Montana Stockgrowers Association (MSGA), in partnership with South Phillips Grazing Districts has filed a motion to intervene in the federal case American Prairie Foundation v. U.S. Department of Interior, which appeals the Bureau of Land Management’s (BLM) decision to uphold the Taylor Grazing Act’s production standard and to revoke bison grazing permits on seven Phillips County allotments.
“MSGA continues to stand firm that the BLM’s determination was the correct interpretation of the Taylor Grazing Act and that the American Prairie bison do not meet the production-oriented livestock requirements established under the Taylor Grazing Act,” stated Raylee Honeycutt, MSGA Executive Vice President. “Cattle ranchers’ voices must be heard in this case and we must highlight the importance of lawful public lands management. This is why we have requested to intervene in this case and to advocate for working ranchers, rural communities, and agricultural production.”
In May and after a full review directed by the Department of the Interior (DOI), BLM determined the bison currently on the allotments did not meet the production-oriented livestock requirements established under the Taylor Grazing Act. The agency concluded that the bison were primarily managed for conservation and ecological restoration purposes rather than domestic livestock production, making the permits inconsistent with federal law. The final decision rescinded bison grazing authorizations, issued cattle‑only permits where appropriate, and provided for an orderly transition period for the removal of bison from public lands by September 30, 2026.
On September 4, 2026, the U.S. District Court for the District of Montana granted in part American Prairie’s motion for a preliminary injunction, allowing its bison to continue grazing on current federal allotments while the litigation proceeds, resulting in American Prairie not having to remove their more than 900 bison from the allotments by the end of September.
Those who would like to support this effort can donate at www.mtbeef.org. Select BLM Appeal on the donation form. MSGA remains committed to defending ranching families, protecting multiple-use public lands, and ensuring federal agencies follow established law in land management decisions.
The Montana Stockgrowers Association is a grassroots membership organization and is the trusted voice of cattle ranchers. With over 140 years of history, MSGA advocates and ensures cattle ranching remains relevant, safe and a sustainable way of life for generations to come.
MEDIA CONTACT
Keni Reese Lairy
Director of Marketing & Communications
(406) 442-3420
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