The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) currently oversees wild horse and burro herds spanning more than 26.9 million acres of public land. Under the Wild Free-Roaming Horses and Burros Act, the BLM establishes an Appropriate Management Level (AML) for each Herd Management Area (HMA) to help maintain healthy herds, sustainable rangelands, and ecological balance for the plants and wildlife that share these habitats.

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When wild horse and burro populations surpass the designated AML, the BLM may gather and relocate excess animals to holding facilities, where many become available for public adoption.

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The BLM website offers extensive resources, including frequently asked questions about gathers, adoption programs, population control, and common myths and facts about the program. It also features upcoming adoption events and information for those interested in adopting a wild horse or burro.