East Idaho Times

U.S. Senators Jim Risch and John Barrasso have introduced the Resiliency for Ranching and Natural Conservation Health (RANCH) Act. The legislation aims to promote resilient rangelands and effective grazing management in the Western United States.

"As a rancher, I have seen firsthand the immense benefits grazing brings to Idaho’s public lands and our agricultural economy," stated Senator Risch. "The RANCH Act ensures grazing management decisions properly benefit ranchers and rural communities to maintain Idaho’s way of life."

Senator Barrasso highlighted the importance of livestock grazing for Wyoming's ranchers, stating, "Livestock grazing plays a critical role for Wyoming’s ranchers to maintain rangeland health and protect their livelihoods. All across America, we depend on our hardworking ranchers. The RANCH Act gives them the support they need to work through natural disasters and efficiently navigate permits and grazing rights."

The bill is co-sponsored by Senators Cynthia Lummis, Mike Rounds, and Tim Sheehy. Key provisions include allowing temporary use of vacant grazing allotments during extreme events, allocating funds for rangeland health projects, extending grazing permits up to 20 years under certain conditions, and providing flexible management options during disasters.