More than 30 wild horses and burros will arrive in Lorton this week and will be available for adoption on Saturday, October 23, at Meadowood Recreation Area, through the Bureau of Land Management's Wild Horse and Burro Program.
A preview of the horses and burros is scheduled from 2 to 7 p.m. on Friday, October 22.
The adoption on Saturday runs from 8 a.m. until 5 p.m., and is first come, first served. Adoption requirements and instructions should be reviewed in advance.
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The Wild Free-Roaming Horses and Burros Act of 1971 provided protection for these descendants of Native American and pioneer mounts. To control herd sizes, BLM removes wild horses and burros from agency-managed range lands each year. These animals are cared for at short term corrals and long term pastures. Annually about 3,500 are offered for adoption to individuals who can provide good homes. People who have adopted share stories and photos on the program's Facebook page.
Diane Hendry, public affairs specialist for BLM's Eastern States Wild Horse and Burro Program says the herd coming to Lorton has been gathered from several short term holding facilities, mainly out West. "We are expecting four female burros, called jennies, several male burros, and over 30 horses in total," says Hendry. She says they will range in age from one to four.
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The Wild Horse and Bureau Adoption will be held at BLM's Meadowood Special Recreation Area, near the Harley Road entrance. From Route 1, take Gunston Road east 2.4 miles, past the main entrance to Meadowood, to Harley Road. Turn right onto Harley road. Parking for the adoption is on the right.
