BLM's Wheatland Corral improves rating in latest Animal Welfare Program review

The Bureau of Land Management Comprehensive Animal Welfare Program (CAWP) team recently released its latest evaluation of the BLM High Plains District’s Wheatland Off-Range Corral, giving the facility an impressive 97% compliance rating.

The BLM CAWP team completes periodic internal assessments of CAWP compliance for all operational activities in the Wild Horse and Burro Program, including off-range corrals. The latest report assesses compliance with CAWP standards, ensuring the facility meets a high bar for animal welfare.

“This evaluation reflects the High Plains District’s ongoing commitment to the humane treatment of wild horses and burros,” said Kevin Christensen, BLM High Plains District Manager. “The facility’s recent, improved rating is a testament to the dedication and compassion of the BLM staff and contractors at the Wheatland Corral.”

The 97% rating marks a significant improvement for the Wheatland Corral, which received an 83% in its last evaluation.

“The Wheatland Corral was one of the newest facilities at the time of the 2022 report and many of the standards found to be partially compliant were things that we were actively working to improve,” said JJ Nolan, facility manager at the Wheatland Corral. “The first assessment provided additional focus on areas where we wanted to improve, and eventually exceed, standards set by the CAWP.”

The increased rating reflects improvements in many of the categories that were assessed, including facility design features, biosecurity, feed and water, and preparation procedures. Additionally, there were no repeat deficiencies in the 2024 report – meaning all categories in the 2022 report had been improved upon. The 2022 report also noted that while BLM and contract employees had the necessary skills, training, and experience to handle the wild horses at the facility, they simply did not have enough staff to complete all the work required in a timely manner. Since the initial report, the Wheatland Corral has hired additional well-qualified employees and is now fully staffed.

Click here to review the Wheatland Off-Range Corral’s 2024 CAWP Assessment Report. To learn more about the BLM’s Comprehensive Animal Welfare Program or review reports for other Wild Horse and Burro Program facilities and activities, visit https://www.blm.gov/programs/wild-horse-and-burro/comprehensive-animal-welfare-program.