BLM Wild Horse and Burro Evaluation, January 29, 1997

SUMMARY

The WH&B program provides the BLM with a unique opportunity to demonstrate to other land users and to the public-at-large how to be a good steward of public resources and a good partner in a multiple-use setting. The BLM has not fully capitalized on this opportunity. To be sure, many things have been done well and the BLM continues to learn and improve its management of this complex program. There remains a definite opportunity to reap a good return on the investment of additional attention and resources. That return would be measured in increased public trust and confidence and in visible improvements to the health of the land.

The recent emergencies have drawn attention to the need to change program emphasis from individual animal and adoption related issues to the underlying habitat and herd health issues that are inherent in the Act.

The recommendations contained in the report represent a balanced, reasoned approach to that end.