The U.S. Department of Agriculture released a draft record of decision and final environmental impact statement on July 23rd regarding sheep grazing in the High Uintas. The Ashley and Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forests each have 5 allotments covering an area of approximately 160,928 acres. “Livestock grazing would be authorized using Forest Plan direction to meet or move toward the desired conditions identified in the relevant Forest Plans, as amended,” shares the Forest Service. “The Forests are also proposing to continue to allow use of the sheep driveway that allows sheep to access the allotments from their winter range on private lands. Livestock grazing has occurred in this area since the late 1800s. Since then, livestock grazing in the area has been, and continues to be, an important factor supporting the economies and culture of local communities surrounding these two National Forests.” The draft decision is subject to a 45-day pre-decisional administrative review process. Objections will only be accepted from persons who have previously submitted comments on the project during a designated opportunity for public comment.
