The BLM has lifted the temporary closure of the public lands where gather operations are taking place.  There will be no restrictions on access to these public lands, except if necessary for safety purposes and the well-being of the horses.

Members of the public should be advised, however, that gather sites to which the at-risk horses will be brought (the first site was set up Friday, July 10) that are located on private property may or may not be accessible by the public.  It is the private landowner's decision to allow or not allow members of the public onto the private lands. 

The BLM lacks jurisdiction over privately-owned lands and therefore, cannot independently bring the public onto private lands.  The gather sites will be located in the areas most favorable to gathering the wild horses, and given the need to move promptly with the emergency rescue operations, it is not feasible and would not be in the best interests of the wild horses to move the planned gather sites to another location.

The BLM will post maps that indicate where the gather site is located, as well as landownership status, so the public will be aware of which lands are private rather than public lands. Private lands are shown in white, and public lands are shown in yellow. 

All gather sites located on a private land in the gather area and private roads will be posted with no trespassing signs.

If You Plan to Go --Important Safety Information
It is essential to bring plenty of iced water and sports-type drinks.  There is little to no shade in this area.  While temperatures are cool in the early mornings, mid-day and afternoon temperatures can reach 90 degrees F.  Hats, sunscreen, bug repellant, snacks and study shoes are other important items to bring.  Make sure to fill your vehicle with gas before heading to the gather area.

Maps

Little Humboldt and Rock Creek Gather Sites

First Gather Site (starting July 10 thru July 20)
Desert Ranch overview
Desert Ranch closeup

Protocol for Nonscheduled Observation Days

Observation Day Protocol and Ground Rules for the Tuscarora Gather

WHAT TO KNOW BEFORE YOU GO: Instructions for visitors to the Tuscarora Wild Horse Gather