BLM California and R3C Saddle-Trained Horse Adoption

Overview

Thank you for your interest in the upcoming R3C wild horse online adoption event! Please note this event is separate from the national Wild Horse and Burro Online Corral Adoption.

We are excited to offer these horses to you! We consider these horses green and started under saddle. They will need continued training and work once you take one home. They should have a solid foundation to begin training in your discipline of choice. The horses' measurements are approximate. We encourage you to stay in touch with us about their progress and to please share your photos, videos, or stories with us about your journey with your horse.

How to Bid on Horses

To bid on the horses, please fill out an application and email it to Amy Dumas [email protected]. Upon approval, we will email you a link to the event with more information about the process. Minimum bids for the horses are $300.

NOTE: In order to protect your privacy, please do not fill out the Social Security Number or Driver’s License numbers and email the documents. We will reach out via phone to get that information from you later. 

A separate link will be provided for public viewing on the right side of this page under Quick Links.

These horses are started under saddle and require five-foot tall fencing. Be sure to read the full adoption requirements before filling out your application.

Learn more about the BLM’s Wild Horse and Burro Program.
 

About the Program

Since 2013, BLM California and Sacramento County Sheriff's Office have partnered to create successful adoptions of wild horses. The inmates at the Rio Cosumnes Correctional Center (R3C) gentle and saddle-start the horses and then the BLM adopts out the trained horses to the public.

At R3C, one trainer gentles a horse until it is going under saddle. After the horse has had 15 to 20 rides, then all the other trainers start riding the horse to build riding skills. Once they can be easily caught, the horses get turned out in groups in the pasture. They are ridden five days per week for about an hour at a time. They are handled by multiple people daily. All these horses are trained to side pass, leg yield, and move their shoulders or hindquarters. The horses have been around cows, unless otherwise noted. All the horses have crossed a trail bridge and water and have been worked with upward and downward transitions. They all load in a stock trailer and have had their feet handled. The horses have been exposed to lots of activity in the area including gunfire, helicopters, airplanes, explosives, and bicycles. Remember, if you take one of these horses home, please keep them confined until they learn your routine and build trust with you.

The Horses

Mellow Yellow:

6 years old, High Rock HMA,14.2-14.3 hh.

Mellow Yellow is a true sweetheart. This lovable gelding thrives on attention and affection—he absolutely adores being petted and loved. Under saddle, he is responsive to cues, making him a pleasure to ride. His gaits are smooth and comfortable, with a particularly nice, slow trot that riders of all levels can appreciate.

Mellow Yellow is happy to match your pace—whether you want to take it slow or pick up the tempo. He is easy-going without being lazy. Just like his name suggests, he is a mellow, steady companion. See more photos of Mellow Yellow

Marshall:

4 years old, Twin Peaks HMA 15.1 hh. 

Marshall has solid ground manners and loves interacting with people. He exhibits a naturally higher energy level compared to the other horses here. Under saddle, he is still building trust. While he tends to feel a bit nervous as you mount, he shows greater confidence when loping compared to walking or trotting. This spirited horse will thrive with an advanced rider who can continue his training journey. With time and the right adopter, he has the potential to be a great riding partner. If riding isn’t your preference and you are seeking a wonderful companion or therapy animal, Marshall would also be a fantastic fit. Marshall is sensitive to body language, so he requires a knowledgeable handler. With the right person by his side, he is poised to excel. See more photos of Marshall

Little John: 

6 years old, High Rock HMA, 14.2-14.3 hh

Little John has tons of potential and a great feel under saddle. He is highly responsive to proper cues and is more advanced in his riding than many of his peers—he will do whatever you ask. Interestingly, while he is solid under saddle, he requires consistent groundwork. He is looking for a partner who truly “speaks horse” –someone who understands how your body language affects him and how he communicates. If your cues are clear and intentional, he’ll respond beautifully. If your communication is inconsistent, he may become unsure. This sensitive soul isn’t for a beginner. For someone with patience and a solid grasp of equine behavior and communication, he could be an exceptional partner. With the right person, Little John is ready to shine. See more photos of Little John

Cowboy: 

4 years old, Fox Hog HMA, 14.3-15 hh. 

Cowboy is an absolute sweetheart with a gentle spirit. He is a pleasure to ride and possesses immense potential to participate in various disciplines. Under saddle, he demonstrates a steady and willing nature. He has been exposed to rope work—Walt has roped off him, and Cowboy has felt the rope around his feet and legs. He has also successfully dragged a tire, showcasing his versatility. Though a bit shy initially, once Cowboy gets to know you, he will quickly become your devoted friend. He is the real deal and would make a wonderful partner for a lucky adopter. See more photos of Cowboy

Chili: 

5 years old, Fox Hog HMA, 14.3 hh

Chili is a nice, stout gelding with a kind and willing disposition. His gaits are smooth and comfortable, with a particularly lovely trot. Chili is happy to move at any speed you ask of him, showcasing a steady and calm demeanor. With his adaptable nature, he has the potential to excel in various disciplines. Much like Clark Kent, he possesses a mild-mannered and easygoing personality. He could truly be your own Superman! See more photos of Chili