On September 11, 2025 the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) published a proposed rule to rescind the controversial Public Lands Rule, also known as the Conservation and Landscape Health Rule. The Public Lands Rule, created and published by the Biden administration, drew staunch, swift criticism from nearly every segment of the public lands use community. The Montana Stockgrowers Association (MSGA) was an outspoken opponent to this rule. From its inception in April of 2023, MSGA worked tirelessly on this issue, consistently raising concerns to the BLM and Montana’s congressional delegation. At every opportunity, MSGA engaged in numerous public comment processes, firmly opposing the rule throughout this rulemaking process.
The rule would fundamentally change the balance of use on several hundred million acres across the West by defining “Conservation” as a use, equal to other uses required under BLM’s multiple-use mandate. The rule was rampant with serious land management concerns as well as questions of its legality.
The proposed rescission is a major victory and is a direct result of the widespread pushback, and outrage, from public lands users across the West.
“Today’s announcement showcases the power of grassroots advocacy, ” stated Raylee Honeycutt, MSGA Executive Vice President. “MSGA is appreciative of the Trump Administration’s willingness to listen to American public lands ranchers and rescind this harmful Public Lands Rule.”
The publication of the proposed rescission marks the first step in ensuring grazing continues on BLM lands across the West. A 60-day comment period will be open through November 10, 2025. MSGA will remain engaged on the issue, and looks forward to seeing a finalized rescission.
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.
CONTACT:
Keni Reese
Director of Marketing & Communications
406-442-3420
To view more MSGA news, visit https://mtbeef.org/news/
