Learn more about “Wild Horse and Burro Act of 1971”

The Wild Free-Roaming Horses and Burros Act of 1971 is a landmark federal law that protects wild horses and burros on public lands in the United States. Signed into law by President Nixon, it recognizes these animals as "living symbols of the historic and pioneer spirit of the West" and aims to safeguard them from capture, branding, harassment, and death. The Act mandates the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) to manage and protect these herds, which were rapidly declining at the time. Despite its noble intentions, the Act has faced challenges, including mismanagement and prioritization of livestock grazing over wild horse conservation. The ongoing conflict highlights the need for humane and sustainable management practices to preserve these iconic animals for future generations.