A taste of the American West is galloping to the Queen City.

The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is hosting a wild horse and burro adoption event Thursday, Aug. 8—Saturday, Aug. 10, at the Simpson Events Center in Monroe.

“The BLM has placed nearly 300,000 wild horses and burros into private care since 1971,” said Southeastern States District Manager Robert Swithers. “This is an opportunity to provide a good home to one of America’s living legends.”

The Bureau of Land Management closely monitors wild horse and burro populations across the western United States. | Photo via Bureau of Land Management

The organization monitors wild horse and burro populations and their impact on land. If the population exceeds a healthy ecological capacity, BLM will find new homes for select animals across the country.

"We've had these adoptions all the way from south Florida up to Alaska," said Hunter Paffrath, Bureau of Land Management, Southeastern States Public Affairs.

Adopting a horse is a different animal compared to adopting a dog. Potential owners must meet the following requirements:

Applicants must be at least 18 years old with no record of animal abuse.
Homes must have a minimum of 400-sqft of corral space per animal, with access to food, water, and shelter.
Corral fence must meet height requirements: Adult horses - 6 ft. Yearlings - 5 ft.
Trailers must be stock type, covered, with swing gates and sturdy walls/floors.

Bureau of Land Management says the Charlotte region holds a strong culture for horse enthusiasts. | Photo via Bureau of Land Management

"We found the Piedmont region of North Carolina, as well as upstate South Carolina, around the Charlotte metropolitan area has a lot of horse and mustang enthusiasts," said Hunter. "This is our first time coming to Monroe and we're really excited."

About 100 horses will be available for adoption. Hunter explained people have the chance to come away with a companion that has served alongside humanity throughout history.

"Once you earn one of these horse's trust, you form an unbreakable bond."