(CAÑON CITY, Colo.) — The Colorado Department of Corrections (CDOC) confirmed that the Wild Horse Inmate Program (WHIP), which has been running for over 30 years, will tentatively conclude at the end of November.
According to CDOC, the program, which was operated in partnership with the federal Bureau of Land Management (BLM), has been a successful collaboration that provided unique vocational and rehabilitative skills to the incarcerated population while managing and protecting wild horses and burros.
“We are saddened by the discontinuation of this successful partnership and impactful program,” said Andre Stancil, Executive Director of CDOC. “The Colorado Department of Corrections is immensely proud of the legacy of this program and the positive impact it has had on participants, staff, and the community. While we regret the end of this chapter, we remain committed to working with BLM to ensure a smooth transition and to creating new opportunities that advance our mission of rehabilitation and public safety.”
BLM notified CDOC on Wednesday, Sept. 17, that they will not be renewing their contract, which is set to expire on Tuesday, Sept. 30. Both agencies agreed to a 60-day extension through the end of November to ensure a safe and orderly transition.
Preparations are being made for the 100 horses currently at the facility to be relocated safely and placed within caring homes within the state.
“The Wild Horse Inmate Program has cared for Colorado wild horses for decades and placed many in great forever homes. While that program is ending, I’m excited for the continued partnership between BLM, the State, and on-the-ground partner organizations like Friends of the Mustangs to make the wild horse program in Colorado a model for the nation.” – George Brauneis, President, Friends of the Mustangs.
CDOC stated that the department is committed to supporting the five dedicated state employees affected by the change and has a plan to work with them to reassign them to other roles within the department. The 30 incarcerated people who were a part of the program are also being reassigned to other vocational and work programs to ensure they continue to build valuable skills for their future as a part of CDOC’s mission of public safety and rehabilitation.
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