The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Lander Field Office is beginning a public comment period on an environmental assessment (EA) which analyzes a proposed wild horse ecosanctuary on the Double D Ranch, approximately 7 miles north of Lander, Wyo.

The 900 acre Double D ranch has applied to provide long-term, humane care for up to 250 wild horses gathered primarily from Wyoming public rangelands. The wild horses would primarily come from Wyoming public rangelands, however public lands are not included as part of this proposal.

BLM spokeswoman Sarah Beckwith says if the proposal is approved, the BLM would sponsor the ecosanctuary at a funding level comparable to what it pays for the care of wild horses on long-term pastures in the Midwest. The ecosanctuary would be publicly accessible and provide ecotourism and educational opportunities which would help defray costs for operating the sanctuary.

Comments must be received in writing by July 7, 2014. After comments are analyzed and incorporated into the EA where appropriate, the BLM will issue a final decision.

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