BLM to Host Public Hearing on Motorized Vehicles in Wild Horse Management
The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Utah is set to host its annual statewide public hearing to discuss the use of helicopters and motorized vehicles in the management of wild horses and burros on Utah’s public lands. This hearing is a federal requirement and will be the only one held in Utah this year.
Location and Timing
Southern Utah was selected for this year’s meeting due to the recent decision to gather and remove up to 200 wild horses from Iron and Beaver counties. The hearing details are as follows:
- Date: Wednesday, June 18, 2014
- Time: 6:00 pm – 7:00 pm
- Venue: Cedar City Heritage Center, 105 N 100 E, Cedar City, Utah
Importance of Motorized Vehicles
“Helicopter and motorized vehicle usage is a critical tool for managing wild horses on the open range,” said Chad Hunter, Cedar City Wild Horse and Burro Specialist. “These management tools allow us to conduct aerial population inventories, monitor animal distribution, and transport gathered animals in an effective and humane manner.”
Historical Context
Since government roundups began in 1975, the BLM has removed more than 14,600 wild horses and 500 burros from Utah’s rangelands. Over 7,500 of these animals have been adopted locally.
Adoption Opportunities
Utah’s 2014 satellite adoptions started in May and continue throughout the state, including locations in Gunnison, Salt Lake City, and Delta, Utah. Daily adoptions are ongoing at the Delta Wild Horse and Burro Facility, with monthly adoptions on the first Tuesday of each month at the Gunnison Prison Horse Facility in Gunnison, Utah.
For additional information about the upcoming statewide public hearing or future wild horse and burro adoptions, visit www.blm.gov/ut or contact the Cedar City Field Office at 435-865-3000 or the BLM Utah State Office at 801-539-4057.
Originally Posted By KCSG