BLM Hosting Wild Horse Adoption in Colorado

Nearly two dozen trained wild horses will be available at the auction.

Mar. 29, 2026 at 4:03am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

An impressionistic, out-of-focus photograph of a herd of wild horses running through a grassy field, with warm pools of light and color creating a dreamlike, emotional scene.The upcoming wild horse adoption event in Colorado offers a chance for the public to welcome these majestic animals into their homes and help manage the state's overpopulated herds.Fort Collins Today

The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is hosting a wild horse adoption event in Colorado at the end of March, where nearly two dozen trained wild horses will be available for adoption. The event will take place at the Mesa County Fairgrounds, with a viewing on March 27 and a live auction on March 28.

Why it matters

Colorado is home to an estimated 1,300 to 1,500 wild horses, but the appropriate management level is around 800 animals. The BLM is removing some of the wild horses from the state to maintain environmental health, and this adoption event is one way they are mitigating the overpopulation.

The details

The wild horses up for adoption have been trained in haltering, leading, picking up their hooves, and trailer loading. Potential buyers must be at least 18 years old with no record of animal abuse, have a minimum of 400 square feet of corral space per animal with access to food, water, and shelter, and have approved trailers that are covered livestock trailers with swing gates and sturdy walls and floors, or horse trailers with dividers.

  • The Wild Horse Adoption Event will take place at the Mesa County Fairgrounds on March 27-28.
  • On Friday, March 27, viewing of the adoptable wild horses will happen from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
  • A live auction will take place on Saturday, March 28, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

The players

Bureau of Land Management (BLM)

The federal agency responsible for managing public lands, including wild horse populations in Colorado.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

The takeaway

This wild horse adoption event is an important step in managing the overpopulation of wild horses in Colorado, while also providing an opportunity for members of the public to adopt these majestic animals.