The adoption part of the WH&B program has served the horses, the public and the BLM exceptionally well in the last few years. Development of the Strategic Plan contributed to this success by providing direction and focus to the WH&B program.
By removing only younger horses from the range, the demand for adopting these animals has been raised considerably, and in general, BLM offices with adoption activities have been able to administer adoption activities effectively. However, there is inconsistency in the priority given to compliance among BLM offices. Also, the Team heard that there is inconsistency in adoption requirements and procedures at different adoption sites causing confusion among adopters. Information from WH&B customer focus groups reflected similar concerns.
Achieving AMLs on the public rangelands should increase the demand for adoptable horses (and perhaps broaden "what is adoptable") by reducing the available supply. This action should enable BLM to institute better adoption standards and practices as time goes on.
While adoption has worked well, there is concern among people in the program and some interest groups that horses are being managed for their "adoptability" more than for their "adaptability" to be wild and free roaming. The ability to adopt animals needs to be balanced with factors related to the health of the land and the adaptability of the animals as herd management and removal decisions are made.
Recommendations:
As the Strategic Plan is updated, the Team recommends consideration be given to: