LOOK WHAT I FOUND WHILE HORSIN’ AROUND!

AI-generated illustration created for Word ’Round Town. Not a photograph of animals available at the event.

The Bureau of Land Management’s Wild Horse and Burro Program will be bringing adoptable animals to Waterloo, Iowa.

For families, experienced horse owners, and animal lovers who have ever wondered about adopting a wild horse or burro, this regional event offers an opportunity to learn how the adoption process works and meet some of the animals seeking safe, caring homes.

Word ’Round Town plans to attend and share more about the horses, burros, adoption process, and the people working to help them find their next chapter.

Event Details

August 7 & 8, 2026
National Cattle Congress
257 Ansborough Avenue
Waterloo, Iowa 50701

The Bureau of Land Management will host a wild horse and burro placement event featuring a limited number of animals gathered from western rangelands.

Event Schedule

Friday

8:00–10:00 AM
Viewing period and Online Corral pickups

10:30 AM
Competitive bidding begins

12:00–5:00 PM
Auction loadouts and Online Corral pickups

Saturday

Check the current BLM site for updated schedule

Basic Adoption Requirements

To qualify to adopt a wild horse or burro:

Applicants must be at least 18 years old and have no record of animal abuse.

Homes must provide at least 400 square feet of corral space per animal, along with access to food, water, and shelter.

Corral fencing must meet the following minimum height requirements:

Adult horses ~ 6 feet
Yearlings ~ 5 feet
Burros ~ 4½ feet

Trailers must be covered, stock-type trailers with swing gates and sturdy walls and flooring.

BLM staff will be available at the event to answer questions and assist with the adoption application process.

Applications may also be submitted in advance through the BLM’s Online Corral. Anyone applying online should bring a printed copy of their approved application to the event.

Event times, location details, animal availability, and adoption requirements are subject to change. Please confirm all current information with the Bureau of Land Management before traveling.

Official event information is available through the Bureau of Land Management.

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