Last month, a new report by the Government Accountability Office estimated that 200,000-some wild horses, burros, and mules, are free-roaming on federal and tribal lands. A recent report also says there could be as many as 9.2 million domesticated horses, burros, and mules in the U.S. The GAO says there are several challenges in managing the wild herd, including affording care for the animals, finding new homes for unwanted animals, protecting the welfare and controlling population growth.
Ethan Lane with the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association and the Public Lands Council was one of those who took part in a Wild Horse and Burro Summit this summer in Salt Lake City, Utah. He provides information about what was discussed at that event.