2024-30542Notice

Government Studies Where Cows Can Eat Grass in Oregon

Published Date: 1/10/2025

Notice

Summary

The Bureau of Land Management is sharing a draft plan to manage grazing and land use on 39,000 acres near Frenchglen, Oregon. Ranchers, local communities, and nature lovers could see changes in how the land is cared for, aiming to balance farming and protecting the environment. You’ve got 45 days after the official announcement to share your thoughts, so don’t miss your chance to speak up!

Analyzed Economic Effects

5 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 0 costs, 3 mixed.

Possible 10‑Year Grazing Permits

The BLM may issue 10-year livestock grazing permits and approve 4 Allotment Management Plans for about 39,062 acres near Frenchglen, Oregon. If grazing is selected in the Record of Decision, the BLM would allocate forage and grazing permits and implement seasonal grazing systems, monitoring, and utilization thresholds.

Animal Unit Month (AUM) Changes Possible

Under the alternatives, permitted animal unit months (AUMs) could change: Alternative 2 would increase permitted AUMs in the Hammond Allotment, Alternative 3 would increase permitted AUMs in all allotments, and Alternative 4 would reduce AUMs and restrict season of use. These changes would affect how many livestock ranchers may graze and when.

New Range Infrastructure May Be Built

Some action alternatives would authorize range developments: Alternative 2 would allow construction of 6.5 miles of new fences and removal of 8.7 miles; Alternative 3 would authorize 1 new corral, up to 2.7 miles of water pipelines, 3 troughs, 7.6 miles of new fences, and removal of 5.6 miles of fencing. Alternative 4 and No Action would not include new developments.

No Action Means No Grazing Permits

The No Action Alternative would result in no livestock grazing permits being issued and no new range developments being authorized or constructed for the four allotments. That outcome would maintain the current absence of grazing authorization for these allotments.

Biological Thinning to Reduce Fire Fuel

The BLM may implement biological thinning of forage in the Hammond, Hardie Summer, and Mud Creek allotments to reduce standing fine fuel biomass and help maintain plant vigor. This action is listed as a purpose for some alternatives to reduce fine fuels and support rangeland health.

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Key Dates

Published Date
1/10/2025

Department and Agencies

Department
Independent Agency
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