Stockgrowers Seek Donations For BLM Appeal
The Montana Stockgrowers Association continues to look for the assistance of donations in its battle to appeal the Bureau of Land Management’s decision that approved bison grazing leases in north central Montana.
“We’re absolutely are still taking donations. This could be a long process before the issue is resolved,” Jim Steinbeisser, president of the Montana Stockgrowers Association, said. “While there are several organizations contributing to the legal costs that are being incurred, those costs are substantial.”
The Montana Stockgrowers Association along with the North and South Phillips County Grazing Districts, Office of the Governor and Montana Attorney General were denied their petitions for stay by the Office of Hearings and Appeals on Oct. 13.
In early November, the stockgrowers association commended the state of Montana for its action in not providing authorization of bison grazing, construction, modifications or electrification of fences on Flat Creek and Whiterock state allotments.
“We would like to thank Gov. Gianforte and his administration for their leadership and continued perseverance on this issue. We stand with the state and agree there are deficiencies within the BLM Environmental Assessment and final grazing decision. The decision to not approve grazing on the two allotments based on the BLM EA is the right decision,” Steinbeisser, who is a rancher in the Sidney area, said.
According to the Billings Gazette, the state and ranching groups appealed the administrative judge’s decision on Nov. 14. A BLM spokesperson said appellants have until Dec. 23 to submit their legal briefs. The BLM then has until Jan. 23, 2023, to respond.
To support the Montana Stockgrowers Association on this legal appeal, donations can be made at www. protectopenspaces.com. The MSGA Advocacy Fund allows for a collective voice for cattle ranchers advocating for change and accountability at the state and federal levels.
“Although we have filed the appeal, we still have a long road ahead. We are asking everyone who is concerned about BLM’s favorable decision towards the APR and who is passionate about public land grazing, holding federal agencies accountable, and protecting and conserving Montana’s iconic open spaces to please consider donating to our advocacy fund,” Steinbeisser said. “We are fighting for all Montana ranchers, our rural communities and for the legacy of ranching in the American West.”
