BLM: Controversial Memo Based on Potential Budget Cuts

A controversial memo from the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Wild Horse and Burro Division Director Joan Guilfoyle suggested halting gathers and implementing euthanasia for sick and aged mustangs in the field. This memo, while authentic, was based on budget cuts that never occurred, according to a BLM representative.

The internal memo became public after being obtained via a Freedom of Information Act request. The BLM manages approximately 33,780 wild horses and 6,825 wild burros across 12 western states. The organization conducts gathers to maintain herds at designated management levels, with animals residing in holding areas or being adopted by the public. As of February 2014, an estimated 49,246 wild horses and burros are cared for in BLM facilities.

In August 2013, Guilfoyle wrote the memo to Greg Shoop, assistant director of the Department of Renewal Resources and Planning, discussing the wild horse and burro program's strategic direction. The memo outlined potential actions if a 5% budget cut occurred, including halting mustang gathers and implementing field euthanasia as a last resort for animals in near-death conditions due to declining resources.

“Funding and space prohibit the removal of any animals in the near future,” Guilfoyle's memo stated. “Euthanasia of near-death animals is the only responsible alternative.”

BLM spokesman Tom Gorey clarified that the memo's recommendations were hypothetical scenarios contingent on budget cuts that never happened. The BLM's budget was $71.8 million in 2013, and Guilfoyle anticipated cuts could reduce it to $69.6 million. However, the 2014 budget was $77.245 million.

Despite this, the memo remains controversial. Laura Leigh, president and founder of Wild Horse Education, noted that while the memo attracted attention, it did not introduce new ideas to the mustang management debate.

“I think the memo got so much attention because it had the word 'kill' in it, but there are no new ideas here,” Leigh said.

Meanwhile, the status of wild horse gathers remains uncertain. “We still do not have a 2014 gather schedule,” Gorey stated.

Originally Posted By The Horse