Grazing Association to hold annual meeting

By Jackie Walden

The Ashland Fort Howes Grazing Association will hold their annual meeting on Friday, February 21 at 2:00 p.m. at the Ashland Public School. Three organizations have committed to speak at that meeting on the value each organization can bring to grazing operations on the Ashland District of the Custer Gallatin National Forest.

The Range Allotment Owners - National Grazing Lands Education Association (RAO) is a national level association of livestock producers who are Allotment Owners in the 17 contiguous Western States. The RAO was formed for the purpose of educating, informing, and assisting Allotment Owners in protecting their property rights and promoting the interests of livestock organizations, businesses, and communities dependent on the Western livestock industry.

R-CALF covers the many policies and issues on nearly a daily basis that are occurring in the cattle and livestock industry. R-CALF USA works on your behalf, keeps you informed, and gives you the tools to influence beneficial outcomes. Your vote and voice direct what issues R-CALF USA fights for on each proposed policy resolution (to vote you must be a current, good standing member and own at least one cow).

Since 1968, the Public Lands Council (PLC) has represented cattle and sheep producers who hold federal grazing permits. These producers face unique operational challenges. PLC educates and informs policy makers about public lands ranching issues to ensure the success and longevity of this historic industry in the United States.

Also speaking to outline the actions planned on the forest in the upcoming years is the Ashland District Forest Ranger, Ron Hecker. Please plan on attending this informative meeting. We look forward to seeing you there, if you have any questions please call Jackie Walden at 784-2356.