Awesome Number of Wild Horses Adopted at Western Montana Event

“Each horse adopted is a life changed, and every adopter becomes part of the story of wild horse conservation.”

Those are the words of Melissa Foster, BLM Montana/Dakotas lead wild horse and burro specialist. With a 72% placement rate into private care, the event demonstrated the public’s continued interest in adopting and caring for America’s iconic wild horses.

That probably doesn't surprise too many Montanans, so many of whom have a connection to the land and to majestic animals that grace its landscape. The Bureau of Land Management’s Montana/Dakotas Wild Horse and Burro Program held a successful adoption event in Hamilton May 2-4, placing 26 wild horses into new homes, including 19 adults and 7 yearlings, out of the 36 animals offered. Melissa Foster's summary comments also included, “We’re proud of what we accomplished this weekend, and excited for what’s next.”

Friday evening's silent auction saw approximately 30 attendees join for the viewing and auction, which resulted in 13 horses being placed. The high bid of the evening came in at $350.

Saturday's clinic and adoption featured a horsemanship clinic led by renowned mustang trainer, Mustang Matt. That drew around 75 people, with total attendance topping 90 for the day. Two additional horses were placed on Saturday.

And, despite cold, rainy forecasts, Sunday brought a steady stream of visitors and nine more successful adoptions.

This adoption event was a team effort by BLM and all the folks that came to view and bid on wild horses. It demonstrated passion, professionalism, and a deep commitment to the BLM’s mission of humane placement and land stewardship.

Montana's next adoption event is June 6-8 in Livingston, where 41 untrained horses and burros will be looking for their forever homes. To learn more about upcoming events, eligibility, and how you can be part of the effort to protect and preserve these living symbols of the American West, visit the BLM Wild Horse and Burro Program webpage.