Thank you for your interest in observing BLM wild horse gather operations in the Adobe Town/Salt Wells Herd Management Areas (HMAs). We hope you find the day informative and educational.
The BLM is committed to providing as much public access to the gather as possible. However, the Adobe Town/Salt Wells HMAs are in rugged and remote areas, and safety is our first priority. BLM staff will be available each public observation day to escort you into areas where you can safely view the gather operations. We are providing the following information for your safety and so that you can be prepared for your visit.
The following information is subject to change at any time during gather operations. The most up-to-date version of this document will be posted on the website: http://www.blm.gov/wy/st/en/programs/Wild_Horses/fallgather.html and is also available by calling 307-350-0448.
Observation Days
- The BLM plans to conduct observation days as often as possible and as long as participants do not disrupt operations or create conditions that jeopardize the safety of the animals, observers, contractors or BLM staff. Public observation will be limited to gather locations and temporary holding facilities located on public land and accessible across public land.
- Observation areas will be designated at each gather location. These areas will provide safe observation opportunities that will not disrupt gather activities. Observers must stay in the designated areas.
- Inclement weather, a gather location inaccessible to the public, or lack of gather operations on a given day (trap moving, equipment problems, etc.) will cancel the observation outing for that day. Cancellations will often not be known before the meeting time.
- Because of the fluidity of gather operations, be prepared for the possibility of waiting at gather locations for hours without seeing any actual wild horse gathering.
BLM Wyoming Conditions & Safety Requirements
- There are no facilities, including restrooms, in the HMAs.
- Cell service is very limited or nonexistent in much of the HMAs. Plan to be out of range for most of the day.
- You must bring your own lunch, water and snacks.
- You must provide your own transportation. Government vehicles cannot be used to transport you to the gather locations or temporary holding facilities.
- Arrive at the meeting place with a full tank of gas.
- Roads are rugged and rocky. A high-clearance, four wheel drive vehicle is strongly recommended. Your tires must be in good condition and you should have a fully inflated spare and tire changing equipment.
- Be prepared for weather extremes. Check the forecast the night before to ensure that you are prepared and dressed appropriately.
- Wear sturdy boots for hiking in rugged terrain. There is no shade. Bring a hat, sunscreen, sunglasses and other appropriate protective clothing.
- Parking will be limited at many gather locations. Be prepared to hike into some observation locations. Some hikes could be arduous involving steep and rocky terrain. Hiking requirements will be explained at each morning briefing.
- Binoculars and a camera with a telephoto lens are strongly recommended.
- Dress in earth tones. Brightly-colored clothing can distract the horses.
Adobe Town & Salt Wells Fall 2010 Gather 