Impact of Government Shutdown on Wild Horses and Burros

On December 21, 2018, the federal government entered into a partial shutdown, affecting agencies responsible for wild horse and burro populations. With no end in sight, American Wild Horse Conservation (formerly American Wild Horse Campaign) provides updates on how these animals are impacted during the shutdown.

1. Care in Holding Facilities

Wild horses and burros in Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and U.S. Forest Service (USFS) holding facilities continue to receive care. The USFS is maintaining all functions related to the health and safety of the horses in holding. However, the BLM's Palomino Valley Adoption Center is closed to visitors due to the shutdown, though care for the horses and burros continues.

2. Postponed Roundups and Sales

Pending wild horse roundups and sales have been postponed. The USFS lacks the staffing to prepare for adoptions or sales events. The launch of the new Online Corrals, intended for January 7-13, has been delayed. Additionally, all horse pickups are postponed.

There is no news on the impending roundup in the Pine Nut Herd Management Area, scheduled for January 7. If the shutdown persists, the roundup is unlikely to occur as planned.

3. Extended Public Comment Deadlines

Deadlines for public comments on proposed actions related to federally protected wild horses and burros may be extended. AWHC is reaching out to agencies to confirm personnel availability to receive comments. Without confirmation, it is likely that open comment periods closing during the shutdown will be extended once it ends.