Branded Bonanza this weekend at Ford Idaho Horse Park

NAMPA, Idaho– Branded Bonanza kicks off this weekend at the Ford Idaho Horse Park in Nampa, Aug. 7 - 9. Beginning at 7 a.m. each day, the Bonanza will showcase both an in-hand and under saddle competition featuring over 100 youth and adult trainers who have adopted and worked with a wild horse or burro since January. These animals hail from overpopulated public rangelands managed by BLM in Idaho, Nev., Calif., Ore., and other western states. The trainers will now show off their progress in a series of classes, including Handling & Conditioning, Trail, Pattern and Freestyle classes.

While the trainers adopted the wild horses and burros that will be shown, many have decided to make their animal available for re-assignment following the event. This means that qualified adopters may have the opportunity to adopt the horse or burro and BLM staff will be on hand to assist with re-assignment paperwork. 

On Aug. 9, there will be an open mustang show with a full slate of classes including Ranch, Trail and Games. Buckles will be awarded to the overall youth and adult champions, and a host of prizes are available to the high point winners of both shows. 

While many training competitions exist, Branded Bonanza builds upon the success of Mustang Mania, created and hosted by Matt and Stacie Zimmerman since 2016. Now a part of Forever Branded, these events are designed to build a community of support for wild horse and burro adopters. 

There were 198 wild horses and burros adopted for this event, representing over $2.9 million in savings for the American taxpayer for caring costs over the lifetime of that animal. For more information about the Branded Bonanza event, please contact Matt at 541-212-0035 or Stacie at 208-867-8203.