The Bureau of Land Management’s West Desert District concluded a wild horse gather in the Confusion Herd Management Area on September 1, 2026. The operation was conducted to reduce overpopulation to support healthy wild horses on healthy public rangelands.
According to the BLM, the gather was intended to remove approximately 360 excess wild horses. The appropriate management level for the Confusion herd is 70-115 wild horses based on available forage, water, and other authorized uses, such as livestock grazing and wildlife habitat.
As of September 1, 2026, the BLM reported that 309 wild horses had been gathered, including 128 stallions, 136 mares, and 45 foals. A total of 305 animals had been shipped. One animal was released and three deaths were reported, consisting of one sudden/acute death and two pre-existing/chronic deaths.
Contractors conducted the gather operations under BLM supervision using one or more helicopters to guide animals into temporary gather corrals. This method was utilized to safely move horses across rugged landscapes while minimizing stress and risks associated with pursuit on land-based vehicles or horseback.
All excess wild horses identified for removal are transported to the Sutherland Off-Range Contract Wild Horse Facility in Delta, Utah. There, they are examined by a veterinarian and prepared for the BLM’s wild horse Adoption and Sale Program. Horses not placed in new homes are cared for in off-range pastures.
The Confusion Herd Management Area is located in Millard and Juab Counties, Utah, approximately 90 miles northwest of Delta. The area encompasses approximately 235,005 acres of public and other lands, including the Confusion Range, Granite and Middle Mountains, and the Coyote Knolls.
