BLM Announces New Members for National Wild Horse and Burro Advisory Board

The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) has announced the appointment of three new members to its National Wild Horse and Burro Advisory Board. These appointments have sparked discussions about the direction of wild horse management in the United States.

Despite BLM claims of reforming its wild horse program, these appointments suggest a continuation of controversial practices. Dr. Weikel, a supporter of surgically spaying wild mares, joins the board alongside Julie Sall, who represents public interest but has a background in livestock auctions. Critics argue that these selections favor cattle industry interests over public concerns for wild horse protection.

New Appointments to the Advisory Board

The BLM announced that the Secretaries of Interior and Agriculture have selected three individuals for open positions on the nine-member National Wild Horse and Burro Advisory Board. June Sewing of Cedar City, Utah, has been re-appointed for wild horse and burro advocacy. Jennifer Sall of Lander, Wyoming, has been appointed for public interest, and Dr. Julie M. Weikel, DVM, of Princeton, Oregon, has been appointed for veterinary medicine. Each will serve a three-year term.

June Sewing

Ms. Sewing is the Executive Director and Secretary for the National Mustang Association, managing the association’s wild horse sanctuary since 1985. She has also served as president of local charitable organizations and on the Cedar City hospital board. Ms. Sewing was first appointed to the Advisory Board in 2012 and will be serving a second term.

Jennifer Sall

Ms. Sall has 25 years of experience in horse care and training, including managing the National Outdoor Leadership School's Three Peaks Ranch. She is currently the Program Manager for the Rocky Mountain Branch of the National Outdoor Leadership School and holds a Bachelor of Science in Biology from Bates College.

Dr. Julie M. Weikel

Dr. Weikel, a large animal veterinarian with 42 years of experience, has taught at Washington State University and served on various advisory committees. Her focus includes equine and bovine medicine.

Role of the Advisory Board

The National Wild Horse and Burro Advisory Board advises the BLM and the U.S. Forest Service on managing and protecting wild free-roaming horses and burros on public lands, as mandated by the 1971 Wild Free-Roaming Horses and Burros Act. Board members must demonstrate the ability to analyze information, evaluate programs, and develop corrective actions. More information about the board can be found at: BLM Advisory Board.

Originally Posted By Bureau of Land Management