University of Idaho 4-H Clubs and BLM Partner to Showcase Wild Horse Weanlings
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BOISE, ID. – On Saturday, Feb. 20, University of Idaho 4-H members from around the Treasure Valley will select wild horse weanlings (aged 6 – 11 months) that they will then train for the next several weeks in preparation for a trail challenge on April 9. Following the trail challenge at the BLM Boise Wild Horse Corrals, these horses will be showcased and offered for adoption during the Idaho Horse Expo April 15-17, 2016. These weanlings were gathered from the Hardtrigger, Sands Basin or Black Mountain Herd Management Areas following last August’s Soda Fire.
The corrals will open at 9 a.m. on Saturday, Feb. 20, with the selection process to begin at 10 a.m.
“There has been a great deal of interest in these horses following the Soda Fire. I know our 4-H members are excited for the opportunity to learn new horsemanship and handling skills while working with these young horses,” said Lone Star Riders 4-H leader Tina Reay.
This popular partnership between the BLM and the University of Idaho 4-H program has expanded to southeastern Idaho 4-H groups whose members worked with several wild horse weanlings and then offered them for adoption during last year’s Eastern Idaho Fair in Blackfoot. “This is really a win-win situation where 4-H members learn basic horsemanship skills and our wild horse weanlings are handled, halter trained and taught basic ground manners,” said Clay Stott, BLM Boise District Wild Horse Specialist (acting).
You may also contact the Boise District Wild Horse Specialist, at (208) 384-3300 for any additional questions about adopting a wild horse.
The BLM manages more than 245 million acres of public land located primarily in 12 western states, including Alaska, on behalf of the American people. The BLM also administers 700 million acres of sub-surface mineral estate throughout the nation. Our mission is to sustain the health, diversity, and productivity of America’s public lands for the use and enjoyment of present and future generations.