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Category: Editorials Editorials
Published: 17 October 2016 17 October 2016

Dear editor,

I'm guessing that April Lee does not have a degree or education in Business or Economics nor has she studied Public Land Management Agencies policies and regulations.

Depending on information from Center for Biological Diversity (CDB) concerning grazing on public land is rather narrow-minded and misinformed. Does April not suspect there might be some bias and misleading comments from CDB? This group has a reputation for wanting to remove livestock grazing from public lands.

CDB's assertion of subsidies looks only at the grazing fee. It does not take into account the cost of running livestock on public land. There have been numerous studies over the years by respected universities such as the University of Oregon, that show total cost of grazing is very similar on both private and public lands.

April is correct that permits often remain within a family if they maintain their permits satisfactorily. Permits are not however inherited. One has to qualify for a permit before it can be transferred.

Mr. Billings does not hold a federal grazing permit on the Gila National Forest.

When the National Forest System was created in 1905, much of the western lands were already being grazed. Teddy Roosevelt and Gifford Pinchot agreed that grazing on those lands should be managed for sustainability, as there were few other uses they could be put to, while still contributing to the economy.

April's assertion that only 1/5 of the nation's beef is raised in the 11 western states is also incorrect. Only 1/5 of the nation's beef is raised on National Forest Lands. That may not seem like much to one who has no feel for livestock numbers and the families they support, but it is the significant economic driver for many rural communities and counties west of the river.

Grazing by livestock, managed properly, as prescribed by University studies and experienced Rangeland professionals will improve forage production, grass vigor, and watershed condition. It will help reduce fine fuels and ladder fuels that contribute to large wildfires. Land left ungrazed often will not support native grasses for long. Grasses tend to become wolfy and die out. Weeds, brush, and bare ground result over time, especially on arid soils.

April is right that locals are not necessarily a homogeneous unit, but knowing everyone's story will contribute to harmony in the community

Don Luhrsen
Mimbres