Using Science to Improve the BLM Wild Horse and Burro Program: A Way Forward

National Research Council,Division on Earth and Life Studies,Board on Agriculture and Natural Resources,Committee to Review the Bureau of Land Management Wild Horse and Burro Management Program

Using Science to Improve the BLM Wild Horse and Burro Program: A Way Forward
Format
Paperback
Publisher
National Academies Press
Country
United States
Published
4 October 2013
Pages
398
ISBN
9780309264945

Using Science to Improve the BLM Wild Horse and Burro Program: A Way Forward

National Research Council,Division on Earth and Life Studies,Board on Agriculture and Natural Resources,Committee to Review the Bureau of Land Management Wild Horse and Burro Management Program

Using Science to Improve the BLM Wild Horse and Burro Program: A Way Forward reviews the science that underpins the Bureau of Land Management’s oversight of free-ranging horses and burros on federal public lands in the western United States, concluding that constructive changes could be implemented. The Wild Horse and Burro Program has not used scientifically rigorous methods to estimate the population sizes of horses and burros, to model the effects of management actions on the animals, or to assess the availability and use of forage on rangelands.

Evidence suggests that horse populations are growing by 15 to 20 percent each year, a level that is unsustainable for maintaining healthy horse populations as well as healthy ecosystems. Promising fertility-control methods are available to help limit this population growth, however. In addition, science-based methods exist for improving population estimates, predicting the effects of management practices in order to maintain genetically diverse, healthy populations, and estimating the productivity of rangelands. Greater transparency in how science-based methods are used to inform management decisions may help increase public confidence in the Wild Horse and Burro Program.

This item is not currently in-stock. It can be ordered online and is expected to ship in approx 4 weeks

Our stock data is updated periodically, and availability may change throughout the day for in-demand items. Please call the relevant shop for the most current stock information. Prices are subject to change without notice.

Sign in or become a Readings Member to add this title to a wishlist.