The COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent social distancing measures have not deterred the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Nevada’s commitment to their Wild Horse and Burro program, particularly at the Northern Nevada Correctional Center (NNCC). Despite the cancellation of their annual June public adoption, the program has successfully continued its mission of training wild horses and burros and finding them permanent homes. This initiative highlights the resilience and adaptability of the program, ensuring these animals are still trained and placed with agencies that need them. The Northern Nevada Correctional Center (NNCC) Inmate Training Program has remained operational, showcasing the dedication of both the BLM and the correctional facility staff.
On June 17-18, a significant number of trained animals were transferred directly to federal agencies. Fifteen saddle-started horses and one halter-started burro, all trained by inmates at NNCC, found new roles serving America. The New Mexico Border Patrol, El Paso Sector, received 10 horses, while the Marine Corps Mountain Warfare Training Center in Bridgeport, CA, acquired five horses and the burro. This direct transfer demonstrates the program’s effectiveness in meeting the specific needs of various government entities.
The U.S. Border Patrol specifically requires horses that can operate in challenging terrains and conditions. Wranglers John Goodman and Adam Schertz from the Border Patrol spent a day testing horses and engaging with the inmate trainers and NNCC’s Head Trainer, Hank Curry. They outlined their strict requirements, and by the end of the day, 10 out of the 15 horses presented met their criteria. These horses will be instrumental in assisting Border Patrol agents in their critical duties along the U.S.-Mexico international border. They will be used daily in mountainous and rugged areas for tracking operations and nighttime camera surveillance. Furthermore, these trained animals will also represent the agency in public relations events, including parades, school visits, and national competitions, showcasing the versatility of these wild horses.
The Marine Corps Mountain Warfare Training Center, which focuses on integrated exercises and developing warfighting doctrine for mountain operations, also benefited from this program. The commanding officer of the center personally selected the burro, which will be trained to pull a cart and primarily used for public relations purposes. The five horses selected for the center will undergo additional training with renowned wild horse trainer Ken McNabb in Wyoming for two to three weeks before heading to their final post in Bridgeport, CA. The next training class at NNCC, utilizing these horses, is scheduled to commence in mid-July. This ongoing partnership ensures a steady supply of well-started horses for various federal and state agencies, contributing to national security and community engagement. BLM Nevada had to make the difficult decision to cancel their annual June public adoption, but this adaptation demonstrates their commitment.
The next public adoption event for saddle-trained wild horses at the Northern Nevada Correctional Center is tentatively scheduled for October 10, 2020. The collaborative efforts between BLM Nevada and NNCC are crucial in providing well-prepared horses that serve both federal and state agencies, as well as local communities. This program not only gives these wild horses a second chance at a meaningful life but also provides valuable skills and purpose to the inmates involved in their training. The continuation of this program underscores the enduring spirit of service and dedication that defines the BLM’s Wild Horse and Burro program. For those interested in adopting, information on upcoming events can be found at tentatively scheduled.
