Montana Stockgrowers Association (MSGA), in partnership with North and South Phillips Grazing Districts and under the counsel of the Falen Law Offices, LLC, has filed a motion to intervene after American Prairie Foundation, Western Watersheds Project, and Defenders of Wildlife filed motions to appeal the recent final decision and requested a stay on this decision.
“The BLM’s decision to uphold the Taylor Grazing Act follows years of advocacy from the ranching community,” cited Raylee Honeycutt, MSGA Executive Vice President. “We continue to stand firm on the fact that bison do not meet the production-oriented livestock requirements established under the Taylor Grazing Act. The decision being appealed reinforced the importance of lawful public lands management and ensured federal grazing policies remain aligned with the original intent of supporting 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 The final decision rescinded bison grazing authorizations, issued cattle‑only permits where appropriate, and provided for an orderly transition period for the removal of bison from public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.
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
To view more MSGA news, visit https://mtbeef.org/news/
