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According to NCBA, livestock grazing is a valuable tool in helping effectively manage overgrown rangelands, some of which fueled the catastrophic wildfires that raged through the West. "Dry and overgrown rangelands create the perfect fuel for fires to spread quickly," says NCBA President George Hall. "Proper grazing is one of the most effective and least expensive methods of fuel management. When coupled with controlled burns, grazing can reduce the occurrence and impact of catastrophic wildfires," Hall says. Hall urged the agencies to re-evaluate current fire management policy to ensure it includes proper livestock grazing, to increase input from private citizens or stakeholders who rely on federal lands and to better coordinate with local firefighting sectors. "Those working near or on federal lands, such as cattle producers, know the area, its geomorphology and history, and can prove to be a valuable asset for implementing a successful fuel load and fire management strategy," Hall said. Hall pointed out that a new fire and fuel load management policy could save millions in tax dollars and lost property, in addition to providing healthier and more sustainable forests and rangelands. "Adhering to a blanket policy of fire suppression has proven not to be a sound practice. The combination of controlled fires, forest and range management, enhanced local input and more flexible environmental regulation is the only possible long term solution to fire control in the West," he said. |
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