Budget Cuts Impact Wild Horse Adoption Center Operations
Even as the economy shows signs of recovery, the Palomino Valley National Wild Horse and Burro Adoption Center is facing operational challenges due to budget cuts. This development has sparked concern among horse advocates who fear the impact on wild horse adoptions.
The federal Bureau of Land Management's largest wild horse adoption center is reducing its weekend operations. While the facility will remain open on weekdays, it will only open on the first Saturday of each month starting April 6th. Carolyn Chad of the BLM explains that the center isn't fully staffed, and weekend operations can be costly.
"They require 7 days a week feeding and care," Chad said. "And having it open for public visitation requires increased staffing."
Horse advocates argue that these cuts could have significant repercussions for the animals.
"I think that if they really want to adopt these horses, they have to be open on Saturday," said Terri Farley with the American Wild Horse Conservation (formerly American Wild Horse Preservation). "Most people, who can afford to take a horse and feed a horse, work."
Chad notes that Saturdays have seen few adoptions and visitors, not only locally but nationwide. She reports that annual horse adoptions have decreased from a peak of around 8,000 horses to 2,500 horses a year.
"With the economy and with feed costs up due to drought conditions, hay is becoming prohibitively expensive and horses are a luxury," Chad said.
Despite these challenges, Chad emphasizes the BLM's commitment to adopting as many horses as possible, while adjusting their strategy to fit budgetary constraints. The BLM also offers appointments for those unable to visit on the designated open Saturday.
Originally Posted By Fox Reno