For Release: Nov. 14, 2005
Contact: Jeff Fontana (530) 252-5332
CA-N-06-13

MODOC-WASHOE STEWARDSHIP GROUP MEETS DEC. 7 IN CEDARVILLE

Topics ranging from weed control to proposals for alternative energy projects will be discussed when the Modoc-Washoe Experimental Stewardship Program Steering Committee meets Wednesday, Dec. 7, at the Cedarville Community Church Hall, Center and Bonner Streets, Cedarville. The meeting, open to the public, runs from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

During the morning session, members will hear updates from Bureau of Land Management Surprise Field Office Manager Owen Billingsley and from Jim Irvin, district ranger for the Modoc National Forest's Warner Mountain Ranger District.

Afternoon agenda topics include updates on proposed wind and hydroelectric power projects and development of a Forest Service environmental impact statement on noxious weed management. A report on development of the multi-agency Sagebrush Steppe ecosystem restoration project and environmental impact statement also will be presented.

Members also will hear Forest Service and BLM updates on wild horse and burro management, receive a report on a Forest Service base property policy, and discuss rangeland rehabilitation plans developed following last summer's Barrel Fire.

The committee will hear an update from a technical review team assigned to study a proposed grazing fee surcharge waiver, and hear an update on a proposal to restore suspended livestock animal unit months (AUMs) on the BLM's Calcutta allotment.

The 17-member steering committee is comprised of members representing broad interests in rangeland management. Members include representatives of the BLM and Forest Service, Nevada and California state wildlife departments, livestock grazing permit holders sporting groups, Nevada and California environmental groups, wild horse and burro interests, Modoc County government, the timber industry, livestock industry and the University of California Cooperative Extension.

The stewardship program was created by Congress as part of the 1978 Public Rangelands Improvement Act. Members work collaboratively to find innovative ways to manage public land livestock grazing and to sustain healthy rangeland resources.

-BLM-

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Northern California Support Team 1695 Heindon Rd. Arcata, CA 95521