The state of Montana will not provide authorization for bison grazing, construction, modifications, or electrification of fences on Flat Creek and Whiterock state allotments held by American Prairie. Those allotments border BLM ground that was approved for bison grazing this summer.
The state challenged that decision and decided to relinquish the previously granted permission to graze bison on the state land until the challenges to BLM’s decision conclude. Montana will continue to allow American Prairie to graze bison on two other state lease allotments.
The Montana Stockgrowers commended the action by the state. “We would like to thank Governor Gianforte and his administration for their leadership and continued perseverance on this issue. We stand with the state and agree there are deficiencies within the BLM Environmental Assessment and final grazing decision. The decision to not approve grazing on the two allotments based on the BLM EA is the right decision,” said Jim Steinbiesser, Montana Stockgrowers Association President.
In August, MSGA along with the North and South Phillips County Grazing Districts filed an appeal on the Bureau of Land Management’s (BLM) decision regarding American Prairie’s grazing allotments and petitioned for a stay on this decision. MSGA is asking producers to support the legal appeal with donations at www.protectopenspaces.com.
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MSGA
