Board members represent various interests: wild horse and burro advocacy groups, wild horse and burro research institutions, veterinarians, natural resource organizations, humane advocacy groups, wildlife associations, and livestock organizations, plus the general public with a special knowledge of equine behavior. 

Board members, who may not be employees of the Federal or state governments, are appointed by the Secretaries of the Interior and Agriculture. Board meetings and calls for board nominees are published in the Federal Register.