BLM Conducts Helicopter Roundup of Wild Horses in Northwestern Colorado Amid High Temperatures
The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) has begun a helicopter roundup of wild horses in northwestern Colorado, specifically in areas near Meeker and Rangely. This operation aims to remove 1,011 horses from these regions, where temperatures are approaching 100 degrees…
Denver, CO, August 4, 2026 —
The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) has initiated a helicopter roundup of wild horses in northwestern Colorado, focusing on areas surrounding Meeker and Rangely. The operation is designed to remove a total of 1,011 horses from the affected regions.
The roundup is taking place as local temperatures are nearing 100 degrees Fahrenheit, presenting challenging conditions for both the animals and the personnel involved. The BLM manages wild horse populations across various herd management areas, with specific goals for population numbers in each.
For instance, the Piceance-East Douglas herd management area, a significant location within the roundup’s scope, has a stated carrying capacity intended to sustain a maximum of 235 wild horses. The current operation targets the removal of a substantially larger number of horses from this and surrounding areas.
The BLM’s management of wild horse populations involves various methods to maintain ecological balance and adhere to established population limits within designated herd areas. The helicopter roundup is one such method employed by the agency.
Further details regarding the specific timelines, exact locations within the Meeker and Rangely vicinities, and the long-term plans for the removed horses were not immediately available. The agency’s efforts are aimed at managing the wild horse population within ecological and human safety parameters.
Story summarized from the original created by Jennifer Brown on coloradosun.com, see more information here.
