Kansas Department of Corrections and Bureau of Land Management Announce Extension of Wild Horse and Burro Program at Hutchinson Correctional Facility

~Temporary extension ensures the program remains active through May 31, 2026~

HUTCHINSON, Kansas. – The Kansas Department of Corrections (KDOC) and the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) have reached an agreement to extend the Wild Horse and Burro Program at the Hutchinson Correctional Facility (HCF). This extension ensures the program remains active through May 31, 2026, while both agencies work toward a long-term contract to secure the program’s future.

The decision directly prevents the immediate closure of a program that has been in operation for over 25 years. By extending the partnership, both agencies are prioritizing the following:

• Animal Welfare: Approximately 300 wild horses and burros will remain at HCF under the care of experienced handlers, avoiding immediate relocation to long-term holding facilities.
• Workforce Retention: The extension saves the specialized roles of resident horse handlers, allowing these individuals to continue gaining vocational skills in animal husbandry and training.
• Program Continuity: The additional time allows both the BLM and KDOC to negotiate sustainable funding and operational model to keep this rehabilitative program active indefinitely.

Since its inception in 2001, the Wild Horse and Burro program at HCF has been a cornerstone of the BLM’s adoption efforts, providing halter and saddle training to wild horses to make them suitable for private ownership. The program also serves a critical role in the rehabilitation of residents, offering emotional growth and professional skills that aid in successful reentry into society.

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