BLM invites public to a free off-range pasture tour in Sulphur, Oklahoma
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The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is hosting two free tours on Saturday, August 11, 2018, at a wild horse off-range pasture in Sulphur, Oklahoma. Attendees will have the opportunity to view approximately 200 mares roaming on approximately 3,875 acres called the Chickasaw Ranch. In addition, attendees will have the opportunity to visit with BLM staff to learn more about the Wild Horse and Burro (WHB) Program and members of the Chickasaw Nation to learn more about their cultural and their upcoming movie called The Chickasaw Rancher.
Shuttle buses will transport attendees to and from the off-range pasture site from the designated pick-up and drop-off location. Personal vehicles, glass containers and cans are not allowed on the tour, only drinks with lids are permitted.
The buses will be equipped with USB ports, air conditioning, and restrooms to provide a comfortable experience. Cameras and videotaping are also welcome. It is advised that those who are attending dress in comfortable attire for the summer weather.
Event Details
Departure: August 11, 2017 at 8:45 a.m. and 11:15 a.m. (Boarding will begin 15 minutes before each departure. Look for Kincaid buses.)
RSVP contact: 866-468-7826 or wildhorse@blm.gov (Please specify tour time and number attending. Reservations are capped at 110 per tour.)
Pick up and drop off location: Chickasaw Cultural Center, 867 Cooper Memorial Dr., Sulphur, OK 73086
www.chickasawculturalcenter.com
Wild horses and burros essentially have no natural predators, resulting in a rapid increase in population. If not appropriately managed, herds double in size in just 4 to 5 years. To maintain wild horse and burros in good condition and protect the health of public land, BLM must manage the population growth of wild horses and burros.
As of July 24, 2018, there are nearly 44,000 wild horses and burros that are fed and cared for at off-range pastures, corrals and eco sanctuaries. The wild horses and burros roaming the public rangelands are protected by the BLM under the 1971 Wild Free-Roaming Horses and Burros Act. The BLM estimates about 81,951 wild horses and burros roaming the BLM-rangelands in 10 Western states.
The Chickasaw Nation is providing all attendees with coupons for a tour and lunch at the Chickasaw Cultural Center. For more information about the off-range pasture tour or the WHB Program, please call the national WHB information call center at 866-468-7826 or email wildhorse@blm.gov.
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.