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LAKEVIEW, Ore. — Lakeview Bureau of Land Management is committed to keeping public landscapes healthy and productive, in part by managing the sage brush steppe for uses that range from ranching to hunting to mining and energy development.

Learn how the Greater Sage-Grouse serves as a barometer for rangeland health and witness their fascinating springtime courtship rituals on one of two guided tours being offered to the public on March 10 and April 7.

The sage-grouse breeding season, also known as “lekking,” takes place for only four to six weeks in early spring at gathering sites called “leks.” Sage-grouse come to approximately 100 lek sites across Lake County to perform their courtship “dance” before breeding.

Viewing is limited to 20 people per tour to minimize the potential for disturbance to the sage-grouse. Reservations are first-come, first-served.  To reserve a spot contact Larisa Bogardus at 541-947-6237 or lbogardus@blm.gov by noon Friday, March 9, for the March 10 field trip or by noon Friday, April 6 for the April 7 outing.

Viewers will depart at 6:00 a.m. from the BLM Lakeview District Office, 1301 South G Street, in Lakeview, Oregon. Carpooling is encouraged. Transportation may be provided depending on the number of participants. Participants should dress appropriately for field conditions. Wear sturdy, broken-in boots/shoes – count on rocky, rugged terrain, with sagebrush and rocks – and be prepared to hike up to half a mile. There are no amenities and no restrooms. Please plan accordingly with plenty of water, a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen.