The Montana Stockgrowers Association (MSGA) submitted comments on the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s Biological Integrity, Diversity, and Environmental Health proposed rulemaking, which would make changes to the National Wildlife Refuge System.
The rule changes include prioritizing “natural processes” over ag uses, the ability for the agency to introduce species, and the ability to acquire private land to protect the refuges.
“Our organizations include producers who have grazed cattle on refuge lands for generations,” the comments read. “There is a mutually beneficial relationship between wildlife habitat and cattle grazing, one that is tended to by producers who prioritize land, soil, and habitat health.”
The group emphasized the value and benefits of cattle grazing for land management within wildlife refuges. The group will continue to monitor the proposed rule and push back against further adjustments.
