Deerwood Ranch adoption event draws strong public support

Visitors from across Wyoming and Colorado turned out in strong numbers to support the Bureau of Land Management’s Wild Horse and Burro Program during an adoption event at the Deerwood Ranch Public Off-Range Pasture on Saturday, June 14.

The event, hosted by Deerwood Ranch west of Laramie, welcomed approximately 300 participants who came to learn about wild horses, enjoy scenic wagon rides, and explore the possibility of adopting an iconic mustang or burro.

A total of 25 animals were available for adoption, including 20 young horses provided by the Rock Springs Wild Horse Holding Facility and five gelded burros from the BLM’s Elm Creek Off-Range Corral in Nebraska. By the end of the day, six animals were placed in new homes—three horses and one burro were adopted, while two additional burros were purchased through Bill of Sale.

“This event is always a highlight of the adoption season,” said Monica Mohr, wild horse and burro specialist for LM Wyoming. “It’s not just about placing animals—it's about connecting the public with the history, spirit, and ongoing care of wild horses and burros.”

Throughout the day, guests enjoyed wagon rides out to view long-term resident horses, vendor booths inside the barn, and local wood-fired pizza. Several past adopters returned to share stories of their adopted horses’ progress and even participated in event support—one attendee used his trained mustang to assist with parking.

BLM staff DJ Wellhouse and Remo Dansereau helped ensure the day ran smoothly, while the Wilson family—who operate the Deerwood facility—once again provided outstanding hospitality.

“The community turnout and positive energy were incredible,” Mohr added. “Seeing former adopters return with their mustangs and hearing how far they’ve come is the best kind of success story.”

Since 1971, the BLM has placed nearly 290,000 wild horses and burros into private care through its Adoption and Sales Programs. Adoption events like this help maintain healthy herds on public lands while offering individuals a chance to connect with a living symbol of the American West.

To learn more about future adoption events and how to bring home a mustang or burro, visit Wild Horse and Burro Adoption and Sale Events page.