Comments Sought on Proposed Spotted Dog WMA Grazing Extension in Montana
Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks 11.04.12
Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks is seeking public comment on a proposal to extend Rock Creek Cattle Company’s privilege to graze cattle on Spotted Dog Wildlife Management Area near Avon through Dec. 31, 2013.
In September 2010, Rock Creek Cattle Company (RCCC) sold 27,616 acres to FWP, which established the new Spotted Dog WMA, and as part the purchase agreement, RCCC retained a right to graze cattle through December 31, 2012.
FWP plans to spend the next year working on boundary fencing and potential boundary adjustments that will allow managers to more effectively make a change in grazing management on the WMA.
At the end of the proposed one-year grazing extension, FWP would implement its management plan for the WMA, which calls for terminating grazing on the property for at least one year. FWP would then evaluate if and where grazing fits with the WMA goals of fish and wildlife habitat protection and public access.
Simultaneous with this proposed extension, but as a separate action, FWP is exploring a land exchange with the neighboring Helena National Forest to square up boundaries between the two ownerships which could simplify future range management on the eastern edge of the WMA.
A draft environmental assessment has been prepared for this proposal. Find the document online at fwp.mt.gov under “Public Notices.” Or, request it by mail from Region 2 FWP, 3201 Spurgin Rd., Missoula 59804; phone 406-542-5540; email shrose@mt.gov.
Comments can be submitted online at fwp.mt.gov under “Public Notices,” or should be directed to Sharon Rose at the mail, phone or email addresses above. Comments must be received no later than 5 p.m. on Monday, Dec. 3, 2012.
