< All Press Releases

Looking for a unique gift for a special person? Adopting an American Legend might make THE most wonderful gift ever! Visit the Bureau of Land Management’s Wild Horse and Burro Adoption at McNeese State University’s Burton Coliseum. Adoption hours are Friday, December 10, 1:00-5:00 p.m. and Saturday, December 11, from 8 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. Approximately 50 animals will be available for adoption and can be previewed on Friday from 8:00 a.m. until 1:00 pm. See which animal catches your eye!Thousands of wild horses still roam America’s western rangelands: too many in fact, and that is why the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) periodically offers these “Legends”  to the general public for adoption. Acting BLM-Eastern States Director, Ruth Welch, said, “Your willingness to give these sure-footed, hard working animals good homes helps protect the western ranges while providing you with an incredible companion.”Adoptions are at a cost of only $125 for animals less than three-years-old and $25 for animals three-years-old and over. In addition, you can take home a buddy animal for only $25 when you adopt any animal at the full fee of $125. The event is free of charge and open to the public. First come, first served.There will be a mixture of yearlings, mares, studs and geldings to choose from and, if available, a few burros. “Wild horses are noted for endurance and intelligence and make great additions to your farm or ranch. With patience and perseverance, so much is possible with your mustang as well as hours of recreation,” said Welch. Gentled wild horses have been trained to participate in western riding events, dressage, and trail riding. Did you know that at least five of Louisiana’s 20 State Parks provide horseback riding opportunities?BLM horse specialists will be at the adoption as well as previous adopters to provide more information and what to expect when you adopt a wild horse. The adopter network is nationwide and is a valuable resource tool.Prospective adopters must have sturdy corrals that are 20’ x 20’ (or larger), at least 6 feet high for an adult horse and at least 5 feet high for burros and horses younger than 18 months, and have a shelter directly attached to the corral. Adopters must provide a stock-type, step up trailer (ramps or split two-horse type trailers are not allowed). The BLM staff will halter and load animals onto the adopters’ trailers.For more information on the application process, call 1-866-4MUSTANGS or visit www.wildhorseandburro.blm.gov to download an application.