from staff reports



The Bureau of Land Management will be hosting a wild horse adoption in Meridian on Feb. 27-28 at the Lauderdale County Agri Center.

Approximately 80 wild horses and some burros will be up for adoption ranging from $25-$125.

Thousands of acres of habitat for America’s wild horses and burros remain in danger due to the lingering effects of drought and wildfires throughout the western United States. Therefore, the Bureau of Land Management has conducted several gathers aimed at saving as many of these animals as possible. As a result, thousands of horses are now in need of homes and some are already in route to Meridian for a special two-day adoption.

The two-day event will be held at the Lauderdale County Agri Center and will feature adult and yearling horses and burros that once roamed free on public lands in the West.

A preview all of the animals is scheduled for Friday morning. The adoption will start at 1 p.m. Gates open again Saturday morning at 8 a.m. and the adoption will continue through 5 p.m. This adoption will be first come, first served for the entire event.

Applications can be completed at the adoption, and approval is done on the spot.

“There will be some exceptional horses from the western rangelands, and you can adopt one for a minimal fee,” said Bureau of Land Management State Director Juan Palma. “These wonderful animals need new homes and, with your consideration, we’ll find great one’s for all of them.”

Qualified adopters must be at least 18, with no record of animal abuse. In addition, adopters must have suitable facilities and can adopt no more than four animals. All animals must be loaded in covered stock-type trailers with sturdy walls and floors – no drop ramp trailers.

“Wild mustangs are known for their strength, endurance, agility, and intelligence – characteristics bred into them in the wild which make them ideal for work or recreation,” said Palma.

The process is called an “adoption” because the Bureau of Land Management retains title to the animal for one year after the adoption. During the year, a Bureau of Land Management representative or designee will visit each adopter to ensure the animal is being cared for and has a good home. During this time, adopters cannot sell their adopted animal. After the first year, adopters may apply for title.

The Bureau of Land Management will pass title of the animal if all the stipulations of the adoption agreement have been met. The animal becomes the private property of the adopter only after the Bureau of Land Management transfers title, which completes the adoption process. Since 1973, the Bureau of Land Management has placed more than 219,000 horses in approved homes across the country. For more information, call toll-free 1-888-274-2133.