Research Task: 8327CMV.1.0
Task Manager: Butch Roelle
Wild horse populations often increase at high rates on U.S. western rangelands, creating a management challenge. The BLM is responsible for the management of 178 wild horse and 51 wild burro populations located across more than 88 million acres of public lands in the West. Almost every management issue concerning wild horses depends on accurate herd counts. Reliable, science-based population estimates are needed for maintaining everything from herd health to habitat carrying capacity to genetic diversity. This study provides essential data related primarily to horse fertility control, genetic conservation, habitat assessments and setting population goals, and health and handling issues. Study information has been used to develop a long-range strategic research plan for wild horse management. Fertility-control field trials are underway. In addition, scientists are testing population estimation techniques to generate more accurate herd counts.
For more information contact Butch Roelle
U.S. Department of the Interior | U.S. Geological Survey
URL: http://www.fort.usgs.gov/Research/research_tasks.asp
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