Campaign and the Animal Welfare Institute, have long fought against the removals. In March 2025, the 10th Circuit Court of Appeals heard arguments on the latest legal challenge, with advocates hopeful for a favorable ruling.

“This would be the first time in the 54-year history of the Wild Horse and Burros Act that the BLM has eliminated entire wild horse herds without citing ecological necessity,” said Suzanne Roy, Executive Director of the American Wild Horse Campaign.

BLM officials maintain that the plan aligns with federal law and is necessary to manage the land effectively. Public comments on the proposal are open until April 30, and officials encourage input from stakeholders.

While the legal appeal remains unresolved, the BLM is preparing resources for the planned roundups. The outcome of the court case could influence future wild horse management policies across the Western US.

For more information, visit the BLM National NEPA Register.

With input from WyoFile, Wyoming Tribune Eagle, and Animals 24-7.