BLM launches emergency rescue for wild horses facing food shortages in Oregon

BURNS, Ore. (KTVZ) -- The Bureau of Land Management will launch an emergency rescue operation to remove wild horses from severe food and water shortages in southeast Oregon. The effort targets the Riddle Mountain Herd Management Area, where a recent wildfire destroyed two-thirds of the animals' forage.

The emergency gather comes after last month's Bald Mountain Fire swept through the herd area, worsening conditions already impacted by an unusually dry winter and prolonged drought. Severe resource shortages have placed the health and survival of the wild horses under immediate threat.

Don Rotell serves as the district manager for the Bureau of Land Management Burns District. Rotell stressed that the animals cannot remain on the damaged rangeland following the blaze.

“We can't leave these horses out on the burned landscape,” Rotell said. “Two-thirds of their food was lost to wildfire.”

Rescued horses will be transported to off-range holding facilities where they will undergo veterinary evaluations and receive feed, fresh water and care. After evaluation, some horses may be placed up for adoption through the agency's Online Corral.

The drive-trap rescue operation will be guided by the Comprehensive Animal Welfare Program, which dictates handling standards designed to protect animal well-being. In addition to protecting the herd, removing the horses is intended to assist rangeland recovery and preserve habitat for other wildlife.

The Bureau of Land Management will post updates on the operation's progress, public viewing availability and adoption opportunities on its official website.