(Fremont County, WY) – The Bureau of Land Management is reminding the public that tampering with fences or leaving gates open on public lands is dangerous and prohibited. Open gates or altered fences are especially harmful near herd management areas for wild horses and for the public.
Herd management areas outside of Lander intersect with U.S. Highway 287. Leaving gates open or exposing fencing on public lands creates the risk of wild horses crossing or being on the highway with traffic.
“The wild horses in these herd management areas are protected,” said Ruth Miller, Lander Field Office Manager. “The horses require special care, handling, and oversight. Tampering with gates or fences in these areas is a serious issue that could lead to fatal accidents.”
Wild horses may appear abandoned or in distress, but their behavior can be deceiving. Attempting to feed, release, or capture them—especially without proper knowledge or facilities—can lead to harm and legal consequences.
If you believe a wild horse or burro may be in distress, do not approach or attempt to release or capture it. Instead, contact your local BLM office.
For those interested in adopting a wild horse or burro, the BLM holds regular adoption events. These events offer a legal, humane path to giving these animals a good home.
For more information, please call the Lander Field Office at 307-332-8400