Rangeland and Grazing

It was recognized early in the history of the Forest Reserves that grazing was a legitimate use of the land. The Forest Service administers over six thousand active permits for livestock grazing on National Forest System lands. Grazing permittees are individuals or organizations who have applied for and acquired the privilege to graze livestock on National Forests or National Grasslands. 

It is the Forest Service's goal to conserve the rich resources of the National Forests and Grasslands while supporting communities greatly dependent upon these same resources. 

The Forest Service’ top priority is to maintain and improve the health, diversity, and productivity of the nation’s forests and grasslands to meet the needs of current and future generations. A few items included in the agency’s multiple use, sustained yield mission includes recreation, minerals and geology, water, and restoration.

While grazing is an important use, we will also continue to move forward with improving our management and preventing degradation of soil, water, and vegetation.