The agency issued its final decision today, revoking the permits granted in 2022.
Only production‑oriented livestock operations qualify for grazing permits, according to the news release, and the agency lacks the statutory authority to allow bison on federal grazing allotments for conservation and ecological restoration.
The about-face, which may be rooted in politics, appeases ranchers in Montana and sends a strong signal to those who would establish conservancies on public lands by purchasing or leasing base properties and flipping the preference to wild horses.
Western Horse Watchers opposes the decision and urges American Prairie to explore all options for reinstatement of the permits.
RELATED: Ranchers Butt Heads with Conservationists in Bison Grazing Dispute.
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Western Horse Watchers Association 