BLM: Wild Horse Relocation to Boise Corrals Will Be Lengthy and Difficult

In the aftermath of the devastating Soda Fire, the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is undertaking the challenging task of relocating hundreds of wild horses to the Boise Wild Horse Corrals. This operation is crucial to ensure the health and safety of these animals during the harsh winter months. The fire has severely damaged the rangeland, leaving the horses without adequate forage.

Efforts to Relocate Wild Horses

The BLM has been working diligently to herd and relocate the wild horses affected by the Soda Fire, which burned over 270,000 acres of land. According to Heather Tiel, a BLM public affairs specialist, the goal is to position trap sites as close to the horses as possible to minimize stress caused by the fire and fire suppression activities.

Challenges in the Relocation Process

Using helicopters to round up the horses has proven difficult due to the animals' natural inclination to roam freely. The operation requires a delicate approach to ensure the horses' well-being.

Public Viewing and Ongoing Care

Many horses have already arrived at the Boise Wild Horse Corrals, located off Pleasant Valley Road. The public was given a brief opportunity to view the horses on Monday from 1 p.m. to 2 p.m. Kevin Lloyd, a BLM wild horse specialist, explained that the short viewing period was necessary due to ongoing horse gathering efforts and veterinary checks.

Lloyd emphasized that the relocation process will be lengthy, with the horses expected to stay at the corrals for approximately a year and a half, receiving full care throughout their stay.

Originally reported by KBOI.