Colorado Wild Horse Management Support

Colorado's wild horse management is currently sustained by passionate, dedicated volunteers who contribute thousands of hours annually. While their commitment is vital, the time for a strategic, lasting solution to this complex challenge is now. The Colorado Wild Horse Working Group's Year Two report delivers that solution. At the heart of our findings is one critical, science-backed recommendation: strategic darting must be the cornerstone of sustainable wild horse population management. This is the vital key to unlocking long-term health for both our herds and our rangelands.

This comprehensive report provides actionable insights tailored for the State of Colorado and specific recommendations for the Bureau of Land Management (BLM). Forging a sustainable future demands a unified, powerful synergy between state and federal action. With these critical insights, this committed coalition looks forward to Colorado's decisive action, cementing its place as a national leader in responsible wild horse management. The path to a better future begins with the implementation of this final, pivotal report.

Ready to be part of the next steps? We invite you to apply and contribute your expertise to the vital work of the Wild Horse Advisory Committee.

Managing and preserving wild horse populations is a complex and pressing issue that requires thoughtful consideration and collaborative action. As the Colorado Wild Horse Working Group embarks on developing sustainable strategies for conserving these iconic animals, this Year One Wild Horse Recommendation Report comprehensively evaluates the current status and challenges wild horse herds face.

In this report, they outline the findings from their initial assessments, highlight key areas that demand immediate attention, and propose actionable recommendations to foster the health and sustainability of wild horse populations. Their goal is to balance ecological integrity, public interests, and the welfare of these majestic animals, ensuring that they continue to roam freely in their natural habitats for future generations to appreciate.

This document reflects the collective insights and expertise gathered from various stakeholders, including wildlife biologists, conservationists, and community advocates. They aim to present a clear roadmap for the coming years, emphasizing collaboration and innovative solutions. As we move forward, we encourage ongoing dialogue and partnership to address the challenges ahead and create a brighter future for wild horses. Read or download the Colorado Wild Horse Working Group Year One Recommendations Report.

The Wild Horse Advisory Committee, formed through HB25-1283, is tasked with advising CDA on:

• Financial and material support for wild horse adopters, sanctuaries, preserves, and refuges.
• The design and delivery of outreach, education, training, and certification programs.
• Coordination with the federal bureau of land management and local entities to facilitate the movement of wild horses from herd management areas into temporary holding or adoption settings.
• Compliance checks ensuring the welfare of adopted wild horses.
• Dissemination of comprehensive adoption and success information.
• Evaluating and recommending additional scientifically proven immunocontraceptive fertility control methods.

Members will serve their terms until the committee is set to sunset in 2030, with a sunset revuew scheduled before its repeal. 

Apply to be on the Wild Horse Advisory Committee

The Wild Horse Advisory Committee consists of at least fourteen members, including the following representation:

• Two (2) representatives of nonprofit advocacy organizations that advocate for wild horses
• Two (2) at-large representatives,
• A resident of the Western Slope
• A representative of a nonprofit environmental conservation organization
• Two (2) representatives of the ranching and grazing permit holder community,
• A representative from each of the local on-range wild horse organizations that maintain memoranda of understanding with the bureau to conduct on-range activities

These additional seats will be made through appointments:

• A representative of the governor's office;
• A representative of the department of natural resources;
• A representative of the Colorado tourism office;
• A representative of the Colorado Department of Agriculture
• A representative of the Bureau of Land Management
• A representative of region two of the US Forest Service
• A representative of the State Land Board
• A member of the Southern Ute Indian Tribe
• A member of the Ute Mountain Ute Tribe