Final Environmental Assessment 

Great Falls Area 

Grazing Lease Renewal 

EA #DOI-BLM-MT-L060-2010-0021-EA 

February 2011 

BLM 

Lewistown Field Office 


 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Table of Contents
 

Chapter 1: Introduction.............................................................................................................................1
 

1.0 Purpose and Need.............................................................................................................................1
 

1.1 Background ......................................................................................................................................1
 

1.2 Location............................................................................................................................................1
 

1.3 Decision Needed...............................................................................................................................2
 

1.4 Land Use Plan Conformance............................................................................................................2
 

1.5 Issues and Objectives .......................................................................................................................2
 

Chapter 2: Alternatives..............................................................................................................................5
 

2.1 No Grazing Alternative ....................................................................................................................5
 

2.2 No Action Alternative (Continuation of Current Management) ......................................................6
 

2.3 Proposed Action ...............................................................................................................................7
 

2.3.9 Proposed Action Specific to Individual Allotments in Cascade County............ ...........................13
 

2.3.10 Proposed Action Specific to Individual Allotments in Lewis and Clark County.....................35 

2.3.11 Proposed Action Specific to Individual Allotments in Meagher County..............................46
 

2.3.12 Proposed Action Specific to Individual Allotments in Pondera County...............................67
 

2.3.13 Proposed Action Specific to Individual Allotments in Powell County................................71
 

2.3.14 Proposed Action Specific to Individual Allotments in Teton County..................................72 

Chapter 3: Affected Environment ..........................................................................................................87
 

3.1 Rangeland/Livestock Grazing ........................................................................................................87
 

3.2 Upland Range Health .....................................................................................................................87
 

3.3 Riparian Health...............................................................................................................................89
 

3.4 Noxious Weeds...............................................................................................................................90
 

3.5 Coniferous Forest ...........................................................................................................................91
 

3.6 Fire/Fuels Management..................................................................................................................92
 

3.7 Recreation/Visual Resource Management .....................................................................................92
 

3.8 Wildlife...........................................................................................................................................93
 

3.9 Cultural Resources .......................................................................................................................100
 

3.10 Surface Water...............................................................................................................................102
 

3.11 Soils..............................................................................................................................................104
 

3.12 Air Quality....................................................................................................................................104
 

3.13 Climate .........................................................................................................................................105
 

3.14 Economics/Sociology.................................................................................... 105
 

3.15 Special Management Areas..........................................................................................................106
 

Chapter 4: Environmental Effects........................................................................................................107
 

4.1 No Action Alternative: Continuation of Current Management...................................................107
 

4.2 Proposed Action Alternative ........................................................................................................110
 

Chapter 5: Consultation and Coordination .........................................................................................141
 

Comments to the Preliminary EA........................................................................141 

i 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Appendices 

Appendix A Land Use Plan Guidance 

Appendix B Standards for Rangeland Health 

Appendix C Guidelines for Livestock Grazing Management 

Appendix D BLM Drought Policy 

Appendix E Standards for Rangeland Health Determinations Summary 

Appendix F Upland Health Assessments & Monitoring Schedule 

Appendix G Riparian Health Assessments and Monitoring Schedule 

Appendix H Proposed Range Improvement Projects Summary 

Appendix I Current Allotment Information Summary 

Appendix J Montana Noxious Weed List 

Appendix K Monitoring and Evaluation 

Appendix L References 

Maps 

M1 Great Falls Administrative Area Allotments South Half 

M2 Great Falls Administrative Area Allotments West Half 

ii 
 

 

 

 Chapter 1 

Introduction 

Information in this chapter is organized into the 

following headings. 

1.0 Purpose and Need 

1.1 Background 

1.2 Location 

1.3 Decision Needed 

1.4 Conformance with Land Use Plan 

1.5 Issues and Objectives 

1.5.1 Upland Health 

1.5.2 Riparian Health 

1.5.3 Water Quality 

1.5.4 Biodiversity 

1.5.5 Noxious Weeds 

1.5.6 Privacy Act Notice 

1.0 Purpose and Need 

This environmental assessment (EA) evaluates 

rangeland health standards and analyzes impacts 

associated with renewing grazing leases within 

the Great Falls area. The purpose of the 

proposed action is to analyze the impacts of 

modifying and/or renewing grazing leases as it 

relates to current resource conditions on 

allotments where grazing leases are expiring. 

There is a need to address expiring grazing 

leases, make administrative changes, and adjust 

current management where required. 

The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is 

required to complete an environmental analysis 

when renewing 10-year grazing leases. This 

analysis will review the grazing allotments in the 

Great Falls area for compliance with the 

Standards for Rangeland Health and Guidelines 

for Livestock Management. Existing leases 

would be cancelled and new 10-year grazing 

leases would be offered at the conclusion of this 

effort. Associated impacts of this action include, 

but are not limited to, construction of range 

improvement projects, modifications to current 

grazing management, where required, and 

continuation of appropriate grazing practices and 

noxious weed control. Other management 

activities that impact upland and riparian health, 

water and air quality, and biodiversity will also 

be considered where necessary. 

This EA will define the issues, detail the 

alternatives considered, describe the biological 

and physical characteristics of the affected 

environment, and explain the environmental 

consequences of each alternative. Individual 

allotments will also be addressed on a sitespecific basis. 

1.1 Background 

The BLM Lewistown Field Office (LFO) has 

undertaken a field office-wide planning effort, 

focused on implementing decisions in the 

Headwaters Resource Management Plan 

(HRMP) approved in July 1984 (BLM 1994) 

and Judith Resource Management Plan (J RMP) 

approved in September 1994. The LFO 

administers about 750,000 acres of public land 

in nine central Montana counties which spans an 

area approximately 225 miles long by 150 miles 

wide. The vastness of this jurisdictional area, 

combined with direction from the Judith and 

Headwaters RMP has prompted the LFO to 

delineate smaller, manageable planning units. 

1.2 Location 

The planning area is administered by LFO and 

contains portions of Meagher, Cascade, Lewis 

and Clark, Teton and Pondera Counties, 

Montana. These lands are found throughout the 

Smith, Dearborn, Missouri-Cascade, MissouriChoteau, Sun, Teton, Two Medicine, Marias, 

Belt, Upper Musselshell and Judith Watersheds. 

The planning area is roughly 100 miles long, 

200 miles wide and encompasses over 8 million 

acres. This includes 48,361 acres of land 

administered by the BLM, in addition to other 

lands administered by the state of Montana, U.S. 

Fish & Wildlife Service, Bureau of Reclamation 

and private land. A total of 101 BLM grazing 

allotments are authorized to 92 lessees. 

Great Falls Area Grazing Lease Renewal 1 Chapter 1 
 

 

1.3 Decision Needed 

The LFO manager is the responsible official 

who must decide whether to implement 

decisions analyzed in the proposed action. These 

decisions would be issued separately on 

individual allotments and include the following: 

	 Renewing grazing leases based on 

determinations of meeting Standards for 

Rangeland Health and Guidelines for 

Livestock Grazing Management (Standards 

and Guidelines). 

	 Initiating and sustaining cooperative noxious 

weed control efforts. 

	 Implementing grazing management actions 

on allotments not meeting Standards and 

Guidelines or on allotments requiring other 

administrative changes. 

	 Implementing range improvement projects. 

1.4 Land Use Plan 

Conformance 

The Headwaters Resource Management Plan 

(approved in July 1984) set forth the land use 

decisions and conditions guiding management of 

public land and minerals within the Great Falls 

administrative area. All uses and activities 

within the area must conform to the decisions, 

terms and conditions described in this plan. 

Appendix A describes the land use plan 

guidance contained in the Headwaters RMP that 

is pertinent to the Great Falls planning area. 

The Headwaters RMP specifies that 

implementation of changes or continuation of 

current management on individual allotments 

will be conducted on a site-specific basis and 

will consider management based on present 

resource condition and the potential for 

improvement. Under the Headwaters RMP, 

livestock grazing will be managed through the 

development of activity or similar plans 

designed to achieve objectives for wildlife 

habitat, watersheds, vegetation condition and 

livestock forage production (pp. 24-25 

Headwaters RMP DEIS). Livestock use 

adjustments will be made by changing one or 

more of the following: the kind or class of 

livestock grazing an allotment, the season of use, 

the stocking rate or the pattern of grazing. 

Management of grazing will be in accordance 

with the grazing administration regulations 

found in 43 CFR Part 4100. 

The Headwaters RMP was amended by the 

Standards for Rangeland Health and Guidelines 

for Livestock Grazing Management for 

Montana, North Dakota, and South Dakota, 

which was approved by the Secretary of the 

Interior in August 1997. Livestock grazing is 

managed under the Lewistown District 

(Lewistown and Malta Field Offices) Standards 

for Rangeland Health and Guidelines for 

Livestock Grazing Management (BLM 1997) 

(Appendices B and C). Standards are statements 

of physical and biological condition or degree of 

function required for healthy sustainable 

rangelands and guidelines focus on establishing 

and maintaining proper functioning conditions 

and the application of the guidelines is 

dependent on individual management objectives. 

The Fire/Fuels Management Plan/Plan 

Amendment for Montana and the Dakotas (BLM 

2003) also amended the Headwaters RMP. This 

amendment included language to bring the RMP 

up to date with the federal wildland fire 

management policy. 

1.5 Issues and Objectives 

1.5.1 Upland Health 

Issue: The upland health standard is not being 

met for some of the upland areas on public 

lands. Livestock are a significant factor in some 

cases. 

Short-term objective: Maintain the 80 

allotments that are meeting the upland standard. 

Improve the nine allotments that are not meeting 

the upland standard due to causes other than 

livestock grazing. Continue improvement on 

Great Falls Area Grazing Lease Renewal 2 Chapter 1 
 

 

 

these allotments that are already making 

significant progress towards achieving health 

standards. Implement management actions that 

would ensure significant progress is made 

toward meeting the standard on the 11 

allotments that are not meeting the standard due 

to current livestock management (Appendix E). 

Also, enter into cooperative weed control 

agreements (or re-emphasize current cooperative 

agreements) with leases where allotments are 

not meeting the health standards due to noxious 

weed infestations. 

Long-term objective: Maintain or improve 

upland areas so that all allotments are meeting 

the upland health standard within 10 years. 

1.5.2 Riparian Health 

Issue: Lewistown Standard 2 (Riparian and 

wetland areas are in proper functioning 

condition) is not being met for some of the 

riparian areas on public lands. Current livestock 

management is a significant factor in some 

cases. 

Short-term objective: The BLM’s goal is to 

improve and maintain riparian health on all 

streams within the planning area to Proper 

Functioning Condition or above. It is also to 

ensure the establishment and recruitment of 

cottonwood, willow, birch, silverberry and other 

desirable woody species on sites capable of 

supporting such species. 

Long-term objective: Maintain or improve the 

29.42 miles of riparian areas to Proper 

Functioning Condition or above within 10 years. 

Some areas, such as Birch Creek in Pondera 

County, may never achieve PFC and our goal 

would be to move these riparian areas towards 

their capability. 

1.5.3 Water Quality 

Issue: Lewistown Standard 3 (Water quality 

meets Montana State standards) is not being met 

on six allotments within the planning area where 

livestock are a significant factor. 

Short-term objective: The BLM aims to address 

the water quality concerns on the water quality 

impaired streams by generating improving 

trends in condition. This would be 

accomplished by maintaining riparian and 

upland areas that are in good health and 

improving degraded riparian and upland areas. 

Long-term objective: Maintain or improve the 

29.42 miles of riparian areas to Proper 

Functioning Condition or above within 10 years. 

Maintain or improve upland areas so that all 

allotments are meeting the upland health 

standard within 10 years. 

1.5.4 Biodiversity 

Issue: The biodiversity health standard is not 

being met on some allotments. Livestock are a 

significant factor in some cases. 

Short-term objective: Maintain the 75 

allotments that are meeting the biodiversity 

standard. Improve the 12 allotments that are not 

meeting the biodiversity standard due to causes 

other than livestock management and ensure 

significant progress is made toward meeting the 

standard on the 13 allotments that are not 

meeting the standard as a result of current 

livestock management. 

Long-term objective: Maintain or improve 

rangeland health so that all allotments are 

meeting the biodiversity standard or making 

significant progress within 10 years. 

1.5.5 Noxious Weeds 

Issue: Noxious weed populations are present on 

public, private, and state lands within the 

watershed. 

Objective: Continue control of known noxious 

weed infestations and all newly identified 

infestations. Initiate new cooperative weed 

control agreements with grazing lessees within 

the watershed and re-emphasize current 

agreements. Eradicate any new populations of 

Category 3 weeds (see Noxious Weeds; Chapter 

3.4 for a description of weed categories). 

Great Falls Area Grazing Lease Renewal 3 Chapter 1 
 

1.5.6 Privacy Act Notice 

The BLM frequently receives inquiries from 

organizations, individuals and media for 

information about grazing leases and lessees. 

The BLM’s Washington Office, in consultation 

with the solicitor’s office, has recommended that 

such inquires be treated as Freedom of 

Information Act requests. Doing so allows the 

BLM to provide consistent responses and to 

comply with a Privacy Act notice that 

encompasses grazing leases. Until LFO receives 

further guidance, the names of individual 

livestock grazing lessees will not be used in 

planning documents unless the lessee is 

registered as a public entity. 

Great Falls Area Grazing Lease Renewal 4 Chapter 1 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Chapter 2 

Alternatives
 

Two alternatives, No Action and Proposed 

Action, were developed to address the issues 

outlined in Chapter 1. 

The National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) 

and BLM policy require preparation of an EA as 

an integral component of livestock grazing lease 

issuance or renewal. This EA will address the 

following: 

	 Issuing a new lease with the same terms and 

conditions as the expiring lease. 

	 Issuing a new lease based on Standards and 

Guidelines for Rangeland Health (proposed 

action). 

The information in this chapter is organized into 

the following headings: 

2.1 

2.1.1

2.2 

2.2.1

2.2.2

2.3

2.3.1

2.3.2 

2.3.3 

2.3.4

2.3.5 

2.3.6

2.3.7 

2.3.8 

2.3.9 

2.3.10 

2.3.11 

2.3.12 

Alternatives considered but not further 

Analyzed 

 No Grazing Alternative 

No Action Alternative/Continuation of 

 Current Management 

 Rangeland Administration 

 Noxious Weeds 

 Proposed Action 

 Rangeland Administration 

Standards for Rangeland Health and 

Guidelines for Livestock Management 

Range Improvement Projects 

 Noxious Weeds 

Wildlife/Threatened, Endangered and 

Sensitive species (TES) 

 Fire Management 

Cultural/Historical 

Management in Common to all 

Allotments 

Proposed Actions for Individual 

Allotments in Cascade County 

Proposed Action for Individual 

Allotments in Lewis & Clark County 

Proposed Action for Individual 

Allotments in Meagher County 

Proposed Action for Individual 

Allotments in Pondera County 

2.3.13	 Proposed Action for Individual 

Allotments in Powell County 

2.3.14	 Proposed Action for Individual 

Allotments in Teton County 

2.1 Alternatives considered but 

not further analyzed 

2.1.1 No Grazing Alternative 

The elimination of livestock grazing from all 

public lands in the planning area was considered 

as one management option to resolve range and 

watershed management issues. However, this 

was not analyzed in detail further because: 1) 

Resource conditions on BLM land including 

range vegetation, watershed, and wildlife habitat 

as reflected in land health assessments do not 

warrant prohibition of livestock grazing 

categorically throughout the planning area. Less 

than five percent of the 48,321 acres that have 

been assessed in the planning area, are not 

meeting the Standards for Rangeland Health and 

Guidelines for Livestock Grazing Management 

for Montana, North Dakota, and South Dakota 

due to livestock grazing (43 CFR subpart 4180). 

2) The land ownership pattern in many parts of 

the planning area would require extensive 

fencing to eliminate livestock use from public 

lands. In some cases, maintenance of fences 

along public property boundaries would be very 

difficult due to terrain features. Additionally, 

the extensive fencing would create many new 

barriers for wildlife movements and contribute 

to habitat fragmentation. 3) Eliminating grazing 

from BLM lands would require cancelling of 

leases which would reduce BLM’s ability to 

cooperatively management noxious weeds. 4) 

Eliminating livestock grazing from public lands 

would cause accelerated conversion of privately 

owned native rangelands to introduced grass 

pastures or agricultural croplands as ranchers 

attempt to replace the loss of forage. These 

conversions would degrade and fragment habitat 

for many wildlife species that depend on native 

rangelands. 5) An alternative that proposes to 

close the entire planning area to grazing would 

also be inconsistent with the intent of the Taylor 

Grazing Act, which directs the BLM to provide 

for livestock use of BLM lands; adequately 

Great Falls Area Grazing Lease Renewal 5 Chapter 2 
 

safeguard grazing privileges; provide for the 

orderly use, improvement, and development of 

the range; and stabilize the livestock industry 

dependent upon the public range. 6) FLPMA 

requires that public lands be managed on a 

“multiple use and sustained yield basis” 

(FLPMA Sections 302(a) and 102(7)) and 

includes livestock grazing as a principal or 

major use of public lands. While multiple use 

does not require that all lands be used for 

livestock grazing, complete removal of livestock 

grazing on the entire planning area would be 

arbitrary and would not meet the principle of 

multiple use and sustained yield. 7) Eliminating 

livestock grazing on all allotments does not meet 

the purpose and need of this EA and it was 

previously analyzed in national Rangeland 

Reform Environmental Impact Statement (BLM 

1994b) 8) Finally, because the BLM has 

considerable discretion through its grazing 

regulations to determine and adjust stocking 

levels, seasons of use, and grazing management 

activities and to allocate forage to uses of the 

public lands in RMPs, the analysis of an 

alternative to entirely eliminate grazing is not 

needed. Site-specific activity planning and 

environmental review can address those specific 

situations where livestock grazing causes or 

contributes to conflicts with the protection 

and/or management of other resource values or 

uses. These determinations would be based on 

several factors, including monitoring studies, 

review of current range management science, 

input from livestock operators and interested 

publics, and the ability to meet the Standards for 

Rangeland Health. 

Livestock grazing is authorized by law and 

regulation and is a well-established use within 

the BLM’s multiple-use mandate. 

Implementation of a no grazing alternative is not 

considered reasonable, viable or necessary 

except in specific, localized situations where 

livestock use may be incompatible with 

attainment of Standards for Rangeland Health, 

or with other management objectives. 

A “no grazing” alternative is not consistent with 

the Headwaters Resource Management Plan 

Final Environmental Impact Statement 1983 

which states on page 10: “In Summary, 

implementation of a no grazing alternative is not 

considered to be feasible or necessary except in 

specific, localized situations where livestock use 

is incompatible with other important 

management objectives.” 

Grazing allocations on newly acquired land will 

be based on management needs and objectives 

for the acquisition pursuant to 43 CFR 4110.1-1. 

A no grazing alternative would be considered on 

newly acquired lands, or when considering 

authorizing use of unallocated parcels in 

accordance with the Headwaters Resource 

Management Plan. There are approximately 55 

unallocated parcels of BLM land within this 

planning area. Many of these lands are not 

suitable for livestock grazing. Since no 

determination has been made regarding which 

parcels may, or may not be suitable for grazing, 

issuing, or not issuing, grazing leases on parcels 

that could potentially receive livestock use will 

be addressed in a separate analysis. However, in 

cases where unallocated parcels are intermixed 

with private grazing lands, these parcels may be 

incorporated into existing grazing leases. 

Analysis of these actions would be conducted on 

a site-specific basis under the proposed actions 

for individual allotments found in Chapter 2. 

2.2 No Action Alternative 

The No Action alternative is the continuation of 

current management. 

2.2.1 Rangeland Administration 

This alternative would renew the grazing leases 

within the planning area with the same terms 

and conditions as the current leases. No changes 

would be made and range improvement projects 

would not be proposed or constructed. 

Cooperative weed control would not be made a 

condition of the grazing lease. 

Livestock grazing would remain consistent with 

the current lease and no new projects would be 

constructed to protect/enhance upland, riparian, 

biodiversity or water resource values. If 

allotments are currently not meeting standards 

and guidelines, this alternative would provide no 

measures for corrective actions. Issue objectives 

Great Falls Area Grazing Lease Renewal 6 Chapter 2 
 

 

 

 

would not be met with this alternative. 

Allotments that are not meeting, or not already 

making significant progress toward achieving 

standards, would not be in compliance with 

Fundamentals of Rangeland Health and 

Standards and Guidelines for Grazing 

Administration (43 CFR 4180). 

2.2.2 Noxious Weeds 

Under the No Action Alternative, the BLM 

would continue current weed control efforts 

including chemical, biological and mechanical 

methods. Precaution would be implemented to 

avoid damage to desirable vegetation, especially 

woody species. 

The BLM would continue to develop 

cooperative agreements with livestock grazing 

lessees for noxious weed control on upland weed 

infestations. Under these agreements, the BLM 

agrees to provide the proper type and amount of 

herbicide and the lessees agree to apply the 

herbicide. Application may be made by the 

properly licensed lessees or may be contracted to 

a licensed applicator at the lessee's cost. 

Biological control efforts would continue 

through release and dissemination of newly 

available and established biocontrol agents. 

Cooperative weed control agreements would be 

independent of the terms and conditions of 

renewed grazing leases. The issue objectives for 

weeds would be minimally met in this 

alternative. 

2.3 Proposed Action 

This alternative proposes changes to better 

manage desirable vegetation, water, soils, 

wildlife habitat and noxious weeds. 

Management changes for allotments not meeting 

standards and guidelines for rangeland health 

due to livestock are included in the proposed 

action listed under each grazing allotment in this 

section (Appendix E). 

2.3.1 Rangeland Administration 

Current grazing leases would be cancelled and 

new 10 year grazing leases would be offered 

with Standards for Rangeland Health and 

Guidelines for Livestock Management 

incorporated into the terms and conditions of the 

lease. The following term and condition would 

be added to each individual lease: 

Appendices B and C (pages B1-C2 of the Great Falls 

Area Grazing Lease Renewal EA) provide the 

Standards for Rangeland Health and Guidelines for 

Livestock Grazing Management. 

On allotments with significant public land 

resources and where actual use records are 

required to supplement BLM monitoring efforts, 

the following term and condition may be 

included: 

Actual use (Form 4130-5) will be submitted annually 

to this office within 15 days following grazing use. 

Unless a more specific term and condition is 

proposed under Sections 2.3.9 through 2.3.14, 

the following term and condition would be 

incorporated into leases designated as custodial: 

Custodial grazing is authorized only during the listed 

season unless approved in advance by the authorized 

officer. Grazing use will not exceed the recognized 

carrying capacity of the public land. This allotment 

may be used in conjunction with your normal 

operation as long as standards for rangeland health 

are being met or significant progress is being made 

toward achieving those standards (43 CFR 4180). 

Allotments would be listed as custodial when 

there is no information available regarding the 

amount of forage existing on intermixed lands 

which are not administered by the BLM. On 

these allotments, BLM permitted use only refers 

to the carrying capacity of BLM lands even 

though it may be fenced in with lands of varying 

ownership. Typically, these allotments consist of 

BLM parcels that are relatively small, noncontiguous and/or constitute an insignificant 

percentage of an entire pasture. Alternatively, 

leases designated as active use would refer 

specifically to allotments where the carrying 

capacity on both BLM and non-BLM lands has 

been determined allowing a carrying capacity to 

be established for all lands within a pasture. 

Modifications to type use are addressed on an 

allotment-specific basis in Sections 2.3.9 

Great Falls Area Grazing Lease Renewal 7 Chapter 2 
 

through 2.3.14. A summary of those allotments 

with proposed type-use changes is located on 

tables 4.3 and 4.4. 

Incorporation of a livestock carcass disposal 

term and condition is required on allotments 

within the grizzly bear distribution zone, or on 

allotments that could potentially receive use by 

bears is needed to mitigate negative impacts to 

grizzly bears which may result from livestock 

carcasses serving as an attractant and causing 

habituation or otherwise increase the likelihood 

of human-bear interactions. 

Some management flexibility would be retained 

by BLM where no practical means of disposal 

are available and the location of the carcass is 

determined by the authorized officer, in 

conjunction with Montana Department of Fish, 

Wildlife and Parks, not to pose a significant 

threat to public safety or result in any negative 

impacts to grizzly bears. 

For allotments located within the grizzly bear 

distribution zone, the following term and 

condition would be incorporated into the lease: 

The lessee is required to properly treat or 

dispose of livestock carcasses to eliminate any 

potential attractant for bears. The lessee should 

notify Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks if they 

need carcass disposal assistance. The lessee is 

also required to notify the BLM of any grizzly 

bear depredation on livestock or conflicts 

between grizzly bears and livestock. 

This term and condition would be applied to the 

allotments listed in Table 2.1: 

Table 2.1 

Allotment Name Allotment No. 

East Birch Creek 06322 

Homesite 06324 

Swift Dam 06321 

West Birch Creek 06323 

Waddell Lakes 06320 

Chicken Coulee 06303 

Choteau Mountain 06304 

Cowtract 06306 

Indian Head Rock 07659 

Blackfeet Gulch 06335 

Ear Mountain Individual 09835 

Salmond Ranch Company 06342 

Deep Creek 06310 

Table 2.1 

Allotment Name Allotment No. 

Battle Creek 06307 

Green Timber Gulch 06308 

Tunnel Lake 06312 

Castle Reef 07613 

Willow Creek Canal 07612 

Black Coulee 06313 

Pishkun Reservoir 06315 

Alkali Flat (East) 07615 

Alkali Flat (West) 06295 

Black Reef 07609 

Willow Creek 07608 

Roost Hill 07607 

East Farmers Reservoir 06316 

Pishkun 06311 

Willow Creek Pasture 06314 

Bean Lake 07605 

River BLM 06325 

Bedrock Creek 06347 

Middle Fork 07604 

Middle Fork Dearborn 07603 

In addition, allotment-specific terms and 

conditions may be added to individual leases as 

identified under the proposed action for each 

allotment. Other modifications to the lease, if 

proposed, are also addressed in specific 

allotment discussions in Sections 2.3.9 through 

2.3.14. 

Pending and future transfers of permitted use 

would be approved where management actions, 

including terms and conditions, continue to be in 

compliance with provisions outlined in 

Standards for Rangeland Health and the 

objectives described in individual proposed 

actions for each allotment. On allotments where 

base property is controlled through private lease 

agreements, new grazing leases would be 

generated as these base property leases are 

renewed provided mandatory terms and 

conditions are unchanged and the allotment is in 

conformance with Standards for Rangeland 

Health and Guidelines for Livestock 

Management. The term of new leases would not 

extend beyond analysis of this document. 

2.3.2 Standards for Rangeland Health 

and Guidelines for Livestock 

Management 

Standards for livestock grazing (Appendix B) 

state that rangelands should be meeting or 

making significant and measurable progress 

Great Falls Area Grazing Lease Renewal 8 Chapter 2 
 

 

toward meeting the upland, riparian, water 

quality, air and biodiversity standards for 

rangeland health. Significant progress toward 

meeting standards would be accomplished and 

adherence to guidelines would be followed 

through a variety of management techniques. 

Management on allotments that are not meeting 

standards would be modified to improve 

resource conditions and meet standards. 

Rangeland conditions which do not meet 

standards as a result of livestock grazing could 

be improved with changes to allotment 

management, including, but not limited to: 

 increasing length of rest periods between 

grazing periods 

 changing season of use 

 altering livestock turnout location 

 changing grazing intensity 

 changing grazing duration 

 improving livestock distribution 

Improved livestock distribution could be 

achieved through construction of water 

developments and fences, selective salt and/or 

mineral placement, and changes to livestock 

turnout location and season of use. In some 

cases, fencing may be used to protect upland 

and/or riparian areas. When resource objectives 

cannot be met through measures listed above, 

stocking rates may be adjusted or recalculated 

using estimates of forage conditions and 

livestock weights based on unfavorable year 

production models and current county averages 

of livestock weights. 

Livestock grazing is based on the Guidelines for 

Grazing Management (Appendix C). Upland 

objectives were developed for individual 

allotments on a case-by-case basis, based on 

vegetation production and ground cover 

objectives consistent with the site potential for 

individual ecological sites. Under the proposed 

action, a variety of monitoring techniques that 

may include stubble height or percent utilization 

limits of key upland grass species would be 

applied as a monitoring tool to ensure upland 

objectives and guidelines for livestock grazing 

management are met. The stubble height or 

utilization limit is based on studies that 

demonstrate greater vigor of grasses grazed at 

moderated levels (Heady 1950, Troxel and 

White 1989, Vallentine 1990, Van Pollen and 

Lacey 1997). The forage utilization limit of key 

upland grass species would be limited to 4 

inches (6 inch stubble height for bluebunch 

wheatgrass) or 50% at the end of the grazing 

season. Appropriate and timely action would be 

taken if the stubble height or percent utilization 

measurements indicate that grazing management 

is not achieving the desired upland objectives or 

if significant progress is not being made toward 

meeting standards. 

Although it is understood that riparian stubble 

height and woody species utilization does not fill 

the role of a long-term management objective, 

they can be used as a direct and indirect guide 

for current grazing impacts to riparian areas 

(Clary and Leininger, 2000). Stubble height and 

woody species utilization will be used as 

indicators of the current year’s grazing impacts. 

Utilization of key, palatable, woody species such 

as willows and cottonwoods would be limited to 

light-to-moderate browsing as described in the 

woody species use classes and descriptions in 

“Monitoring Stream Channels and Riparian 

Vegetation-Multiple Indicators” (Burton and 

others, 2008). 

Utilization of key riparian grasses would be 

limited to an average 4” stubble height. 

A monitoring strategy for each reach would be 

decided based upon the inventory data. The 

LFO would monitor the soil, hydrology, or 

vegetation attribute which caused the reach to be 

at risk or nonfunctional (the NO’s on the Proper 

Functioning Condition checklist). For example, 

if it was a vegetation attribute such as large 

percentages of bare ground or disturbance 

related plant species (i.e. Kentucky bluegrass or 

foxtail barley), the monitoring strategy would be 

greenline composition and successional status 

found in Winward (2000). If a soil or hydrology 

attribute such as streambank alteration or lack of 

root mass protection is the cause of degradation, 

the monitoring strategy would be greenline 

stability rating with use guidelines of percent 

streambank alteration. 

Great Falls Area Grazing Lease Renewal 9 Chapter 2 
 

The utilization of preferred woody species and 

key riparian grasses and streambank alteration 

measurements are not objectives, but rather they 

are indicators of impending resource damage 

and triggers for movement of livestock. If 

intense browse levels are noted on preferred 

woody species or the 4” stubble height 

requirement is met, it is time for livestock to be 

moved. The browse level on preferred woody 

species needs to be looked at where there are 

enough plants to conduct a browse survey. 

Widely spaced, individual plants are not 

appropriate. 

Failure to meet the stubble height requirement or 

intense browsing would prompt an assessment 

of resource condition and indicate the need to 

make appropriate changes. 

Although there are many streams within the 

planning area that are listed in Montana 

Department of Environmental Quality’s 

(MDEQ) water quality database, the following 

discussion is geared towards the listed water 

bodies that BLM land borders or is a significant 

landowner within the watershed. These streams 

include the Sun, Missouri, Dearborn, Teton, 

Musselshell, and Smith Rivers amongst others. 

In making BLM’s water quality standard 

determination, the BLM first considers the State 

of Montana’s determination. If the State 

determination is that water quality meets 

standards, the BLM determination conforms to 

the state determination. If the State 

determination for a particular stream (or its 

immediate receiving water) indicates the water 

body is not meeting water quality standards or 

the standard for the water body in question is 

undetermined, BLM collects information to 

evaluate whether BLM lands are likely 

contributing to impairment of streams based 

upon the cause of impairment and likely sources. 

BLM has evaluated resource conditions and 

plans to address allotments with degraded 

upland and riparian condition, which may be 

contributing pollutants to water quality impaired 

streams. 

Air quality in the watersheds within the planning 

area is generally considered good to excellent. 

The air quality standard is being met on all 

allotments. 

The biodiversity standard is being met on the 

majority of allotments within the planning area. 

Primary causes for the biodiversity standard not 

being met are due to the predominance of nonnative vegetative species such as Kentucky 

bluegrass, common timothy, smooth brome, 

noxious weeds and annual invasive species. For 

rehabilitation and restoration activities occurring 

within the planning area, unrelated to livestock 

grazing, BLM would discourage use of nonnative species which may negatively impact 

rangeland health. 

Allotments may also fail to meet the biodiversity 

standard due to degraded riparian conditions, 

insufficient residual vegetative cover and 

alteration of community composition caused by 

livestock grazing or other land uses. 

Management actions are primarily proposed on 

allotments not meeting the biodiversity standard 

due to livestock grazing. Implementation of the 

proposed action would lead to significant 

progress toward meeting the standard. 

During periods of drought, livestock grazing on 

public lands would be administered in 

accordance with the BLM’s Montana/ Dakotas 

drought policy. (Appendix D) 

A summary table of proposed standards 

evaluations for each allotment in the Great Falls 

area is located in Appendix E. A description of 

monitoring and evaluations are found in 

Appendix F and Appendix G. 

2.3.3 Range Improvement Projects 

Several range improvement projects are 

proposed which include livestock water 

developments, cross-fences and conifer removal 

(Appendix H). Range improvements proposed 

by the BLM and lessees are discussed under the 

proposed action for individual allotments. It is 

important to note that range improvement 

project funding occurs on a yearly basis and 

although variable from year to year, funding is 

Great Falls Area Grazing Lease Renewal 10 Chapter 2 
 

 

 

typically limited and never fulfills the total 

needs. In addition, even with adequate funding, 

staffing may limit the amount of project work 

that can occur in any given year. Considering 

these factors, projects proposed within this 

watershed plan would be prioritized and 

implemented based on the following key 

considerations: 

	 Allotments not meeting rangeland health 

standards where livestock grazing is a 

significant factor. 

	 To mitigate livestock impacts to 

important resource values on the 

allotment (cultural/historical properties, 

wildlife habitat, riparian/wetland habitat, 

springs, fisheries habitat, etc.). 

	 Multiple resource value benefits would 

occur from the proposed action 

(wildlife, range, riparian, etc.). 

	 Projects are components of a grazing 

management system (e.g., deferment, 

rest, etc.). 

Regardless of funding and range improvement 

projects, lessees must manage livestock 

according to standards and guidelines 

(Appendices B and C). Proper livestock grazing 

management would ensure that allotments not 

meeting standards would begin to make 

significant progress towards meeting standards 

by the start of the next grazing season. 

Maintenance of all existing and proposed 

projects would be the responsibility of the lessee 

unless otherwise specified. Projects would not 

be limited to the list; additional projects could be 

initiated to improve management and meet 

standards. 

Cultural resource surveys would be conducted 

prior to implementation of range improvement 

projects, including vegetation treatments. 

Monitoring of noxious weeds would be 

conducted for two years following any surface 

disturbance. 

2.3.4 Noxious Weeds 

Noxious weeds have been identified on uplands 

and riparian areas within the planning area 

(Appendix J). The proposed action would 

implement an integrated weed control effort. 

Weed control efforts would be increased where 

identified in the proposed action for each 

allotment. 

The BLM would incorporate cooperative weed 

control agreements into the terms and conditions 

of ten-year grazing leases with noxious weed 

infestations. On all allotments, the following 

term and condition would be added to address 

existing and future infestations of noxious 

weeds: 

Cooperative agreements between BLM and the 

lessee(s) will be established for control of existing or 

new infestations of noxious weeds found in the 

allotment(s) during the term of the lease in 

accordance with the Great Falls Area Grazing Lease 

Renewal Environmental Assessment. 

Cooperative weed control agreements could be 

initiated any time during the tenure of a lease if 

weeds are identified on an allotment. Under 

these agreements, the BLM would provide the 

proper type and amount of herbicide and the 

lessees would apply the herbicide. Application 

would be made by the properly licensed lessee 

or contracted to a licensed applicator at the 

lessee’s cost. Lease terms and conditions would 

be modified to reflect the identification of 

noxious weeds and implementation of a 

cooperative weed control agreement. 

Continued inventory and monitoring would 

provide weed infestation trend data. Noxious 

weed inventory and monitoring within the 

watershed areas would be a continual, dynamic 

workload accomplished by permanent and 

seasonal BLM employees, private landowners 

and cooperating agency personnel. Inventory 

and monitoring data would be compiled by the 

LFO weed specialist and used to analyze the 

effectiveness of weed control efforts, project 

infestation trend patterns and provide guidance 

for future weed control planning and 

implementation. 

The chemical component of the integrated weed 

control program would be closely monitored by 

the LFO weed specialist. All herbicide 

Great Falls Area Grazing Lease Renewal 11 Chapter 2 
 

applications would utilize BLM approved 

herbicides (BLM annually revises an approved 

herbicide formulation list) administered by 

experienced, licensed applicators. All 

applications would comply with label 

restrictions and guidelines. In riparian areas, 

extreme caution would be taken to avoid damage 

to desirable vegetation, especially woody 

species. Herbicide applications within a riparian 

zone or within 100 feet of any body of water 

would be limited to hand spot spraying. Sitespecific exceptions could be granted if woody or 

desirable forb species are absent within a 

riparian zone. BLM would utilize permanent 

and seasonal employees to implement sitespecific herbicide prescriptions which would be 

identified outside of areas permitted for 

livestock grazing. 

Biological control efforts would continue 

through release, dissemination and monitoring 

of newly available and established biocontrol 

agents. The BLM would continue a cooperative 

relationship with the Agricultural Research 

Service (ARS) by providing suitable 

experimental and research sites and assisting 

with associated biocontrol projects. Biological 

control would continue to be a valuable tool for 

control of Category 1 weeds (effective 

biocontrol of Russian knapweed and whitetop is 

being researched, but is not available at the time 

this document was written). 

Noxious weed control measures would apply to 

all wildfire areas. Post-burn inventories or 

assessments would indicate if weed treatment is 

needed. During the livestock grazing rest 

period, (if required) the BLM would continue 

weed treatment as necessary. After the interim 

grazing management period, BLM would work 

with lessees in accordance with the cooperative 

weed control agreements discussed above. 

2.3.5 Wildlife/TES Species 

Management activities near or adjacent to the 

Rocky Mountain Front would continue to be 

directed by the Interagency Rocky Mountain 

Front Management Guidelines for Selected 

Species (September 1987). 

2.3.6 Fire Management 

Fire suppression would be in accordance with 

the Fire/Fuels Management Plan Environmental 

Assessment/Plan Amendment for Montana and 

the Dakotas (July 2003) and the Central 

Montana Fire Zone, Lewistown Field Office 

(LFO), Fire Management Plan (September 

2004). 

In regards to prescribed fire treatments, Fire 

Regime Condition Class (FRCC) would be used, 

in conjunction with rangeland health objectives 

to determine site-specific fire prescriptions. 

Project-level FRCC inventories would be 

conducted. Priority for projects would be in 

areas where rangeland health is deteriorating due 

to significant deviations in fire regime condition 

class. 

Requirements for resting or deferring areas from 

livestock grazing following fire would depend 

on a variety of factors including resource 

objectives, the type of fuel, time and intensity of 

burn, accessibility of the burned area to 

livestock, and post-burn climatic factors. 

2.3.7 Cultural/Historical 

Cultural resource surveys would be conducted 

prior to implementation of range improvement 

projects, including vegetation treatments or any 

other activity that results in ground disturbance. 

Where required to mitigate impacts from 

livestock, exclosures or other structures would 

be constructed to prevent damage to 

cultural/historical properties. 

Lessees would notify BLM upon discovery of 

sites or items of cultural or historical 

significance occurring on BLM lands. 

2.3.8 Management in Common to all 

Allotments 

Future actions or modifications would be 

implemented to alter the course of management 

if the proposed action is failing to achieve goals 

Great Falls Area Grazing Lease Renewal 12 Chapter 2 
 

and objectives, or if circumstances require the 

need to make adjustments to management. 

Management in common to all allotments 

recognizes in advance that no amount of 

planning would be able to consider every 

possible combination of events, contingencies, 

or foresee the degree of impact from unplanned 

events or new management direction. A flexible 

management approach recognizes the need to 

provide mechanisms to allow corrective actions 

and adjustments to occur based on monitoring 

results. Achieving standards for rangeland 

health with goals and objectives outlined in this 

plan would be the catalyst for change. 

Under common management alternatives, 

various actions could be considered to address 

problematic livestock grazing issues, including, 

but not limited to: 

	 increasing length of rest periods between 

grazing periods 

 changing season of use 

 altering livestock turnout location 

 changing grazing intensity 

 changing grazing duration 

 improving livestock distribution 

 Suspending all or part of permitted use 

 Adjusting or recalculating stocking rates 

Improved livestock distribution could be 

achieved by constructing water developments 

and fences, selective salt and/or mineral 

placement, and changes to livestock turnout 

location and season of use. In some cases, 

exclosure fencing would be used to protect 

riparian areas. 

If monitoring indicates that allotments are not 

meeting standards and are not making 

significant progress towards achieving 

standards, corrective actions would be 

implemented, but would be subject to sitespecific analysis. 

2.3.9 Proposed Action for 

Individual Allotments in 

Cascade County 

(1) BELT CREEK #09710 

Public acres – 348 

AUMs - 20 

Public land – 100% 

Livestock No. – 5 Cattle 

Season of Use – 6/1 to 9/30 

Type Use - Active 

Meeting Upland Standard: 

 No 

 Due to historical timber harvest 

unrelated to current livestock 

management. 

Upland Objectives: 

	 Maintain vegetation in Potential Natural 

Community (PNC) in unlogged areas to 

reduce and prevent expansion of 

Kentucky bluegrass, timothy and thistle. 

Reduce abundance and production of 

invasive plants and noxious weeds. 

Meeting Riparian Health Standard: 

 No riparian habitat on public land exists 

within this allotment. 

Meeting Water Quality Standard: 

 N/A 

Meeting Biodiversity Standard: 

 No, due to historical logging activities. 

Biodiversity Objectives: 

 Maintain residual cover and increase 

native vegetation within the allotment. 

 Increase canopy cover and density of 

forest structure. 

Conforms with Guidelines for Livestock 

Grazing Management: 

 Yes 

Great Falls Area Grazing Lease Renewal 13 Chapter 2 
 

Proposed Action: The current permitted use 

would be modified as follows: 

Livestock

and kind 

# Season Public 

land 

Type use AUM 

5 Cattle 6/1 to 9/30 100 Custodial 20 

Total permitted use would remain 20 AUM’s. 

Lessee would complete removal of an 

unauthorized jack leg fence on southern 

boundary of parcel. Wires would be removed 

off-site. 

(2) BIG EDDY #06332 

Public acres – 120 

AUMs - 17 

Public land – 100% 

Livestock No. – 3 Cattle 

Season of Use – 9/1 to 2/28 

Type Use- Custodial 

Meeting Upland Standard: 

 Yes 

Upland Objectives: 

	 Maintain desirable bunchgrasses and 

native plant community to prevent 

spread and expansion of cheatgrass. 

Improve ecological condition class from 

mid-seral to late-seral or Potential 

Natural Community (PNC). 

Meeting Riparian Health Standard: 

 No riparian habitat on public land within 

this allotment. 

Meeting Water Quality Standard: 

 N/A 

Meeting Biodiversity Standard: 

 Yes 

Biodiversity Objectives: 

 Maintain condition of browse species 

within the allotment. 

Conforms with Guidelines for Livestock 

Grazing Management: 

 Yes 

Proposed Action: The current permitted use 

would be modified as follows to allow for use 

consistent with private crop fields fenced within 

the allotment: 

Livestock

and kind 

# Season Public 

land 

Type use AUM 

3 cattle 8/1-2/28 100 Custodial 17 

Total permitted use would remain 17 AUM’s. 

(3) BIRD CREEK #09812 

Public acres – 480 

AUMs - 43 

Public land – 100% 

Livestock No. – 11 Cattle 

Season of Use – 6/1 to 9/30 

Type Use – Custodial 

Meeting Upland Standard: 

 Yes 

Upland Objectives: 

 Maintain native plants in Potential 

Natural Community (PNC) 

 Reduce and prevent expansion of 

Kentucky bluegrass. 

Meeting Riparian Health Standard: 

 No riparian habitat on public land within 

this allotment. 

Meeting Water Quality Standard: 

 N/A 

Meeting Biodiversity Standard: 

 Yes 

Biodiversity Objectives: 

	 Maintain quality of elk and mule deer 

winter range and provide habitat for 

spring concentrations. 

Conforms with Guidelines for Livestock 

Grazing Management: 

 Yes 

Great Falls Area Grazing Lease Renewal 14 Chapter 2 
Proposed Action: Permitted use would continue 

as follows: 

Livestock

and kind 

# Season Public 

land 

Type use AUM 

11 Cattle 6/1 to 9/30 100 Custodial 43 

Total permitted use would remain 43 AUMs. 

BLM would change the name of this allotment 

to Upper Bird Creek to prevent confusion with 

Bird Creek Allotment #11190. 

(4) BIRD CREEK #11190 

Public acres – 40 

AUMs - 7 

Public land – 100% 

Livestock No. – 20 Cattle 

Season of Use – 3/1 to 2/28 

Type Use – Custodial 

Meeting Upland Standard: 

 Yes 

Upland Objectives: 

 Maintain native plant communities. 

 Reduce and prevent expansion of 

Kentucky bluegrass, cheatgrass, 

houndstongue and spotted knapweed. 

Meeting Riparian Health Standard: 

 No riparian habitat on public land within 

this allotment. 

Meeting Water Quality Standard: 

 N/A 

Meeting Biodiversity Standard: 

 Yes 

Biodiversity Objectives: 

	 Maintain quality of elk and mule deer 

winter range and provide habitat for 

spring concentrations. 

Conforms with Guidelines for Livestock 

Grazing Management: 

 Yes 

Proposed Action: The current permitted use 

would continue as follows: 

Livestock

and kind 

# Season Public 

land 

Type use AUM 

20 Cattle 3/1 to 2/28 100 Custodial 7 

Total permitted use would remain 7 AUM’s. 

The base property associated with the Bird 

Creek Allotment #11190 has changed 

ownership. Upon approval of the transfer by the 

authorized officer, BLM would transfer 7 

AUM’s of grazing preference to the current 

owners of the associated base property. The 

proposed action includes issuing a grazing lease 

to the new owner. Transfer of the grazing 

preference constitutes a name change only. 

Management of the allotment would remain 

within the family of the current lease holder. 

Management activities would continue to be 

consistent with the existing grazing management 

system included in the conservation easement 

outlined by the Montana Department of Fish, 

Wildlife and Parks. The grazing applications 

would be consistent with all mandatory terms 

and conditions of the lease analyzed in this 

document. 

BLM would change the name of this allotment 

to Lower Bird Creek to prevent confusion with 

Bird Creek Allotment #09812. 

(5) BLACK BUTTE #09723 

Public acres – 1,362 

AUMs - 190 

Public land – 100% 

Livestock No. – 38 Cattle 

Season of Use – 7/1-11/1 

Type Use - Custodial 

Meeting Upland Standard: 

	 No 

	 Due to predominance of introduced 

species, specifically timothy. 

Upland Objectives: 

 Reduce amounts and dominance of 

invasive species. 

Great Falls Area Grazing Lease Renewal 15 Chapter 2 
 

 

	 Increase cover and abundance of 

desirable species such as bluebunch 

wheatgrass and needlegrasses by 

allowing maturation of seed heads on 

individual plants of those species. 

Meeting Riparian Health Standard: 

 No riparian habitat on public land within 

this allotment. 

Meeting Water Quality Standard: 

 N/A 

Meeting Biodiversity Standard: 

 No 

 Due to the abundance of non-native, 

introduced species particularly timothy. 

Biodiversity objectives: 

 Increase diversity of native grasses and 

forbs. 

 Reduce production and abundance of 

timothy. 

Conforms with Guidelines for Livestock 

Grazing Management: 

 Yes 

Proposed Action: The current permitted use 

would continue as follows: 

Livestock

and kind 

# Season Public 

land 

Type use AUM 

38 Cattle 7/01 to 11/01 100 Custodial 190 

Total permitted use would remain 190 AUM’s 

The Ryan Coulee Allotment #06330 is also 

contained within this grazing lease. See (22) 

listed under Cascade County for provisions 

specific to this allotment. 

(6) BLACKFEET GULCH #06329 

Public acres – 40 

AUMs - 14 

Public land – 100% 

Livestock No. – 2 Cattle 

Season of Use – 5/1-10/31 

Type Use - Custodial 

Meeting Upland Standard: 

 Yes 

Upland Objectives: 

	 Maintain desirable bunchgrasses and 

native plant community to prevent 

spread and expansion of cheatgrass. 

Meeting Riparian Health Standard: 

 No riparian habitat on public land within 

this allotment. 

Meeting Water Quality Standard: 

 N/A 

Meeting Biodiversity Standard: 

 Yes 

Biodiversity Objectives: 

 Maintain good residual cover for ground 

nesting birds. 

Conforms with Guidelines for Livestock 

Grazing Management: 

 Yes 

Proposed Action: The current permitted use 

would continue as follows: 

Livestock

and kind 

# Season Public 

land 

Type use AUM 

2 Cattle 5/1-10/31 100% Custodial 14 

Total permitted use would remain 14 AUM’s 

Due to a BLM administrative error incurred 

during the 2000 transfer from Nuemayer Farms 

Inc, the grazing lease would be reissued to Elton 

Campbell Ranches Inc. 

The name of the allotment would be changed 

from Blackfeet Gulch to Portage. This would 

prevent confusion with Blackfeet Gulch 

Allotment #06335. 

(7) CALVERT #01166 

Public acres – 40 

AUMs - 8 

Public land – 100% 

Livestock No. – 1 cattle 

Season of Use – 6/1 to 11/01 

Type Use - Custodial 

Great Falls Area Grazing Lease Renewal 16 Chapter 2 
 

Meeting Upland Standard: 

 No 

 Livestock is considered to be a 

significant factor. 

Upland Objectives: 

 Increase overall residual forage. 

 Reduce amounts and dominance of 

invasive, noxious and increaser species 

particularly Kentucky bluegrass. 

	 Improve reproductive capability of 

desirable species such as bluebunch 

wheatgrass and needlegrasses by 

allowing maturation of seed heads on 

individual plants of those species. 

	 Decrease utilization of native 

bunchgrass and woody browse species 

such as currant. 

Meeting Riparian Health Standard: 

 No riparian habitat on public land within 

this allotment. 

Meeting Water Quality Standard: 

 N/A 

Meeting Biodiversity Standard: 

 No 

 Livestock is considered to be a 

significant factor. 

Biodiversity Objectives: 

	 Increase abundance and diversity of 

native forage and browse species for 

wildlife. 

Conforms with Guidelines for Livestock 

Grazing Management: 

	 No, the allotment does not conform to 

Lewistown Guidelines #1, #2, #4, #5, 

#9, #10, #11 and #12. 

Proposed Action: The current season of use 

would be modified to achieve significant 

progress toward meeting standards and 

guidelines for rangeland health. 

(8) DEVIL CANYON #09709 

Public acres – 480 

AUMs - 48 

Public land – 100% 

Livestock No. – 4 Cattle 

Season of Use – 3/1 to 2/28 

Type Use - Active 

Meeting Upland Standard: 

 Yes 

Upland Objectives: 

	 Maintain native plant community to 

prevent spread and expansion of noxious 

weeds and naturalized invasives such as 

timothy. 

Meeting Riparian Health Standard: 

 No riparian habitat on public land within 

this allotment. 

Meeting Water Quality Standard: 

 N/A 

Meeting Biodiversity Standard: 

 Yes 

Biodiversity Objectives: 

	 Maintain quality of elk winter range and 

spring concentration areas. Reduce 

conifer encroachment, particular in 

aspen stands. 

Conforms with Guidelines for Livestock 

Grazing Management: 

 Yes 

Proposed Action: The current permitted use 

would be modified as follows: 

Livestock

and kind 

# Season Public 

land 

Type use AUM 

4 Cattle 3/1 to 2/28 100 Custodial 48 

Total permitted use would remain 48 AUM’s. 

Livestock

and kind 

# Season Public 

land 

Type use AUM 

1 Cattle 7/1 to 10/15 100 Custodial 8 

Total permitted use would remain 8 AUM’s. 

Great Falls Area Grazing Lease Renewal 17 Chapter 2 
(9) FORD COULEE #07831 

Public acres – 150 

AUMs - 30 

Public land – 100% 

Livestock No. – 3 Cattle 

Season of Use – 6/1 to 11/15 

Type Use - Custodial 

Meeting Upland Standard: 

 Yes 

Upland Objectives: 

 Maintain desirable bunchgrasses and 

native plant community in late-seral or 

Potential Natural Community (PNC) to 

prevent spread and expansion of 

invasive species. 

Meeting Riparian Health Standard: 

 Yes 

Riparian Objectives: 

 Maintain the riparian area on Ford 

Coulee at or above proper functioning 

condition. 

 Maintain streamside vegetation and 

regeneration of preferred woody species 

such as willow. 

Meeting Water Quality Standard: 

 Yes 

Water Quality Objectives: 

 Continue to support healthy upland and 

riparian areas in order to mitigate nonpoint source pollution. 

 Maintain streambank vegetative cover 

of willow, sedges, and rushes. 

Meeting Biodiversity Standard: 

 Yes 

Biodiversity Objectives: 

 Maintain residual forage and cover for 

upland game bird nesting and mule deer 

winter range and spring concentration 

areas. 

Conforms with Guidelines for Livestock 

Grazing Management: 

 Yes 

Proposed Action: The current permitted use 

would continue as follows: 

Livestock

and kind 

# Season Public 

land 

Type use AUM 

3 Cattle 6/1 to 11/15 100 Custodial 30 

Total permitted use would remain 30 AUM’s. 

Due to a BLM administrative error incurred 

during the 1999 transfer from Whitetail Grazing 

Association, the grazing lease would be reissued 

to Pendergras Incorporated. 

(10) HARDY #06336 

Public acres – 200 

AUMs - 54 

Public land – 100% 

Livestock No. – 11 Cattle 

Season of Use – 5/1 to 9/30 

Type Use -Active 

Meeting Upland Standard: 

 No 

 Current livestock is not considered to be 

a significant factor in this rating. 

Upland Objectives: 

 Maintain residual forage. 

 Reduce amounts and dominance of 

invasive, noxious and increaser species 

particularly cheatgrass. 

	 Improve reproductive capability of 

desirable species such as bluebunch 

wheatgrass and needlegrasses by 

allowing maturation of seed heads on 

individual plants of those species. 

Meeting Riparian Health Standard: 

 No riparian habitat on public land within 

this allotment. 

Meeting Water Quality Standard: 

 N/A 

Meeting Biodiversity Standard: 

 No 

 Current livestock is not considered to be 

a significant factor. 

Great Falls Area Grazing Lease Renewal 18 Chapter 2 
 

Biodiversity Objectives 

	 Maintain and improve the native plant 

community and cover to reduce and 

prevent further expansion of noxious 

weeds and invasives grasses. 

Conforms with Guidelines for Livestock 

Grazing Management: 

 Yes 

Proposed Action: The current permitted use 

would continue as follows: 

Livestock

and kind 

# Season Public 

land 

Type use AUM 

11 Cattle 5/1 to 9/30 100 Active 55 

Total permitted use would remain 54 AUM’s. 

The base property associated with the Hardy 

Allotment #06336 has been held in an estate 

which is in the process of distribution.. Upon 

approval of the transfer by the authorized 

officer, BLM would transfer 54 AUM’s of 

grazing preference to the new owner of the 

associated base property. The proposed action 

includes issuing a new, revised grazing lease. 

Transfer of the grazing preference constitutes a 

name change only. Management of the allotment 

would likely remain within the family of the 

current lease holder. Management activities 

would continue to be consistent with the existing 

grazing lease. The grazing applications would be 

consistent with all mandatory terms and 

conditions of the lease analyzed in this 

document. 

(11) HARDY CREEK #06334 

Public acres – 401 

AUMs - 51 

Public land – 100% 

Livestock No. – 10 cattle 

Season of Use – 6/1 to 10/31 

Type Use - Custodial 

Meeting Upland Standard: 

 Yes 

Upland Objectives: 

	 Maintain desirable bunchgrasses and 

native plant community to prevent 

spread and expansion of cheatgrass, 

Kentucky bluegrass, smooth brome and 

other invasive and noxious plant 

species. 

Meeting Riparian Health Standard: 

 No riparian habitat on public land within 

this allotment. 

Meeting Water Quality Standard: 

 N/A 

Meeting Biodiversity Standard: 

 Yes 

Biodiversity Objectives: 

 Maintain quality of mule deer winter 

range and spring concentration areas. 

Conforms with Guidelines for Livestock 

Grazing Management: 

 Yes 

Proposed Action: Permitted use would continue 

as follows. 

Livestock

and kind 

# Season Public 

land 

Type use AUM 

10 Cattle 6/1 to 10/31 100 Custodial 51 

Total permitted use would remain 51 AUM’s. 

The North Antelope Mountain Allotment 

#06338 is also contained within this grazing 

lease. See (18) listed under Cascade County for 

provisions specific to this allotment. 

(12) HOUND #09747 

Public acres – 160 

AUMs - 35 

Public land – 100% 

Livestock No. – 7 cattle 

Season of Use – 6/1 to 10/31 

Type Use - Active 

Great Falls Area Grazing Lease Renewal 19 Chapter 2 
 

Meeting Upland Standard: 

 Yes 

Upland Objectives: 

	 Maintain desirable bunchgrass and 

native plant community in a late seral to 

Potential Natural Community (PNC) 

ecological condition rating. 

Meeting Riparian Standard: 

 No riparian habitat on public land within 

this allotment. 

Meeting Water Quality Standard: 

 N/A 

Meeting Biodiversity Standard: 

 Yes 

Biodiversity Objectives: 

 Maintain residual cover for ground 

nesting birds and mule deer. 

Conforms with Guidelines for Livestock 

Grazing Management: 

 Yes 

Proposed Action: The current permitted use 

would be modified as follows: 

Potential Natural Community (PNC) 

ecological condition rating. 

Meeting Riparian Health Standard: 

 No riparian habitat on public land within 

this allotment. 

Meeting Water Quality Standard: 

 N/A 

Meeting Biodiversity Standard: 

 Yes 

Biodiversity Objectives: 

	 Maintain residual cover for ground 

nesting birds and other wildlife species 

within the allotment. 

Conforms with Guidelines for Livestock 

Grazing Management: 

 Yes 

Proposed Action: Permitted use would continue 

as follows: 

Livestock

and kind 

# Season Public 

land 

Type use AUM 

90 Cattle 6/1 to 9/30 17 Active 61 

Total permitted use would remain 62 AUM’s. 

Livestock

and kind 

# Season Public 

land 

Type use AUM 

7 Cattle 6/1 to 10/31 100 Custodial 35 

Total permitted use would remain 35 AUM’s. 

(13) LOWER FLAT CREEK #06331 

Public acres – 321 

AUMs - 62 

Public land – 17% 

Livestock No. – 90 cattle 

Season of Use – 6/1-9/30 

Type Use - Active 

Meeting Upland Standard: 

 Yes 

Upland Objectives: 

 Maintain desirable bunchgrass and 

native plant community in a late seral to 

(14) LOWER SAND COULEE #09836 

Public acres – 559 

AUMs - 55 

Public land – 100 

Livestock No. – 18 Cattle 

Season of Use – 6/15 to 9/15 

Type Use – Active 

Meeting Upland Standard: 

 Yes 

Upland Objectives: 

 Increase overall residual forage. 

 Improve infiltration by reducing 

coverage of clubmoss. 

	 Reduce amounts and dominance of other 

invasive and increaser species such as 

timothy and shrubby cinquefoil. 

Great Falls Area Grazing Lease Renewal 20 Chapter 2 
 

	 Improve reproductive capability of 

desirable species such as bluebunch 

wheatgrass and needlegrasses by 

allowing maturation of seed heads on 

individual plants of those species. 

	 Decrease utilization of native 

bunchgrass. 

Meeting Riparian Health Standard: 

 No riparian habitat on public land within 

this allotment. 

Meeting Water Quality Standard: 

 N/A 

Meeting Biodiversity Standard: 

 Yes 

Biodiversity Objectives: 

 Increase abundance and diversity of 

native forage. 

	 Improve habitat structure and site 

production by reducing coverage of 

clubmoss. 

Conforms with Guidelines for Livestock 

Grazing Management: 

 Yes 

Proposed Action: The current permitted use 

would be modified as follows: 

Livestock

and kind 

# Season Public 

land 

Type use AUM 

18 Cattle 6/15 to 9/15 100 Custodial 55 

Total permitted use would remain 55 AUM’s. 

(15) MIDDLE CREEK #09704 

Public acres – 960 

AUMs - 111 

Public land – 100% 

Livestock No. – 28 Cattle 

Season of Use – 6/1 to 9/29 

Type Use - Active 

Meeting Upland Standard: 

 Yes 

Upland Objectives: 

	 Maintain desirable bunchgrass and 

native plant community in a late seral to 

Potential Natural Community (PNC) 

ecological condition rating. 

Meeting Riparian Health Standard: 

 No riparian habitat on public land within 

this allotment. 

Meeting Water Quality Standard: 

 N/A 

Meeting Biodiversity Standard: 

 Yes 

Biodiversity Objectives: 

 Maintain residual cover and native 

vegetation within the allotment. 

Conforms with Guidelines for Livestock 

Grazing Management: 

 Yes 

Proposed Action: The current permitted use 

would be modified as follows: 

Livestock

and kind 

# Season Public 

land 

Type use AUM 

28 Cattle 6/1 to 9/29 100 Custodial 111 

Total permitted use would remain 111 AUM’s. 

(16) MING COULEE #09715 

Public acres – 319 

AUMs - 15 

Public land – 100% 

Livestock No. – 7 Cattle 

Season of Use – 7/1 to 8/31 

Type Use - Active 

Meeting Upland Standard: 

 Yes 

Upland Objectives: 

 Maintain desirable bunchgrass and 

native plant community in a late seral to 

Potential Natural Community (PNC) 

ecological condition rating. 

Great Falls Area Grazing Lease Renewal 21 Chapter 2 
Meeting Riparian Health Standard: 

 No riparian habitat on public land within 

this allotment. 

Meeting Water Quality Standard: 

 N/A 

Meeting Biodiversity Standard: 

 Yes 

Biodiversity Objectives: 

	 Provide residual forage and browse for 

the maintenance of high quality elk and 

mule deer winter range and spring 

concentrations areas found within the 

allotment. 

Conforms with Guidelines for Livestock 

Grazing Management: 

 Yes 

Proposed Action: The current permitted use 

would be modified as follows: 

Livestock

and kind 

# Season Public 

land 

Type use AUM 

7 Cattle 7/1 to 8/31 100 Custodial 15 

Total permitted use would remain 15 AUM’s.

 (17) MONARCH #09722 

Public acres – 165 

AUMs - 5 

Public land – 100% 

Livestock No. – 1 Cattle 

Season of Use – 5/20 to 12/31 

Type Use - Active 

Meeting Upland Standard: 

 Yes 

Upland Objectives: 

	 Prevent expansion of non-native species 

such as timothy and brome from 

adjacent private lands to the north. 

	 Maintain native upland plant 

community. 

Meeting Riparian Health Standard: 

 Yes 

Riparian Objectives: 

 Maintain streambank vegetative cover. 

	 Maintain riparian species such as redosier dogwood. 

Meeting Water Quality Standard: 

 Yes 

Water Quality Objectives: 

 Maintain upland and riparian vegetative 

cover. 

Meeting Biodiversity Standard: 

 Yes 

Biodiversity Objectives: 

	 Reduce conifer encroachment in and 

around aspen groves and areas of aspen 

expansion. 

Conforms with Guidelines for Livestock 

Grazing Management: 

	 Yes 

Proposed Action: Historical base properties 

associated with this allotment were subdivided 

prior to lease issuance by BLM in 1983. Lessee 

has maintained BLM grazing lease through a 

series of private tract lease payments, ownership 

retention of deeded parcels, and application of 

state fence laws. Lessee has submitted revised 

base property (grazing application 4130-1a) and 

documentation of control of listed property. 

During the comment period for the preliminary 

EA, BLM offered consideration of conflicting 

applications for permitted use associated with 

this allotment. No other grazing applications 

from adjacent property owners or other qualified 

applicants were received. The proposed action 

includes continuation of administration with the 

current leaseholder. Listed base property would 

be revised as offered on grazing application 

4130-1a. 

The permitted use would be modified as follows: 

Livestock

and kind 

# Season Public 

land 

Type use AUM 

1 Cattle 5/20 to 12/31 100 Custodial 5 

Total permitted use would remain 5 AUM’s. 

Great Falls Area Grazing Lease Renewal 22 Chapter 2 
(18) N. ANTELOPE MOUNTAIN #06338 

Public acres – 40 

AUMs - 8 

Public land – 100% 

Livestock No. – 1 Cattle 

Season of Use – 5/1 to 9/30 

Type Use - Custodial 

Meeting Upland Standard: 

 Yes 

Upland Objectives: 

	 Maintain desirable bunchgrass and 

native plant community in a Potential 

Natural Community (PNC) ecological 

condition rating. 

Meeting Riparian Health Standard: 

 No known riparian habitat on public 

land within this allotment. 

Meeting Water Quality Standard: 

 N/A 

Meeting Biodiversity Standard: 

 Yes 

Biodiversity Objectives: 

	 Maintain quality of mule deer winter 

range and provide habitat for spring 

concentrations. 

Conforms with Guidelines for Livestock 

Grazing Management: 

 Yes 

Proposed Action: Permitted use would continue 

as follows: 

Livestock

and kind 

# Season Public 

land 

Type use AUM 

1 Cattle 5/1 to 9/30 100 Custodial 8 

Total permitted use would remain 8 AUM’s. 

The Hardy Creek Allotment #06334 is also 

contained within this grazing lease. See #11 

listed under Cascade County for provisions 

specific to this allotment. 

(19) N. FORK SHEEP CR. #09726 

Public acres – 2,614 

AUMs - 158 

Public land – 100% 

Livestock No. – 40 Cattle 

Season of Use – 6/1 to 9/30 

Type Use - Active 

Meeting Upland Standard: 

 Yes 

Upland Objectives: 

	 Maintain native plant community in a 

Potential Natural Community (PNC) 

ecological condition rating. 

Meeting Riparian Health Standard: 

 Yes 

Riparian Objectives: 

	 Maintain woody communities of 

cottonwood, alder, and red-osier 

dogwood. 

Meeting Water Quality Standard: 

 Yes 

Water Quality Objectives: 

	 Maintain existing beneficial uses of 

North Fork of Sheep Creek, including 

cold water fishery. 

Meeting Biodiversity Standard: 

 Yes 

Biodiversity Objectives: 

	 Maintain quality of elk and mule deer 

winter range and provide habitat for 

spring concentrations. 

Conforms with Guidelines for Livestock 

Grazing Management: 

 Yes 

Proposed Action: The current permitted use 

would be modified as follows: 

Livestock

and kind 

# Season Public 

land 

Type use AUM 

40 Cattle 6/1 to 9/30 100 Custodial 158 

Total permitted use would remain 158 AUM’s. 

Great Falls Area Grazing Lease Renewal 23 Chapter 2 
 

 

(20) PAUL CREEK #07618 

Public acres – 120 

AUMs - 8 

Public land – 100% 

Livestock No. – 2 Horses 

Season of Use – 6/1 to 9/30 

Type Use - Custodial 

Meeting Upland Standard: 

 Yes 

Upland Objectives: 

	 Maintain desirable bunchgrasses and 

native plant community to prevent 

spread and expansion of cheatgrass and 

other annual invasives. 

Meeting Riparian Health Standard: 

 Yes 

Riparian Objectives: 

 Maintain streambank vegetative cover. 

Meeting Water Quality Standard: 

 Yes 

Water Quality Objectives: 

 Maintain upland and riparian vegetative 

cover. 

Meeting Biodiversity Standard: 

 Yes 

Biodiversity Objectives: 

 Maintain residual cover and native 

vegetation within the allotment. 

Conforms with Guidelines for Livestock 

Grazing Management: 

 Yes 

Proposed Action: The current permitted use 

would continue as follows: 

Livestock

and kind 

# Season Public 

land 

Type use AUM 

2 Horses 6/1 to 9/30 100 Custodial 8 

Total permitted use would remain 8 AUM’s. 

The Sugarloaf Allotment #11186 is also 

contained within this grazing lease. See (27) 

listed under Cascade County for provisions 

specific to this allotment. 

(21) RIVER TRACT # 09691 

Public acres – 100 

AUMs - 25 

Public land – 100% 

Livestock No. – 6 Cattle 

Season of Use – 11/1 to 2/28 

Type Use - Custodial 

Meeting Upland Standard: 

 No 

 Current livestock management 

considered to be a significant factor. 

Upland Objectives: 

	 Decrease and prevent further expansion 

of noxious weeds and naturalized 

invasive grass species, particularly 

Kentucky bluegrass, smooth brome, and 

cheatgrass 

Meeting Riparian Health Standard: 

 No 

Riparian Objectives: 

 Improve the riparian area on the 

Missouri River to PFC or above. 

 Decrease the percent streambank 

composition of Kentucky bluegrass. 

Meeting Water Quality Standard: 

 No 

Water Quality Objectives: 

 Increase streambank stability. 

 Decrease percent streambank alteration. 

Meeting Biodiversity Standard: 

 No 

Biodiversity Objectives: 

 Improve structure and browse by 

increasing shrub component. 

 Decrease mortality of sandbar willow. 

Conforms with Guidelines for Livestock 

Grazing Management: 

 Yes 

Proposed Action: The pasture containing BLM 

lands would be rested in 2010 and 2011. 

Subsequent grazing would annually defer hot 

Great Falls Area Grazing Lease Renewal 24 Chapter 2 
 

 

season grazing to promote riparian vegetation. 

Current permitted use would be modified as 

follows to achieve significant progress towards 

meeting rangeland health standards: 

Livestock

and kind 

# Season Public 

land 

Type use AUM 

4 Cattle 9/15 to 12/15 

3/1 to 5/31 

100 Custodial 12 

12 

Total permitted use would remain 25 AUM’s. 

The following term and condition would be 

added to the permit: 

Custodial grazing is authorized during either 

spring or fall season for the grazing year. 

Grazing use will not exceed the recognized 

carrying capacity of the public land. This 

allotment may be used in conjunction with your 

normal operation as long as standards for 

rangeland health are being met or significant 

progress is made toward meeting those 

standards. Grazing use will be in conformance 

with Guidelines for Livestock Management (43 

CFR 4180). 

The Crooked Creek Allotment #09688 is 

contained within this grazing lease. See (5) 

listed under Meagher County for provisions 

specific to this allotment. 

(22) RYAN COULEE #06330 

Public acres – 251 

AUMs - 51 

Public land – 100% 

Livestock No. – 17 Cattle 

Season of Use – 11/10 to 2/12 

Type Use - Custodial 

Meeting Upland Standard: 

 Yes 

Upland Objectives: 

 Maintain desirable bunchgrasses, 

decreaser forb species and native shrub 

community to prevent spread and 

expansion of annual invasive species 

such as cheatgrass. 

Meeting Riparian Health Standard: 

 Yes 

Riparian Objectives: 

 Maintain functionality of the spring 

within the allotment. 

Meeting Water Quality Standard: 

 Yes 

Water Quality Objectives: 

 Maintain vegetative buffer around 

spring site. 

Meeting Biodiversity Standard: 

 Yes 

Biodiversity Objectives: 

 Maintain residual cover for ground 

nesting birds and mule deer. 

Conforms with Guidelines for Livestock 

Grazing Management: 

 Yes 

Proposed Action: The permitted use would be 

modified as follows to coincide with grazing on 

adjacent croplands. 

Livestock

and kind 

# Season Public 

land 

Type use AUM 

17 Cattle 12/1 to 2/28 100 Custodial 51 

Total permitted use would remain 51 AUM’s. 

The Black Butte Allotment #09723 is also 

contained within this grazing lease. See (5) 

listed under Cascade County for provisions 

specific to this allotment. 

(23) SAND COULEE #09820 

Public acres – 80 

AUMs - 3 

Public land – 100% 

Livestock No. – 3 Cattle 

Season of Use – 6/1 to 10/31 

Type Use - Custodial 

Meeting Upland Standard: 

 Yes 

Great Falls Area Grazing Lease Renewal 25 Chapter 2 
 

Upland Objectives: 

	 Maintain desirable bunchgrasses, 

decreaser forb species and native shrub 

community to prevent spread and 

expansion of naturalized invasive 

species such as timothy, Kentucky 

bluegrass and smooth brome. 

Meeting Riparian Health Standard: 

 No riparian habitat on public land within 

this allotment. 

Meeting Water Quality Standard: 

 N/A 

Meeting Biodiversity Standard: 

 Yes 

Biodiversity Objectives: 

	 Maintain residual forage, and browse for 

the maintenance of elk and mule deer 

range. 

Conforms with Guidelines for Livestock 

Grazing Management: 

 Yes 

Proposed Action: The current permitted use 

would continue as follows: 

Livestock

and kind 

# Season Public 

land 

Type use AUM 

3 Cattle 6/1 to 10/31 100 Custodial 3 

Total permitted use would remain 3 AUM’s. 

(24) SIMMS CREEK #06328 

Public acres – 160 

AUMs - 59 

Public land – 100% 

Livestock No. – 15 

Season of Use – 12/15-4/15 

Type Use - Custodial 

Meeting Upland Standard: 

 No 

 Current livestock is a significant factor. 

Upland Objectives: 

 Decrease utilization of native 

bunchgrass and browse species. 

 Increase residual forage. 

 Reduce amounts and dominance of 

invasive, noxious and increaser species 

such as Japanese brome, Kentucky 

bluegrass, Canada thistle, fringed 

sagewort, blue grama and dandelion. 

	 Reduce coverage of clubmoss to 

improve infiltration and overall site 

production. 

	 Improve reproductive capability of 

desirable species by allowing maturation 

of seed heads on individual plants of 

those species. 

Meeting Riparian Health Standard: 

 No riparian habitat on public land within 

this allotment. 

Meeting Water Quality Standard: 

 n/a 

Meeting Biodiversity Standard: 

 No 

Biodiversity Objectives: 

	 Increase abundance and diversity of 

native forage and browse species for 

wildlife. 

Conforms with Guidelines for Livestock 

Grazing Management: 

 No 

 Lewistown Guidelines #1, #2, #4, #10, 

#11, #12 are not being met due to 

current and historical utilization from 

livestock which has resulted in a loss of 

bunchgrass community and lack of 

residual cover. 

Proposed Action: Winter use cannot be 

implemented due to lack of available water in 

this pasture during these months. The current 

permitted use would be modified to defer 

grazing until maturation for cool season 

bunchgrass species. 

Great Falls Area Grazing Lease Renewal 26 Chapter 2 
The Simms Creek Allotment would be permitted 

as follows: 

Livestock

and kind 

# Season Public 

land 

Type use AUM 

20 Cattle 8/1 to 10/31 100 Custodial 59 

Total permitted use would remain 59 AUM’s. 

The 2.5 mile cross-fence located on boundary of 

Sections 19 and 20 extending southward into 

Section 29 would be repaired. This fence exists 

solely on deeded land, however, it is necessary 

to provide management of the pasture that 

includes BLM lands. Repair of this fence would 

prevent season-long grazing use within this 

pasture and allow for improved management. 

(25) SOUTH CANAL DITCH #06326 

Public acres – 40 

AUMs - 13 

Public land – 100% 

Livestock No. – 2 Cattle 

Season of Use – 6/1 to 10/31 

Type Use - Custodial 

Meeting Upland Standard: 

 No 

 Current livestock management is 

considered to be a significant factor. 

Upland Objectives: 

 Decrease utilization of native bunchgrass 

and browse species. 

 Increase residual forage. 

 Reduce amounts and dominance of 

invasive, noxious and increaser species 

such as Japanese brome, Kentucky 

bluegrass, Canada thistle, fringe 

sagewort, blue grama and dandelion. 

	 Reduce coverage of clubmoss to improve 

infiltration and overall site production. 

	 Improve reproductive capability of 

desirable species, particularly bluebunch 

wheatgrass and other native 

bunchgrasses by allowing maturation of 

seed heads on individual plants of those 

species. 

Meeting Riparian Health Standard: 

 No 

Riparian Objectives: 

	 Improve the riparian area on the 

unnamed tributary to Muddy Creek to 

PFC or above. 

	 Decrease utilization of streambank 

stabilizer plant species. 

Meeting Water Quality Standard: 

 No 

Water Quality Objectives: 

 Decrease width/depth ratios and percent 

streambank alteration. 

Meeting Biodiversity Standard: 

 No 

Biodiversity Objectives: 

 Increase native forage, browse and 

cover for wildlife. 

Conforms with Guidelines for Livestock 

Grazing Management: 

 No. 

 The allotment does not conform with 

Lewistown Guidelines for livestock 

management #1, #2, #4, #10, #11, #12 

due to heavy utilization from livestock 

which has resulted in a loss of 

bunchgrass community, lack of residual 

cover, altered stream bed and banks, 

heavy browse on woody species, and 

dominance of invasive, increaser and 

noxious species. 

Proposed Action: The pasture containing BLM 

and Bureau of Reclamation (BOR) lands was 

rested in 2009. It will receive an additional year 

of rest for the 2010 grazing season. Two years of 

rest would be followed by implementation of an 

alternating grazing system that would rest the 

pasture in even numbered years and use the 

pasture in uneven numbered years. In years 

grazing is authorized, use would be deferred 

during the hot season. The current permitted use 

would be modified to achieve significant 

progress toward meeting standards and 

guidelines for rangeland health. 

Great Falls Area Grazing Lease Renewal 27 Chapter 2 
 

The South Canal Ditch Allotment would be 

permitted as follows: 

Livestock

and kind 

# Season Public 

land 

Type use AUM 

1 Cattle 9/1 to 2/28 

3/1 to 5/31 

100 custodial 6 

3 

Total permitted use would remain 13 AUM’s. 

The following term and condition would be 

incorporated into the grazing lease: 

* Grazing use will occur in odd-numbered years 

(2011, 2013, 2015, 2017, 2019, 2021). Custodial 

grazing is authorized during either spring or fall 

season of those years. Grazing will not exceed 

the recognized carrying capacity of the public 

land. This allotment may be used in conjunction 

with your normal operation as long as standards 

for rangeland health are being met or 

significant progress is made toward meeting 

those standards. Grazing use will be in 

conformance with Guidelines for Livestock 

Management (43 CFR 4180). 

If no significant progress is made toward 

achieving standards within five years, a watergap would be incorporated into a cross fence 

originating in the NW1/4SW1/4NE1/4 of 

Section 8 (T21N, R1E). The water gap would 

be constructed allowing access from BOR lands 

to water along the South Canal Ditch. The cross 

fence would extend eastward approximately 

1400’. The pasture containing BLM lands would 

be rested for the remainder of the term of the 

lease. BLM would provide materials for the 

water gap and fence. Lessee would provide 

construction and maintenance. Materials and 

specifications for the fence would be determined 

through cooperative agreement between the 

lessee and BLM. 

(26) S. FORK SHEEP CR. #09655 

Public acres – 768 

AUMs - 35 

Public land – 100% 

Livestock No. – 2 Cattle

 10 Cattle 

Season of Use – 6/1 to 8/31 

Type Use - Active 

Meeting Upland Standard: 

 Yes 

Upland Objectives: 

 Maintain native plant community in a 

late seral to Potential Natural 

Community (PNC) ecological condition 

rating. 

Meeting Riparian Health Standard: 

 Yes 

Riparian Objectives: 

 Maintain woody communities of 

cottonwood, red-osier dogwood, and 

Rocky Mountain maple. 

Meeting Water Quality Standard: 

 Yes 

Water Quality Objectives: 

 Maintain existing beneficial uses of 

South Fork of Sheep Creek, including 

cold water fishery. 

Meeting Biodiversity Standard: 

 Yes 

Biodiversity Objectives: 

 Maintain residual cover, riparian and 

upland browse species and other native 

vegetation within the allotment. 

Conforms with Guidelines for Livestock 

Grazing Management: Yes 

Proposed Action: The current permitted use 

would be modified as follows: 

Livestock

and kind 

# Season Public 

land 

Type use AUM 

12 Cattle 6/1 to 8/31 100 Custodial 35 

Total permitted use would remain 35 AUM’s. 

Great Falls Area Grazing Lease Renewal 28 Chapter 2 
 

(27) SUGARLOAF #11186 

Public acres – 120 Acres 

AUMs - 10 

Public land – 100% 

Livestock No. – 2 Horses 

Season of Use – 7/1 to 10/31 

Type Use - Custodial 

Meeting Upland Standard: 

 Yes 

Upland Objectives: 

	 Maintain native plant community in a 

late seral to Potential Natural 

Community (PNC) ecological condition 

rating. Prevent expansion of annual 

invasive grass species such as cheatgrass 

and Japanese brome. 

Meeting Riparian Health Standard: 

 No riparian habitat on public land within 

this allotment. 

Meeting Water Quality Standard: 

 N/A 

Meeting Biodiversity Standard: 

 Yes 

Biodiversity Objectives: 

	 Maintain residual cover for ground 

nesting birds, mule deer and other 

wildlife species. 

Conforms with Guidelines for Livestock 

Grazing Management: 

 Yes 

Proposed Action: The current permitted use 

would continue as follows: 

Livestock

and kind 

# Season Public 

land 

Type use AUM 

2 Horses 7/1 to 10/31 100 Custodial 10 

Total permitted use would remain 10 AUM’s. 

The Paul Creek Allotment #07618 is also 

contained within this grazing lease. See #20 

listed under Cascade County for provisions 

specific to this allotment. 

(28) SUN RIVER DITCH #06327 

Public acres – 114 

AUMs – 30 

Public land – 100% 

Livestock No. – 8 Cattle 

Season of Use – 8/1 to 12/31 

Type Use - Custodial 

Meeting Upland Standard: 

 No 

Upland Objectives: 

	 Maintain native plant community in a 

late seral to Potential Natural 

Community (PNC) ecological condition 

rating. Restore approximately 23 acres of 

farmed ground to native rangelands. 

Meeting Riparian Health Standard: 

 No riparian habitat on public land within 

this allotment. 

Meeting Water Quality Standard: 

 N/A 

Meeting Biodiversity Standard: 

 No 

Biodiversity Objectives: 

	 Maintain and expand residual cover and 

habitat for ground nesting birds, mule 

deer and other wildlife species. 

Conforms with Guidelines for Livestock 

Grazing Management: Yes 

Proposed Action: The current permitted use 

would continue as follows: 

Livestock

and kind 

# Season Public 

land 

Type use AUM 

8 Cattle 8/1 to 12/31 100 Custodial 30 

Total permitted use would remain 30 AUM’s. 

Approximately 23 acres of BLM lands have 

been converted to cropland within this allotment. 

BLM would consult with lessees to determine 

boundaries and extent of agricultural trespass. 

BLM would provide a species list appropriate 

for soil type and ecological site. Lessee would 

Great Falls Area Grazing Lease Renewal 29 Chapter 2 
 

provide seed, labor and fencing, (if required) to 

reseed and restore affected areas. 

(29) TIGER BUTTE #07832 

Public acres – 520 

AUMs – 20 

Public land – 10% 

Livestock No. – 40 Cattle 

Season of Use – 6/1 to 10/31 

Type Use - Active 

Meeting Upland Standard: 

 Yes 

Upland Objectives: 

	 Maintain native plant community in a 

late seral to Potential Natural 

Community (PNC) ecological condition 

rating. 

Meeting Riparian Health Standard: 

 No riparian habitat on public land within 

this allotment. 

Meeting Water Quality Standard: 

 N/A 

Meeting Biodiversity Standard: 

 Yes 

Biodiversity Objectives: 

 Maintain residual cover and native 

vegetation within the allotment. 

Conforms with Guidelines for Livestock 

Grazing Management: 

 Yes 

Proposed Action: The current permitted use 

would be modified as follows: 

Livestock

and kind 

# Season Public 

land 

Type use AUM 

4 Cattle 6/1 to 10/31 100 Custodial 20 

Total permitted use would remain 20 AUM’s. 

The base property associated with the Tiger 

Butte Allotment #07832 has changed ownership. 

Upon approval of the transfer by the authorized 

officer, BLM would transfer 20 AUM’s of 

grazing preference to the current owners of the 

associated base property. The proposed action 

includes issuing a grazing lease to the new 

owner. Transfer of the grazing preference 

constitutes a name change only. Management of 

the allotment would remain within the family of 

the current lease holder. Management activities 

would continue to be consistent with the existing 

grazing management system. The grazing 

applications would be consistent with all 

mandatory terms and conditions of the lease 

analyzed in this document. 

(30) TINTINGER SLOUGH #06337 

Public acres – 17 

AUMs - 3 

Public land – 2% 

Livestock No. –30 Cattle 

Season of Use – 5/15 to 10/01 

Type Use - Active 

Meeting Upland Standard: 

 No 

 Current livestock management is not a 

significant factor. 

Upland Objectives: 

	 Reduce dominance of naturalized 

invasive grass species (timothy, 

Kentucky bluegrass smooth brome) and 

noxious weeds such as Canada thistle. 

Increase desirable bunchgrasses such as 

bluebunch wheatgrass and Idaho fescue. 

Meeting Riparian Health Standard: 

 Yes 

Riparian Objectives: 

 Maintain riparian area on Missouri 

River in PFC or above. 

 Maintain multiple age classes of willow 

species. 

Meeting Water Quality Standard: 

 Yes 

Great Falls Area Grazing Lease Renewal 30 Chapter 2 
 

Water Quality Objectives: 

	 Maintain streambank stabilizer plant 

species and willow composition to 

mitigate non-point source pollution into 

the Missouri River. 

Meeting Biodiversity Standard: 

 No 

Biodiversity Objectives: 

	 Maintain native shrub component. 

Increase production of cool season 

native grasses. 

Conforms with Guidelines for Livestock 

Grazing Management: 

 Yes 

Proposed Action: The current permitted use 

would continue as follows: 

Livestock

and kind 

# Season Public 

land 

Type use AUM 

30 cattle 5/15 to 10/01 2 Active 3 

Total permitted use would remain 3 AUM’s. 

The grazing lease would be reissued to Taft 

Ranch Company. 

(31) TOMS GULCH #07762 

Public acres – 700 

AUMs - 19 

Public land – 100% 

Livestock No. – 2 Horses 

Season of Use – 5/1 to 11/30 

Type Use - Active 

Meeting Upland Standard: 

 Yes 

Upland Objectives: 

	 Maintain native plant community in a 

late seral to Potential Natural 

Community (PNC) ecological condition 

rating. 

Meeting Riparian Health Standard: 

 No riparian habitat on public land within 

the allotment. 

Meeting Water Quality Standard: 

 N/A 

Meeting Biodiversity Standard: 

 Yes 

Biodiversity Objectives: 

	 Maintain quality of elk and mule deer 

winter range and provide habitat for 

spring concentrations. 

Conforms with Guidelines for Livestock 

Grazing Management: 

 Yes 

Proposed Action: The current permitted use 

would be modified as follows: 

Livestock

and kind 

# Season Public 

land 

Type use AUM 

2 Horses 5/1 to 11/30 100 Custodial 19 

Total permitted use would remain 19 AUM’s. 

(32) UPPER PASTURE #02558 

Public acres – 50 

AUMs - 10 

Public land – 100% 

Livestock No. – 1 cattle 

Season of Use – 3/1 to 2/28 

Type Use - Custodial 

Meeting Upland Standard: 

 Yes 

Upland Objectives: 

 Maintain desirable bunchgrass and native 

plant community in a Potential Natural 

Community (PNC) ecological condition 

rating. 

Meeting Riparian Health Standard: 

 No riparian habitat on public land within 

the allotment. 

Meeting Water Quality Standard: 

 N/A 

Meeting Biodiversity Standard: 

 Yes 

Great Falls Area Grazing Lease Renewal 31 Chapter 2 
Biodiversity Objectives: 

 Maintain residual forage for mule deer 

winter range and provide habitat for 

spring concentrations. 

 Conforms with Guidelines for Livestock 

Grazing Management: Yes 

Proposed Action: The current permitted use 

would be modified as follows: 

Livestock

and kind 

# Season Public 

land 

Type use AUM 

1 Cattle 

1 Horse 

3/1 to 2/28 

3/1 to 2/28 

100 

100 

Custodial 

Custodial 

5 

5 

Total permitted use would remain 10 AUM’s. 

(33) WATER TANK SMITH RIVER #09806 

Public acres – 328 

AUMs - 70 

Public land – 100% 

Livestock No. – 12 Cattle 

Season of Use – 6/1 to 11/30 

Type Use – Active 

Meeting Upland Standard: 

 Yes 

Upland Objectives: 

	 Maintain native plant community in a 

late seral to Potential Natural 

Community (PNC) ecological condition 

rating. Prevent and reduce presence of 

noxious weeds, particularly spotted 

knapweed. 

Meeting Riparian Health Standard: 

 No riparian habitat on public land within 

this allotment. 

Meeting Water Quality Standard: 

 n/a 

Meeting Biodiversity Standard: 

 Yes 

Biodiversity Objectives: 

 Maintain residual cover and native 

vegetation within the allotment. 

	 Prevent spread and reduce presence of 

spotted knapweed and other invasive 

species which are known to occur on 

this allotment. 

Conforms with Guidelines for Livestock 

Grazing Management: Yes. There were no signs 

of current livestock grazing. 

Proposed Action: The lease would be reissued 

to new applicants as follows: 

Livestock

and kind 

# Season Public 

land 

Type use AUM 

12 Cattle 6/1 to 11/30 100 Custodial 70 

Total permitted use would remain 70 AUM’s. 

The grazing lease was terminated on October 30, 

2006 for failure of former lessee to provide 

documentation of control of base property. In 

March 2010, the adjacent landowners submitted 

grazing applications 4130-1, 4130-1a, 4130-1b 

and 4120-8 along with documentation of control 

of base property and have met all other 

qualifications to hold a grazing lease. The 

grazing applications are consistent with the 

mandatory terms and conditions analyzed in this 

document. No conflicting applications have been 

received. 

(34) W. FORK HOUND CR. #09780 

Public acres – 541 

AUMs - 17 

Public land – 100% 

Livestock No. – 4 Cattle 

Season of Use – 6/1 to 10/15 

Type Use - Custodial 

Meeting Upland Standard: 

 Yes 

Upland Objectives: 

 Maintain native plant community in a 

late seral to Potential Natural 

Community (PNC) ecological condition 

rating. 

Great Falls Area Grazing Lease Renewal 32 Chapter 2 
 

Meeting Riparian Health Standard: 

 No riparian habitat on public land within 

this allotment. 

Meeting Water Quality Standard: 

 N/A 

Meeting Biodiversity Standard: 

 Yes 

Biodiversity Objectives: 

 Maintain residual forage for elk and 

mule deer summer range. 

Conforms with Guidelines for Livestock 

Grazing Management: 

	 Yes 

Proposed Action: The current permitted use 

would continue as follows: 

Livestock

and kind 

# Season Public 

land 

Type use AUM 

4 Cattle 6/1 to 10/15 100 Custodial 17 

Total permitted use would remain 17 AUM’s. 

The base property associated with the West Fork 

Hound Creek Allotment #09780 has changed 

ownership. Upon approval of the transfer by the 

authorized officer, BLM would transfer 17 

AUM’s of grazing preference to the current 

owners of the associated base property. The 

proposed action includes issuing a grazing lease 

to the current owner. Transfer of the grazing 

preference constitutes a name change only. 

Management of the allotment would remain 

within the family of the current lease holder. 

Management activities would continue to be 

consistent with the existing grazing management 

system. The grazing applications would be 

consistent with all mandatory terms and 

conditions of the lease analyzed in this 

document. 

(35) WILLOW CREEK #07775 

Public acres – 81 

AUMs - 12 

Public land – 47% 

Livestock No. – 20 Cattle 

Season of Use – 7/2 to 8/10 

Type Use - Custodial 

Meeting Upland Standard: 

 No 

 Current livestock management is not 

considered to be a significant factor. 

Upland Objectives: 

 Reduce naturalized invasive species 

such as Kentucky bluegrass and timothy 

	 Improve reproductive capability of 

desirable species by allowing maturation 

of seed heads on individual plants of 

those species, particularly bluebunch 

wheatgrass, Columbia/Richardson’s 

needlegrass and rough fescue. 

Meeting Riparian Health Standard: 

 No riparian habitat on public land within 

this allotment. 

Meeting Water Quality Standard: 

 N/A 

Meeting Biodiversity Standard: 

 Yes 

Biodiversity Objectives: 

 Increase coverage and residual native 

bunchgrasses. 

 Maintain desirable shrub species such as 

serviceberry, chokecherry and currant. 

 Maintain aspen component. 

Conforms with Guidelines for Livestock 

Grazing Management: 

 Yes 

Proposed Action: Current permitted use would 

be modified as follows: 

Livestock

and kind 

# Season Public 

land 

Type use AUM 

20 Cattle 7/02 to 8/10 47 Active 12 

Total permitted use would remain 12 AUM’s. 

Great Falls Area Grazing Lease Renewal 33 Chapter 2 
 

 

The following term and condition would remain 

on the lease: 

Grazing use will be managed in a three-pasture, 

deferred rotation grazing system in accordance 

with the Yendrick Allotment Management Plan. 

Private pastures would be grazed early and late 

in the season. BLM and Forest Service lands 

would be used mid season from July 2 to August 

10. 

The base property associated with the Willow 

Creek (Yendrick) Allotment #07775 has 

changed ownership. Upon approval of the 

transfer by the authorized officer, BLM would 

transfer 12 AUM’s of grazing preference to the 

new owners of the associated base property. The 

proposed action includes issuing a grazing lease 

to the new owner. Transfer of the grazing 

preference constitutes a name change only. 

Management activities would continue to be 

consistent with the existing grazing management 

system outlined in the Yendrick Allotment 

Management Plan (1981) by the United States 

Forest Service. The grazing applications are 

consistent with all mandatory terms and 

conditions of the lease analyzed in this 

document. 

The name of this allotment would be changed 

from Willow Creek to Yendrick. This would 

prevent confusion with Willow Creek #07608, 

Willow Creek Canal #07612 and Willow Creek 

Pasture #06314. 

(36) WINDY HOLLOW #09818 

Public acres – 5043 

AUMs - 545 

Public land – 100% 

Livestock No. – 121 

Season of Use – 6/1 to 10/15 

Type Use - Custodial 

Meeting Upland Standard: 

 Yes 

Upland Objectives: 

 Maintain native plant community in a 

late seral to Potential Natural 

Community (PNC) ecological condition 

rating. 

Meeting Riparian Health Standard: 

 No 

Riparian Objectives: 

 Maintain or improve riparian areas on 

South Fork of Stickney Creek, Tyrell 

Creek, and East Fork of Hound Creek to 

PFC or above. 

 Improve the riparian area on Wegner 

Creek to PFC or above. 

 Decrease the percent streambank 

composition of Kentucky bluegrass on 

Wegner Creek. 

 Decrease utilization of preferred woody 

species on Wegner Creek. 

Meeting Water Quality Standard: 

 No 

Water Quality Objectives: 

 Continue to support designated and 

existing beneficial uses on South Fork 

of Stickney Creek, Tyrell Creek and 

East Fork of Hound Creek, including 

cold water fishery. 

 Improve streambank stability and 

streambank vegetative composition on 

Wegner Creek to mitigate non-point 

source pollution into Wegner Creek. 

Meeting Biodiversity Standard: 

 No 

 Due to concentrated livestock use on 

Wegner Creek. 

Biodiversity Objectives: 

 Increase woody browse species on 

Wegner Creek. 

 Maintain residual forage in uplands. 

Conforms with Guidelines for Livestock 

Grazing Management: 

 Yes 

Proposed Action: Windy Hollow contains 

numerous pastures with intermixed deeded, state 

and federal lands. BLM parcels located in the 

Great Falls Area Grazing Lease Renewal 34 Chapter 2 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

upper reaches of Spring, Pole, and Tyrell Creeks 

along with those parcels located in the far west 

and southern portions of the allotment are 

managed in conjunction with deeded and state 

lands which are used under a short duration, 

high intensity grazing system with 

approximately 20% of these lands being rested 

annually. BLM parcels located mainly in the 

South Fork of Stickney Creek, Wegner Creek 

and lands west of Pole Creek are managed in 

conjunction with the Cottonwood Creek 

Allotment #7716 (Whitetail Pasture). A threepasture deferred rotation is attempted in these 

pastures, however there is no cross-fence 

between the South Fork of Stickney Creek and 

Wegner Creek. Deferment is attempted by 

timing and turnout location, but due to perennial 

water sources in Wegner Creek, livestock often 

cross the divide and re-use Wegner Creek. A 

cross-fence is proposed beginning in the 

northwest corner of section 30 (T15N, R1W). 

The cross-fence would cross BLM lands near 

Baldy and follow a two-track trail southeasterly 

along the divide into the southeast quarter of 

section 32 where it would terminate at an 

existing drift fence near the NE1/4NE1/4 of 

Section 5 (T14N, R1W). This would prevent 

livestock from re-entering a pasture, particularly 

Wegner Creek, resulting in seasonal deferment 

and less concentration along watercourses for 

pastures in the west side of the allotment. The 

fence would consist of three-strand, smooth wire 

with an electric charger that would be removed 

in the offseason. Wire spacing would be 16-18”, 

26-28” and 38-40”. Posts would be spaced 

approximately 60’ apart. BLM and lessee would 

enter into a cooperative agreement detailing 

construction and maintenance responsibilities. 

The current scheduled use would be modified as 

follows to ensure significant progress is being 

toward meeting riparian standards: 

Wegner/S.F. Stickney/Cottonwood-Whitetail 

Livestock # 

and kind 

Season Public 

land 

Type use AUM 

36 Cattle 5/15 to 11/15 100 Custodial 219 

*Custodial grazing is authorized during the listed season. 

Pastures will be used in a three-pasture, deferred rotation 

system in conjunction with the Cottonwood Creek 

Allotment #07716. Grazing use will not exceed the 

recognized carrying capacity of the public land. These 

pastures may be used in conjunction with your normal 

operation as long as standards for rangeland health are 

met or significant progress is being made toward achieving 

standards and grazing use is in conformance with 

guidelines (43 CFR 4180). 

East Fork Hound Creek 

Livestock

and kind 

# Season Public 

land 

Type use AUM 

3 Horses 3/1 to 2/28 100 Custodial 35 

Windy Hollow 

Livestock # 

and kind 

Season Public 

land 

Type use AUM 

24 Cattle 3/1 to 2/28 100 Custodial 291 

*BLM parcels within these pastures are used in a shortduration, high intensity grazing rotation. These lands may 

be used in conjunction with your normal operation as long 

as standards for rangeland health are maintained and 

conformance with guidelines for livestock grazing is being 

achieved (43 CRR` 4180). 

Total permitted use for the Windy Hollow 

Allotment #09818 would remain 545 AUM’s. 

The Dog Creek Allotment #007825 is also 

contained within this grazing lease. See (1) 

listed under Powell County for provisions 

specific to this allotment. 

2.3.10 Proposed Action for 

Individual Allotments in 

 Lewis & Clark County 

(1) ALKALI FLAT #07615 

Public acres – 440 

AUMs – Split Rock- 40 AUMs 

Long Reservoir- 50 AUMs 

 Sun River- 10 AUMs 

Public land – 100% 

Livestock No. – 

 Split Rock- 85 Cattle 

Long Reservoir-60 Cattle 

 Sun River-85 Cattle 

Season of Use – 

Split Rock: 05/15-07/14 

Long Reservoir: 5/1-9/30 

 Sun River: 03/01-02/28 

Great Falls Area Grazing Lease Renewal 35 Chapter 2 
 

Type Use - Custodial 

Meeting Upland Standard: 

 Yes 

Upland Objectives: 

 Improve reproductive capability of 

desirable bunchgrass species by allowing 

maturation of seed heads on individual 

plants of those species, particularly 

bluebunch wheatgrass. 

Meeting Riparian Health Standard: 

 Yes 

Riparian Objectives: 

 Maintain the riparian area on the Sun 

River and the unnamed, lentic wetland 

at PFC or above. 

 Decrease the amount of spotted 

knapweed on the Sun River. 

Meeting Water Quality Standard: 

 Maintain streambank vegetation of 

sedges, rushes, cottonwood, and willow 

to mitigate non-point source pollution 

from entering the Sun River. 

Meeting Biodiversity Standard: 

 Yes 

Biodiversity Objectives: 

 Increase desirable bunchgrass 

component. 

	 Maintain habitat for nesting and 

foraging raptors, bald eagle winter 

concentration and grizzly bears. 

Conforms with Guidelines for Livestock 

Grazing Management: 

 Yes 

Proposed Action: The current permitted use 

would continue as follows: 

Split Rock Pasture: 

Livestock # 

and kind 

Season Public 

land 

Type use AUM 

85 Cattle 5/15 to 7/14 100 Custodial 40 

Total permitted use would remain 40 AUM’s. 

Long Reservoir Pasture: 

Livestock # 

and kind 

Season Public 

land 

Type use AUM 

60 Cattle 5/1 to 9/30 100 Custodial 50 

Total permitted use would remain 50 AUM’s. 

Sun River Pasture: 

Livestock

and kind 

# Season Public 

land 

Type use AUM 

85 Cattle 3/1 to 2/28 100 Custodial 10 

Total permitted use would remain 10 AUM’s. 

BLM proposes changing the name

allotment to Alkali Flat East to 

confusion with Alkali Flat #06295. 

of the 

prevent 

(2) ALKALI FLAT #06295 

Public acres – 245 

AUMs - 30 

Public land – 50% 

Livestock No. – 30 Cattle 

Season of Use – 6/1 to 7/31 

Type Use - Active 

Meeting Upland Standard: 

 Yes 

Upland Objectives: 

	 Maintain native plant community in a 

late seral to Potential Natural 

Community (PNC) ecological condition 

rating. 

Meeting Riparian Health Standard: 

 No riparian habitat on public land within 

this allotment. 

Meeting Water Quality Standard: 

 N/A 

Meeting Biodiversity Standard: 

 Yes 

Biodiversity Objectives: 

 Maintain residual native vegetation. 

 Maintain habitat for nesting and 

foraging raptors, bald eagle winter 

concentration and grizzly bears. 

Great Falls Area Grazing Lease Renewal 36 Chapter 2 
 

Conforms with Guidelines for Livestock 

Grazing Management: 

	 Yes 

Proposed Action: The current permitted use 

would continue as follows: 

Livestock

and kind 

# Season Public 

land 

Type use AUM 

30 Cattle 6/1 to 7/31 50 Active 30 

Total permitted use would remain 30 AUM’s. 

The base property associated with the Alkali Flat 

Allotment #06295 has been held in an estate 

which has recently been placed into a bypass 

trust. Upon approval of the transfer by the 

authorized officer, BLM would transfer 30 

AUM’s of grazing preference to the current 

owners of the associated base property. The 

proposed action includes issuing a new, revised 

grazing lease to the current owners. Transfer of 

the grazing preference constitutes a name 

change only. Management of the allotment 

would remain within the family of the current 

lease holder. Management activities would 

continue to be consistent with the existing 

grazing lease. The grazing applications would be 

consistent with all mandatory terms and 

conditions of the lease analyzed in this 

document. 

BLM proposes changing the name of the 

allotment to Alkali Flat West to prevent 

confusion with Alkali Flat #07615. 

(3) BEAN LAKE #07605 

Public acres – 1955 

AUMs - 112 

Public land – 100% 

Livestock No. – 44 Cattle 

Season of Use – 7/16 to 9/30 

Type Use - Active 

Meeting Upland Standard: 

 Yes 

Upland Objectives: 

 Maintain native plant community in a 

late seral to Potential Natural 

Community (PNC) ecological condition 

rating. 

Meeting Riparian Health Standard: 

 Yes 

Riparian Objectives: 

	 Maintain woody communities of redosier dogwood and Rocky Mountain 

maple. 

Meeting Water Quality Standard: 

 Yes 

Water Quality Objectives: 

 Continue to support existing beneficial 

uses on Clemons Creek. 

Meeting Biodiversity Standard: 

 Yes 

Biodiversity Objectives: 

 Maintain residual native vegetation for 

mule deer and elk winter range. 

 Maintain habitat for grizzly bears. 

Conforms with Guidelines for Livestock 

Grazing Management: 

 Yes 

Proposed Action: The current permitted use 

would be modified as follows: 

Livestock

and kind 

# Season Public 

land 

Type use AUM 

44 Cattle 7/16 to 9/30 100 Custodial 112 

Total permitted use would remain 112 AUM’s. 

(4) BEDROCK CREEK #06347 

Public acres – 40 

AUMs - 4 

Public land – 100% 

Livestock No. – 1 cattle 

Season of Use – 3/1 to 2/28 

Type Use - Custodial 

Meeting Upland Standard: 

 No 

Upland Objectives: 

 Decrease utilization of native bunchgrass 

and woody browse species. 

Great Falls Area Grazing Lease Renewal 37 Chapter 2 
 

 

 

	 Increase overall residual forage. 

	 Reduce amounts and dominance of 

invasive, noxious and increaser species 

particularly Kentucky bluegrass, Canada 

thistle, cheatgrass, dandelion, 

houndstongue and mullein. 

	 Improve reproductive capability of 

desirable species by allowing maturation 

of seed heads on individual plants of 

those species. 

Meeting Riparian Health Standard: 

 No 

Riparian Objectives: 

 Decrease utilization levels on preferred 

woody species. 

 Decrease streambank composition of 

Kentucky bluegrass. 

 Decrease leafy spurge in riparian zone 

on Bedrock Creek. 

Meeting Water Quality Standard: 

 No 

Water Quality Objectives: 

 Decrease stream channel width/depth 

ratios and percent of altered 

streambanks. 

Meeting Biodiversity Standard: 

 No 

Biodiversity Objectives: 

 Increase abundance and diversity of 

native forage and browse species for 

wildlife. 

Conforms with Guidelines for Livestock 

Grazing Management: 

 No 

 The allotment does not conform to 

Lewistown Guidelines #1, #2, #4, #5, 

#9, #10, #11,and #12. 

Proposed Action: The current permitted use 

would continue as follows: 

Livestock

and kind 

# Season Public 

land 

Type use AUM 

1 Cattle 3/1 to 2/28 100 Custodial 4 

Total permitted use would remain 4 AUM’s. 

BLM would construct two spur fences to prevent 

livestock from accessing Bedrock Creek and 

adjacent uplands. The western spur would begin 

on Bedrock Creek near the western boundary of 

the NWNE of Section 4. The fence would 

extend northward approximately 300’ and 

terminate in a band of rocky cliffs. The eastern 

spur would begin in the NWNE portion of the 

BLM parcel and extend northwesterly 

approximately 400’ terminating at the section 

line. BLM may extend the southeastern toe of 

the exclosure downstream to incorporate the 

remaining reach of Bedrock Creek if substantial 

recovery occurs and expansion of the exclosure 

is warranted. It may also be necessary to modify 

the drift fence as needed, if breach or other 

livestock problems are incurred. 

(5) BLACK REEF #07609 

Public acres – 1391 

AUMs - 180 

Public land – 23% 

Livestock No. – 171 

Season of Use – 5/15 to 9/30 

Type Use - Custodial 

Meeting Upland Standard: 

 Yes 

Upland Objectives: 

 Maintain native plant community in a 

late seral to Potential Natural 

Community (PNC) ecological condition 

rating. 

Meeting Riparian Health Standard: 

 Yes 

Riparian Objectives: 

 Maintain the riparian condition on the 

unnamed, lentic wetland at PFC or 

above. 

Meeting Water Quality Standard: 

 Yes 

Water Quality Objectives: 

 Maintain vegetative buffer around the 

unnamed, lentic site. 

Great Falls Area Grazing Lease Renewal 38 Chapter 2 
 

Meeting Biodiversity Standard: 

 Yes 

Biodiversity Objectives: 

 Maintain residual native vegetation. 

 Maintain habitat for nesting and 

foraging raptors, bald eagle winter 

concentration and grizzly bears. 

Conforms with Guidelines for Livestock 

Grazing Management: 

 Yes 

Proposed Action: The current permitted use 

would continue as follows: 

Livestock

and kind 

# Season Public 

land 

Type use AUM 

171 Cattle 5/15 to 9/30 23 Custodial 180 

Total permitted use would remain 180 AUM’s. 

The following term and condition would be 

incorporated into the lease: 

*Custodial grazing is authorized during the listed season. 

Pastures will be used in a three-pasture, deferred, restrotation system in conjunction with deeded and state lands. 

Grazing use will not exceed the recognized carrying 

capacity of the public land. BLM pastures may be used in 

conjunction with your normal operation as long as 

standards for rangeland health continue to be met and 

grazing use is in conformance with guidelines (43 CFR 

4180). 

(6) COTTONWOOD CREEK #07716 

Public acres – 200 

AUMs - 22 

Public land – 100 

Livestock No. – 87 cattle 

Season of Use – 6/15 to 10/14 

Type Use - Custodial 

Meeting Upland Standard: 

 Yes 

Upland Objectives: 

 Maintain native plant community. 

Meeting Riparian Health Standard: 

 No riparian habitat on public land within 

the allotment. 

Meeting Water Quality Standard: 

 N/A 

Meeting Biodiversity Standard: 

 Yes 

Biodiversity Objectives: 

 Maintain residual native vegetation for 

elk winter range. 

Conforms with Guidelines for Livestock 

Grazing Management: 

 Yes 

Proposed Action: The Cottonwood Creek 

Allotment would be used in a three-pasture 

deferred rotation grazing system in conjunction 

with the South Fork of Stickney Creek and 

Wegner Creek Pastures of the Windy Hollow 

Allotment #09818. The current permitted use 

would be modified as follows to facilitate the 

season of use required for this grazing system. 

Livestock

and kind 

# Season Public 

land 

Type use AUM 

4 Cattle 5/15 to 11/15 100 Custodial 22 

Total permitted use would remain 22 AUM’s. 

The following term and condition would be 

incorporated into the lease: 

The Cottonwood Creek Allotment will be used in 

a three-pasture deferred rotation grazing system 

with pastures located in the Windy Hollow 

Allotment #09818. 

(7) DEARBORN RIVER #07606 

Public acres – 320 

AUMs - 21 

Public land – 100% 

Livestock No. – 4 Cattle 

Season of Use – 5/15 to 10/30 

Type Use – Active 

Meeting Upland Standard: 

 Undetermined 

Meeting Riparian Health Standard: 

 Undetermined 

Great Falls Area Grazing Lease Renewal 39 Chapter 2 
 

 

Meeting Water Quality Standard: 

 Undetermined 

Meeting Biodiversity Standard: 

 Undetermined 

Conforms with Guidelines for Livestock 

Grazing Management: No livestock use 

occurring on allotment. 

Proposed Action: The lease would be reissued 

to new applicants as follows: 

Livestock

and kind 

# Season Public 

land 

Type use AUM 

2 Horse 7/1 to 2/28 100 Custodial 21

 Total permitted use would remain 21 AUM’s.. 

The grazing lease was terminated on February 

21, 1996 due to loss of control of base property 

and failure of qualified applicants to apply 

within 90 days after the lease became available. 

In December 2010, adjacent landowners 

submitted grazing applications 4130-1, 4130-1a, 

and 4130-1b along with documentation of 

control of base property and have met the 

qualifications to hold a grazing lease. The 

grazing applications are consistent with the 

mandatory terms and conditions analyzed in this 

document. No other applications from other 

qualified base property owners have been 

submitted since the lease was terminated. 

Applications would continue to be accepted until 

March 1, 2011. Conflicting applications would 

be considered based on criteria outlined in 43 

CFR 4130.1-2. An assessment conducted on the 

allotment in 2008 was inadequate to make a 

determination regarding the status of rangeland 

health. BLM would conduct additional site 

inventories to determine suitability of lands prior 

to reissuing the lease. The proposed action 

would include reissuing a lease provided the 

allotment is in conformance with standards and 

guidelines. Carrying capacity may require 

adjustment based on additional information, but 

would not exceed the current allocation. A new 

lease would not be offered if the authorized 

officer determines that the allotment is not in 

conformance with standards for rangeland health 

or, if it is determined that reissuance of a grazing 

lease would have negative impacts to rangeland 

health which are not sufficiently mitigated in 

this document. 

(8) FLORENCE CANAL #07614 

Public acres – 80 

AUMs - 16 

Public land – 100% 

Livestock No. – 3 Cattle 

Season of Use – 5/1 to 10/31 

Type Use - Custodial 

Meeting Upland Standard: 

 Yes 

Upland Objectives: 

	 Maintain native plant community in a 

late seral to Potential Natural 

Community (PNC) ecological condition 

rating. 

	 Decrease utilization in low-lying areas 

that are easily accessible to livestock 

grazing. 

	 Improve reproductive capability of 

desirable species by allowing maturation 

of seed heads on individual plants of 

those species. 

Meeting Riparian Health Standard: 

 No riparian habitat on public land within 

the allotment. 

Meeting Water Quality Standard: 

 N/A 

Meeting Biodiversity Standard: 

 Yes 

Biodiversity Objectives: 

 Increase desirable bunchgrass and shrub 

component. 

	 Reduce amounts and patch sizes of blue 

grama to improve bunchgrass and 

structure and increase forbs. 

Conforms with Guidelines for Livestock 

Grazing Management: 

 Yes 

Great Falls Area Grazing Lease Renewal 40 Chapter 2 
 

Proposed Action: The current permitted use 

would continue as follows: 

Livestock

and kind 

# Season Public 

land 

Type use AUM 

3 Cattle 5/1 to 10/31 100 Custodial 16 

Total permitted use would remain 16 AUM’s. 

(9) MIDDLE FORK #07604 

Public acres – 160 

AUMs - 20 

Public land – 100% 

Livestock No. – 5 Cattle 

Season of Use – 6/15 to 10/15 

Type Use - Active 

Meeting Upland Standard: 

 Yes 

Upland Objectives: 

	 Maintain native plant community in a 

late seral to Potential Natural 

Community (PNC) ecological condition 

rating. 

Meeting Riparian Health Standard: 

 Yes 

Riparian Objectives: 

 Maintain streambank cover of sedges, 

rock, and downed woody debris. 

Meeting Water Quality Standard: 

 Yes 

Water Quality Objectives: 

 Maintain upland and riparian vegetative 

cover. 

Meeting Biodiversity Standard: 

 Yes 

Biodiversity Objectives: 

	 Maintain habitat for nesting and 

foraging raptors, mule deer and elk 

winter range and grizzly bears. 

Conforms with Guidelines for Livestock 

Grazing Management: 

 Yes 

Proposed Action: The current permitted use 

would be modified as follows: 

Livestock

and kind 

# Season Public 

land 

Type use AUM 

5 Cattle 6/15 to 10/15 100 Custodial 20 

Total permitted use would remain 20 AUM’s. 

(10) MIDDLE FORK DEARBORN #07603 

Public acres –640 

AUMs - 35 

Public land – 100% 

Livestock No. – 12 Cattle 

Season of Use – 6/15 to 9/15 

Type Use - Custodial 

Meeting Upland Standard: 

 No 

 Due to significant deviations from 

expected vegetative conditions resulting 

from land use practices not related to 

livestock grazing. 

Upland Objectives: 

	 Allow natural processes to allow plant 

community to achieve a late seral or 

Potential Natural Community (PNC) 

ecological condition rating. 

Meeting Riparian Health Standard: 

 No riparian habitat on public land in the 

allotment. 

Meeting Water Quality Standard: 

 N/A 

Meeting Biodiversity Standard: 

 No 

 Due to lack of overstory caused by 

logging practices. 

Biodiversity Objectives: 

	 Maintain overstory and understory 

structure of northern parcel in late seral 

to Potential Natural Community (PNC) 

ecological condition rating. 

	 Increase canopy cover and density of 

forest structure on the southern parcel to 

Great Falls Area Grazing Lease Renewal 41 Chapter 2 
 

 

 

improve habitat for grizzly bear, lynx 

and elk winter range. 

Conforms with Guidelines for Livestock 

Grazing Management: 

	 Yes 

Proposed Action: The current permitted use 

would continue as follows: 

Livestock

and kind 

# Season Public 

land 

Type use AUM 

12 Cattle 6/15 to 9/15 100 Custodial 35 

Total permitted use would remain 35 AUM’s. 

The base property associated with the Middle 

Fork Dearborn Allotment #07603 has been 

organized into a family limited partnership by 

the current owners. Upon approval of the 

transfer by the authorized officer, BLM would 

transfer 35 AUM’s of grazing preference to the 

Ingersoll Ranch FLP. The proposed action 

includes issuing a new, revised grazing lease to 

the partnership. Transfer of the grazing 

preference constitutes a name change only. 

Management of the allotment would remain 

within the family of the current lease holder. 

Management activities would continue to be 

consistent with the existing grazing lease. The 

grazing applications would be consistent with all 

mandatory terms and conditions of the lease 

analyzed in this document. 

(11) RIVER BLM #06325 

Public acres – 40 

AUMs - 11 

Public land – 100% 

Livestock No. – 1 Cattle 

Season of Use – 3/1 to 2/28 

Type Use - Custodial 

Meeting Upland Standard: 

 Yes 

Upland Objectives: 

 Maintain native plant community in a 

late seral to Potential Natural 

Community (PNC) ecological condition 

rating. 

	 Prevent spread and expansion of 

houndstongue. 

Meeting Riparian Health Standard: 

 No riparian habitat on public land within 

the allotment. 

Meeting Water Quality Standard: 

 N/A 

Meeting Biodiversity Standard: 

 Yes 

Biodiversity Objectives: 

	 Maintain habitat for nesting and 

foraging raptors, and mule deer winter 

range. 

Conforms with Guidelines for Livestock 

Grazing Management: 

 Yes 

Proposed Action: The current permitted use 

would continue as follows: 

Livestock

and kind 

# Season Public 

land 

Type use AUM 

1 Cattle 3/1 to 2/28 100 Custodial 11 

Total permitted use would remain 11 AUM’s. 

(12) ROOST HILL #07607 

Public acres -428 leased 

-575 unleased 

AUMs - 1 

Public land – 100% 

Livestock No. – 1 Cattle 

Season of Use – 6/1 to 9/1 

Type Use – Custodial 

Meeting Upland Standard: 

 Yes 

Upland Objectives: 

	 Maintain native plant community in a 

late seral to Potential Natural 

Community (PNC) ecological condition 

rating. 

	 Improve reproductive capability of 

desirable species, particularly rough 

fescue, by allowing maturation of seed 

Great Falls Area Grazing Lease Renewal 42 Chapter 2 
 

heads on individual plants of those 

species. 

	 Increase abundance and production of 

rough fescue and other desirable native 

bunchgrasses. 

	 Reduce and prevent further expansion of 

non-native invasive species such as 

Kentucky bluegrass and timothy. 

Meeting Riparian Health Standard: 

 Yes. 

Riparian Objectives: 

 Maintain riparian area on Cutrock Creek 

in PFC or above. 

Meeting Water Quality Standard: 

 Yes 

Water Quality Objectives: 

 Continue to support existing beneficial 

uses on Cutrock Creek. 

Meeting Biodiversity Standard: 

 Yes 

Biodiversity Objectives: 

	 Maintain habitat for nesting and 

foraging raptors, grizzly bears, elk 

calving and winter range, as well as, 

bighorn sheep lambing and winter 

range. 

	 Improve habitat structure and forage 

abundance by increasing bunchgrass 

component in open, grazeable areas. 

Conforms with Guidelines for Livestock 

Grazing Management: 

 Yes 

Proposed Action: BLM lands within the 

allotment were reevaluated and determined to be 

providing more forage than one animal unit 

month currently allocated. The permitted use 

would be increased to account for existing 

forage consumption. Herd size, duration of use 

or forage consumption would not be increased 

The permitted use would be modified as follows: 

Livestock

and kind 

# Season Public 

land 

Type use AUM 

3 Cattle 6/1 to 10/1 100 Custodial 14 

The following term and condition would be 

added to the lease: 

Pastures containing BLM lands are to be used in 

variable-season, rest-rotation grazing system in 

conjunction with adjacent private and forest 

service lands. Grazing use will not exceed 45 

days in any pasture. 

This allotment contains two unallocated parcels. 

Roost Hill (1052) contains 520 acres of BLM 

located in T20N, R8W, Section 6 

(NE1/4,NENW1/4,N1/2SE1/2) and Section 5 

(NW1/4, N1/2SW1/4). Shed Creek contains 40 

acres in the SW1/4SW1/4 of Section 34 (T21, 

R8W). The Headwaters RMP (pg. 27) directs the 

Roost Hill parcel remain unleased due to land 

and forage reservation needed for grizzly bear, 

bighorn sheep and elk habitat protection. The 

Shed Creek parcel is to remain unleased due to a 

forage reservation needed for elk winter habitat. 

These parcels would continue to remain 

unallocated for livestock grazing. 

(13) SOUTH FORK #06443 

Public acres – 640 

AUMs - 45 

Public land – 100% 

Livestock No. – 15 Cattle 

Season of Use – 6/1 to 9/15 

Type Use - Custodial 

Meeting Upland Standard: 

 Yes 

Upland Objectives: 

	 Maintain native plant community in a 

late seral to Potential Natural 

Community (PNC) ecological condition 

rating. 

Meeting Riparian Health Standard: 

 Yes 

Total permitted use would be increased to 14 AUM’s. 

Great Falls Area Grazing Lease Renewal 43 Chapter 2 
Riparian Objectives: 

	 Maintain woody communities of redosier dogwood and Rocky Mountain 

maple. 

	 Maintain the riparian area on South 

Fork of Stickney Creek in PFC or 

above. 

Meeting Water Quality Standard: 

 Yes 

Water Quality Objectives: 

	 Continue to support designated and 

existing beneficial uses on South Fork 

of Stickney Creek, including cold water 

fishery. 

Meeting Biodiversity Standard: 

 Yes 

Biodiversity Objectives: 

 Maintain residual forage for deer, elk 

and ground nesting birds. 

	 Maintain desirable shrub species such as 

red-osier dogwood and Rocky Mountain 

Maple. 

Conforms with Guidelines for Livestock 

Grazing Management: 

 Yes 

Proposed Action: The current proposed action 

would continue as follows: 

Livestock

and kind 

# Season Public 

land 

Type use AUM 

15 Cattle 6/1 to 9/15 100 Custodial 45 

Total permitted use would remain 45 AUM’s. 

This allotment contains unallocated parcels 

known as South Fork (1044) which consists of 

1,320 acres of BLM lands. These lands are 

designated to remain unleased by the 

Headwaters RMP (pg. 27) for forage reservation 

needed for riparian habitat and big game habitat 

protection. 

The base property associated with the South 

Fork #06443 has been organized into a limited 

liability corporation by the current owners. Upon 

approval of the transfer by the authorized 

officer, BLM would transfer 45 AUM’s of 

grazing preference to the Turtle Butte LLC. The 

proposed action includes issuing a new, revised 

grazing lease to Turtle Butte LLC. Transfer of 

the grazing preference constitutes a name 

change only. Management of the allotment 

would remain within the family of the current 

lease holder. Management activities would 

continue to be consistent with the existing 

grazing lease. The grazing applications would be 

consistent with all mandatory terms and 

conditions of the lease analyzed in this 

document. If the preference transfer is not 

completed, a valid lease agreement would be 

required to maintain the current lessee of record. 

(14) WILLOW CREEK #07608 

Public acres – 40 

AUMs - 4 

Public land – 100 

Livestock No. –1 Cattle 

Season of Use – 7/1 to 10/15 

Type Use - Active 

Meeting Upland Standard: 

 Yes 

Upland Objectives: 

	 Maintain native plant community in a 

late seral to Potential Natural 

Community (PNC) ecological condition 

rating. 

Meeting Riparian Health Standard: 

 No riparian habitat on public land within 

the allotment. 

Meeting Water Quality Standard: 

 N/A 

Meeting Biodiversity Standard: 

 Yes 

Biodiversity Objectives: 

 Maintain residual native vegetation. 

Conforms with Guidelines for Livestock 

Grazing Management: 

 Yes 

Great Falls Area Grazing Lease Renewal 44 Chapter 2 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Proposed Action: The current permitted use 

would be modified as follows: 

Livestock

and kind 

# Season Public 

land 

Type use AUM 

1 Cattle 3/1 to 10/15 100 Custodial 4 

Total permitted use would remain 4 AUM’s. 

The base property associated with the Willow 

Creek Allotment #7608 has been held in an 

estate which has recently been settled. Upon 

approval of the transfer by the authorized 

officer, BLM would transfer 4 AUM’s of 

grazing preference to the current owners of the 

associated base property. The proposed action 

includes issuing a new, revised grazing lease to 

the current owners. Transfer of the grazing 

preference constitutes a name change only. 

Management of the allotment would remain 

within the family of the current lease holder. 

Management activities would continue to be 

consistent with the existing grazing lease. The 

grazing applications would be consistent with all 

mandatory terms and conditions of the lease 

analyzed in this document. 

Riparian Objectives: 

 Maintain woody communities of 

cottonwood, willow, and silverberry. 

Meeting Water Quality Standard: 

 Yes 

Water Quality Objectives: 

	 Maintain streambank vegetation in order 

to mitigate non-point source pollution 

from entering the Sun River. 

Meeting Biodiversity Standard: 

 Yes 

Biodiversity Objectives: 

 Maintain habitat for nesting and 

foraging raptors, grizzly bears. 

	 Maintain forage for mule deer and elk 

primary winter range, as well as, for 

bighorn sheep lambing and winter 

range. 

Conforms with Guidelines for Livestock 

Grazing Management: 

 Yes 

(15) WILLOW CREEK CANAL #07612 

Public acres – 939 

AUMs – 127 

32 

Public land – 42%

 – 100% 

Livestock No. – 60 Cattle 

6 Cattle 

Season of Use – 6/1 to 10/31 

Type Use – Active 

Custodial 

Meeting Upland Standard: 

 Yes 

Upland Objectives: 

	 Maintain native plant community in a 

late seral to Potential Natural 

Community (PNC) ecological condition 

rating. 

Meeting Riparian Health Standard: 

 Yes 

Proposed Action: Due to changes in land 

ownership, the percentage of public land would 

be modified to reflect current forage production 

on state, private and federal lands within the 

allotment. The current mandatory terms and 

conditions would be modified as follows: 

Livestock

and kind 

# Season Public 

land 

Type use AUM 

138 Cattle 6/1 to 10/31 23 Active 160 

Total permitted use would remain 159 AUM’s. 

(16) WILLOW CR. PASTURE #06314 

Public acres – 80 

AUMs - 27 

Public land – 100% 

Livestock No. – 6 Cattle 

Season of Use – 6/15 to 10/15 

Type Use – Custodial 

Great Falls Area Grazing Lease Renewal 45 Chapter 2 
 

Meeting Upland Standard: 

 Yes 

Upland Objectives: 

	 Decrease utilization of desirable native 

bunchgrasses, particularly bluebunch 

wheatgrass. 

	 Improve reproductive capability of 

bluebunch wheatgrass by allowing 

maturation of seed heads on individual 

plants of those species. 

 Reduce abundance and dominance of 

needleandthread. 

 Increase overall residual forage. 

Meeting Riparian Health Standard: 

 No riparian habitat on public land within 

the allotment. 

Meeting Water Quality Standard: 

 n/a 

Meeting Biodiversity Standard: 

 Yes 

Biodiversity Objectives: 

 Increase residual forage for ground 

nesting birds and other species. 

Conforms with Guidelines for Livestock 

Grazing Management: 

 No 

 the allotment does not conform with 

Lewistown Guideline #5. Grazing 

should be managed to encourage growth 

and productivity of bluebunch 

wheatgrass. Season of use should be 

maintained to limit use of bluebunch 

wheatgrass during active growth and 

development. 

Proposed Action: The current permitted use 

would continue as follows: 

Livestock

and kind 

# Season Public 

land 

Type use AUM 

6 Cattle 6/15 to 10/15 100 Custodial 27 

Total permitted use would remain 27 AUM’s. 

Grazing Record #2507650 is issued under a 

lease agreement between Fairfield Cattlemen’s 

Association and Greenfields Irrigation District. 

This agreement will terminate December 31, 

2015. The proposed action includes the lease 

renewal agreement and annual grazing lease 

extension. If a new agreement is signed with the 

same mandatory terms and conditions as 

analyzed above, a subsequent grazing lease 

would be generated for the term of the new 

agreement, but not to exceed the 10-year term of 

the BLM grazing lease. 

Pishkun Reservoir Allotment #06315 is also 

listed under Grazing Record #2507650. See 

proposed action (15) listed under Teton County 

for the proposed action specific to the Pishkun 

Reservoir Allotment. 

WINDY HOLLOW #09818 

(See Cascade County) 

2.3.11 Proposed Action for 

Individual Allotments in 

Meagher County 

(1) BATTLE CREEK #09814 

Public acres – 200 

AUMs - 67 

Public land – 100% 

Livestock No. – 67 Cattle 

Season of Use – 10/15 to 11/14 

Type Use - Active 

Meeting Upland Standard: 

 Yes 

Upland Objectives: 

	 Maintain native plant community in a 

late seral to Potential Natural 

Community (PNC) ecological condition 

rating. 

 Decrease coverage of clubmoss.
 

 Decrease bare ground.
 

 Increase residual forage. 

Great Falls Area Grazing Lease Renewal 46 Chapter 2 
Meeting Riparian Health Standard: 

 Yes 

Riparian Objectives: 

 Maintain the riparian area on Battle 

Creek in PFC or above. 

Meeting Water Quality Standard: 

 Yes 

Water Quality Objectives: 

 Maintain streambank vegetative cover 

of sedges and rushes in order to mitigate 

non-point source pollution from entering 

Battle Creek, and its receiving water 

Sixteenmile Creek. 

Meeting Biodiversity Standard: 

 Yes 

Biodiversity Objectives: 

 Maintain canopy coverage and overall 

condition of sage brush to provide 

habitat for sage grouse and other sagedependent species. 

Conforms with Guidelines for Livestock 

Grazing Management: 

 Yes 

Proposed Action: The current permitted use 

would be modified as follows: 

Livestock

and kind 

# Season Public 

land 

Type use AUM 

67 Cattle 10/15 -11/14 100 Custodial 67 

Total permitted use would remain 67 AUM’s. 

(2) BERG LEASE #07601 

Public acres – 80 

AUMs - 13 

Public land – 100% 

Livestock No. – 1 Cattle 

Season of Use – 3/1 to 2/28 

Type Use - Custodial 

Meeting Upland Standard: 

 No 

 Livestock is considered to be a 

significant factor. 

Upland Objectives: 

 Reduce livestock concentration along the 

accessible reaches of the creek and the 

lower upland saddle and basin areas. 

 Decrease utilization of desirable native 

bunchgrasses, particularly bluebunch 

wheatgrass. 

 Improve reproductive capability of 

bluebunch wheatgrass by allowing 

maturation of seed heads on individual 

plants of those species. 

 Reduce abundance and dominance of 

clubmoss. 

 Increase overall residual forage, 

particularly in southern portion of parcel. 

Meeting Riparian Health Standard: 

 No 

Riparian Objectives: 

 Decrease utilization levels on preferred 

woody species, such as cottonwood. 

	 Improve the riparian area on the 

unnamed tributary to the South Fork of 

the Musselshell to PFC or above. 

Meeting Water Quality Standard: 

 No 

Water Quality Objectives: 

 Decrease the percentage of altered 

streambanks. 

 Decrease the percentage of bare ground 

in streamside zones. 

Meeting Biodiversity Standard: 

 No 

Biodiversity Objectives: 

 Reduce browsing and mechanical 

damage of preferred trees and shrubs 

such as cottonwood, willow, and rocky 

mountain maple. 

 Increase diversity of grasses, forbs and 

shrubs. 

 Increase residual forage and cover. 

 Increase productivity by reducing 

clubmoss. 

Conforms with Guidelines for Livestock 

Grazing Management: 

 No 

Great Falls Area Grazing Lease Renewal 47 Chapter 2 
 

	 The allotment does not conform to 

Lewistown Guidelines 2, 4, 5 and 10. 

Grazing is not being maintained to 

maintain watershed vegetation, species 

richness and floodplain function. Longterm resource capabilities may not be 

sustainable. Grazing is not being 

managed to promote desired plants and 

plant communities. Livestock 

Management is not utilizing practices, 

such as those referenced by NRCS 

published prescribed grazing technical 

guide to maintain, restore or enhance 

water quality. Guidelines are not in 

conformance due to concentrated 

livestock use resulting in a shift of plant 

communities, stream bank alteration and 

decreased regeneration of desirable 

woody species. 

Proposed Action: Livestock concentrations 

occur in the unnamed tributary to the South Fork 

of the Musselshell River due to the presence of 

perennial water and shade. The current permitted 

use would be modified as follows: 

Livestock

and kind 

# Season Public 

land 

Type use AUM 

1 Cattle 7/1 to 9/15 100 Custodial 13 

Total permitted use would remain 13 AUM’s. 

The following term and condition would be 

incorporated into the lease: 

*Custodial grazing is authorized only during the listed 

season unless approved in advance by the authorized 

officer. Grazing use will not exceed the recognized 

carrying capacity of the public land. Pastures will be used 

in conjunction with deeded lands as long as standards for 

rangeland health are met or significant progress is being 

made toward achieving those standards and grazing use is 

in conformance with guidelines (43 CFR 4180). 

A drift fence would be constructed beginning in 

the NW1/4SW1/4SW1/4 of Section 24 (T8N, 

R10E). The fence would continue from the 

quarter section line north for approximately 800’ 

along the west boundary of Section 24. The 

fence would corner northeasterly for an 

additional 100-200’ where it would terminate at 

a cliff band on the east side of the unnamed 

drainage effectively sealing drift of livestock 

from the west. The fence would be constructed 

of 2-3 strand electric fence meeting BLM 

specifications. In five years, lessee and BLM 

would re-evaluate progress toward riparian 

health standard. If significant progress is being 

made, a permanent fence consisting of standard, 

three-strand steel and wire with set corner posts 

would be constructed, with the opportunity for 

sections of jackleg where soils are excessively 

rocky. Changes to design may be incorporated 

into a cooperative agreement. 

If no significant progress is being made the 

fence would be reconfigured to extend 

northward along the western boundary of the 

BLM parcel to an existing fence corner in the 

SW1/4NW1/4NW1/4 of Section 24. The 

associated AUM’s would be placed in temporary 

suspension and the parcel would be rested for 

the remainder of the term of the lease to allow 

for recovery. 

Control of listed base property associated with 

the Berg Lease Allotment #07601 has changed. 

In February 2010, 9-F Ranch Company 

Incorporated submitted application forms 4130­

1, 4130-1a, and 4130-1b. Upon approval of the 

transfer by the authorized officer, BLM would 

transfer 13 AUM’s of grazing preference to the 

9-F Ranch Co. Inc who control the associated 

base property. The proposed action includes 

issuing a new, revised grazing lease to the 

current lessee. Transfer of the grazing preference 

constitutes a name change only. Management of 

the allotment would remain within the family of 

the current lease holder. Management activities 

would continue to be consistent with the existing 

grazing lease. The grazing applications would be 

consistent with all mandatory terms and 

conditions of the lease analyzed in this 

document. 

Great Falls Area Grazing Lease Renewal 48 Chapter 2 
(3) BLACK CANYON #09849 

Public acres – 480 

AUMs - 35 

Public land – 100 

Livestock No. – 7 Cattle 

Season of Use – 6/1 to 10/31 

Type Use - Active 

Meeting Upland Standard: 

 Yes 

Upland Objectives: 

	 Maintain native plant community in a 

late seral to Potential Natural 

Community (PNC) ecological condition 

rating. 

	 Limit expansion and reduce abundance 

of houndstongue and mullein. 

Meeting Riparian Health Standard: 

 No riparian habitat on public land within 

the allotment. 

Meeting Water Quality Standard: 

 N/A 

Meeting Biodiversity Standard: 

 Yes 

Biodiversity Objectives: 

	 Maintain forest canopy and understory 

vegetation consisting of desirable 

grasses with a variety of forbs. 

	 Maintain residual forage. 

Conforms with Guidelines for Livestock 

Grazing Management: 

 Yes 

Proposed Action: The current permitted use 

would be modified as follows: 

Livestock

and kind 

# Season Public 

land 

Type use AUM 

7 Cattle 6/1 to 10/31 100 Custodial 35 

Total permitted use would remain 35 AUM’s. 

In consideration of comments received (see page 

140, comment #11), the proposed turkey guzzler 

has been removed from the proposed action. 

Construction of wildlife developments within 

this allotment would occur on private lands. 

(4) COYOTE CREEK #09663 

Public acres – 156 

AUMs - 27 

Public land – 100% 

Livestock No. – 2 Cattle 

Season of Use – 3/1 to 2/28 

Type Use - Active 

Meeting Upland Standard: 

 No 

 Current livestock distribution is 

considered to be a factor. 

Upland Objectives: 

 Decrease utilization of desirable native 

bunchgrasses, particularly rough fescue. 

	 Improve reproductive capability of 

bunchgrasses by allowing maturation of 

seed heads on individual plants of those 

species. 

	 Increase overall residual forage, 

particularly in the N1/2NW1/2 of Section 

6 around the spring site and associated 

uplands. 

	 Maintain residual vegetation in 

E1/2NE1/4 of Section 6.
 

Meeting Riparian Health Standard: 

 No riparian habitat on public land within 

the allotment. 

Meeting Water Quality Standard: 

 N/A 

Meeting Biodiversity Standard: 

 No 

 Due to lack of winter residual forage . 

Biodiversity Objectives: 

 Increase residual forage and cover of 

rough fescue on ridge near spring. 

Conforms with Guidelines for Livestock 

Grazing Management: 

 No 

Great Falls Area Grazing Lease Renewal 49 Chapter 2 
 

	 Lewistown Guidelines not conformed 

to: 4, 5, and 8. Grazing is not 

maintaining watershed vegetation, 

species richness and floodplain function. 

Long-term resource capabilities may not 

be sustainable. Grazing is not being 

managed to promote desired plants and 

plant communities. 

Proposed Action: Lessees have entered into an 

Environmental Quality Incentive Program 

(EQIP) contract with Natural Resource 

Conservation Service (NRCS). The contract 

would result in construction of cross-fencing on 

intermixed deeded and federal lands that would 

split the current pasture into multiple-pastures. 

Lessees would combine two herds into one 

which would allow for implementation of a 

twice-thru, three pasture rotational grazing 

system. Permitted use would be modified to 

address livestock distribution and achieve 

progress toward meeting standards and 

guidelines for rangeland health. 

Livestock

and kind 

# Season Public 

land 

Type use AUM 

4 Cattle 6/10 to 12/1 100 Custodial 27 

Total permitted use would be increased to 30 AUM’s due to 

the inclusion of the NW1/4 Section 5 (T8N, R10E). 

The following term and condition would be 

incorporated into the grazing lease: 

*Custodial grazing is authorized during the listed season. 

Pastures will be used in a three-pasture, deferred, rotation 

system in conjunction with deeded lands. Grazing use will 

not exceed the recognized carrying capacity of the public 

land. A twice-through grazing system may be used as long 

as standards for rangeland health are met or significant 

progress is being made toward achieving standards and 

grazing use is in conformance with guidelines (43 CFR 

4180). 

*Salt blocks and other nutritional supplements will not be placed 

on BLM lands. 

The NE1/4 of Section 5 (T8N, R10E) is fenced 

in with pastures containing the Coyote Creek 

allotment. The parcel has previously been 

unleased due to topography, forest cover, lack of 

water and inaccessibility to livestock. 

Implementation of cross-fencing would likely 

result in some incidental use of this parcel by 

livestock. The proposed action includes 

incorporating this parcel into the Coyote Creek 

Allotment. The parcel contains 20 acres of 

grazeable area which would increase the 

permitted use by three AUM’s. 

Range Improvement Projects 

BLM would authorize construction of .25 miles 

of three-wire cross fence beginning on deeded 

land in the SESE Section 1 (T8N, R9E) and 

continuing eastward intersecting BLM land in 

the SENE Section 6 (T8N, R10E). Lessees, 

NRCS and BLM would enter into cooperative 

agreement for cost share and maintenance of the 

project. BLM would provide specifications for 

public land portions of the project. 

(5) CROOKED CREEK #09688 

Public acres – 81 

AUMs - 19 

Public land – 100% 

Livestock No. – 4 cattle 

Season of Use – 6/1 to 10/31 

Type Use - Custodial 

Meeting Upland Standard: 

 Yes 

Upland Objectives: 

	 Decrease utilization of desirable native 

bunchgrasses, particularly bluebunch 

wheatgrass. 

	 Improve reproductive capability of 

bluebunch wheatgrass by allowing 

maturation of seed heads on individual 

plants of those species. 

	 Reduce abundance and dominance of 

Kentucky bluegrass and timothy. 

Meeting Riparian Health Standard: 

 No riparian habitat on public land within 

the allotment. 

Meeting Water Quality Standard: 

 N/A 

Meeting Biodiversity Standard: 

 Yes 

Great Falls Area Grazing Lease Renewal 50 Chapter 2 
 

 

Biodiversity Objectives: 

 Improve structure by increasing 

bunchgrass component. 

Conforms with Guidelines for Livestock 

Grazing Management: 

	 Yes. 

Proposed Action: The current permitted use 

would continue as follows: 

Livestock

and kind 

# Season Public 

land 

Type use AUM 

4 Cattle 6/1 to 10/31 100 Custodial 19 

Total permitted use would remain 19 AUM’s. 

The River Tract Allotment #09691 is contained 

within this grazing lease. See #21 listed under 

Cascade County for provisions specific to this 

allotment. 

(6) DAISY DEAN CREEK #09675 

Public acres – 40 

AUMs - 10 

Public land – 100% 

Livestock No. – 1 Cattle 

Season of Use – 3/1 to 2/28 

Type Use - Custodial 

Meeting Upland Standard: 

 Yes 

Upland Objectives: 

	 Maintain native vegetation, canopy cover 

and understory in late seral to Potential 

Natural Community (PNC) ecological 

condition rating. 

Meeting Riparian Health Standard: 

 No 

 Livestock is considered to be a 

significant factor in this rating. 

Riparian Objectives: 

 Improve the riparian area on Mud Creek 

to PFC or above. 

	 Increase the percent cover of willow, 

red-osier dogwood, and other preferred 

woody species. 

	 Decrease utilization levels on preferred 

woody species. 

Meeting Water Quality Standard: 

 No 

Water Quality Objectives: 

	 Improve the riparian area on Mud Creek 

to PFC or above to mitigate non-point 

source pollution from entering Mud 

Creek. 

Meeting Biodiversity Standard: 

 No 

Biodiversity Objectives: 

	 Improve heath, vigor and coverage of 

willow, dogwood and other woody 

browse species. 

	 Reduce livestock concentrations 

adjacent to Mud Creek to improve 

riparian health. 

Conforms with Guidelines for Livestock 

Grazing Management: 

 No 

 Guidelines not conformed to: 2, 3, 4, 10, 

12; There are limited upland areas 

capable of supporting livestock grazing 

within the allotment. Grazing is 

primarily limited to within 20 to 40 

yards of the stream because of terrain 

and forest. Abundant pugging and 

slumping of saturated soils indicate 

concentrated use by livestock. Data 

indicates a decrease in the health and 

vigor of willow and dogwood species 

Proposed Action: Lessee purchased base 

property for the allotment in 2003. Herd size has 

been reduced from 200 cattle for the ranch unit 

to less than 50, however, trespass from adjacent 

pastures and distribution has still resulted in a 

lack of significant improvement toward 

achieving standards for riparian health. Lessee 

would repair allotment boundary fences to 

prevent trespass and implement a deferred 

rotation grazing system. Deeded pastures 

containing crested wheatgrass would be used 

early each year to delay turnout into upper 

pastures. 

The current permitted use would be modified as 

follows to achieve significant progress toward 

Great Falls Area Grazing Lease Renewal 51 Chapter 2 
meeting standards and guidelines for rangeland 

health: 

Livestock

and kind 

# Season Public 

land 

Type use AUM 

1 Cattle 6/1 to 12/31 100 Custodial 10 

Total permitted use would remain 10 AUM’s. 

The following term and condition would be 

incorporated into the lease: 

*Custodial grazing is authorized during the listed season. 

Pasture containing BLM land will be used in a five-pasture, 

deferred rotation system in conjunction with deeded lands. 

Grazing use will not exceed the recognized carrying 

capacity of the public land. These pastures may be used in 

conjunction with your normal operation as long as 

standards for rangeland health are met or significant 

progress is being made toward achieving standards and 

grazing use is in conformance with guidelines (43 CFR 

4180). 

If no significant progress is made within five 

years, BLM would construct a drift fence 

beginning at the north fence boundary located in 

the NE1/4NW1/4NE1/4 of Section 20 (T10N, 

R11E) extending south approximately 700’ and 

cornering southeast an additional 100’ tying into 

a dense lodgepole pine stand. The fence would 

be a three-wire standard fence. Wire would be 

spaced 16-18”, 26”-28” and 38-40”. The bottom 

strand would be smooth. Wood corners would 

be used and a gate would be constructed in the 

bottom. BLM would consider alternative fence 

methods provided fence specifications are met. 

BLM and lessee would enter into a cooperative 

agreement for the project prior to construction. 

Permitted use would be placed in suspension for 

the remainder of the term of the lease to allow 

for recovery. 

Cattle only designation would continue on this 

lease. No horse use would be authorized. 

Control of listed base property associated with 

the Daisy Dean Allotment #09675 has changed. 

Upon approval of the transfer by the authorized 

officer, BLM would transfer 10 AUM’s of 

grazing preference to the HET and JDT Ranch 

Holdings LLC who control the associated base 

property. The proposed action includes issuing a 

new, revised grazing lease to the current lessees. 

Transfer of the grazing preference constitutes a 

name change only. Management of the allotment 

would remain within the family of the current 

lease holder. Management activities would 

continue to be consistent with the existing 

grazing lease. The grazing applications would be 

consistent with all mandatory terms and 

conditions of the lease analyzed in this 

document. 

(7) DEER CREEK #09728 

Public acres – 80 

AUMs - 18 

Public land – 100% 

Livestock No. – 9 Cattle 

Season of Use – 4/1 to 5/31 

Type Use - Active 

Meeting Upland Standard: 

 Yes 

Upland Objectives: 

	 Maintain native plant community in a 

late seral to Potential Natural 

Community (PNC) ecological condition 

rating. 

	 Reduce patch size and abundance of 

clubmoss areas. 

Meeting Riparian Health Standard: 

 No riparian habitat on public land within 

the allotment. 

Meeting Water Quality Standard: 

 N/A 

Meeting Biodiversity Standard: 

 Yes 

Biodiversity Objectives: 

 Maintain residual vegetation and cover. 

Conforms with Guidelines for Livestock 

Grazing Management: 

 Yes 

Great Falls Area Grazing Lease Renewal 52 Chapter 2 
 

Proposed Action: The current permitted use 

would be modified as follows: 

Livestock

and kind 

# Season Public 

land 

Type use AUM 

9 Cattle 4/1 to 5/31 100 Custodial 18 

Total permitted use would remain 18 AUM’s. 

(8) DIVIDE CREEK #19660 

Public acres – 1082 

AUMs - 234 

Public land – 100% 

Livestock No. – 42 Cattle 

Season of Use – 5/15 to 10/31 

Type Use - Active 

Meeting Upland Standard: 

 Yes 

Upland Objectives: 

 Maintain native plant communities in a 

late seral to Potential Natural 

Community (PNC) ecological condition 

rating to prevent colonization of noxious 

weed species. 

 Provide for natural reestablishment of 

sagebrush on approximately 30 acres in 

T11N, R9W Section 31 (NESE). 

Meeting Riparian Health Standard: 

 Yes 

Riparian Objectives: 

 Maintain the riparian area on the North 

Fork of the Musselshell River in PFC or 

above. 

 Decrease the percentage of spotted 

knapweed within the riparian zone. 

Meeting Water Quality Standard: 

 Yes 

Water Quality Objectives: 

 Maintain streambank vegetative cover 

of sedges, rushes, and willow to mitigate 

non-point source pollution from entering 

the North Fork of the Musselshell River. 

Meeting Biodiversity Standard: 

 No 

	 Current livestock management is not 

considered to be a significant factor in 

this rating. 

Biodiversity Objectives: 

 Prevent expansion and colonization of 

spotted knapweed. 

 Eliminate activities that could result in 

future mortality of sage brush. 

Conforms with Guidelines for Livestock 

Grazing Management: 

 No. 

 The allotment does not conform to 

Lewistown Guidelines #9 and #12. 

Knapweed is present in one site and 

threatens through expansion to reduce 

plant diversity and negatively affect 

wildlife habitat. A cooperative 

agreement would be established for 

control of noxious weeds. 

Proposed Action: The current permitted use 

would be modified as follows: 

Livestock

and kind 

# Season Public 

land 

Type use AUM 

42 Cattle 

8 Sheep 

5/15 to 10/31 

5/15 to 10/31 

100 

100 

Custodial 

Custodial 

234 

9 

Total permitted use would be increased to 243 AUM’s due to the 

inclusion of NENE Section 28 (T10N, R9E). 

The following term and conditions would be 

incorporated into the lease: 

*Custodial grazing is authorized during the listed season. 

Pastures will be used in a rest-rotation system in 

conjunction with deeded and state lands. Grazing use will 

not exceed the recognized carrying capacity of the public 

land. Sheep use is authorized up to ten days per pasture as 

long as standards for rangeland health continue to be met 

and grazing use is in conformance with guidelines (43 CFR 

4180). 

The NE1/4NE1/4 of Section 28 (T10N, R9E) is 

fenced in with pastures containing the Divide 

Creek allotment. The parcel has previously been 

unleased due to administrative oversight. The 

parcel was not recorded as public domain on 

historical records and no conveyance was made 

in 1985 when the remaining tracts of BLM land 

in Sections 28 and 29 were sold. The proposed 

action includes incorporating this parcel into the 

Divide Creek Allotment. The parcel contains 40 

Great Falls Area Grazing Lease Renewal 53 Chapter 2 
 

 

acres of grazeable area which would increase the 

permitted use by nine AUM’s. 

BLM and lessee would enter into cooperative 

agreement for control of noxious weeds. 

Vegetative treatments, including prescribed fire, 

broadcast burning and mechanical treatments 

were recently proposed for this allotment in the 

Mass Geiss Environmental Assessment (June 

2009). Units were principally proposed to utilize 

prescribed fire to burn existing openings and 

sagebrush parks to remove encroaching conifers 

less than 8” dbh. although this project was not 

carried forward, BLM proposes including 

mechanical treatments to reduce pine 

encroachment in sage brush parks and openings 

located in the SESE Section 20, E1/2 Section 29, 

NENW Section 33, E1/2SE1/4 Section 33 

(T11N, R9E) and NENW Section 4 (T10N, 

R9E). 

Vegetative treatments would involve mechanical 

methods including thinning, and/or grinding, 

using a rubber tracked bobcat in order to reduce 

ponderosa pine and douglas-fir regeneration on 

approximately 221 acres. These pockets would 

be treated using a “thin from below” prescription 

in which trees less than 4” dbh would be 

removed. This would create a more open, fireresistant stand by removing ladder fuels and 

would improve overall forest health by reducing 

stand densities. Treatments would be limited to 

slopes less than 40% and timbered draws would 

be left untreated resulting in a mosaic of size and 

age classes. 

(9) DRY BEAVER CREEK #06294 

Public acres – 640 

AUMs - 50 

Public land – 100% 

Livestock No. –10 Cattle 

Season of Use – 3/1 to 2/28 

Type Use - Custodial 

Meeting Upland Standard: 

 Yes 

Upland Objectives: 

	 Maintain native plant community in a 

late seral to Potential Natural 

Community (PNC) ecological condition 

rating. 

Meeting Riparian Health Standard: 

 No riparian habitat on public land within 

the allotment. 

Meeting Water Quality Standard: 

 N/A 

Meeting Biodiversity Standard: 

 Yes 

Biodiversity Objectives: 

 Maintain residual forage and native 

plant communities. 

Conforms with Guidelines for Livestock 

Grazing Management: 

 Yes 

Proposed Action: The current permitted use 

would continue as follows: 

Livestock

and kind 

# Season Public 

land 

Type use AUM 

10 Cattle 3/1 to 2/28 100 Custodial 50 

Total permitted use would remain 50 AUM’s. 

(10) DRY HILLS #9743 

Public acres 

Section 14- 320 

Section 22- 480 

Section 24- 40 

AUMs 

Section 14- 47 AUMs 

Section 22- 74 AUMs 

 Section 24- 6 AUMs 

Public land 

Section 14- 37% 

Section 22- 75% 

 Section 24-100% 

Livestock No. 

Section 14- 128 cattle 

Section 22- 96 cattle 

Great Falls Area Grazing Lease Renewal 54 Chapter 2 
 

 

 Section 24- 1 cattle 

Season of Use 

 Section 14: 05/10-06/10

 Section 22: 05/10-06/10

 Section 24: 03/01-02/28 

Type Use - Custodial 

Meeting Upland Standard: 

 No 

 Livestock grazing is considered to be a 

significant factor in this rating. 

Upland Objectives: 

	 Increase production and diversity of 

decreaser forbs and native bunchgrass 

species. 

	 Increase residual forage. 

	 Reduce amounts and dominance of 

invasive, noxious and increaser species 

such as Japanese brome, Kentucky 

bluegrass and cheatgrass. 

	 Reduce coverage of clubmoss to improve 

infiltration and overall site production. 

	 Improve reproductive capability of 

desirable species by allowing maturation 

of seed heads on individual plants of 

those species, particularly bluebunch 

wheatgrass, rough fescue and 

needlegrass species. 

	 Reduce coverage of bare ground and 

improve soil stability. 

Meeting Riparian Health Standard: 

 No riparian habitat on public land within 

the allotment. 

Meeting Water Quality Standard: 

 N/A 

Meeting Biodiversity Standard: 

 No 

 Livestock grazing is considered to be a 

significant factor in this rating. 

Biodiversity Objectives: 

	 Improve structure by increasing cover 

and abundance of desirable bunchgrass 

species. 

	 Increase residual forage for game and 

non-game wildlife species. 

Conforms with Guidelines for Livestock 

Grazing Management: 

	 No 

	 The allotment does not conform to 

Lewistown Guidelines 1,2,4,5,12,13. 

Non-conformance to these guidelines is 

due to the following factors: 

*This allotment is predominately made up of 

increaser grasses such as cheatgrass, Kentucky 

bluegrass and annual invasive forbs. 

*Bare ground is excessive for this ecological site 

and the soil is starting to move creating 

pedestals and flow patterns. (Study site #2) 

*The site lacked diversity and production of 

decreaser forbs and bunchgrass species. 

Proposed Action: The Dry Range AMP (1986) 

would be amended by the proposed action to 

incorporate a multiple pasture, short-duration, 

high intensity rest-rotational grazing system. 

Deeded crested wheatgrass pastures would be 

used in early spring to delay turnout into 

pastures containing BLM parcels which would 

allow for increased maturation of cool season, 

native species. Section 14 would be rested in 

2010 and Section 22 would be used first in 

rotation followed by Section 15 and Section 23 

pastures. The sequence would be repeated 

alternating rest pastures and seasonal 

deferments. The Section 24 parcel would be 

used in conjunction with deeded lands during 

calving between January 1 and April 1. 

The current permitted use would be modified to 

achieve significant progress toward meeting 

standards and guidelines for rangeland health. 

Section 14 

Livestock

and kind 

# Season Public 

land 

Type use AUM 

51 Cattle 6/1 to 8/15 37 Custodial 47 

Total permitted use would remain 47 AUM’s. 

Section 22 

Livestock

and kind 

# Season Public 

land 

Type use AUM 

40 Cattle 6/1 to 8/15 75 Custodial 75 

Total permitted use would remain 74 AUM’s. 

Great Falls Area Grazing Lease Renewal 55 Chapter 2 
Section 24 

Livestock

and kind 

# Season Public 

land 

Type use AUM 

2 Cattle 3/15 to 6/15 100 Custodial 6 

Total permitted use would remain 6 AUM’s. 

The following terms and conditions would be 

added to the lease: 

*Custodial grazing is authorized during the listed season. 

Pastures will be used in a multiple-pasture, deferred, restrotation system in conjunction with deeded lands. Grazing 

use will not exceed the recognized carrying capacity of the 

public land. A short-duration, high intensity grazing 

system may be used as long as standards for rangeland 

health are met or significant progress is being made 

toward achieving standards and grazing use is in 

conformance with guidelines (43 CFR 4180). 

The base properties associated with this 

allotment have been controlled in combination 

between a pasture lease and land ownership. 

Base property lands are now solely controlled 

through warranty deed. Upon approval of the 

transfer by the authorized officer, BLM would 

transfer 127 AUM’s of grazing preference to the 

current owners. The proposed action includes 

transfer of permitted use and change of base 

property designation. Transfer of the grazing 

preference constitutes a name change only. 

Management of the allotment would remain 

within the family of the current lease holders. 

Management activities would continue to be 

consistent with the existing grazing lease. The 

grazing applications submitted to BLM in March 

2010 are consistent with all mandatory terms 

and conditions of the lease analyzed in this 

document. 

Range improvement projects: 

The operators of Dry Hills #09743 propose 

construction of a stockwater pipeline extension 

located in Section 22 of T12N, R4E. The 

pipeline would originate at an existing stocktank 

near the half section line between sections 15 

and 22. A terminal stocktank would be installed 

near the center of section 22. Depending on 

design of pipeline, the tank may be installed 

approximately one-quarter mile to the west. (See 

Alternate Route B on map H-2) 

The pipeline would be approximately 2800’ in 

length. Construction would be using a trenching 

method to a depth of six feet. If rocks or other 

features prohibit installation below the frostline, 

high density pipe would be used or suitable 

drains would be installed in the line to prevent 

freeze damage. A cooperative agreement would 

be developed prior to implementation to outline 

cost-share and maintenance responsibility. The 

proposed project would require additional sitespecific design and cultural resource inventory. 

Implementation of the project would be 

contingent on availability of staffing and 

funding. 

(11) EAGLE CREEK #09672 

Public acres – 360 

AUMs - 57 

Public land – 100% 

Livestock No. – 16 Cattle 

Season of Use – 6/1 to 9/15 

Type Use - Active 

Meeting Upland Standard: 

 Yes 

Upland Objectives: 

 Maintain native plant community in a 

late seral to Potential Natural 

Community (PNC) ecological condition 

rating. 

 Prevent expansion of timothy, cheatgrass 

and Kentucky bluegrass. 

Meeting Riparian Health Standard: 

 Yes 

Riparian Objectives: 

 Maintain or improve the riparian areas 

on Park Creek and Eagle Creek to PFC 

or above. 

Meeting Water Quality Standard: 

 Yes 

Water Quality Objectives: 

 Maintain streamside vegetative covers 

in order to mitigate non-point source 

pollution from entering Eagle Creek and 

its receiving water, the Smith River. 

Meeting Biodiversity Standard: 

 Yes 

Great Falls Area Grazing Lease Renewal 56 Chapter 2 
Biodiversity Objectives: 

	 Maintain residual cover for ground 

nesting birds, mule deer, elk and other 

wildlife species. 

Conforms with Guidelines for Livestock 

Grazing Management: 

 Yes 

Proposed Action: The current permitted use 

would be modified as follows: 

Livestock

and kind 

# Season Public 

land 

Type use AUM 

16 Cattle 6/1 to 9/15 100 Custodial 57 

Total permitted use would remain 57 AUM’s. 

(12) EAST LOCO CREEK #07611 

Public acres – 40 

AUMs - 8 

Public land – 2% 

Livestock No. – 175 Cattle 

Season of Use – 7/1 to 9/15 

Type Use - Custodial 

Meeting Upland Standard: 

 Yes 

Upland Objectives: 

 Maintain litter and residual forage on 

site. 

	 Increase cover and abundance of 

bunchgrass species such as bluebunch 

wheatgrass. 

 Prevent expansion of houndstongue, 

cheatgrass and Canada thistle. 

Meeting Riparian Health Standard: 

 Yes 

Riparian Objectives: 

 Maintain the riparian area on Loco 

Creek in PFC or above. 

 Decrease utilization levels on preferred 

woody species on Loco Creek. 

Meeting Water Quality Standard: 

 Yes 

Water Quality Objectives 

	 Continue to support existing beneficial 

uses in Loco Creek, including coldwater fisheries. 

Meeting Biodiversity Standard: 

 Yes 

Biodiversity Objectives: 

	 Improve functional/structural groups by 

increasing bunchgrass component. 

Conforms with Guidelines for Livestock 

Grazing Management: 

	 Yes 

Proposed Action: The current permitted use 

would be modified to reflect current mandatory 

terms and conditions authorized by the U.S. 

Forest Service. Livestock numbers and kind 

would be changed as follows: 

Livestock

and kind 

# Season Public 

land 

Type use AUM 

148 Cattle 7/1 to 9/15 2 Active 7 

Total permitted use would remain 8 AUM’s. 

The following term and condition would be 

added to the lease: 

The East Loco Creek Allotment is contained 

within a larger USFS/NRCS grazing 

management system permitted by the Lewis and 

Clark National Forest. 148 cow/calf pairs are 

authorized in this pasture alternating seasons of 

use 07/01-08/06 or 08/07-09/15. 

(13) ELK CREEK #09800 

Public acres – 149 

AUMs - 30 

Public land – 100% 

Livestock No. – 7 Cattle 

Season of Use – 6/1 to 9/30 

Type Use - Custodial 

Meeting Upland Standard: 

 Yes 

Great Falls Area Grazing Lease Renewal 57 Chapter 2 
Upland Objectives: 

	 Maintain native plant community in a 

late seral to Potential Natural 

Community (PNC) ecological condition 

rating. 

Meeting Riparian Health Standard: 

 Yes 

Riparian Objectives: 

 Maintain the riparian area on Elk Creek 

in PFC or above. 

 Decrease spotted knapweed in 

streamside zones. 

Meeting Water Quality Standard: 

 Yes 

Water Quality Objectives: 

	 Maintain stream channel function and 

streambank vegetation of willow and 

alder in order to mitigate non-point 

source pollution from entering Elk 

Creek. 

Meeting Biodiversity Standard: 

 Yes 

Biodiversity Objectives: 

 Maintain canopy cover and structure of 

existing native vegetation. 

Conforms with Guidelines for Livestock 

Grazing Management: 

 Yes 

Proposed Action: The current permitted use 

would continue as follows: 

Livestock

and kind 

# Season Public 

land 

Type use AUM 

7 Cattle 6/1 to 9/30 100 Custodial 30 

Total permitted use would remain 30 AUM’s. 

(14) GIPSY CREEK #09671 

Public acres – 184 

AUMs - 59 

Public land – 100% 

Livestock No. – 16 Cattle 

Season of Use – 7/1 to 10/20 

Type Use - Active 

Meeting Upland Standard: 

 Yes 

Upland Objectives: 

 Maintain productivity and abundance of 

native bunchgrasses. 

	 Reduce occurrence and prevent 

expansion of cheatgrass and Kentucky 

bluegrass where present in areas 

accessible to livestock grazing. 

Meeting Riparian Health Standard: 

 No riparian habitat on public land within 

the allotment. 

Meeting Water Quality Standard: 

 N/A 

Meeting Biodiversity Standard: 

 Yes 

Biodiversity Objectives: 

 Maintain residual forage and native 

vegetation. 

 Prevent increase of invasive species. 

Conforms with Guidelines for Livestock 

Grazing Management: 

 Yes 

Proposed Action: The current permitted use 

would be modified as follows: 

Livestock

and kind 

# Season Public 

land 

Type use AUM 

16 Cattle 7/1 to 10/20 100 Custodial 59 

Total permitted use would remain 59 AUM’s. 

Control of listed base property associated with 

the Gipsy Creek Allotment #09671 has changed. 

Upon approval of the transfer by the authorized 

officer, BLM would transfer 59 AUM’s of 

grazing preference to the Buckingham Ranch 

LLC who control the associated base property. 

The proposed action includes issuing a new, 

revised grazing lease to the current lessee. 

Transfer of the grazing preference constitutes a 

name change only. Management of the allotment 

would remain within the family of the current 

lease holder. Management activities would 

continue to be consistent with the existing 

grazing lease. The grazing applications would be 

Great Falls Area Grazing Lease Renewal 58 Chapter 2 
consistent with all mandatory terms and 

conditions of the lease analyzed in this 

document. 

A stocktank exists on the parcel. Continued use 

would be permitted through cooperative 

agreement provided resource objectives are 

being met. 

Historical mine adits, associated pit sites and 

related wastes would be reclaimed on BLM 

lands. 

(15) HOLLIDAY L&L IND. #09735 

Public acres – 40 

AUMs - 13 

Public land – 100% 

Livestock No. – 1 Cattle 

Season of Use – 3/1 to 2/28 

Type Use - Custodial 

Meeting Upland Standard: 

 Yes 

Upland Objectives: 

	 Maintain native plant community in a 

late seral to Potential Natural 

Community (PNC) ecological condition 

rating. 

Meeting Riparian Health Standard: 

 No riparian habit on public land within 

the allotment. 

Meeting Water Quality Standard: 

 N/A 

Meeting Biodiversity Standard: 

 Yes 

Biodiversity Objectives: 

 Maintain abundance and diversity of 

native grasses and forbs. 

 Maintain residual forage and cover. 

Conforms with Guidelines for Livestock 

Grazing Management: 

 Yes 

Proposed Action: The current permitted use 

would continue as follows: 

Livestock

and kind 

# Season Public 

land 

Type use AUM 

1 Cattle 3/1 to 2/28 100 Custodial 13 

Total permitted use would remain 13 AUM’s. 

The base property lease associated with the 

Holliday L & L Individual Allotment has 

expired. In June of 2009, representatives 

submitted an updated lease agreement and 

Grazing Application form 4130-1. The 

proposed action includes the lease renewal 

agreement and grazing lease extension. The 

grazing applications are consistent with all 

mandatory and other terms and conditions of the 

grazing lease analyzed in this document. The 

revised grazing lease expires May 31, 2014. If a 

new agreement is signed with the same 

mandatory terms and conditions as analyzed 

above, a subsequent grazing lease would be 

generated for the term of the new agreement, but 

not to exceed the 10 year term of the BLM 

grazing lease. 

(16) INDIAN CREEK #07617 

Public acres – 240 

AUMs -37 

Public land – 100% 

Livestock No. – 6 Cattle 

Season of Use – 7/1 to 11/30 

Type Use - Custodial 

Meeting Upland Standard: 

 Yes 

Upland Objectives: 

 Increase cover and abundance of 

desirable bunchgrass species such as 

rough fescue, bluebunch wheatgrass, and 

needlegrasses. 

 Prevent expansion and increase of nonnative invasives such as Kentucky 

bluegrass and timothy. 

Great Falls Area Grazing Lease Renewal 59 Chapter 2 
Meeting Riparian Health Standard: 

 No riparian habitat on public land within 

the allotment. 

Meeting Water Quality Standard: 

 N/A 

Meeting Biodiversity Standard: 

 Yes 

Biodiversity Objectives: 

 Maintain and increase regeneration and 

canopy cover of aspen. 

 Improve structure by increasing 

bunchgrass component. 

 Maintain residual forage for elk range 

and other wildlife species. 

Conforms with Guidelines for Livestock 

Grazing Management: 

 Yes 

Proposed Action: The current permitted use 

would continue as follows: 

Livestock

and kind 

# Season Public 

land 

Type use AUM 

6 Cattle 7/1 to 11/30 100 Custodial 37 

Total permitted use would remain 37 AUM’s. 

(17) LITTLE ELK CREEK #09708 

Public acres – 120 

AUMs - 30 

Public land – 100% 

Livestock No. – 7 Cattle 

Season of Use – 6/1 to 10/31 

Type Use - Custodial 

Meeting Upland Standard: 

 Yes 

Upland Objectives: 

 Increase production and diversity of 

decreaser forbs and native bunchgrass 

species, such as bluebunch wheatgrass 

and rough fescue. 

 Increase residual forage. 

 Reduce amounts of fringed sagewort and 

other increaser species. 

 Reduce coverage of clubmoss to improve 

infiltration and overall site production. 

	 Improve reproductive capability of 

desirable species by allowing maturation 

of seed heads on individual plants of 

those species, particularly bluebunch 

wheatgrass and rough fescue. 

Meeting Riparian Health Standard: 

 Yes 

Riparian Objectives 

 Maintain the riparian area on Little Elk 

Creek in PFC or above. 

 Continue to support preferred tree and 

shrub regeneration. 

Meeting Water Quality Standard: 

 Yes 

Water Quality Objectives: 

 Maintain upland and riparian vegetative 

covers. 

Meeting Biodiversity Standard: 

 Yes 

Biodiversity Objectives: 

	 Improve structure by increasing cover 

and abundance of desirable bunchgrass 

species. 

	 Increase residual forage for game and 

non-game wildlife species. 

Conforms with Guidelines for Livestock 

Grazing Management: 

 Yes 

Proposed Action: The current permitted use 

would continue as follows: 

Livestock

and kind 

# Season Public 

land 

Type use AUM 

7 Cattle 6/1 to 10/31 100 Custodial 30 

Total permitted use would remain 30 AUM’s. 

Great Falls Area Grazing Lease Renewal 60 Chapter 2 
(18) LITTLE SULPHUR CREEK #09732 

Public acres – 50 

AUMs -16 

Public land – 100% 

Livestock No. – 1 Cattle 

Season of Use – 3/1 to 2/28 

Type Use - Custodial 

Meeting Upland Standard: 

 Yes 

Upland Objectives: 

	 Maintain native vegetation in a 

Potential Natural Community (PNC) 

ecological condition rating. 

Meeting Riparian Health Standard: 

 No riparian habitat on public land within 

the allotment. 

Meeting Water Quality Standard: 

 N/A 

Meeting Biodiversity Standard: 

 Yes 

Biodiversity Objectives: 

 Maintain residual forage. 

 Maintain abundance and cover of native 

vegetation. 

Conforms with Guidelines for Livestock 

Grazing Management: 

 Yes 

Proposed Action: The current permitted use 

would continue as follows: 

Livestock

and kind 

# Season Public 

land 

Type use AUM 

1 Cattle 3/1 to 2/28 100 Custodial 16 

Total permitted use would remain 16 AUM’s. 

(19) LOWER SPRING CR. AMP #09673 

Public acres – 155 

AUMs - 5 

Public land – 2% 

Livestock No. – 60 Cattle 

Season of Use – 6/21 to 10/15 

Type Use - Active 

Meeting Upland Standard: 

 Yes 

Upland Objectives: 

	 Maintain native vegetation in a Potential 

Natural Community (PNC) ecological 

condition rating. 

Meeting Riparian Health Standard: 

 No riparian habitat on public land within 

the allotment. 

Meeting Water Quality Standard: 

 N/A 

Meeting Biodiversity Standard: 

 Yes 

Biodiversity Objectives: 

 Maintain residual forage. 

 Maintain abundance and cover of native 

vegetation. 

Conforms with Guidelines for Livestock 

Grazing Management: 

 Yes 

Proposed Action: The current permitted use 

would continue as follows: 

Livestock

and kind 

# Season Public 

land 

Type use AUM 

60 Cattle 6/21 to 10/15 2 Active 5 

Total permitted use would remain 5 AUM’s. 

The following term and condition would be 

incorporated into the grazing lease: 

The Lower Spring Creek AMP Allotment #09673 

is contained within a larger USFS/deeded 

grazing management system permitted by Lewis 

and Clark National Forest. Pastures containing 

BLM lands are to be used in a modified, threeGreat Falls Area Grazing Lease Renewal 61 Chapter 2 
pasture, deferred grazing system as outlined in 

the Lower Spring Creek Allotment Management 

Plan (1987). 

The base property associated with the Lower 

Spring Creek Allotment #09673 has changed 

ownership. Upon approval of the transfer by the 

authorized officer, BLM would transfer 5 

AUM’s of grazing preference to the current 

owners of the associated base property. The 

proposed action includes issuing a grazing lease 

to the new owner. Transfer of the grazing 

preference constitutes a name change only. 

Management activities would continue to be 

consistent with the existing grazing management 

system. The grazing applications would be 

consistent with all mandatory terms and 

conditions of the lease analyzed in this 

document. 

The North Fork Musselshell Allotment #09674 

is also contained within this grazing lease. See 

(20) listed under Meagher County for provisions 

specific to this allotment. 

MIDDLE CREEK #09704 

See Cascade County. 

(20) N. FORK MUSSELSHELL #09674 

Public acres – 245 

AUMs - 133 

Public land – 100% 

Livestock No. – 11 Cattle 

Season of Use – 3/1 to 2/28 

Type Use - Active 

Meeting Upland Standard: 

 Yes 

Upland Objectives: 

	 Maintain native vegetation in a late seral 

to Potential Natural Community (PNC) 

ecological condition rating. 

	 Reduce timothy and smooth brome in 

T9N, R10E Sec.3 (W1/2, SW1/4) 

	 Reduce coverage of clubmoss in Section 

2 (NWNW), Section 3 (NENE), Section 

20 (SWSW) and Section 8 (NENW). 

 Reduce bare ground in Section 2 

(SWSW). 

 Prevent expansion of houndstongue 

throughout the allotment. 

Meeting Riparian Health Standard: 

 No riparian habitat on public land within 

the allotment. 

Meeting Water Quality Standard: 

 N/A 

Meeting Biodiversity Standard: 

 Yes 

Biodiversity Objectives: 

 Maintain abundance and diversity of 

native grasses, forbs and shrubs. 

 Maintain residual forage and cover. 

 Reduce and prevent expansion of nonnative invasive species. 

Conforms with Guidelines for Livestock 

Grazing Management: 

 Yes 

Proposed Action: The current permitted use 

would be modified as follows: 

Livestock

and kind 

# Season Public 

land 

Type use AUM 

11 Cattle 3/1 to 2/28 100 Custodial 133 

Total permitted use would remain 133 AUM’s. 

An overland pipeline was constructed on Section 

20 (SWSW) spanning from the southwest corner 

of the parcel to the northeast corner. Continued 

use would be permitted through cooperative 

agreement. Authorization would include specific 

management of the project that would meet 

resource objectives outlined for Section 2. 

Management of the project would be stipulated 

by cooperative agreement. Installation would be 

according to BLM specifications. If these 

conditions are not met, or if resource objectives 

are not being met, the project would be 

removed. 

Great Falls Area Grazing Lease Renewal 62 Chapter 2 
The base property associated with the North 

Fork of the Musselshell Allotment #09674 has 

changed ownership. Upon approval of the 

transfer by the authorized officer, BLM would 

transfer 133 AUM’s of grazing preference to the 

current owners of the associated base property. 

The proposed action includes issuing a grazing 

lease to the new owner. Transfer of the grazing 

preference constitutes a name change only. 

Management activities would continue to be 

consistent with the existing grazing management 

system. The grazing applications would be 

consistent with all mandatory terms and 

conditions of the lease analyzed in this 

document. 

The Lower Spring Creek AMP Allotment 

#009673 is also contained within this grazing 

lease. See (19) listed under Meagher County for 

provisions specific to this allotment. 

(21) RHYNARD IND. #09801 

Public acres – 80 

AUMs - 24 

Public land – 100 

Livestock No. – 2 Cattle 

Season of Use – 3/1 to 2/28 

Type Use - Active 

Meeting Upland Standard: 

 No 

 Due to causes other than livestock 

management. 

Upland Objectives: 

	 Maintain native vegetation in a late seral 

to Potential Natural Community (PNC) 

ecological condition rating. 

 Increase abundance and diversity of 

bunchgrass species. 

 Prevent and reduce expansion of spotted 

knapweed and woolly mullein. 

Meeting Riparian Health Standard: 

 No riparian habitat on public land within 

the allotment. 

Meeting Water Quality Standard: 

 N/A 

Meeting Biodiversity Standard: 

 No 

 Due to causes other than current 

livestock management. 

Biodiversity Objectives: 

 Reduce and prevent further expansion of 

spotted knapweed. 

Conforms with Guidelines for Livestock 

Grazing Management: 

 No 

 The allotment does not conform with 

Lewistown Guideline #9 due to the 

presence of noxious weeds primarily 

related to the highway with associated 

disturbances and perpetual seed sources. 

Proposed Action: The western portion of this 

allotment has not been grazed since 1951. There 

is insufficient forage and water to use this parcel 

separately from the east side. Records would be 

adjusted to account for non-use of BLM lands 

west of Montana State Highway 234. The 

current permitted use would be modified as 

follows: 

Livestock

and kind 

# Season Public 

land 

Type use AUM 

2 Cattle 3/1 to 2/28 100 Custodial 20 

Total permitted use would be reduced to 20 AUM’s. 

The cooperative agreement to control noxious 

weeds would be revised to provide more 

aggressive control of spotted knapweed on this 

parcel. 

(22) SIXTEEN #09690 

Public acres – 40 

AUMs - 12 

Public land – 100% 

Livestock No. – 4 cattle 

Season of Use – 7/10 to 10/09 

Type Use - Custodial 

Great Falls Area Grazing Lease Renewal 63 Chapter 2 
 

 

Meeting Upland Standard: 

 No 

 Livestock is considered to be a 

significant factor in this rating. 

Upland Objectives: 

	 Increase production and diversity of 

decreaser forbs and native bunchgrass 

species. 

	 Increase residual forage. 

	 Reduce amounts and dominance of 

invasive and increaser species such as 

bluegrasses and bromes. 

	 Reduce coverage of clubmoss to improve 

infiltration and overall site production. 

	 Improve reproductive capability of 

desirable species by allowing maturation 

of seed heads on individual plants of 

those species, particularly bluebunch 

wheatgrass, rough fescue and 

needlegrass species where still present. 

Meeting Riparian Health Standard: 

 No riparian habitat on public land within 

the allotment. 

Meeting Water Quality Standard: 

 N/A 

Meeting Biodiversity Standard: 

 No 

 Current livestock is considered to be a 

significant factor in this rating. 

Biodiversity Objectives: 

 Improve habitat structure by restoring 

bunchgrass component. 

 Increase residual forage. 

 Reduce clubmoss coverage. 

Conforms with Guidelines for Livestock 

Grazing Management: 

 No 

 The allotment does not conform to 

Lewistown Guidelines #5 and #12. Plant 

community composition has shifted 

away from expected conditions. Annual 

production is lower than expected. The 

site lacked the presence of decreaser 

forb and bunchgrass species. Increaser 

species, such as threadleaf sedge, 

Kentucky bluegrass, prairie junegrass, 

western wheatgrass and western yarrow 

dominate the site. 

Proposed Action: Historical livestock trespass 

from the north has been occurring annually from 

horses. In 2009, lessee replaced a cattle guard 

and has maintained the boundary fence. Lessee 

would continue to maintain boundary fence and 

repair points of future trespass. The current 

permitted use and terms and conditions would be 

modified to achieve significant progress toward 

meeting standards and guidelines for rangeland 

health. 

Livestock

and kind 

# Season Public 

land 

Type use AUM 

3 Cattle 6/10 to 10/20 100 Custodial 12 

Total permitted use would remain 12 AUM’s. 

The following term and condition would be 

incorporated into the lease: 

*Custodial grazing is authorized during the listed season. 

Pastures will be used in a three-pasture, deferred rotation 

system in conjunction with the Wall Mountain and 

Sixteenmile Creek Pastures. Grazing use of BLM parcel 

will alternate between spring and fall use and will not 

exceed 30 days or the recognized carrying capacity of the 

public land. BLM pastures may be used in conjunction with 

your normal operation as long as standards for rangeland 

health are met or significant progress is being made 

toward achieving standards and grazing use is in 

conformance with guidelines (43 CFR 4180). 

This parcel (T5N, R6E, NENE Section 6), along 

with the majority of the Sixteen Allotment 

#09690 was inventoried in 2000 and considered 

for disposal under the 107th Crow Boundary 

Settlement. While the parcel in T5N, R6E 

Section 8 was removed from the public domain, 

this parcel was retained despite being identified 

for disposal in the Headwaters RMP (1984). Due 

to topography, location within the pasture and 

lack of access, management opportunities are 

limited. If significant progress is not made 

toward achieving upland standards for rangeland 

health within three years, BLM and lessee would 

pursue land tenure adjustments which could 

involve a land sale or exchange. 

Control of listed base property associated with 

the Sixteen Allotment #09690 has changed since 

the lease was issued in 1979. If land tenure 

adjustments are not made, BLM would transfer 

Great Falls Area Grazing Lease Renewal 64 Chapter 2 
 

12 AUM’s of permitted use to Wall Mountain 

Ranch LLC or retain the lease with the current 

leaseholder provided documentation of control 

of base properties is submitted to BLM through 

a valid base property lease. The proposed action 

would include issuing a revised lease to Wall 

Mountain Ranch LLC or renewing the lease with 

the current leaseholder. If permitted use is 

transferred, the transfer would constitute a name 

change only. Management of the allotment 

would remain within the family of the current 

lease holder. Management activities would 

continue to be consistent with the existing 

grazing lease. The grazing applications would be 

consistent with all mandatory terms and 

conditions of the lease analyzed in this 

document. 

(23) SMITH CREEK #09698 

Public acres – 600 

AUMs - 50 

Public land – 10% 

Livestock No. – 200 cattle 

Season of Use – 6/15 to 9/15 

Type Use - Custodial 

Meeting Upland Standard: 

 Yes 

Upland Objectives: 

 Maintain native vegetation in a late seral 

to Potential Natural Community (PNC) 

ecological condition rating. 

Meeting Riparian Health Standard: 

 Yes 

Riparian Objectives: 

 Maintain riparian area on the North Fork 

of the Smith River in PFC or above. 

	 Maintain woody communities of redosier dogwood, willow, current, and 

quaking aspen. 

	 Maintain streambank vegetation of 

sedges and rushes. 

Meeting Water Quality Standard: 

 Yes 

Water Quality Objectives: 

	 Continue to support designated and 

existing beneficial uses of the North 

Fork of the Smith River, including cold 

water fishery. 

	 Continue to support healthy upland and 

riparian vegetative communities to aid 

in maintaining stream channel and 

watershed function. 

Meeting Biodiversity Standard: 

 Yes 

Biodiversity Objectives: 

 Maintain abundance and diversity of 

native grasses, forbs and shrubs. 

 Maintain residual forage and cover. 

Conforms with Guidelines for Livestock 

Grazing Management: 

 Yes 

Proposed Action: The current permitted use 

would be modified as follows: 

Livestock

and kind 

# Season Public 

land 

Type use AUM 

165 Cattle 6/15 to 9/15 10 Active 50 

Total permitted use would remain 50 AUM’s. 

Vegetative treatments, including prescribed fire, 

broadcast burning and mechanical treatments 

were recently proposed for this allotment in the 

Mass Geiss Environmental Assessment (June 

2009). Units were principally proposed to utilize 

prescribed fire to burn existing openings and 

sagebrush parks to remove encroaching conifers 

less than 8” dbh. although this project was not 

carried forward, BLM proposes including 

mechanical treatments to reduce pine 

encroachment in sage brush parks and openings 

located in the NW1/4, S1/2SW1/4, W1/2NE1/4, 

NW1/4SE1/4 of Section 30 (T11N, R9E). 

Vegetative treatments would involve mechanical 

methods including thinning, and/or grinding, 

using a rubber tracked bobcat in order to reduce 

ponderosa pine and douglas-fir regeneration on 

approximately 300 acres. These pockets would 

be treated using a “thin from below” prescription 

in which trees less than 4” dbh would be 

removed. This would create a more open, fireGreat Falls Area Grazing Lease Renewal 65 Chapter 2 
resistant stand by removing ladder fuels and 

would improve overall forest health by reducing 

stand densities. Treatments would be limited to 

slopes less than 40% and timbered draws would 

be left untreated resulting in a mosaic of size and 

age classes. 

(24) SPRING CREEK PASTURE #09758 

Public acres – 440 

AUMs - 80 

Public land – 100% 

Livestock No. – 32 Cattle 

Season of Use – 7/1 to 9/15 

Type Use - Active 

Meeting Upland Standard: 

 Yes 

Upland Objectives: 

	 Maintain native vegetation in a late seral 

to Potential Natural Community (PNC) 

ecological condition rating. 

Meeting Riparian Health Standard: 

 No riparian habitat on public land within 

the allotment. 

Meeting Water Quality Standard: 

 N/A 

Meeting Biodiversity Standard: 

 Yes 

Biodiversity Objectives: 

 Maintain abundance and diversity of 

native grasses, forbs and shrubs. 

 Maintain residual forage and cover. 

Conforms with Guidelines for Livestock 

Grazing Management: 

 Yes 

Proposed Action: The current permitted use 

would be modified as follows: 

Livestock

and kind 

# Season Public 

land 

Type use AUM 

32 Cattle 7/1 to 9/15 100 Custodial 81 

Total permitted use would remain 80 AUM’s. 

Control of listed base property associated with 

the Spring Creek Pasture Allotment #09758 has 

changed. Upon approval of the transfer by the 

authorized officer, BLM would transfer 80 

AUM’s of grazing preference to Ray Creek 

Ranch LLC who control the associated base 

property. The proposed action includes the 

transfer of permitted use and issuing a new, 

revised grazing lease to the current lessee. 

Transfer of the grazing preference constitutes a 

name change only. Management of the allotment 

would remain within the family of the current 

lease holder. Management activities would 

continue to be consistent with the existing 

grazing lease. The grazing applications would be 

consistent with all mandatory terms and 

conditions of the lease analyzed in this 

document. 

(25) W. FORK MUD CREEK #09697 

Public acres – 160 

AUMs - 40 

Public land – 100% 

Livestock No. – 3 Cattle 

Season of Use – 3/1 to 2/28 

Type Use - Custodial 

Meeting Upland Standard: 

 Yes 

Upland Objectives: 

	 Maintain or improve native vegetation 

in a late seral to Potential Natural 

Community (PNC) ecological condition 

rating. 

	 Reduce coverage of clubmoss to 

improve infiltration and overall site 

production. 

	 Reduce abundance and prevent further 

expansion of cheatgrass. 

Meeting Riparian Health Standard: 

 No riparian habitat on public land within 

the allotment. 

Meeting Water Quality Standard: 

 N/A 

Great Falls Area Grazing Lease Renewal 66 Chapter 2 
Meeting Biodiversity Standard: 

 Yes 

Biodiversity Objectives: 

	 Maintain ground litter and residual 

forage for ground nesting birds, game 

and non-game wildlife species. 

	 Maintain diversity and abundance of 

desirable native plants. 

Conforms with Guidelines for Livestock 

Grazing Management: 

 Yes 

Proposed Action: The current permitted use 

would continue as follows: 

Livestock

and kind 

# Season Public 

land 

Type use AUM 

3 Cattle 3/1 to 2/28 100 Custodial 40 

Total permitted use would remain 40 AUM’s. 

Control of listed base property associated with 

West Fork Mud Creek Allotment #09697 

Allotment has changed since the lease was 

issued in 1996. Upon approval of the transfer by 

the authorized officer, BLM would transfer 40 

AUM’s of permitted use to Raschke Limited 

Partnership or retain the lease with the current 

leaseholder provided documentation of control 

of base properties is submitted to BLM through 

a valid base property lease. The proposed action 

would include issuing a revised lease to Raschke 

Limited Partnership or renewing the lease with 

the current leaseholder. If permitted use is 

transferred, the transfer would constitute a name 

change only. Management of the allotment 

would remain within the family of the current 

lease holder. Management activities would 

continue to be consistent with the existing 

grazing lease. The grazing applications would be 

consistent with all mandatory terms and 

conditions of the lease analyzed in this 

document. 

2.3.12 Proposed Action for 

Individual Allotments in 

Pondera County 

(1) EAST BIRCH CREEK #06322 

Public acres – 577 

AUMs - 102 

Public land – 100% 

Livestock No. – 9 Cattle 

Season of Use – 3/1 to 2/28 

Type Use - Custodial 

Meeting Upland Standard: 

 Yes 

Upland Objectives: 

 Maintain or improve overall native 

vegetation in a late seral to Potential 

Natural Community (PNC) ecological 

condition rating. 

 Reduce coverage of clubmoss to improve 

infiltration and overall site production. 

 Increase abundance and cover of 

bunchgrasses and residual vegetation in 

S09, T28 N, R09 W, lot 7. 

Meeting Riparian Health Standard: 

 No 

Riparian Objectives: 

 Manage the riparian area on Birch Creek 

for its capability given the Swift Dam 

failure and subsequent reconstruction. 

 Decrease the cover and abundance of 

spotted knapweed in streamside zones. 

 Continue to support the regeneration of 

preferred woody species such as 

cottonwood/willow. 

Meeting Water Quality Standard: 

 Yes 

Water Quality Objectives: 

 Maintain streambank vegetative cover to 

mitigate non-point source pollution from 

entering Birch Creek. 

Meeting Biodiversity Standard: 

 No 

Biodiversity Objectives: 

 Reduce cover and abundance of spotted 

knapweed. 

	 Prevent further expansion of spotted 

knapweed and other noxious weed 

species such as leafy spurge. 

Great Falls Area Grazing Lease Renewal 67 Chapter 2 
 

Conforms with Guidelines for Livestock 

Grazing Management: 

 No 

 The allotment does not conform to 

Lewistown Guideline # 9. However 

progress is being made due to continued 

implementation of cooperative weed 

control efforts. 

Proposed Action: The current permitted use 

would continue as follows: 

Livestock

and kind 

# Season Public 

land 

Type use AUM 

9 Cattle 3/1 to 2/28 100 Custodial 102 

Total permitted use would remain 102 AUM’s. 

A hay yard with associated fence is located on a 

BLM 40 acre parcel (SENE Sec.9; T28N, R9W). 

Aerial photography also indicates that historical 

cultivation has occurred on this parcel 

(approximately 5-8 acres from ocular estimates). 

No agricultural permit or range improvement 

permit was issued for these activities. Continued 

use would not be authorized. Any unauthorized 

structure would be removed from BLM lands 

and any on-going agricultural activities would 

be discontinued and the site would be replanted 

with native seed. 

(2) HOMESITE #06324 

Public acres – 26 

AUMs - 9 

Public land – 100% 

Livestock No. – 1 Horse 

Season of Use – 3/1 to 2/28 

Type Use - Custodial 

Meeting Upland Standard: 

 No 

 Current livestock is considered to be a 

significant factor in this rating. 

Upland Objectives: 

	 Increase production and diversity of 

decreaser forbs and native bunchgrass 

species. 

	 Increase residual forage. 

	 Reduce amounts and dominance of 

invasive and increaser species, 

particularly Kentucky bluegrass. 

	 Improve reproductive capability of 

desirable species by allowing maturation 

of seed heads on individual plants of 

those species, particularly bluebunch 

wheatgrass, and rough fescue where still 

present. 

Meeting Riparian Health Standard: 

 No 

Riparian Objectives: 

 Manage the riparian area on Birch Creek 

for its capability given the Swift Dam 

failure and subsequent reconstruction. 

 Decrease the cover and abundance of 

spotted knapweed in streamside zones. 

 Improve the regeneration of preferred 

woody species such as 

cottonwood/willow. 

Meeting Water Quality Standard: 

 No 

Water Quality Objectives: 

 Improve upland and riparian vegetative 

covers in order to mitigate non-point 

source pollution from entering Birch 

Creek. 

Meeting Biodiversity Standard: 

 No 

 Current livestock management is 

considered to be a significant factor in 

upland areas; however, riparian 

conditions are directly related to the 

catastrophic failure of Swift Dam in 

1964. Upon failure of the dam, an 

estimated 880,000 cubic feet/second 

cascaded downstream in a massive wall 

of water. As a result, affected lands were 

scoured and depleted of topsoil. The 

dam has since been reconstructed. 

Regulated flow and reduced 

sedimentation is currently limiting 

floodplain rehabilitation. Spotted 

knapweed has been especially 

successful in colonizing these areas 

Great Falls Area Grazing Lease Renewal 68 Chapter 2 
 

which is the principle causal factor for 

not meeting biodiversity standards. 

Biodiversity Objectives: 

	 Increase ground litter and residual 

forage for ground nesting birds, game 

and non-game wildlife species. 

	 Increase diversity and abundance of 

desirable native plants. 

Conforms with Guidelines for Livestock 

Grazing Management: 

 No. 

 The allotment does not conform to 

Lewistown Guidelines #1, #9, #10, and 

#11; The allotment is dominated by nonnative grasses and undesirable forbs. 

Spotted knapweed, a noxious weed, is 

present in the riparian area. Vegetative 

conditions are beginning to impact the 

hydrologic function and soil stability. 

Nearly no herbaceous vegetation exists 

within the riparian zones. 

Proposed Action: Historical lease agreements 

indicate the allotment has had yearlong grazing 

of up to 15 animal units which has resulted in a 

shift in the vegetative community. Lessee would 

restrict the number of animal units to three or 

less and limit the season of use in the south 

pasture which contains the majority of BLM 

lands. The current permitted use would be 

modified to achieve significant progress toward 

meeting standards and guidelines for rangeland 

health. 

River Pasture 

Livestock

and kind 

# Season Public 

land 

Type use AUM 

1 horse 7/1 to 8/31 100 Custodial 6 

South Pasture 

Livestock

and kind 

# Season Public 

land 

Type use AUM 

1 horse 9/1 to 2/28 

3/1 to 6/30 

100 Custodial 3 

Total permitted use would remain 9 AUM’s. 

The following term and condition would be 

incorporated into the lease: 

*Utilization by livestock will not exceed 50% of the forage 

production for any given year. Livestock will be removed, 

or supplemental forage will be provided on deeded lands 

when AUM’s are consumed. 

(3) SWIFT DAM #06321 

Public acres – 40 

AUMs - 9 

Public land – 100% 

Livestock No. – 2 cattle 

Season of Use – 5/15 to 12/14 

Type Use - Custodial 

Meeting Upland Standard: 

 Yes 

Upland Objectives: 

	 Maintain or improve native vegetation in 

a late seral to Potential Natural 

Community (PNC) ecological condition 

rating. 

Meeting Riparian Health Standard: 

 No riparian habitat on public land within 

the allotment. 

Meeting Water Quality Standard: 

 N/A 

Meeting Biodiversity Standard: 

 Yes 

Biodiversity Objectives: 

	 Maintain ground litter and residual 

forage for ground nesting birds, game 

and non-game wildlife species. 

	 Maintain diversity and abundance of 

desirable native plants. 

Conforms with Guidelines for Livestock 

Grazing Management: 

 Yes 

Proposed Action: The current permitted use 

would continue as follows: 

Livestock

and kind 

# Season Public 

land 

Type use AUM 

2 Cattle 5/15 to 12/14 100 Custodial 9 

Total permitted use would remain 9 AUM’s. 

Great Falls Area Grazing Lease Renewal 69 Chapter 2 
(4) WADDEL LAKES #06320 

Public acres – 309 

AUMs - 25 

Public land – 100% 

Livestock No. – 2 Cattle 

Season of Use – 3/1 to 2/28 

Type Use - Active 

Meeting Upland Standard: 

 No 

 Due to causes other than current 

livestock management. 

Upland Objectives: 

 Decrease amounts of bare ground, 

invasive species and noxious weeds. 

Spotted knapweed is estimated to 

account for 35% of the annual plant 

production on this site. 

	 Increase abundance and cover of 

desirable bunchgrass species such as 

bluebunch wheatgrass and rough fescue. 

	 Increase litter amount, annual production 

of desirable grasses and forbs. 

Meeting Riparian Health Standard: 

 No 

Riparian Objectives: 

 Manage the riparian area on Birch Creek 

for its capability given the Swift Dam 

failure and subsequent reconstruction. 

 Decrease the cover and abundance of 

spotted knapweed in streamside zones. 

 Continue to support the regeneration of 

preferred woody species such as 

cottonwood/willow. 

Meeting Water Quality Standard: 

 Yes 

Water Quality Objectives: 

 Maintain streambank vegetative cover to 

mitigate non-point source pollution from 

entering Birch Creek. 

Meeting Biodiversity Standard: 

 No 

 Due to causes other than current 

livestock management. 

Biodiversity Objectives: 

 Reduce abundance and cover of spotted 

knapweed. 

 Increase diversity and production of 

native grasses and forbs. 

Conforms with Guidelines for Livestock 

Grazing Management: 

 No. 

 The allotment does not conform with 

Lewistown Guideline #9, however 

riparian and upland conditions are 

directly related to the catastrophic 

failure of Swift Dam in 1964. As a 

result, affected lands were scoured and 

depleted of topsoil. When the dam was 

reconstructed, flows were regulated and 

suspended sediments deposited in the 

reservoir which severely limits the areas 

ability to rehabilitate itself. Spotted 

knapweed has been especially 

successful in colonizing these areas. 

Weed control efforts are currently in 

place. Species such as western 

wheatgrass are becoming more 

predominate which indicates the site is 

making gradual progress towards 

rebuilding the soil and vegetative 

components. 

Proposed Action: The current permitted use 

would be modified as follows: 

Livestock

and kind 

# Season Public 

land 

Type use AUM 

2 Cattle 3/1 to 2/28 100 Custodial 25 

Total permitted use would remain 25 AUM’s. 

(5) WEST BIRCH CREEK #06323 

Public acres – 42 

AUMs - 11 

Public land – 100 

Livestock # and type– 1 horse 

Season of Use – 3/1 to 2/28 

Type Use - Custodial 

Great Falls Area Grazing Lease Renewal 70 Chapter 2 
 

 

Meeting Upland Standard: 

 Yes 

Upland Objectives: 

 Maintain or improve native vegetation in 

a late seral to Potential Natural 

Community (PNC) ecological condition 

rating. 

Meeting Riparian Health Standard: 

 No 

Riparian Objectives: 

 Manage the riparian area on Birch Creek 

for its capability given the Swift Dam 

failure and subsequent reconstruction. 

 Decrease the cover and abundance of 

spotted knapweed in streamside zones. 

 Continue to support the regeneration of 

preferred woody species such as 

cottonwood/willow. 

Meeting Water Quality Standard: 

 Yes 

Water Quality Objectives: 

 Maintain streambank vegetative cover to 

mitigate non-point source pollution from 

entering Birch Creek. 

Meeting Biodiversity Standard: 

 No 

 Due to causes other than current 

livestock management. 

Biodiversity Objectives: 

 Reduce abundance and cover of spotted 

knapweed in riparian areas. 

 Increase diversity and production of 

understory native vegetation. 

Conforms with Guidelines for Livestock 

Grazing Management: 

 No. 

 The allotment does not conform with 

Lewistown Guideline #9, however 

riparian and upland conditions are 

directly related to the catastrophic 

failure of Swift Dam in 1964. As a 

result, affected lands were scoured and 

depleted of topsoil. When the dam was 

reconstructed, flows were regulated and 

suspended sediments deposited in the 

reservoir which severely limits the areas 

ability to rehabilitate itself. Spotted 

knapweed has been especially 

successful in colonizing these areas. 

Weed control efforts are currently in 

place. 

Proposed Action: The current permitted use 

would continue as follows: 

Livestock

and kind 

# Season Public 

land 

Type use AUM 

1 horse 3/1 to 2/28 100 Custodial 11 

Total permitted use would remain 11 AUM’s. 

2.3.13 Proposed Action for 

Individual Allotments in 

Powell County 

Lewistown Field Office administers grazing on 

one allotment in Powell County through 

agreement with Missoula Field Office. This is 

due to a single operator controlling base 

property attached to multiple allotments 

occurring on Grazing Record #2507829. 

(1) DOG CREEK #07825 

Public acres – 206 

AUMs - 51 

Public land – 100% 

Livestock No. – 13 Cattle 

Season of Use – 6/01 to 09/30 

Type Use - Custodial 

Meeting Upland Standard: 

	 Yes, there are limited uplands that 

support livestock grazing on this 

allotment. Uplands are primarily closed 

canopy forests with limited understory. 

Meeting Riparian Health Standard: 

 Yes 

Riparian Objectives: 

 Decrease streambank composition of 

Kentucky bluegrass. 

 Decrease streambank alteration levels, 

particularly in loafing areas. 

Great Falls Area Grazing Lease Renewal 71 Chapter 2 
 

 

	 Decrease browse level on preferred 

woody species. 

Meeting Water Quality Standard: 

 Yes 

Water Quality Objectives: 

 Decrease streambank alteration levels, 

particularly in loafing areas. 

 Improve vegetative cover of 

streambanks. 

Meeting Biodiversity Standard: 

 Yes 

 There are adequate amounts of woody 

species required for cover and browse. 

Biodiversity Objectives: 

	 Improve structure by increasing cover 

and abundance of desirable bunchgrass 

species. 

	 Increase residual forage for game and 

non-game wildlife species. 

Conforms with Guidelines for Livestock 

Grazing Management: 

 No. 

 Guidelines not conformed to: 

1,2,4,5,12,13. Non-conformance to these 

guidelines is due to the following 

factors: 

*Vegetation within this allotment is 

predominately made up of increaser grasses 

such as cheatgrass, Kentucky bluegrass and 

annual invasive forbs due to historical practices. 

*Bare ground is excessive for this ecological site 

and the exhibits pedestals and flow patterns. 

(Study site #2) 

*The site lacked diversity and production of 

decreaser forbs and bunchgrass species. 

Proposed Action: The current permitted use 

would continue as follows: 

Livestock

and kind 

# Season Public 

land 

Type use AUM 

13 Cattle 6/1 to 9/30 100 Custodial 51 

Total permitted use would remain 51 AUM’s. 

Monitoring intensity would be increased to five 

year intervals to ensure conditions do not decline 

due to offsite influences. 

The Windy Hollow Allotment #09818 is also 

contained within this grazing lease. See (36) 

listed under Cascade County for provisions 

specific to this allotment. 

2.3.14 Proposed Action for 

Individual Allotments in 

Teton County 

ALKALI FLAT #07615 

(See Lewis and Clark County) 

(1) BATTLE CREEK #06307 

Public acres – 1597 

AUMs - 62 

Public land – 100% 

Livestock No. – 11 Cattle 

Season of Use – 5/15 to 10/31 

Type Use - Custodial 

Meeting Upland Standard: 

 Yes 

Upland Objectives: 

 Maintain or improve native vegetation in 

a late seral to Potential Natural 

Community (PNC) ecological condition 

rating. 

 Decrease abundance of Kentucky 

bluegrass in Sections 30 and 31. 

Meeting Riparian Health Standard: 

 Yes 

Riparian Objectives: 

 Maintain the riparian areas on North 

and South Forks of Battle Creek in PFC 

or above. 

 Continue to support regeneration of 

preferred trees and shrubs. 

Great Falls Area Grazing Lease Renewal 72 Chapter 2 
 

Meeting Water Quality Standard: 

 Yes 

Water Quality Objectives: 

	 Continue to support existing beneficial 

uses of North and South Forks of Battle 

Creek. 

Meeting Biodiversity Standard: 

 Yes 

Biodiversity Objectives: 

 Maintain rough fescue and bluebunch 

wheatgrass stands. 

	 Prevent expansion of non-native, 

invasive species such as Kentucky 

bluegrass and timothy. 

	 Maintain health of aspen groves. 

	 Maintain diversity and quality of woody 

browse species in North Fork and South 

Fork of Battle Creek. 

Conforms with Guidelines for Livestock 

Grazing Management: 

 Yes 

Proposed Action: The current permitted use 

would continue as follows: 

Livestock

and kind 

# Season Public 

land 

Type use AUM 

11 Cattle 5/15 to 10/31 100 Custodial 62 

Total permitted use would remain 62 AUM’s. 

The name of this allotment would be modified 

from Battle Creek to Battle Creek ONA to 

prevent confusion with the Battle Creek 

Allotment #09814. 

The base property associated with the Battle 

Creek Allotment #06307 is currently undergoing 

a change of ownership. Upon approval of the 

transfer by the authorized officer, BLM would 

transfer 62 AUM’s of grazing preference to the 

new owners of the associated base property. The 

proposed action includes issuing a grazing lease 

to the new owners. Transfer of the grazing 

preference constitutes a name change only. 

Management activities would continue to be 

consistent with all mandatory terms and 

conditions of the lease analyzed in this 

document. If needed, the Battle Creek #06307 

and Green Timber Gulch #06308 Allotments 

may be consolidated on a single grazing lease to 

provide orderly administration. 

(2) BLACK COULEE #06313 

Public acres – 40 

AUMs - 14 

Public land – 100% 

Livestock No. – 3 Cattle 

Season of Use – 6/1 to 9/30 

Type Use - Active 

Meeting Upland Standard: 

 Yes 

Upland Objectives: 

	 Maintain or improve native vegetation in 

a late seral to Potential Natural 

Community (PNC) ecological condition 

rating. 

	 Maintain or increase residual forage. 

Meeting Riparian Health Standard: 

 No riparian habitat on public land within 

the allotment. 

Meeting Water Quality Standard: 

 N/A 

Meeting Biodiversity Standard: 

 Yes 

Biodiversity Objectives: 

	 Maintain ground litter and residual 

forage for ground nesting birds, game 

and non-game wildlife species. 

	 Maintain diversity and abundance of 

desirable native plants. 

Conforms with Guidelines for Livestock 

Grazing Management: 

 Yes 

Proposed Action: The current permitted use 

would be modified as follows: 

Livestock

and kind 

# Season Public 

land 

Type use AUM 

3 Cattle 6/1 to 9/30 100 Custodial 14 

Total permitted use would remain 14 AUM’s. 

Great Falls Area Grazing Lease Renewal 73 Chapter 2 
 

 

 

 

 (3) BLACKFEET GULCH #06335 

Public acres – 60 

AUMs - 6 

Public land – 100% 

Livestock No. – 3 horses 

Season of Use – 7/1 to 9/1 

Type Use - Active 

Meeting Upland Standard: 

 Yes 

Upland Objectives: 

	 Maintain or improve native vegetation in 

a late seral to Potential Natural 

Community (PNC) ecological condition 

rating. 

	 Maintain or increase residual forage. 

Meeting Riparian Health Standard: 

 No riparian habitat on public land within 

the allotment. 

Meeting Water Quality Standard: 

 N/A 

Meeting Biodiversity Standard: 

 Yes 

Biodiversity Objectives: 

	 Maintain ground litter and residual 

forage for ground nesting birds, game 

and non-game wildlife species. 

	 Maintain diversity and abundance of 

desirable native plants, particularly 

rough fescue, needlegrass and other 

bunchgrass species. 

Conforms with Guidelines for Livestock 

Grazing Management: 

 Yes 

Proposed Action: The current permitted use 

would be modified as follows: 

(4) CASTLE REEF #07613 

Public acres – 196 

AUMs - 63 

Public land – 100% 

Livestock No. – 9 Hoses 

10 Horses 

Season. – 3/1 to 6/15

 12/1 to 2/28 

Type Use - Custodial 

Meeting Upland Standard: 

 Yes 

Upland Objectives: 

 Maintain or improve native vegetation 

in a late seral to Potential Natural 

Community (PNC) ecological condition 

rating. 

 Increase abundance of desirable forage 

species such as rough fescue and 

needlegrasses. 

 Prevent expansion of non-native 

invasives such as Kentucky bluegrass, 

timothy and cheatgrass. 

Meeting Riparian Health Standard: 

 No known or inventoried riparian 

habitat on public land within the 

allotment. 

Meeting Water Quality Standard: 

 N/A 

Meeting Biodiversity Standard: 

 Yes 

Biodiversity Objectives: 

 Maintain ground litter and residual 

forage for ground nesting birds, game 

and non-game wildlife species. 

 Maintain diversity and abundance of 

desirable native plants, particularly 

rough fescue, needlegrass and other 

Livestock bunchgrass species.

and kind 

# Season Public 

land 

Type use AUM 

3 Horses 7/1 to 9/1 100 Custodial 6 

Total permitted use would remain 6 AUM’s. 

Great Falls Area Grazing Lease Renewal 74 Chapter 2 
 

Conforms with Guidelines for Livestock 

Grazing Management: 

	 Yes 

Proposed Action: The current permitted use 

would continue as follows: 

Livestock

and kind 

# Season Public 

land 

Type use AUM 

10 Horses 

9 Horses 

12/1 to 2/28 

3/1 to 6/15 

100 

100 

Custodial 

Custodial 

30 

33 

Total permitted use would remain 63 AUM’s. 

(5) CHICKEN COULEE #06303 

Public acres – 3340 

AUMs - 279 

Public land – 44% 

Livestock No. – 210 cattle 

Season of Use – 7/1 to 9/30 

Type Use – Active 

Meeting Upland Standard: 

 Yes 

Upland Objectives: 

 Maintain or improve native vegetation in 

a late seral to Potential Natural 

Community (PNC) ecological condition 

rating. 

 Maintain residual forage. 

Meeting Riparian Health Standard: 

 Yes 

Riparian Objectives: 

 Maintain the riparian areas on 

Blindhorse Creek, Frenchy Coulee, and 

Pamburn in PFC or above. 

 Continue to support the regeneration of 

preferred trees and shrubs. 

 Maintain the functionality and water 

storage capabilities of the lentic 

wetlands within the allotment. 

Meeting Water Quality Standard: 

 Yes 

Water Quality Objectives: 

	 Maintain the vegetative buffers 

surrounding the lentic wetlands. 

	 Continue to support existing and 

designated beneficial uses of Pamburn 

Creek and its immediate receiving water 

North Fork of the Teton River, including 

cold-water fishery. 

	 Maintain stream channel function and 

vegetative buffers on Blindhorse Creek 

and Frenchy Coulee to mitigate nonpoint source pollution from entering 

Muddy Creek. 

Meeting Biodiversity Standard: 

 Yes 

Biodiversity Objectives: 

 Maintain ground litter and residual 

forage for ground nesting birds, game 

and non-game wildlife species. 

 Maintain diversity and abundance of 

desirable native plants, particularly 

rough fescue, needlegrass and other 

bunchgrass species. 

Conforms with Guidelines for Livestock 

Grazing Management: 

 Yes 

Proposed Action: The current permitted use 

would continue as follows: 

Livestock

and kind 

# Season Public 

land 

Type use AUM 

210 Cattle 7/1 to 9/30 44 Active 279 

Total permitted use would remain 279 AUM’s. 

Control of listed base property associated with 

the Chicken Coulee Allotment #06303 and 

Choteau Mountain Allotment #06304 has 

changed since the lease was issued to Montana 

Spirit Organic Ranch LLC (MSOR) in 2000. 

The proposed action would renew the grazing 

lease with MSOR based on a private property 

lease with MSMT LLC. If ownership of the 

listed base property is transferred to a third party 

within the term of the grazing lease, BLM would 

transfer 279 AUM’s of permitted use to the new 

owners provided applications are consistent with 

all mandatory terms and conditions analyzed in 

this document and applicants meet all other 

qualifications to hold the grazing lease. 

Great Falls Area Grazing Lease Renewal 75 Chapter 2 
The Choteau Mountain Allotment #06304 is also 

contained within this grazing lease. See (6) 

listed under Teton County for provisions 

specific to this allotment. 

(6) CHOTEAU MOUNTAIN #06304 

Public acres – 240 

AUMs - 12 

Public land – 44% 

Livestock No. – 1 Cattle 

Season of Use – 3/1 to 2/28 

Type Use - Custodial 

Meeting Upland Standard: 

 Yes 

Upland Objectives: 

	 Maintain or improve native vegetation in 

a late seral to Potential Natural 

Community (PNC) ecological condition 

rating. 

	 Maintain residual forage. 

Meeting Riparian Health Standard: 

 No riparian habitat on public land within 

the allotment. 

Meeting Water Quality Standard: 

 N/A 

Meeting Biodiversity Standard: 

 Yes 

Biodiversity Objectives: 

	 Maintain ground litter and residual 

forage for ground nesting birds, game 

and non-game wildlife species. 

	 Maintain diversity and abundance of 

desirable native plants. 

Conforms with Guidelines for Livestock 

Grazing Management: 

	 Yes 

Proposed Action: The current permitted use 

would be modified as follows: 

Livestock

and kind 

# Season Public 

land 

Type use AUM 

1 Cattle 3/1 to 2/28 100 Custodial 12 

Total permitted use would remain 12 AUM’s. 

Control of listed base property associated with 

the Chicken Coulee Allotment #06303 and 

Choteau Mountain Allotment #06304 has 

changed since the lease was issued to Montana 

Spirit Organic Ranch LLC (MSOR) in 2000. 

The proposed action would renew the grazing 

lease with MSOR based on a private property 

lease with MSMT LLC. If ownership of the 

listed base property is transferred to a third party 

within the term of the grazing lease, BLM would 

transfer 12 AUM’s of grazing preference to the 

new owners provided applications are consistent 

with all mandatory terms and conditions 

analyzed in this document and applicants meet 

all other qualifications to hold the grazing lease. 

The Chicken Coulee Allotment #06303 is also 

contained within this grazing lease. See (5) 

listed under Teton County for provisions 

specific to this allotment. 

(7) COWTRACT #06306 

Public acres – 360 

AUMs - 36 

Public land – 100% 

Livestock No. – 10 Horses 

Season of Use – 6/15 to 9/30 

Type Use - Active 

Meeting Upland Standard: 

 Yes 

Upland Objectives: 

 Maintain native vegetation in a late seral 

to Potential Natural Community (PNC) 

ecological condition rating. 

 Maintain residual forage. 

 Prevent expansion of non-native invasive 

species such as timothy and Kentucky 

bluegrass. 

Meeting Riparian Health Standard: 

Great Falls Area Grazing Lease Renewal 76 Chapter 2 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

	 No riparian habitat on public land within 

the allotment. 

Meeting Water Quality Standard: 

 N/A 

Meeting Biodiversity Standard: 

 Yes 

Biodiversity Objectives: 

	 Maintain ground litter and residual 

forage for ground nesting birds, game 

and non-game wildlife species. 

	 Maintain diversity and abundance of 

desirable native plants. 

Conforms with Guidelines for Livestock 

Grazing Management: 

 Yes 

Proposed Action: The current permitted use 

would be modified as follows: 

Livestock

and kind 

# Season Public 

land 

Type use AUM 

10 Horses 6/15 to 9/30 100 Custodial 36 

Total permitted use would remain 36 AUM’s. 

(8) DEEP CREEK #06310 

Public acres – 3000 

AUMs – Deep Creek Pasture: 144 

 Willow Creek Pasture: 139 

 Total Permitted Use: 285 

Public land – 

Deep Creek Pasture: 100%

 Willow Creek Pasture: 13% 

Livestock No. – 

Deep Creek Pasture: 12 cattle 

 Willow Creek Pasture: 211 cattle 

Season of Use – 

 Deep Creek Pasture: 3/1 to 2/28 

 Willow Creek Pasture:5/15 to 10/15 

Type Use – 

Deep Creek Pasture: Custodial 

 Willow Creek Pasture: Custodial 

Meeting Upland Standard: 

 Yes 

Upland Objectives: 

 Maintain native vegetation in a Potential 

Natural Community (PNC) ecological 

condition rating to prevent establishment 

of non-native invasive species. 

 Maintain residual forage. 

Meeting Riparian Health Standard: 

 Yes 

Riparian Objectives: 

 Maintain the riparian areas on Edwards 

Creek and North and South forks of 

Deep Creek in PFC or above. 

 Continue to support regeneration of 

preferred tree and shrub species such as 

cottonwood, willow, alder, birch, and 

silverberry. 

Meeting Water Quality Standard: 

 Yes 

Water Quality Objectives: 

 Continue to support existing beneficial 

uses on Edwards Creek and North and 

South Forks of Deep Creek, including 

cold-water fishery. 

Meeting Biodiversity Standard: 

 Yes 

Biodiversity Objectives: 

 Maintain ground litter and residual 

forage for ground nesting birds, game 

and non-game wildlife species. 

 Maintain diversity and abundance of 

desirable native bunchgrasses in the 

uplands and woody browse species such 

as alder, birch, willow and silverberry in 

the riparian zones along Deep Creek. 

 Maintain health and regeneration of 

aspen stands. 

Conforms with Guidelines for Livestock 

Grazing Management: 

 Yes 

Proposed Action: The current permitted use 

would be modified as follows: 

Great Falls Area Grazing Lease Renewal 77 Chapter 2 
 

Deep Creek Pasture 

Livestock # 

and kind 

Season Public 

land 

Type use AUM 

12 Cattle 3/1 to 2/28 100 Custodial 144 

Willow Creek Pasture 

Livestock

and kind 

# Season Public 

land 

Type use AUM 

27 Cattle 5/15 to 10/15 100 Custodial 139 

Total permitted use would remain 285 AUM’s. 

The Saypo Cattle Company/BLM Grazing 

Allotment Plan(1990) implemented a three 

pasture rest-rotation grazing system. 

The Deep Creek and Willow Creek pastures are 

now contained within the Deep Creek Allotment 

#6310 while the Ear Mountain Pasture became 

the Salmond Ranch Company Allotment 

#06342 which was retained under a separate 

grazing lease. BLM, in conjunction with lessee 

and the state of Montana would revise the 1990 

Saypo Cattle Company/BLM Grazing Allotment 

Plan to incorporate changes in land tenure. 

(9) EAR MOUNTAIN INDIV. #09835 

Public acres – 884 

AUMs - 53 

Public land – 100% 

Livestock No. – 15 Horses 

Season of Use – 7/1 to 9/30 

Type Use - Active 

Meeting Upland Standard: 

 Yes 

Upland Objectives: 

	 Maintain native vegetation in a Potential 

Natural Community (PNC) ecological 

condition rating to prevent establishment 

of non-native invasive species. 

	 Maintain residual forage. 

Meeting Riparian Health Standard: 

 No riparian habitat on public land within 

the allotment. 

Meeting Water Quality Standard: 

 N/A 

Meeting Biodiversity Standard: 

 Yes 

Biodiversity Objectives: 

	 Maintain ground litter and residual 

forage for ground nesting birds, game 

and non-game wildlife species. 

	 Maintain diversity and abundance of 

desirable native bunchgrasses in the 

uplands. 

	 Maintain health and regeneration of 

aspen stands. 

Conforms with Guidelines for Livestock 

Grazing Management: 

 Yes 

Proposed Action: The current permitted use 

would continue as follows: 

Livestock

and kind 

# Season Public 

land 

Type use AUM 

15 Horses 7/1 to 9/30 100 Active 45 

Total permitted use would remain 53 AUM’s. 

(10) EAST FARMERS RESERVOIR #6316 

Public acres – 40 

AUMs - 13 

Public land – 100% 

Livestock No. – 3 Cattle 

Season of Use – 8/15 to 1/15 

Type Use - Custodial 

Meeting Upland Standard: 

 Yes 

Upland Objectives: 

	 Maintain native vegetation in a late seral 

to Potential Natural Community (PNC) 

ecological condition rating. 

 Maintain residual forage. 

 Prevent establishment of non-native 

invasive species. 

Meeting Riparian Health Standard: 

 No riparian habitat on public land within 

the allotment. 

Great Falls Area Grazing Lease Renewal 78 Chapter 2 
 

Meeting Water Quality Standard: 

 N/A 

Meeting Biodiversity Standard: 

 Yes 

Biodiversity Objectives: 

	 Maintain ground litter and residual 

forage for ground nesting birds, game 

and non-game wildlife species. 

	 Maintain diversity and abundance of 

desirable native plants. 

Conforms with Guidelines for Livestock 

Grazing Management: 

 Yes 

Proposed Action: The lessee manages this 

allotment in a controlled grazing system in 

conjunction with state and deeded pastures. 

Multiple pastures receive varying seasons of 

treatment, rest, deferment and duration of use. 

Due to the scheduling, the current permitted use 

would be modified to accommodate a controlled 

grazing system: 

Livestock

and kind 

# Season Public 

land 

Type use AUM 

2 Cattle 6/1 to 12/31 100 Custodial 13 

Total permitted use would remain 13 AUM’s. 

(11) FREEZEOUT WEST #06317 

Public acres – 200 

AUMs - 30 

Public land – 100 

Livestock No. – 8 Cattle 

Season of Use – 6/1 to 9/30 

Type Use - Custodial 

Meeting Upland Standard: 

 Yes 

Upland Objectives: 

 Increase production and diversity of 

decreaser forbs and native bunchgrass 

species, particularly bluebunch 

wheatgrass and needlegrass species. 

 Increase residual forage. 

	 Reduce relative abundance of increaser 

species, particularly needlandthread and 

Sandberg’s bluegrass and prevent further 

spread of invasives such as cheatgrass. 

	 Improve reproductive capability of 

desirable species by allowing maturation 

of seed heads on individual plants of 

those species, particularly bluebunch 

wheatgrass, and needlegrass species 

where present. 

Meeting Riparian Health Standard: 

 No riparian habitat on public land within 

the allotment. 

Meeting Water Quality Standard: 

 N/A 

Meeting Biodiversity Standard: 

 Yes 

Biodiversity Objectives: 

 Increase ground litter and residual 

forage for ground nesting birds, game 

and non-game wildlife species. 

 Increase diversity and abundance of 

desirable native plants. 

Conforms with Guidelines for Livestock 

Grazing Management: 

 Yes 

Proposed Action: The current permitted use 

would continue as follows: 

Livestock

and kind 

# Season Public 

land 

Type use AUM 

8 Cattle 6/1 to 9/30 100 Custodial 30 

Total permitted use would remain 30 AUM’s. 

(12) GREEN TIMBER GULCH #06308 

Public acres – 728 

AUMs - 35 

Public land – 18% 

Livestock No. – 50 Cattle 

Season of Use – 6/15 to 10/15 

Great Falls Area Grazing Lease Renewal 79 Chapter 2 
Type Use - Custodial 

Meeting Upland Standard: 

 Yes 

Upland Objectives: 

 Maintain native vegetation in a late seral 

to Potential Natural Community (PNC) 

ecological condition rating. 

 Maintain residual forage and increase 

abundance and cover of desirable 

bunchgrasses such as rough fescue and 

bluebunch wheatgrass. 

 Prevent expansion of non-native invasive 

species such as timothy and Kentucky 

bluegrass. 

Meeting Riparian Health Standard: 

 Yes 

Riparian Objectives: 

 Maintain the riparian area on Green 

Timber Gulch in PFC or above. 

	 Continue to support woody species 

communities of aspen, red-osier 

dogwood and willow. 

Meeting Water Quality Standard: 

 Yes 

Water Quality Objectives 

 Continue to support stream channel 

function, vegetative conditions and 

recruitment of woody species in order to 

mitigate non-point source pollutants 

from entering Green Timber Gulch. 

Meeting Biodiversity Standard: 

 Yes 

Biodiversity Objectives: 

 Maintain ground litter and residual 

forage for ground nesting birds, game 

and non-game wildlife species. 

 Maintain diversity and abundance of 

desirable native bunchgrasses in the 

uplands and woody browse species such 

as red-osier dogwood, alder, birch, 

willow and silverberry in the riparian 

zones along Green Timber Gulch. 

 Maintain health and regeneration of 

aspen stands. 

Conforms with Guidelines for Livestock 

Grazing Management: 

	 Yes 

Proposed Action: The current permitted use 

would be modified as follows: 

Livestock

and kind 

# Season Public 

land 

Type use AUM 

50 Cattle 6/15 to 10/15 18% Active 35 

Total permitted use would remain 35 AUM’s. 

BLM was notified on December 28, 2010, that 

the base property associated with the Green 

Timber Gulch Allotment #06308 is currently 

undergoing a change of ownership. Upon 

approval of the transfer by the authorized 

officer, BLM would transfer 35 AUM’s of 

grazing preference to the new owners of the 

associated base property. The proposed action 

includes issuing a grazing lease to the new 

owners. Transfer of the grazing preference 

constitutes a name change only. Management 

activities would continue to be consistent with 

all mandatory terms and conditions of the lease 

analyzed in this document. If needed, the Green 

Timber Gulch #06308 and Battle Creek #06307 

Allotments may be consolidated on a single 

grazing lease to provide orderly administration. 

(13) INDIAN HEAD ROCK #07659 

Public acres – 78 

AUMs - 4 

Public land – 100% 

Livestock No. – 2 Horses 

Season of Use –7/1 to 8/31 

Type Use - Active 

Meeting Upland Standard: 

 Yes 

Upland Objectives: 

	 Maintain native vegetation in a late seral 

to Potential Natural Community (PNC) 

ecological condition rating. 

Meeting Riparian Health Standard: 

 Yes 

Great Falls Area Grazing Lease Renewal 80 Chapter 2 
 

Riparian Objectives: 

 Maintain riparian area on North Fork of 

the Teton River in PFC or above. 

Meeting Water Quality Standard: 

 Yes 

Water Quality Objectives: 

	 Continue to support designated 

beneficial uses on North Fork of the 

Teton River, including cold-water 

fishery. 

Meeting Biodiversity Standard: 

 Yes 

Biodiversity Objectives: 

 Maintain condition and cover of native 

upland vegetation. 

	 Maintain diversity, abundance and 

recruitment of woody browse species 

such as red-osier dogwood alder, birch, 

willow and silverberry in the riparian 

zones along Teton River. 

Conforms with Guidelines for Livestock 

Grazing Management: 

 Yes 

Proposed Action: The current permitted use 

would modified as follows: 

Livestock

and kind 

# Season Public 

land 

Type use AUM 

2 Horses 7/1 to 8/31 100 Custodial 4 

Total permitted use would remain 4 AUM’s. 

Base property associated with this allotment was 

controlled through a 1979 pasture lease 

agreement with the Nature Conservancy. After 

dissolution of the pasture lease, the current 

lessee’s maintained permitted use associated 

with the Indian Head Rock Allotment. A revised 

designation of base property (grazing application 

4130-1a) was submitted to BLM. 

During the comment period for the preliminary 

EA, BLM offered consideration of other 

applications for permitted use associated with 

this allotment. No other grazing applications 

from adjacent property owners or other qualified 

applicants were received. Provided that adequate 

documentation of control of listed property is 

submitted to BLM, the proposed action would 

include continuation of administration with the 

current leaseholder. Listed base property would 

be revised as offered on grazing application 

4130-1a. The leaseholder of record would be 

amended to consist of both owners of offered 

base property 

(14) PISHKUN #06311 

Public acres – 93 

AUMs - 27 

Public land – 100% 

Livestock No. – 2 Cattle 

Season of Use – 3/1 to 2/28 

Type Use - Custodial 

Meeting Upland Standard: 

 Yes 

Upland Objectives: 

	 Maintain native vegetation in a Potential 

Natural Community (PNC) ecological 

condition rating. 

 Maintain residual forage. 

 Prevent establishment of non-native 

invasive species. 

Meeting Riparian Health Standard: 

 No riparian habitat on public land within 

the allotment. 

Meeting Water Quality Standard: 

 N/A 

Meeting Biodiversity Standard: 

 Yes 

Biodiversity Objectives: 

	 Maintain ground litter and residual 

forage for ground nesting birds, game 

and non-game wildlife species. 

	 Maintain diversity and abundance of 

desirable native bunchgrasses such as 

bluebunch wheatgrass and needlegrass 

species. 

Conforms with Guidelines for Livestock 

Grazing Management: 

 Yes 

Great Falls Area Grazing Lease Renewal 81 Chapter 2 
 

Proposed Action: The current permitted use 

would continue as follows: 

Livestock

and kind 

# Season Public 

land 

Type use AUM 

2 Cattle 3/1 to 2/28 100 Custodial 27 

Total permitted use would remain 27 AUM’s. 

Control of listed base property associated with 

Pishkun Allotment #06311 has changed. The 

proposed action would include issuing a revised 

lease reflecting the transfer of 27 AUM’s 

permitted use to Stephens Ranch LLC. The 

transfer would constitute a name change only. 

Management of the allotment would remain 

within the family of the current lease holder. The 

grazing applications received were consistent 

with the previous lease and all mandatory terms 

and conditions analyzed in this document. The 

transfer was approved the Lewistown Field 

Manager on February 9, 2010. 

Meeting Water Quality Standard: 

 N/A 

Meeting Biodiversity Standard: 

 Yes 

Biodiversity Objectives: 

 Maintain ground litter and residual 

forage for ground nesting birds, game 

and non-game wildlife species. 

 Increase diversity and abundance of 

desirable native bunchgrasses such as 

bluebunch wheatgrass, rough fescue and 

needlegrass species. 

Conforms with Guidelines for Livestock 

Grazing Management: 

 Yes 

Proposed Action: The current permitted use 

would continue as follows: 

Livestock

and kind 

# Season Public 

land 

Type use AUM 

6 Cattle 6/15 to 10/15 100 Custodial 26 

(15) PISHKUN RESERVOIR #06315 

Public acres – 78 

AUMs - 26 

Public land – 100% 

Livestock No. – 6 Cattle 

Season of Use – 6/15 to 10/15 

Type Use - Custodial 

Meeting Upland Standard: 

 Yes 

Upland Objectives: 

 Maintain or improve native vegetation in 

a late seral to Potential Natural 

Community (PNC) ecological condition 

rating. 

 Maintain residual forage. 

 Prevent establishment of non-native 

invasive species. 

Meeting Riparian Health Standard: 

 No known or inventoried riparian 

habitat on public land within the 

allotment. Two ephemeral potholes 

may exist. 

Total permitted use would remain 26 AUM’s. 

Grazing Record #2507650 is issued under a 

lease agreement between Fairfield Cattlemen’s 

Association and Greenfields Irrigation District. 

This agreement will terminate December 31, 

2015. The proposed action includes the lease 

renewal agreement and annual grazing lease 

extension. If a new agreement is signed with the 

same mandatory terms and conditions as 

analyzed above, a subsequent grazing lease 

would be generated for the term of the new 

agreement, but not to exceed the 10 year term of 

the BLM grazing lease. 

Willow Creek Pasture Allotment #06314 is also 

listed under Grazing Record #2507650. See 

Willow Creek Pasture #15 listed under Lewis 

and Clark County for the proposed action 

specific to this allotment. 

(16) SALMOND RANCH CO . #06342 

Public acres – 1242 

AUMs - 95 

Great Falls Area Grazing Lease Renewal 82 Chapter 2 
 

Public land – 7% 

Livestock No. – 267 Cattle 

Season of Use – 5/15 to 10/15 

Type Use - Custodial 

Meeting Upland Standard: 

 Yes 

Upland Objectives: 

 Maintain native vegetation in a late seral 

to Potential Natural Community (PNC) 

ecological condition rating. 

 Maintain residual forage. 

 Prevent establishment of non-native 

invasive species. 

Meeting Riparian Health Standard: 

 Yes 

Riparian Objectives: 

 Maintain riparian area on Edwards 

Creek in PFC or above. 

Meeting Water Quality Standard: 

 Yes 

Water Quality Objectives: 

 Maintain upland and riparian vegetative 

conditions within the allotment to 

mitigate non-point source pollution from 

entering Edwards Creek. 

 Continue to support existing beneficial 

uses within Edwards Creek. 

Meeting Biodiversity Standard: 

 Yes 

Biodiversity Objectives: 

 Maintain diversity, abundance and 

recruitment of woody browse species 

such as red-osier dogwood, birch, 

willow in the riparian zones along 

Edwards Creek. 

 Maintain health and regeneration of 

aspen stands. 

Conforms with Guidelines for Livestock 

Grazing Management: 

 Yes 

Proposed Action: The Saypo Cattle 

Company/BLM Grazing Allotment Plan (1990) 

implemented a three pasture rest-rotation 

grazing system. Two of the pastures (Deep 

Creek and Willow Creek) used in that rotation 

were split into separate allotments under control 

of a new operator. The Ear Mountain Pasture 

became the Salmond Ranch Company Allotment 

#06342 and was retained under this grazing 

lease. BLM lands contained within this lease 

would now be used in conjunction with deeded 

lands and Ear Mountain Wildlife Management 

Area rest-rotation grazing plan outlined by 

Montana Department of Fish Wildlife and Parks. 

Permitted use would be modified as follows: 

Livestock

and kind 

# Season Public 

land 

Type use AUM 

267 Cattle 5/15 to 10/15 7 Active 95 

Total permitted use would remain 95 AUM’s. 

(17) THE FLAT #06319 

Public acres – 157 

AUMs - 49 

Public land – 100% 

Livestock No. – 4 Cattle 

Season of Use – 3/1 to 2/28 

Type Use - Custodial 

Meeting Upland Standard: 

 No. 

 Current livestock management is 

considered to be a significant factor. 

Upland Objectives: 

	 Increase production and diversity of 

decreaser forbs and native grass species 

such as basin wildrye, alkali sacaton and 

alkali cordgrass. 

	 Increase residual forage. 

	 Reduce amounts and abundance of 

invasive species such as Japanese brome 

and cheatgrass. 

	 Improve reproductive capability of 

desirable species by allowing maturation 

of seed heads on individual plants of 

those species. 

Meeting Riparian Health Standard: 

 No riparian habitat on public land within 

the allotment. 

Great Falls Area Grazing Lease Renewal 83 Chapter 2 
 

 

 

 

Meeting Water Quality Standard: 

 N/A 

Meeting Biodiversity Standard: 

 No. 

 Current livestock management is 

considered to be a significant factor. 

Biodiversity Objectives: 

	 Increase ground litter and residual 

forage for ground nesting birds, game 

and non-game wildlife species. 

	 Increase diversity and abundance of 

desirable native plants. 

Conforms with Guidelines for Livestock 

Grazing Management: 

 No. 

 The allotment does not conform to 

Lewistown Guidelines #4, #5, #10 and 

#12. Grazing is not being managed to 

maintain watershed vegetation, species 

richness and floodplain function. Longterm resource capabilities may not be 

sustainable. Grazing is not being 

managed to promote desired plants and 

plant communities. Livestock 

Management is not utilizing practices, 

such as those referenced by NRCS 

published prescribed grazing technical 

guide to maintain, restore or enhance 

water quality. Guidelines are not in 

conformance due to livestock use 

resulting in a shift of plant communities. 

Proposed Action: The current permitted use 

would be modified as follows to achieve 

significant progress toward meeting standards 

and guidelines for rangeland health. 

Livestock

and kind 

# Season Public 

land 

Type use AUM 

100 Cattle 9/1 to 12/1 16 Active 48 

Total permitted use would remain 49 AUM’s. 

Period of use would depend on the number of 

livestock and availability of forage. Up to 200 

animal units may be used if the season of use 

does not exceed October 17. 

If no significant progress is made within five 

years, BLM would construct a fence beginning 

at the half section line of Sections 34 and 35. 

(T22N, R4W). The fence would extend north 

approximately 1.25 miles terminating at an 

existing fence 1⁄4 mile directly south of Eastham 

Junction. The fence would be three-wire 

standard fence. Wire would be spaced 16-18”, 

26”-28” and 38-40”. The bottom strand would 

be smooth. Wood end posts would be used and a 

gate would be installed at each end. BLM would 

consider alternative fence methods provided 

fence specifications are met. The BLM , lessee 

and the state of Montana would enter into 

cooperative agreement for the project prior to 

construction. 

Permitted use would be placed in suspension for 

the remainder of the term of the lease to allow 

for recovery. 

(18) TUNNEL LAKE #06312 

Public acres – 2960 

AUMs – 329 (active) 

156 (suspended) 

Public land – 68% 

Livestock No. – 158 

Season of Use – 6/15 to 9/15 

Type Use – Active 

Meeting Upland Standard: 

 Yes 

Upland Objectives: 

	 Maintain native vegetation in a late seral 

to Potential Natural Community (PNC) 

ecological condition rating. 

	 Maintain residual forage, particularly 

bunchgrasses such as rough fescue and 

needlegrass species. 

	 Prevent establishment of non-native 

invasive species. 

Meeting Riparian Health Standard: 

 Yes 

Riparian Objectives: 

 Maintain functionality of the three lentic 

wetland sites within the allotment. 

Great Falls Area Grazing Lease Renewal 84 Chapter 2 
 

 

 

 

Meeting Water Quality Standard: 

 Yes 

Water Quality Objectives: 

 Maintain vegetative buffer on the three 

lentic wetland sites within the allotment. 

Meeting Biodiversity Standard: 

 Yes 

Biodiversity Objectives: 

	 Maintain or increase ground litter and 

residual forage for ground nesting birds, 

game and non-game wildlife species. 

	 Maintain or increase diversity and 

abundance of desirable native 

bunchgrasses such as rough fescue and 

needlegrass species. 

Conforms with Guidelines for Livestock 

Grazing Management: 

 Yes 

Proposed Action: The current permitted use 

would continue as follows: 

Livestock

and kind 

# Season Public 

land 

Type use AU 

M 

158 Cattle 6/15 to 9/15 68 Active 

Suspended 

329 

156 

Total permitted use would remain 485 AUM’s. 

Since the Tunnel Lake AMP (1990) was 

implemented, several projects have been built 

which require amendment of the grazing 

schedule. The following terms and conditions 

would be incorporated into the lease to reflect 

changes in pasture use. 

The Goose, Tunnel, Arnold and State Pastures 

will be used in a four-pasture rest rotation 

system. 

In accordance with the Tunnel Lake Allotment 

Management Plan (1990), only 2/3 of the total 

permitted use will be used annually. 

Actual use (Form 4130-5) will be submitted annually 

to this office within 15 days following grazing use. 

Historical base properties associated with this 

allotment have undergone a change in tenure. 

The current lessees have maintained permitted 

use associated with the Tunnel Lake Allotment 

through ownership of private lands within the 

allotment and control of the associated state 

lease. A revised designation of base property 

(grazing applications 4130-1a) was submitted to 

BLM. During the comment period for the 

preliminary EA, BLM offered consideration of 

conflicting applications for permitted use 

associated with this allotment. No other grazing 

applications from adjacent property owners or 

other qualified applicants were received. The 

proposed action would include continuation of 

the lease with current lessees with revised base 

property. 

WILLOW CREEK CANAL #07612 

(See Lewis and Clark County) 

Great Falls Area Grazing Lease Renewal 85 Chapter 2 
Great Falls Area Grazing Lease Renewal 86 Chapter 2 
 

 

 

Chapter 3 

Affected Environment 

This chapter describes the environmental 

resources related to the issues in Chapters 1 and 

2. The resources include the physical, biological, 

and socio-economic conditions that could be 

affected by the implementation of one of the 

alternatives. 

The information in this chapter is organized into 

the following headings: 

3.1 Rangelands/Livestock Grazing/Sensitive 

Plants 

3.2	 Upland Range Health 

3.3 Riparian Health 

3.4 Noxious Weeds 

3.5 Coniferous Forest 

3.6 Fire/Fuels Management 

3.7 Recreation/Visual Resources 

3.8 Wildlife 

3.8.1 Threatened and Endangered 

3.8.2 Mammals 

3.8.3 Birds 

3.8.4 Fish 

3.8.5	 Reptiles and Amphibians 

3.9 Cultural Resources 

3.10 Surface Water 

3.11 Soils 

3.12 Air Quality 

3.13 Climate 

3.14 Economics/Sociology 

3.15	 Special Management Areas 

3.1 Rangeland /Livestock 

Grazing/Sensitive Plants 

Rangeland vegetation consists of grasslands and 

forestlands. Mixed shrub communities are 

common in coulees and benches throughout all 

of these vegetation types. Common grasses and 

grasslike species include bluebunch wheatgrass, 

green/Richardson’s needlegrass, rough fescue, 

needleandthread, western wheatgrass, prairie 

junegrass, Sandberg bluegrass, and threadleaf 

sedge. Introduced grasses are found in some 

areas, either in pure stands or intermingled with 

native species. 

Timothy, Kentucky bluegrass and smooth brome 

are the most prevalent introduced perennial 

grasses in the area with stands occurring in 

several allotments. Introduced annual grasses 

include cheatgrass and Japanese brome. 

Common shrubs include silver sagebrush, 

shrubby cinquefoil, wild rose, saltbush spp., and 

greasewood. Other common vegetation includes 

western yarrow, wild onion, pussytoes, heartleaf 

arnica, cudweed sagewort, milkvetch spp., 

arrowleaf balsamroot, hairy goldenaster, purple 

prairie clover, low larkspur, black sampson, 

sticky geranium, curlycup gumweed, Rocky 

Mountain iris, lupine, prickly pear cactus, 

yellow sweetclover, woolly Indian wheat, 

Hood’s phlox, and salsify among others. 

There are 14 BLM sensitive plant species 

documented within the planning area. These 

include: Crawe’s sedge, dwarf woolly-heads, 

little indian breadroot, Missoula phlox, 

Schweinitz’ flatsedge, square-stem monkey 

flower, Austin’s knotweed, beaked spikerush, 

lesser rushy milkvetch, linear leaf fleabane, 

mealy primrose, peculiar moonwort, Rolland’s 

bulrush, and simple kobresia. Of these species, 

Crawe’s sedge, square-stem monkey flower and 

Austin’s knotweed are documented on BLM 

lands. However, due to the scattered, intermixed 

land ownership patterns, much of the BLM lands 

have not been surveyed for special status plant 

species. The BLM lands do contain potential 

habitat for many of these species. 

A total of 100 grazing allotments with 92 lessees 

are included in the planning area. The majority 

of leases authorize cattle grazing; however, nine 

are authorized for horses or include a 

combination of cattle and horses. Throughout 

the planning area there is a total of 211 AUM’s 

allocated for horse use. There are no sheep or 

alternative classes of livestock listed on existing 

leases. Total permitted use in the planning area 

is 5602 AUMs. 

3.2 Upland Range Health 

Allotments were assessed for upland range 

health during the summers of 2007 to 2010. 

Great Falls Area Grazing Lease Renewal 87 Chapter 3 
 

 

Rangeland health is defined as the degree to 

which the integrity of the soil, vegetation, water 

and air as well as the ecological process of the 

rangeland system are balanced and maintained 

(BLM Tech. Ref. 1734-6). 

Upland health was determined using 

representative study areas. These study areas 

were evaluated for ecological site index, upland 

range health indicators, and soil surface factors. 

Seventy-nine of the 100 allotments are meeting 

the upland health standard. Twenty allotments 

are not meeting the upland standard; current 

livestock management is a significant factor on 

11 of these allotments. Appendix F displays a 

list of study results by allotment. 

Drought has influenced the condition of 

vegetation in some areas. To separate the 

impacts of drought from livestock use, the 

evaluation team looked at community 

composition in contrast to production. Other 

indicators such as fence line contrasts and 

comparisons with similar sites under different 

management were observed to discern the 

amount of impact caused by livestock 

management versus impacts of drought. 

Seral stages and ecological site index scores 

were determined on upland sites using the 

Natural Resource Conservation Service (NRCS) 

ecological site index technical guides for each 

ecological site. This method assesses the seral 

stage of an ecological site and provides a scoring 

system. The higher the score, the higher the 

plant seral stage. Changes in plant communities 

are characterized by different types of plant 

communities replacing other types of plant 

communities. A plant community reaches 

climax or Potential Natural Community (PNC) 

when it reaches a point that the community 

maintains itself and is relatively stable. The 

amount and type of disturbance, the site, and the 

amount of rest following disturbance often 

dictate the seral stage of the plant community. 

In prairie grassland ecosystems, areas that have 

prolonged disturbance with little rest have a high 

abundance of annual forbs and weeds, some 

annual grasses, and shallow rooted perennial 

grasses of short stature. These conditions would 

indicate a low seral stage. With the NRCS 

ecological site index system, the higher the 

score, the higher the seral stage. 

Areas without recent disturbance or light 

disturbance followed by periods of rest usually 

reflect late seral or potential natural community. 

This stage is characterized by tall, deep rooted 

grasses, fewer forbs and weeds, and in some 

cases a shrub overstory. Ecosystems within the 

planning area evolved with periodic disturbance 

in the form of fire, grazing, hail, and drought 

followed by periods of favorable growing 

conditions. In some cases a lack of some type of 

disturbance over a period of decades can cause 

succession to reverse toward lower or early seral 

conditions. Conversely, prolonged disturbance 

without adequate rest for plant recovery can also 

lead to early seral conditions. Proper livestock 

grazing management allows some disturbance 

followed by periods of rest during the growing 

season resulting in healthy, productive upland 

range sites. 

On a site-specific scale, late seral or PNC 

conditions are associated with healthy 

rangelands and early (low) seral conditions are 

often associated with unhealthy rangelands. On 

a larger scale, however, a mix of seral stages 

provides habitat diversity. Healthy upland range 

sites generally maintain a high percentage of the 

plant community in late seral or PNC conditions, 

although a small percentage of the total acreage 

may be in early seral stages. Examples of 

acceptable early seral conditions would be 

livestock watering points, prairie dog towns and 

recently burned areas. 

The BLM also assesses upland health relative to 

the physical environment and site stability. 

These factors include observations of rills, 

waterflow patterns, pedestals and/or terracettes, 

bare ground, gullies, wind scoured blowouts or 

deposition areas, litter movement, soil surface 

resistance to erosion, soil loss and compaction. 

These criteria are indicative of the amount of 

erosion that is occurring on an allotment relative 

to expected amount of erosion for the site based 

on existing soil types. 

Great Falls Area Grazing Lease Renewal 88 Chapter 3 
 

 

 

The biotic and physical indicators evaluated for 

each individual allotment include: 

Biotic 

	 plant community diversity 

	 plant community structure 

	 photosynthesis activity 

	 plant status 

	 presence of exotic plants (weeds) 

	 seed production 

	 nutrient cycling 

Physical 

	 flow patterns 

	 soil movement by wind or water 

	 soil crusting and surface sealing 

	 soil compaction 

	 rills 

	 gullies 

	 amount of ground cover 

	 cover distribution 

Rangeland health evaluations were made based 

on historical monitoring data, where available, 

and upland health assessments comprised of the 

ecological site index, soil surface factors, and 

range health indicators. Grazing allotments 

were placed in one of three categories: meeting 

the upland health standard, not meeting the 

standard but livestock grazing is not a significant 

factor (or the allotment is making significant 

progress toward meeting the standard), and not 

meeting the standard due to current livestock 

management. Significant progress is determined 

when an allotment with degraded conditions is 

showing a strong upward trend. 

3.3 Riparian Health 

Riparian areas are defined as the green zones 

associated with lakes, reservoirs, estuaries, 

potholes, springs, bogs, wet meadows, and 

streams (intermittent or perennial by Lewistown 

Field Office definitions). Riparian areas are 

characterized by water tables at or near the soil 

surface, and by vegetation requiring high water 

tables. Riparian areas are characterized by one 

or more of the following features: 1) wetland 

hydrology, the driving force creating all riparian 

areas, 2) hydric soils, an indicator of the absence 

of oxygen, and 3) hydrophytic vegetation, an 

indicator reflecting riparian site conditions. 

Most of the riparian areas on BLM land within 

the planning area were assessed for health. 

Riparian health ratings consist of three 

categories: proper functioning condition (PFC), 

functional at risk (FAR), and nonfunctional 

(NF). Riparian-wetland areas are functioning 

properly when adequate vegetation, landform, or 

large woody debris is present to: 

	 dissipate stream energy associated with 

high waterflows, thereby reducing 

erosion and improving water quality; 

 filter sediment, capture bedload, and aid 

floodplain development; 

 improve flood-water retention and 

groundwater recharge; 

 develop root masses that stabilize 

streambanks against cutting action; 

	 develop diverse ponding and channel 

characteristics to provide the habitat and 

the water depth, duration, and 

temperature necessary for fish 

production, waterfowl breeding, and 

other uses; and 

	 support greater biodiversity (United 

States Department of the Interior, 1998). 

The riparian-wetland areas within this planning 

area are as diverse as the landscape. They range 

from steep gradient, mountain streams that 

support Rocky Mountain maple, quaking aspen, 

water birch, red-osier dogwood and narrowleaf 

cottonwood to broad, meandering, prairie 

streams with plains cottonwood, sandbar willow, 

peachleaf willow and a variety of herbaceous 

Scirpus, Carex, and Juncus spp. Large, lentic 

wetland areas are also common in the foothills 

and plains east of the Rocky Mountain Front. 

The lentic wetlands located in the Sun River 

area east of the Rocky Mountain Front exhibit 

seasonal conditions. These sites are infrequently 

inundated, mainly during low frequency, high 

precipitation years. For example, during the 

years that the assessments were conducted 

(2007/2008), the sites had not received water in 

Great Falls Area Grazing Lease Renewal 89 Chapter 3 
 

 

 

 

several years. Furthermore, soils are gravelly 

and have high hydraulic conductivity, thereby 

decreasing the length of inundated periods. 

Sites that receive seepage or water from Pishkun 

Canal display more permanent wetland 

conditions. However, even the seasonal 

wetlands provide important values in the years 

that water is available. Livestock grazing is 

having limited effect on the functionality or 

species composition of the aforementioned sites. 

The health and functionality of streams within 

the planning area were assessed with the PFC 

checklist (USDI, 1998). The following streams 

were assessed on BLM land within the planning 

area: Birch Creek, East Fork of Hound Creek, 

Missouri River, North and South Forks of Sheep 

Creek, South Fork of Stickney Creek, Tyrell, 

Wegner, Clemons, Middle Fork of the Dearborn, 

North and South Forks of Blindhorse, Edwards, 

Green Timber Gulch, North and South Forks of 

Deep Creek, North and South Forks of Battle 

Creek, and the Sun and Teton Rivers. Numerous 

unnamed and smaller tributary streams were also 

evaluated. 

A majority of allotments within the planning 

area are meeting Lewistown Standard 2, which 

requires riparian areas to be in proper 

functioning condition or making significant 

progress towards that condition. In fact, many 

riparian areas exhibit ecological conditions in 

higher seral states than what is usually 

associated with PFC. Thirty-nine allotments had 

riparian areas evaluated. Of these, 29 allotments 

are meeting the riparian standard, and 10 

allotments are not meeting. Six allotments are 

not meeting the riparian standard because of 

livestock grazing. 

The allotments not meeting the riparian standard 

because of other reasons than livestock are 

primarily on Birch Creek in Pondera County. In 

1964, Swift Dam failed causing ecological 

devastation on Birch Creek. The dam was 

reconstructed, so since that time, the flow and 

sediment regimes have been inadequate to 

restore channel formation processes. Channel 

conditions deviate in sinuosity, width/depth 

ratios, particle size distribution, and flood-prone 

area from expected conditions. Vegetative 

species are limited primarily to woody species 

capable of growing in coarse substrate and 

spotted knapweed. Spotted knapweed makes up 

a majority of the herbaceous vegetation. 

Six grazing allotments were not meeting the 

riparian standard because of current livestock 

management. These sites generally exhibit 

altered channel morphology. For example, they 

were usually wider and shallower than streams 

with functioning riparian areas. Often times, 

streambank vegetation composition consisted of 

higher percentages of disturbance species, such 

as Kentucky bluegrass. Furthermore, although 

most of the riparian areas were not dependent 

upon woody species for functionality, they 

usually had intense browse on preferred woody 

species and displayed altered growth forms. 

As mentioned above, 29 of 39 grazing 

allotments were meeting the riparian standard. 

Most of these riparian areas are on the Rocky 

Mountain Front and in the Devil’s Kitchen area. 

For the most part, these streams are relatively 

steep gradient, coarse substrate, less dependent 

upon streamside vegetation for stability, and are 

located in remote, rugged country. Given the 

characteristics of these streams and their site 

potential, many of them support multiple woody 

species such as red-osier dogwood, cottonwood, 

willow, alder, birch, Rocky Mountain maple, 

and silverberry. A large number of these 

streams also support cold-water fisheries. 

3.4 Noxious Weeds 

Noxious weeds are a serious threat to the State 

of Montana and biological communities within 

the Great Falls planning area. Infestations of 

noxious weeds are present throughout the 

planning area, with higher concentrations along 

the major drainages and their tributaries, 

including Birch Creek and the Sun, Teton and 

Missouri Rivers. 

Montana noxious weeds are categorized 

according to the following prioritization: 

Priority 1a - These weeds are not present in 

Montana. Management criteria will require 

Great Falls Area Grazing Lease Renewal 90 Chapter 3 
eradication if detected; education; and 

prevention (yellow starthistle). 

Priority 1b – These weeds have limited presence 

in Montana. Management criteria will require 

eradication or containment and education (dyer’s 

woad, flowering rush, Japanese knotweed 

complex, purple loosestrife, rush skeletonweed, 

Eurasian watermilfoil, Scotch brome, curlyleaf 

pondweed). 

Priority 2a - These weeds are common in 

isolated areas of Montana. Management criteria 

will require eradication or containment where 

less abundant. Management will be prioritized 

by local weed districts (tansy ragwort, meadow 

hawkweed complex, orange hawkweed, tall 

buttercup, perennial pepperweed, yellowflag iris, 

blueweed, hoary alyssum). 

Priority 2b – These weeds are abundant in 

Montana and widespread in many counties. 

Management criteria will require eradication or 

containment where less abundant. Management 

will be prioritized by local weed districts 

(Canada thistle, field bindweed, leafy spurge, 

whitetop, Russian knapweed, spotted knapweed, 

diffuse knapweed, Dalmatian toadflax, St. 

Johnswort, sulfur cinquefoil, common tansy, 

oxeye daisy, houndstongue, yellow toadflax, 

saltcedar). 

Priority 3 – Are regulated plants that have the 

potential to have significant negative impacts. 

These plants may not be intentionally spread or 

sold other than as a contaminant in agricultural 

products. The state recommends research, 

education and prevention to minimize the spread 

of the regulated plant (cheatgrass, hydrilla). 

Several weed species have been identified 

within the planning area; the largest areas of 

infestation are occupied by: 

 Canada thistle 

 Spotted knapweed 

 Leafy spurge 

 Houndstongue 

 Dalmation toadflax 

The BLM has been actively involved in an 

integrated weed control program within the 

planning area for several years. Weed 

infestations have grown appreciably during the 

past two decades. Spotted knapweed, leafy 

spurge and Dalmation toadflax biological 

control agents have been released on a limited 

basis within the planning area. Effective 

biological control agents are currently not 

available for Canada thistle or houndstongue. 

3.5 Coniferous Forest 

Forested vegetation types on BLM lands within 

the planning area primarily include mixed 

lodgepole, ponderosa pine and Douglas-fir. 

Ponderosa pine is predominant on lower 

elevation south slopes with Douglas fir and 

lodgepole pine becoming increasingly common 

on steep north facing slopes. Ponderosa pine and 

mixed ponderosa pine/Douglas fir are common 

on parcels in Cascade, Lewis and Clark and 

Meagher Counties. Limber pine is abundant in 

krummholz habitats notable along the Rocky 

Mountain Front. Whitebark pine and subalpine 

fir may also be present in these areas at higher 

elevations generally greater than 6000’ which is 

also generally restricted to parcels located along 

the Rocky Mountain Front. Along with 

lodgepole pine, Douglas-fir and ponderosa pine, 

Engelmann spruce and aspen groves are also 

present throughout the planning area in lesser 

amounts generally restricted to localized wet 

draws and moist microsites. 

Conifer densities have been increasing in some 

forested areas. Pine seedlings and saplings have 

been documented expanding into rangeland 

areas on forest margins. Heavy stand densities 

cause competition among conifers, with 

associated declines in forest health and 

decreased productivity of understory vegetation 

such as grasses, forbs, and shrubs. Drought has 

exacerbated the condition. Understory conifers 

contribute to fuel loadings that create a 

continuous fuel bed from the ground to the 

canopy. Wildland fire can be severe in these 

areas. 

Great Falls Area Grazing Lease Renewal 91 Chapter 3 
 

 

The encroachment of conifers into open parks 

reduces biodiversity, crowds out 

sagebrush/grassland habitat and creates an 

increased threat of severe fires due to an 

accumulation in the continuity of fuels. Portions 

of Cascade, Meagher and Lewis and Clark 

counties are of particular concern. 

3.6 Fire/Fuels Management 

The majority of the planning area is located in 

the LFO Range/Grasslands Fire Management 

Unit (FMU). This FMU has been designated as 

Management Category B2 in the Fire/Fuels 

Management Plan Environmental Assessment 

Amendment for Montana and the Dakotas (July 

2003). The B2 designation identifies areas 

where unplanned fire is likely to cause negative 

effects. Emphasis in B Category areas are 

prevention/education and suppression. Most 

BLM lands immediately adjacent to the Rocky 

Mountain Front have been designated in the C2 

category. Under this management direction, fire 

has been identified as a desired ecosystem 

management tool. Fire could be a positive 

influence in much of this area and restoration of 

natural fire regimes would be encouraged where 

practical. However, each fire occurrence would 

have special consideration and be managed in 

accordance with the Central Montana Fire 

Management Plan for the Lewistown Field 

Office (2004). Obvious concerns focus on 

structural developments and human safety. 

Social, environmental and political 

considerations would dictate management of 

each fire occurrence. An appropriate 

management response is initiated for each 

incident based on current fire danger, resource 

availability, and predicted weather which would 

ensure safety of fire personnel, reduce cost of 

suppression and provide an opportunity to return 

fire to its natural place in the ecology of the area. 

3.7 Recreation/Visual Resources 

Dispersed recreation opportunities exist over a 

broad range of the planning area and include 

activities such as hunting, fishing, hiking, 

horseback riding, wildlife photography/viewing, 

and sightseeing. The majority of use occurs 

during the summer and the fall seasons 

particularly during hunting season. 

Hunting opportunities and access for the general 

public in the planning area are limited due to 

scattered land patterns. However, there are 

opportunities on parcels with legal access and 

lands that are adjacent to other accessible state 

and other federal lands. Four outfitters are 

licensed to provide big game hunting 

opportunities for clients on BLM-administered 

lands. In addition to guide services, guest ranch 

services are also provided on some special 

recreation permits. Additionally, a number of 

dispersed campsites along the travel routes are 

used by hunters. These campsites are used most 

weekends in the fall and sometimes for several 

weeks by different parties of hunters from 

September through November. A fee is not 

required for the general public, but camping is 

limited to 14 days. Camps must be moved at 

least five miles following the 14-day limit. 

Areas along the Rocky Mountain Front have 

outstanding scenic values and provide near 

wilderness characteristics. These areas are 

remote, nearly roadless, provide rugged 

topography, are relatively free of human 

influence and present good opportunities for 

solitude and primitive experiences. 

Public land within the planning area has not 

been formally assigned a visual resource 

management (VRM) class. The Headwaters 

RMP classified BLM lands into three visual 

management classes. Class A, contains lands 

that have high scenic values and typically have a 

landscape character of high, rugged, forested 

mountains, major lakes, river gorges or treelined river bottoms. Class A lands occur on 

BLM parcels located along the Rocky Mountain 

Front and in the Devil’s Kitchen vicinity near 

Cascade, Montana. The remainder of the 

planning area contains B and C designations. 

Class C lands have a landscape character 

ranging from broad, flat or round valley 

bottoms, foothills and plains with few or no trees 

and few water features. Lands that fall between 

Class A and Class C characteristics are 

considered to have moderate scenic values and 

are classified as Class B. 

Great Falls Area Grazing Lease Renewal 92 Chapter 3 
A subsequent activity plan environmental 

assessment for Blind Horse, Ear Mountain, 

Chute Mountain and Deep Creek-Battle Creek 

outstanding natural areas (ONA’s) was approved 

in March 1989. The visual resource management 

rating for these areas was upgraded to Class I 

except for trailhead sites which were designated 

Class II. The four VRM classes are numbered I 

to IV (Visual Resource Management Program, 

Bureau of Land Management, 1980); the lower 

the number the more sensitive and scenic the 

area. Each class has a management objective 

that prescribes the level of acceptable change in 

the landscape. The visual management objective 

of VRM Class I is to preserve the existing 

landscape while VRM Class II emphasizes 

retention of the existing character of the 

landscape. The objective of scenic classes B and 

C would generally correlate with VRM Classes 

III and IV. Class III designation allows for 

moderate contrasts to the environment, but 

impacts should be subordinate to the existing 

landscape. Under Class IV designation, the level 

of contrast to the landscape from authorized 

projects could be evident, but should be 

moderated by using the basic elements of form, 

line, texture, and color. 

3.8 Wildlife 

Each county contains a variety of upland and 

riparian vegetation that provides habitat for a 

diverse wildlife population. Habitat may include 

deciduous tree stands with other associated 

riparian species, coniferous forest, shrublands 

and grasslands intermixed with agricultural land. 

Over 80 mammals, 360 species of birds and 20 

species of amphibians and reptiles inhabit these 

areas potentially affected by the proposed action. 

3.8.1 Threatened and Endangered 

Wildlife species on the threatened and 

endangered (T&E) list documented in the area 

include black-footed ferret (endangered), 

whooping crane (endangered), Canada lynx 

(threatened), grizzly Bear (threatened), piping 

plover (threatened), gray wolf (endangered) and 

bull trout (threatened). 

Black-footed ferret 

The black-footed ferret was last observed in 

1920 near Great Falls. There are no known 

populations currently documented within the 

planning area. 

Whooping Crane 

One historical sighting was published in 1985 

between Martinsdale and Checkerboard. The 

sighting could be much older than the published 

date. There is no evidence whooping cranes are 

currently using north–central Montana and no 

critical habitat is designated within the planning 

area. 

Canada lynx 

Canada lynx were first observed in 1981 in the 

southeast portion of Cascade County in the 

Lewis and Clark National Forest. Observations 

for Canada lynx have been reported near 

allotments in the southwest portion of Cascade 

County which borders Meagher County along 

the Missouri River and near allotments along the 

Rocky Mountain Front in Lewis and Clark and 

Teton counties. Potential habitat is located on 

BLM lands in limited areas, primarily at 

elevations above 4000’ along the Continental 

Divide and Big Belt Mountains where subalpine forests are located. The far western 

portions of the planning area along the Rocky 

Mountain Front are adjacent to Unit 3 of Critical 

Habitat designated by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife 

Service. 

Grizzly bear 

Observations for grizzly bears have been 

reported on and near allotments in Lewis and 

Clark, Pondera and Teton counties primarily 

along the Rocky Mountain Front and adjacent 

riparian corridors and prairies. Grizzly bears use 

habitats that are variable between geographical 

area, seasons, local populations, and individual 

bears. The BLM lands along the Front contain 

habitat typically used for spring range by grizzly 

bears while the majority of denning habitat 

occurs to the west on Forest Service and 

National Park Service lands. Management 

activities affecting bears on BLM lands are 

directed by the Rocky Mountain Front 

Guidelines pursuant to the Interagency Grizzly 

Bear Guidelines. Specific guidance for livestock 

Great Falls Area Grazing Lease Renewal 93 Chapter 3 
 

 

grazing is found on page 11 of the Rocky 

Mountain Front Management Guidelines. 

Grazing allotments located along the Rocky 

Mountain Front and associated plains and 

foothills are within the Northern Continental 

Divide Recovery Zone for grizzly bears. 

Piping plover 

Piping plovers usually arrive in Montana in early 

May and leave the state by late August. During 

this period, piping plovers have been 

documented on shorelines or islands in 

freshwater and saline wetlands of glaciated 

plains potholes and reservoirs within the 

planning area. Locations within the boundaries 

of the planning area where piping plovers have 

been documented are not designated as critical 

habitat by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service 

(USFWS). 

Bull trout 

The Lewistown Field Office administers the 

Dog Creek Allotment #07825 for the Missoula 

Field Office. The allotment is located on Rich 

Spur, a perennial tributary to Dog Creek which 

is on the west slope of Mullan Pass. The 

allotment is located in the upper reaches of Little 

Blackfoot drainage which is included in the 

Upper Clark Fork Recovery Unit for bull trout. 

The Department of Montana Fish, Wildlife and 

Parks (MDFWP) has not documented bull trout 

occurring in the Clark Fork River east of Gold 

Creek which includes the Little Blackfoot River 

drainage; however, the Little Blackfoot River is 

locally known as an important stream for 

spawning and rearing of native westslope 

cutthroat and bull trout. There are no known 

occurrences of bull trout in Dog Creek, and 

westslope cutthroat are rare inhabitants. 

Gray wolf 

Pursuant to a District of Montana court order 

dated August 5, 2010, Montana gray wolves 

were reinstated on the federal Endangered 

Species list. USFWS issued a final rule 

effective October 26, 2010 restoring endangered 

status and associated regulatory protections 

under the Endangered Species Act of 1973, as 

amended (ESA), for the gray wolf in the 

northern half of Montana and reinstating the 

former special rules designating the gray wolf in 

the remainder of Montana as nonessential, 

experimental populations. 

MDFWP estimated there were 497 wolves with 

34 breeding pairs active in Montana at the end of 

2008. There are at least five resident wolf packs 

within the analysis area. Monitoring flights 

during 2009 documented the Monitor Mountain 

Pack ranging in the Bedrock and Little Skunk 

drainages near Rogers Pass. The Mitchell 

Mountain Pack is also using this area but usually 

uses territories in the Dearborn River drainage. 

The Benchmark Pack is known in the 

Benchmark area but has not been located on 

recent flights. The Red Shale Pack was last 

located April 8, 2009 in Sheep Creek. Four 

wolves, three grays and one black wolf were 

observed with this pack. The Bennie Hill Pack is 

frequenting Blind Horse, the Walling Reef and 

Crazy Creek areas. 

Other species 

Several other species of wildlife that have been 

recently delisted, have been proposed for listing, 

or are currently under review for listing also 

occur in the affected area. 

Sage grouse 

The USFWS issued a non-warranted finding for 

sage grouse that was published January 2005. In 

December 2007, the finding was remanded back 

to USFWS and was determined to be warranted 

but precluded from listing. There are 23 sage 

grouse leks documented in Meagher County. 

These leks occur primarily in the sagebrush 

steppe within the Smith River drainage. Several 

occur in the Eightmile drainage north of 

Checkerboard and one is known in the Mud 

Creek drainage north of Martinsdale. All known 

leks are located on state or private lands. None 

are known to occur on BLM lands or within 

grazing allotments containing BLM lands; 

however, these lands likely contain other 

seasonal habitats used by sage grouse. 

Sprague’s pipit 

In September 2010, USFWS issued a finding 

that Sprague’s pipits are warranted, but 

precluded for listing under federal protection as 

a threatened or endangered species. Sprague’s 

pipits are endemic grassland ground nesting 

Great Falls Area Grazing Lease Renewal 94 Chapter 3 
 

birds that prefer native, medium to intermediate 

height prairie which is found throughout the 

planning area. They arrive in Montana in early 

May and begin migration southward around the 

end of August. This species is documented in 

Lewis and Clark, Pondera, Teton, Cascade and 

Meagher counties. 

Fluvial Arctic grayling 

In April 2007, the USFWS published a finding 

that listing the fluvial Arctic grayling of the 

upper Missouri River system was not warranted 

because the population did not constitute a 

species, subspecies, or a distinct population 

segment under the Endangered Species Act. 

However, this ruling was challenged and, as a 

result USFWS agreed to initiate a new status 

review that is scheduled to be published August 

2010. Populations of fluvial Arctic grayling 

occur within the planning area mostly as a result 

of restoration efforts currently underway by 

MDFWP. Arctic grayling were reintroduced in 

the North and South Forks of the Sun River 

above Gibson Reservoir, but are also known to 

occur downstream of the reservoir adjacent to 

BLM lands in the planning area. Another 

distinct population of Arctic grayling was 

located in the Sun River Slope Canal system 

which is located near BLM grazing allotments. 

This population has been sustaining itself in a 

series of man-made canals and reservoirs for 

decades. 

Westslope cutthroat trout 

In April 2000, The USFWS determined that the 

westslope cutthroat trout do not warrant listing 

as a threatened species under the Endangered 

Species Act because of well-distributed, stable, 

and reproducing populations. The USFWS based 

its finding on information contained in a 1999 

status report prepared by affected state fish and 

game departments. Westslope cutthroat trout 

occupy numerous, coldwater streams throughout 

the planning area. Most occur in mountainous 

areas such as the Little Belt, Big Belt, 

Highwood, Castle Mountains and along the 

Rocky Mountain Front. Several streams in the 

Devil’s Kitchen area are also believed to contain 

low numbers of westslope cutthroat trout. 

Bald eagle 

The bald eagle was delisted from the threatened 

and endangered species list in 2007. Nesting 

and foraging habitat is available for bald eagles 

along the Missouri River and other major river 

corridors. There are numerous observations of 

bald eagles nesting and foraging along these 

sites. 

Peregrine falcon 

The peregrine falcon was removed from the 

endangered list in 1999. Potential cliff nest sites 

for peregrine falcons are available along the 

precipices of the Rocky Mountain Front, 

scattered buttes and other vertical cliff sites 

throughout the planning area. There are 

abundant mid-sized passerines and waterfowl 

production areas to provide foraging 

opportunities for peregrines. This species has 

also been documented overwintering within the 

planning area. There is abundant evidence of 

raptor use throughout the planning area but most 

is thought to be from prairie falcon and golden 

eagles. 

Mountain plover 

The mountain plover was proposed for listing as 

threatened in 1999 but withdrawn in 2003. 

Plovers have not been documented on BLM 

allotments within the planning area, but potential 

habitat does exist for the species. The mountain 

plover may be considered a disturbed-prairie 

species preferring arid flats with very short grass 

and a high proportion of bare ground. Short 

grass-dominated sites within the planning area 

provide potential habitat for the mountain 

plover. 

wolverine 

In December 2010, USFWS issued a finding that 

wolverines are warranted, but precluded for 

listing under federal protection as a threatened or 

endangered species. Wolverines have been 

documented since 1982. All observations were 

in the Lewis and Clark National Forest. The 

most recent observation was within 2 miles of an 

allotment in southeast Cascade County. Limited 

habitat is available on BLM lands. 

Great Falls Area Grazing Lease Renewal 95 Chapter 3 
 

3.8.2 Mammals 

Elk, mule deer, bighorn sheep, mountain goats, 

black bear, whitetail deer, and pronghorn 

antelope are major components of the wildlife 

community. Table 3.1 is a list of mammal 

species known to occur within or near the 

planning area. 

Table 3.1 

Mammal Species Within or Near the 

Planning Area 

Badger (Taxidea taxus) 

Beaver (Castor canadensis) 

Big brown bat (Eptesicus fuscus) 

Bighorn sheep (Ovis canadensis)* 

Black bear (Ursus americanus) 

Black-footed ferret (Mustela nigripes)* 

Black-tailed prairie dog (Cynomys 

ludovicianus)* 

Bobcat (Lynx rufus) 

Bushy-tailed woodrat (Neotoma cinerea) 

Canada lynx (Lynx canadensis) 

Columbian ground squirrel (Spermophilus 

columbianus) 

Coyote (Canis latrans) 

Deer mouse (Peromyscus maniculatus) 

Desert cottontail (Sylvilagus audubonii) 

Dusky or montane shrew (Sorex monticolus) 

Dwarf shrew (Sorex nanus)* 

Eastern fox squirrel (Sciurus niger)* 

Eastern gray squirrel (Sciurus carolinensis)* 

Elk or wapiti (Cervus canadensis) 

Fisher (Martes pennanti) 

Fringed myotis (Myotis thysanodes) 

Golden-mantled ground squirrel 

(Spermophilus lateralis) 

Gray wolf (Canis lupus) 

Grizzly bear (Ursus arctos) 

Hayden's shrew (Sorex haydeni)* 

Heather vole (Phenacomys intermedius) 

Table 3.1 

Mammal Species Within or Near the 

Planning Area 

Hoary bat (Lasiurus cinereus) 

Hoary marmot (Marmota caligata) 

House mouse (Mus musculus)* 

Least chipmunk (Tamias minimus)* 

Least weasel (Mustela nivalis)* 

Little brown myotis (Myotis lucifugus) 

Long-eared myotis (Myotis evotis) 

Long-legged myotis (Myotis volans) 

Long-tailed vole (Microtus longicaudus) 

Long-tailed weasel (Mustela frenata)* 

Marten (Martes americana) 

Masked shrew (Sorex cinereus) 

Meadow vole (Microtus pennsylvanicus) 

Merriam's shrew (Sorex merriami) 

Mink (Mustela vison) 

Montane vole (Microtus montanus) 

Moose (Alces alces) 

Mountain cottontail (Sylvilagus nuttallii) 

Mountain goat (Oreamnos americanus) 

Mountain lion (Puma concolor) 

Mule deer (Odocoileus hemionus) 

Muskrat (Ondatra zibethicus)* 

Northern bog lemming (Synaptomys 

borealis)* 

Northern flying squirrel (Glaucomys 

sabrinus)* 

Northern grasshopper mouse (Onychomys 

leucogaster)* 

Northern pocket gopher (Thomomys 

talpoides) 

Northern river otter (Lontra canadensis) 

Pika (Ochotona princeps) 

Porcupine (Erethizon dorsatum) 

Prairie vole (Microtus ochrogaster) 

Preble's shrew (Sorex hoyi) 

Pronghorn (Antilocapra americana) 

Pygmy shrew (Procyon lotor) 

Great Falls Area Grazing Lease Renewal 96 Chapter 3 
 

Table 3.1 

Mammal Species Within or Near the 

Planning Area 

Raccoon (Procyon lotor) 

Red fox (Vulpes vulpes) 

Red squirrel (Tamiasciurus hudsonicus) 

Red-tailed chipmunk (Tamias ruficaudus) 

Richardson's ground squirrel (Spermophilus 

richardsonii) 

Sagebrush vole (Lemmiscus curtatus) 

Short-tailed weasel (Mustela erminea) 

Silver-haired bat (Lasionycteris noctivagans) 

Snowshoe hare (Lepus americanus)* 

Southern red-backed vole (Clethrionomys 

gapperi) 

Spotted bat (Euderma maculatum) 

Striped skunk (Mephitis mephitis) 

Swift fox (Vulpes velox) 

Thirteen-lined ground squirrel (Spermophilus 

tridecemlineatus) 

Townsend's big-eared bat (Corynorhinus 

townsendii) 

Vagrant shrew (Sorex vagrans) 

Water shrew (Sorex palustris) 

Western jumping mouse (Zapus princeps) 

Western small-footed myotis (Myotis 

ciliolabrum) 

White-footed mouse (Peromyscus leucopus)* 

White-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus) 

White-tailed jack rabbit (Lepus townsendii) 

Wolverine (Gulo gulo) 

Yellow-bellied marmot (Marmota 

flaviventris) 

Yellow-pine chipmunk (Tamias amoenus) 

*Species not documented within the immediate area, 

however potential habitat exists and is within range of 

these species. 

BLM sensitive mammal species currently known 

to occur on or within the range of affected 

allotments included black-tailed prairie dog, 

fisher, fringed myotis, gray wolf, long-eared 

myotis, Long-legged myotis, spotted bat, swift 

fox, and Townsend’s big-eared bat. 

Black-tailed prairie dogs were first observed in 

1889 with the most recent observation in 2007. 

The most recent observation is within 4 miles 

east of an allotment in Cascade County and 10 

miles southwest of an allotment in Lewis and 

Clark counties. Black-tailed prairie dogs have 

been known to disperse up to 6 miles in search 

of a new colony. There are other observations in 

Teton County and Pondera County; however, 

these observations are not near any allotments. 

Fisher is a BLM sensitive species that was 

believed to be extinct in Montana in the 1930’s. 

Reintroduction efforts were started in 1959 and 

after populations were established, 

reintroduction efforts were performed in other 

areas of the state. The last observation was in 

1990, 7 miles west of an allotment in Lewis and 

Clark County. 

Limited information is available regarding bat 

species that may occur within the planning area: 

fringed myotis, long-eared myotis, long-legged 

myotis, spotted bat and Townsend’s big-eared 

bat. Roost sites have been observed near 

allotments in Lewis and Clark and Teton 

counties. While inventory of potential habitat is 

not available specifically for BLM lands, forage 

habitat is likely on public lands within the 

planning area. 

Swift fox were thought to be extinct in 1969; 

however, reintroduction efforts have produced 

sightings throughout north-central Montana. 

Recent observations of swift fox were reported 

in 2004 near an allotment in Teton County and 

one observation in 2006 near an allotment in 

Lewis and Clark County. 

Elk occur throughout the planning area but are 

usually restricted to areas with adequate cover 

and forage principally found along the 

Continental Divide regions, Big and Little Belt 

Mountains and Castle and Highwood 

Mountains. These areas lie within the Bob 

Marshall Wilderness Complex, West/East Big 

Belt, Little Belt, Highwood and Castle Mountain 

Elk Management Units (EMU). Most of these 

EMUs have demonstrated stable elk populations 

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over the last ten years. However, some areas, 

such as the East Big Belt EMU, have 

experienced dramatic increases in numbers of 

elk due to limited opportunities for public 

harvest (MTFWP 2004). 

Mule deer are common throughout the planning 

area in all seasons. Specific BLM parcels are 

known to occupy important primary, secondary 

and transitional winter ranges for mule deer 

throughout the planning area. 

Portions of the affected environment lie within 

the Southern Rocky Mountain Bighorn Sheep 

Complex which contains hunting districts 421, 

422 423, 424, and 441. These areas are typically 

known for highly productive, robust and healthy 

bighorn sheep populations. Herd sizes 

commonly exceed objectives and are often used 

to supplement other bighorn sheep herds 

throughout Montana and the western United 

States. 

Mountain goats are also common in the western 

portion of the planning area along the Rocky 

Mountain Front. The majority of yearlong 

habitat is located on lands north of the Sun 

River. There are numerous breeding areas, 

mineral licks and kidding areas located 

throughout the vicinity. In 2008, continuing 

through 2009, a total of 25 goats were 

transplanted to the Ear Mountain Wildlife 

Management Area to augment existing 

populations. Livestock management guidelines 

related to mountain goats is addressed on page 

16 of the Interagency Rocky Mountain Front 

Management Guidelines for Selected Species. 

3.8.3 Birds 

The planning area provides habitat for numerous 

species of birds. Within the planning area there 

are over 360 species of resident, migratory and 

game birds including abundant waterfowl, 

grouse, turkeys, diving birds, pelicans, herons, 

birds of prey, shorebirds, gulls, terns, doves, 

owls, nightjars, kingfishers, hummingbirds, 

woodpeckers, flycatchers, shrike, vireos, jays, 

crows, larks, swallows, chickadees, nuthatches, 

wrens, bluebirds, thrushes, waxwings, warblers, 

tanagers, sparrows, buntings, blackbirds, orioles 

and finches. 

Table 3.2 is a list of BLM sensitive bird species 

known to occur within or near the planning area: 

Table 3.2 

BLM Sensitive Species 

Within or Near the Planning Area 

American three-toed woodpecker (Picoides 

dorsalis) 

Baird's sparrow (Ammodramus bairdii) 

Bald eagle (Haliaeetus leucocephalus) 

Black tern (Chlidonias niger) 

Black-backed woodpecker (Picoides 

arcticus) 

Black-crowned night-heron (Nycticorax 

nycticorax) 

Bobolink (Dolichonyx oryzivorus) 

Brewer's sparrow (Spizella breweri) 

Burrowing owl (Athene cunicularia) 

Chestnut-collared longspur (Calcarius 

ornatus) 

Common loon (Gavia immer) 

Ferruginous hawk (Buteo regalis) 

Flammulated owl (Otus flammeolus) 

Franklin's gull (Leucophaeus pipixcan) 

Golden eagle (Aquila chrysaetos) 

Great gray owl (Strix nebulosa) 

Greater sage grouse (Centrocercus 

urophasianus) 

Harlequin duck (Histrionicus histrionicus) 

Le Conte's sparrow (Ammodramus 

leconteii) 

Least tern (Sterna antillarum) 

Loggerhead shrike (Lanius ludovicianus) 

Long-billed curlew (Numenius americanus) 

Marbled godwit (Limosa fedoa) 

McCown's longspur (Calcarius mccownii) 

Mountain plover (Charadrius montanus) 

Northern goshawk (Accipiter gentilis) 

Peregrine falcon (Falco peregrinus) 

Piping plover (Charadrius melodus) 

Red-headed woodpecker (Melanerpes 

erythrocephalus) 

Sage sparrow (Amphispiza belli) 

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Sage thrasher (Oreoscoptes montanus) 

Sedge wren (Cistothorus platensis) 

Sprague's pipit (Anthus spragueii) 

Swainson's hawk (Buteo swainsoni) 

Trumpeter swan (Cygnus buccinator) 

White-faced ibis (Plegadis chihi) 

Whooping crane (Grus americana) 

Tree nesting raptors such as Swainson’s hawk, 

red-tailed hawk and great-horned owl are known 

to be present in cottonwood stands and isolated 

conifers in the planning area. Ground nesting 

raptors including ferruginous hawks, burrowing 

owls and northern harriers are also present. 

Ferruginous hawks have been documented 

throughout the mixed-grass prairie, shrubgrasslands, grasslands, grass-sagebrush 

complex, and sagebrush steppe habitats within 

the planning area. 

Seven species of upland game birds are present 

in the planning area: Hungarian partridge, sharptailed grouse, sage grouse, blue grouse, ruffed 

grouse, Merriam’s turkeys and ring-necked 

pheasant. Partridge are commonly associated 

with private cropland; sharp-tails are primarily 

located in the heads of brushy coulees and 

grasslands. The mountain grouse species inhabit 

the forested parcels along the Continental Divide 

and other ranges such as the Belt and Highwood 

Mountains. The ruffed grouse prefer deciduous 

habitats while the blue grouse occupy forest 

edges in the spring, summer and fall and the 

high elevation Douglas fir in the winter. 

Pheasants are primarily found near farmland but 

also occupy well-vegetated riparian areas. 

Merriam’s turkeys can be found in most of the 

ponderosa pine habitats and along river 

corridors. 

The cottonwood and willow habitats along the 

stream corridors provide nesting and brooding 

habitat for many neo-tropical migrant species 

during the summer. Deciduous trees along the 

river’s edge are unique in this area of 

predominant prairie grasslands, breaks and 

coniferous forested coulees and ridges; they 

provide valuable habitat for the majority of bird 

species. This deciduous forest habitat type 

occupies a small percentage of the overall land 

area within the watershed area, and most is 

located on private lands. 

3.8.4 Fish 

There are over 30 species of fish that have been 

observed within the planning area. The 

Missouri River, Smith River, Dearborn River, 

Sun River, Teton River, Musselshell River, Belt 

Creek, Muddy Creek and Deep Creek maintain 

significant fisheries. There are also numerous 

small streams, canals, reservoirs, and lakes that 

support fisheries within the planning area. 

There are several species of fish that are listed 

on the BLM’s sensitive species list. Arctic 

grayling, westslope cutthroat trout and bull trout 

are discussed in section 3.8.1. Northern redbelly 

x finescale dace are a BLM sensitive species 

documented in Sheep Creek near Dupuyer. 

Northern redbelly x finescale dace are a hybrid 

species that prefer clear waters and commonly 

co-occur with the northern redbelly. No BLMadministered lands are located in the Sheep 

Creek watershed or downstream to its 

confluence with Dupuyer Creek. 

Most reaches of streams located within the 

affected area are designated as moderate/ 

substantial fisheries to high value/outstanding 

fisheries. However, many reaches are impacted 

by chronic and periodic dewatering. Species 

typically occurring in mountainous stream 

segments commonly include brook trout, 

rainbow and westslope cutthroat trout, 

rainbow/cutthroat hybrids, brown trout, mottled 

sculpin, mountain whitefish and mountain 

suckers. As these streams move into prairie 

reaches, these species decline and diversity 

increases trending toward species such as 

common carp, fathead minnows, fathead chubs, 

lake chubs, drum, stone cat, northern pike, 

channel catfish, brassy minnows, emerald 

shiner, goldeneye and numerous other species. 

Species such as longnose suckers and longnose 

dace are common throughout the planning area. 

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3.8.5 Reptiles and Amphibians 

Reptiles occurring within or near the allotments 

include: common gartersnake, terrestrial 

gartersnake, eastern racer, gophersnake, painted 

turtle, plains gartersnake, prairie rattlesnake, and 

rubber boa. Reptiles listed on the BLM 

Sensitive species list include: Greater shorthorned lizard, western hog-nosed snake and 

spiny softshell. All of these species are 

associated with prairie uplands or prairie rivers. 

Potential habitat on BLM allotments for these 

species is limited since the planning area is on 

the extreme western edge of the range for all 

three of these species. 

Amphibians occurring within or near the 

allotments include: boreal chorus frog, northern 

leopard frog and tiger salamander. Columbia 

spotted frog, long-toed salamander, western toad 

and Rocky Mountain tailed frog are known 

primarily west of the Continental Divide, but 

could also be present along the Rocky Mountain 

Front and other mountain outliers. Great Plains 

toad and plains spadefoot are primarily prairie 

associates but the western portion of their ranges 

also include the planning area. American 

bullfrog, an exotic species, has also been 

documented within the planning area. 

Amphibians listed on the BLM sensitive species 

list include: Great Plains toad, northern leopard 

frog, plains spadefoot, and western toad. 

Populations of many amphibian species appear 

to be in a sharp decline throughout Montana 

which relates to larger, global declines of 

amphibians worldwide. 

Information regarding BLM sensitive species 

and distribution and occurrences and other nongame data was derived from the Montana 

Natural Heritage Program. For more information 

on wildlife and BLM sensitive species, this 

database is located on the internet at: 

http://nhp.nris.mt.gov/. 

3.9 Cultural Resources 

The BLM broadly defines cultural resources as 

any traditional lifeway belief or cultural 

property. Cultural properties are defined as 

distinct evidence in areas of past human 

occupation, activity, and use. Traditional lifeway 

beliefs are defined as traditional value systems 

of religious beliefs, cultural practices, or social 

exchange that are not closely and tangibly 

defined or identified with definite locations 

(Judith-Valley-Phillips Resource Management 

Plan, 1992). 

Early peoples in the study area were mobile 

hunters and gatherers throughout and up until 

the historic period. The following brief 

overview explains changes through time as 

summarized by other archaeologists (Frison 

1978; Ruebelmann 1983). 

The Early Prehistoric Period (roughly 10,000 – 

5,700 B.C.) is characterized by a tool 

assemblage consisting of large, lanceolate and/or 

fluted spear points, and multipurpose tools made 

of stone or ivory. Subsistence strategies 

specialized in hunting megafauna but smaller 

game and plant foods were utilized as well. 

Typical site types include kill and butchering 

sites, open air camp sites, and limited activity 

sites. 

The Middle Prehistoric Period (roughly 5,000 

B.C. – A.D. 400), is characterized by a shift in 

tool types from thrusting spears with lanceolate 

spear heads to spear throwers and darts with 

diagnostic spear points. Groundstone tools also 

begin to show up in the assemblages. 

Subsistence strategies shift from more 

specialized hunting of megafauna to a broader 

spectrum strategy which becomes focused on 

bison by the end of this period. Plant 

procurement and use also occurs. Evidence of 

storage in the form of storage pits begins to 

show up during this period as do large cooking 

pits. Site types typical of this period include kill 

and butcher sites, camp sites, and rock shelters. 

The Late Prehistoric Period (roughly A.D. 500 – 

1800), is characterized by a technological shift 

from spear throwers and darts to bow and 

arrows. Tool assemblages consist of small side, 

corner, or tri-notched points. Some ceramics 

become evident in the record in limited number 

on the Northwest Plains at this time. Grooved 

mauls, bone fleshers, and shell beads are 

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common. Subsistence strategies continue to 

focus on bison procurement. Large communal 

bison kill/jump sites, rock shelters, wind breaks, 

and caves are the site types typically found in 

this area. 

More recently, settlers by the thousands came 

into the area to live on homesteads. Germans 

and Scandinavians came from the Midwest, as 

did eastern European immigrants like 

Bohemians and Yugoslavs (JVP, 1992). 

Cultural sites can be considered significant for 

several reasons; some because information about 

the past can be learned through methodical study 

of the sites, while other sites communicate a 

sense of a particular time period they represent 

in history. Finally, sites can be considered to be 

important because of the current use or values 

associated with the location. 

An important consideration for management 

actions in this area is preserving the values of 

the cultural properties contained within. In order 

to preserve the integrity of a cultural property, it 

is sometimes necessary to preserve the location 

in which the cultural property is found. This is 

an important consideration when the 

management actions have the potential to affect 

the location of a cultural property, thus affecting 

the overall integrity of the cultural property. 

In April 2010, the Lewistown Field Office 

finalized an overview of historic, prehistoric, 

and paleontological resources. This overview 

compiles data from databases maintained by the 

Montana State Historic Preservation Office and 

the BLM. Information on the five counties 

included in this analysis has been excerpted 

from that overview. 

Recorded Sites, by County 

County Prehistoric Historic Total 

Cascade 224 821 1045 

Lewis & 

Clark 

401 227 628 

Meagher 173 103 276 

Pondera 34 92 126 

Teton 128 198 326 

TOTALS 960 1441 2401 

The numbers for some counties are noticeably 

higher than others. Cascade and Lewis and 

Clark counties include data from within city 

limits; every documented historic home in Great 

Falls shows up in the historic sites count. 

The area along the Rocky Mountain Front has a 

higher density of rock alignments, cairns, and 

stone circles than other portions of the analysis 

area. Elders in the Blackfeet Tribe have noted 

the importance of the Sun River Valley, from the 

Front to the river’s confluence with the 

Missouri, as playing an integral role in their 

culture. 

The Smith River drainage, particularly in 

Meagher County, contains several chert quarry 

sites. A number of known archaeological sites 

occur in the Dry Range and adjacent areas. 

Several significant sites in the Dry Range have 

been excavated and cultural components ranging 

in age from the Late Paleoindian Period through 

the Middle and Late Prehistoric Periods have 

been documented (Aaberg et al. 2007). A 

number of documented chert quarries occur in 

the Dry Range and adjacent areas and one of 

those quarries, the Camp Baker Chert Quarry 

(24ME467) is situated on public land within the 

analysis area. Some of the parcels contain 

relatively steep terrain, including parts of the 

cliff-forming Jefferson Dolomite where 

potentially occupied rockshelters could occur. 

Pictographs and petroglyphs have been 

documented in rockshelters and on rock faces in 

the analysis area. This area generally falls 

within the Central Montana Rock Art Tradition, 

occupying a transitional zone between the 

Northwestern Plains Tradition and the Columbia 

Plateau Tradition. Within this zone there is a 

higher density of sites with finger line and hand 

images than is found in the rest of the state 

(Greer 1999). 

The following table displays the acres of cultural 

resource inventory in the analysis area. 

Acres Surveyed, by County 

County BLM Other Total 

Cascade 640 20815 21455 

Lewis & 

Clark 

28770 28575 57345 

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Meagher 1086 10964 12050 

Pondera 311 4188 4499 

Teton 576 22729 23305 

TOTALS 31383 87271 118654 

Lewis and Clark County has numbers 

significantly higher than the other counties. 

Larger blocks of land associated with timber 

sales, land exchanges, and proactive inventory 

have been identified in this county. 

The following table shows the breakdown of 

those sites on BLM lands and their eligibility for 

inclusion on the National Register of Historic 

Places. 

National Register Status of BLM Sites 

E I U TOTAL 

Historic 1 4 10 15 

Prehistoric 4 5 41 50 

TOTAL 5 9 51 65 

E=Eligible, I=Ineligible, U=Unevaluated 

The prehistoric sites within the planning area 

include areas of lithic scatter, camp sites, fire 

hearths/roasting pits, quarries, rock art, rock 

cairns and alignments, and stone circles. 

The historic sites relate to homesteading, early 

agriculture, irrigation, dumps, railroad, and 

transportation. 

The majority of the sites have not had their 

eligibility evaluated. Until a determination is 

made sites are managed as if they were eligible. 

3.10 Surface Water 

The major watersheds within the planning area 

include: Teton, Sun, Dearborn, Missouri 

Cascade, Belt Creek, Smith, and Upper 

Musselshell. The BLM land ownership within 

the basins is small, consisting of less than 1 

percent. 

One particular issue shared amongst all the 

watersheds is low-flow alterations because of 

irrigation withdrawals. This effect is 

pronounced in all of the basins listed above and 

leads to problems with water temperature, 

sediment transport capability, total dissolved 

solids, and aquatic habitat. 

Water quality problems are substantial east of 

the Rocky Mountain Front. Large irrigation 

withdrawals and subsequent return flows have 

created water quantity problems as well as issues 

with nitrogen, phosphorous, salinity, sulfates, 

water temperature, total dissolved solids, and 

erosion problems (sedimentation/siltation). 

The BLM lands in the planning area are located 

primarily within the upper reaches of these 

watersheds and are having minimal effect on the 

large water quantity/quality issues. Therefore, 

the following discussion is directed towards 

water quality impaired streams where BLM is a 

significant land owner or where BLM lands may 

be contributing to the impairment of a stream 

based on the likely sources or causes. 

The BLM uses a combination of Montana 

Department of Environmental Quality (MDEQ) 

and internal information in making the water 

quality standard determination on grazing 

allotments. If MDEQ has determined that a 

waterbody is meeting water quality standards, 

the waterbody would also meet BLM standards. 

If the state determination concedes water quality 

does not meet standards or there is no 

determination for the waterbody in question, 

which is often the case, BLM collects 

information to determine if BLM lands are 

contributing to impairment based upon likely 

sources/causes. If conditions are declining, the 

BLM standard would not be met, and BLM 

would take action to improve water quality. 

In Cascade County, 10 allotments were 

evaluated for water quality conditions. Three 

were not meeting, and BLM lands may be 

contributing to impairment based upon likely 

sources/causes. The Missouri River from Sheep 

Creek to the Sun River is water quality impaired 

because of sedimentation/siltation. One 

allotment on the Missouri River displayed large 

percentages of altered streambanks and 

disturbance increaser plant species, which could 

be contributing to impairment. On the other two 

allotments not meeting water quality standards, 

degraded riparian conditions on Wegner Creek 

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and South Canal Ditch were attributed to 

declining conditions. 

Seven allotments were evaluated for water 

quality conditions in Teton County, and all 

seven are meeting standards. Muddy Creek, Sun 

River and Teton River are water quality 

impaired streams. The causes and sources on 

these streams are numerous, but they do include 

alteration in stream-side or littoral vegetative 

covers and sedimentation. The BLM lands were 

evaluated on the Sun River, Green Timber 

Gulch, North and South Forks of Battle Creek 

and Deep Creek, Edwards Creek, North Fork of 

the Teton River, and Blindhorse Creek. 

Riparian and upland conditions in these areas are 

meeting standards, are at least functioning, and 

in many cases exhibit late-seral or potential 

natural community. It is unlikely that BLM 

lands are likely contributors of the sources and 

causes of impairment on these waterbodies. 

North Fork of the Teton River is fully 

supporting designated beneficial uses. 

In Lewis and Clark County, the Middle Fork of 

the Dearborn, the Missouri River (Little Prickly 

Pear Creek to Sheep Creek and Sheep Creek to 

the Sun River), and Sun River are water quality 

impaired streams with adjacent BLM lands or 

BLM lands within the watershed. South Fork of 

Stickney Creek is fully supporting designated 

beneficial uses. Seven of eight allotments 

evaluated for sources of impairment on streams 

were meeting standards. One allotment was not 

because of livestock grazing. Degraded riparian 

conditions on Bedrock Creek were attributed to 

declining conditions on that stream although 

there is no state determination for the waterbody 

in question. 

Listed streams in Meagher County where BLM 

land is significant or borders the water body 

include Elk Creek and North Fork of the 

Musselshell River. North Fork of the Smith 

River is fully supporting designated beneficial 

uses. Livestock grazing is listed as a probable 

source of phosphorus, sedimentation/siltation, 

total Kjehldahl Nitrogen (Elk Creek), and 

chlorophyll-a (North Fork of the Musselshell 

River). The BLM lands on both of these streams 

were evaluated, and upland and riparian areas 

were properly functioning. This implies that 

grazing best management practices (BMPs) are 

being followed, and non-point source pollution 

is being at least partially mitigated by buffers 

that trap and filter sediment and decrease the 

amount of fecal coliform and nitrates entering 

the waterbody. Out of nine allotments in 

Meagher County, seven were meeting the water 

quality standard and two were not because of 

livestock grazing. Riparian conditions on Mud 

Creek and an unnamed tributary of South Fork 

of the Musselshell River were in declining or 

static conditions and did not meet the BLM 

water quality standard. 

Birch Creek, from Swift Dam to Blacktail 

Creek, was listed in water quality category 3, 

which means that there were insufficient data to 

assess any use. From Blacktail Creek to the 

mouth of the Two Medicine River, Birch Creek 

is impaired because of low flow alterations and 

nitrate/nitrite from irrigated crop production. 

Activities on BLM land are not likely 

contributing to impairment based on likely 

sources or causes. As mentioned in the riparian 

section, the reach of Birch Creek through the 

BLM lands is ecologically and physically altered 

because of the Swift Dam failure and 

reconstruction. It is unlikely that beneficial uses 

such as cold-water fisheries and aquatic life are 

supported to their full extent. However, 

activities on the BLM land are unlikely causal of 

these issues. 

A majority of the planning area is located within 

Teton, Sun, and Dearborn subbasins, which have 

approved total maximum daily loads (TMDL) or 

watershed plans. The Missouri-Cascade and 

Belt subbasins have TMDLs in progress. There 

is no significant TMDL activity in the Cut BankTwo Medicine, Missouri-Choteau, or Smith 

River subbasins. Prior to the adoption of a water 

quality restoration/TMDL plan, the BLM, 

through a memorandum of understanding 

(MOU) with MDEQ, agrees to use “reasonable 

land, soil and water conservation practices” to 

prevent harm to public health, recreation, safety, 

welfare, livestock, wild animals, birds, fish, or 

other wildlife. 

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3.11 Soils 

Soils within the eastern portion of the planning 

area are developed primarily from sedimentary 

rock (shales, siltstone, and sandstone) of Lower 

and Upper Cretaceous Age, and from lesser 

amounts of slope and recent alluvium. Soil 

patterns are complex and vary in physical and 

chemical properties, productivity, and 

erodibility. Soluble salts and sodium are present 

in most soils of the area. Vegetation composition 

and production are affected where soils have 

high concentrations of salts. 

Most of the gently sloping to steep uplands and 

escarpments are comprised of either clayey soils 

weathered from fissile shales or sandy soils 

weathered from sandstone. These sedimentary 

soils are usually vulnerable to degradation and 

highly erosive because of extreme physical 

properties such as high clay content, slow 

permeability, very high surface runoff, relatively 

shallow to moderate depth (less than 40 inches) 

to bedrock, droughty, and sparse vegetative 

ground cover. Active geologic erosion is 

observed on these landscapes. Erosion can be 

accelerated by surface disturbance, especially on 

steep and very steep slopes when the protective 

vegetative cover is removed. 

Western portions of the planning area along the 

Rocky Mountain Front consist of a series of 

generally parallel north-south trending ridges 

and valleys. The ridges are mostly formed of 

limestone and the valleys are underlain by 

sandstone and shales. 

Common ecological sites found in the western 

mountainous portions of the affected area 

include silty 13-19”, shallow 20-24”, shallow 

11-14”, and loamy 20-24”. In the eastern 

portions of the planning area, common 

ecological sites include Silty 15-19” Shallow 15­

19” silty-droughty 15-19” and stoney 15-19”. 

Complete descriptions for the listed soil series 

and ecological sites for individual sites are 

available on the following internet sites: 

http://soils.usda.gov/technical/classificat 

ion/osd/index.html (soil series) 

and 

http://efotg.nrcs.usda.gov/treemenuFS.a 

spx?Fips=30071&MenuName=menuM 

T.zip (ecological sites). 

Included in the series descriptions are taxonomy, 

horizon descriptions, characteristic vegetation 

and other pertinent information. 

3.12 Air Quality 

Air quality in the Great Falls planning area is 

generally considered good to excellent most of 

the year and meets air quality standards set forth 

by the National Clean Air Act (U.S. Congress, 

1967, amended 1972, 1977). The planning area 

lacks major pollutant sources and much of the 

area receives prevailing winds originating in 

Class I airsheds over Glacier National Park and 

the Bob Marshall Wilderness. Lands within the 

planning area are in a Class II airshed as 

designated by the 1977 Clean Air Act. 

A planning and management process, 

“Prevention of Significant Deterioration” (PSD), 

was introduced as part of the 1977 Amendment 

to the Clean Air Act. These PSD requirements 

set limits for increases in ambient pollution 

levels and established a system for 

preconstruction review of new, major pollution 

sources. Three PSD classes have been 

established. Class I allows very small increases 

in pollution; Class II allows somewhat larger 

increases; and Class III allows the air quality to 

deteriorate considerably. In general, Class I is 

designed for pristine areas where almost any 

deterioration would be significant. Class II 

allows for moderate, well-controlled growth and 

Class III allows pollutant levels to increase 

considerably. 

The high and low pressure weather systems that 

move through central MT strongly influence 

local climates and occasionally affect air quality 

within the planning area. These weather 

patterns may affect the air quality by moving 

suspended pollutants into the local airshed. 

During the summer and winter months, 

atmospheric conditions tend to be more stable, 

reducing particulate dispersal which may 

Great Falls Area Grazing Lease Renewal 104 Chapter 3 
 

 

 

negatively affect air quality. Spring and fall 

typically have atmospheric conditions that favor 

smoke/particulate dispersal. 

Major air pollutants include dust generated by 

naturally dry, windy conditions, smoke from 

wildland fires, and smoke and dust created by 

agricultural operations. Minor pollutants could 

include farm machinery exhaust, crop harvest 

dust, recreational vehicle and equipment 

exhaust, and road maintenance operations. 

Topography within the watershed consists of flat 

to rolling uplands and mountains broken with 

steep canyons. Inversions may develop and trap 

suspended particulate matter for longer durations 

within these drainages. 

3.13 Climate 

The climate in the affected area is a modified 

continental type which is affected by invasions 

of Pacific Ocean air masses, drainage of cool air 

into the valleys from mountain slopes and 

deflections of storms to the south or east by the 

mountains. The planning area is mostly within 

the “Chinook Belt” where warm, dry winds drop 

down from the continental divide and can raise 

temperatures twenty to thirty degrees in several 

hours. 

Regional analysis of trends in western Montana 

temperatures indicates a rise in extreme 

temperatures and seasonal averages. (Pederson 

et.al. 2009) These factors are likely to result in 

an overall increase in drought stress of 

vegetative communities, less snowpack with 

earlier snowmelt and longer growing seasons 

(Running 2010). 

The Montana Greenhouse Gas Inventory and 

Reference Case Projections Report (2007) 

developed by the Center for Climate Strategies, 

in conjunction with the Montana Department of 

Environmental Quality, estimates that on a per 

capita basis, Montanans emit about twice the 

national average of carbon dioxide equivalent. 

This is primarily due to intensive fossil fuel 

production, large agricultural industry, 

transportation distances and low population 

base. The principal sources of Montana’s 

greenhouse gas emissions are electricity use and 

agriculture, each accounting for about 27% of 

Montana’s gross greenhouse gas emissions. 

Livestock grazing accounts for approximately 

9% of gross greenhouse gas emissions. Gross 

consumption-based carbon dioxide equivalent 

emissions in Montana for 2005 were equal to 

0.6% of total U.S. gross greenhouse gas 

emissions. This represents an increase of 14% in 

Montana which is similar to the national average 

from 1990 to 2005. Projected agricultural 

emissions through 2020 are anticipated to 

remain stable relative to projected increases in 

other areas. 

3.14 Economics/Sociology 

The planning area consists of numerous parcels 

of public land situated within Meagher, Cascade, 

Lewis and Clark, Pondera and Teton counties in 

west-central Montana. The broad geographic 

spectrum of the planning area includes 

demographics ranging from heavily urbanized 

population centers surrounding the city of Great 

Falls to sparsely populated counties such as 

Meagher County. In urbanized areas, agriculture 

and related industries account for a small portion 

of employment while agriculture and 

agricultural processing including small grain and 

cattle production is the major producing segment 

of the rural portions of the planning area where 

the majority of the affected environments are 

located. Many farm/ranches are controlled by 

individuals, families and partnerships; some are 

under corporate, cooperative or trust control. 

Crops grown on non-federal lands typically 

include wheat, barley, and hay. In recent years, 

there have been increases in spring and winter 

wheat production with overall decreases in 

barley, oats, hay, haylage and grass silage. 

Alternative crops such as oilseeds, legumes, and 

medicinal herbs, as well as certified organic 

pork and beef have increased. 

Forage derived from BLM lands contributes to 

the area’s overall livestock receipts. Many of 

these ranches have grazing leases on state lands 

that are intermingled with private and public 

land. Depending on the percentage of public 

land contained within a particular allotment, the 

Great Falls Area Grazing Lease Renewal 105 Chapter 3 
 

 

amount of forage BLM land contributes to an 

individual producers’ operation varies 

significantly. 

The BLM land allocated for livestock grazing 

comprises 48,361 acres within the planning area. 

This acreage constitutes less than 1 percent of 

the total land acreage within the planning unit. 

There are 92 lessees that are authorized to graze 

livestock on public land administered by the 

BLM. All of the lessees have cattle operations 

and many lessees have farm operations in 

conjunction with livestock production. A total of 

5602 AUMs are permitted in 100 allotments. 

Recreational opportunities and associated 

services rely on resources values provided by 

BLM, state and other federal lands occurring in 

the area. Receipts from recreation and 

secondary services are also major contributors to 

the overall economy in the region. 

Rural portions of the planning area, 

encompassing Meagher, Pondera and Teton 

Counties have undergone declines in population 

while Great Falls and Helena have seen 

significant increases. This is likely due, in part, 

to age demographics and an overall decline in 

agricultural employment. Other issues currently 

affecting many of these farm/ranches include 

increasing recreation pressures, increasing land 

values, and an influx of absentee and/or 

corporate ownership. 

3.15 Special Management Areas 

The planning area contains four Outstanding 

Natural Areas (ONAs) located approximately 20 

miles west of Choteau, Montana. The ONAs 

adjoin the eastern edge of the Lewis and Clark 

National Forest near the Bob Marshall 

Wilderness. The designated areas include: 

1) Blind Horse: 4,927 acres 

2) Ear Mountain: 1,869 acres 

3) Chute Mountain: 3,205 acres 

4) Deep Creek/Battle Creek: 3,086 acres 

The ONAs are characterized by massive 

limestone formations rising precipitously from 

the prairie below. Steep, rocky cliffs are 

intersected by narrow, deep canyons with 

numerous perennial and ephemeral streams and 

springs. Talus slopes, open meadows, riparian 

zones and shrub-grasslands are interspersed with 

dense conifer forests, krummholz formations 

and aspen groves. The Headwaters Resource 

Management Plan establishes these areas be 

managed to: “protect the wildlife habitat, 

scenery and other surface resources from 

disturbance..” and to ensure that the ONAs be 

“managed essentially as wilderness.” 

(Alternative A, Preferred, p.iii, final Headwaters 

RMP Environmental Impact Statement) 

Livestock grazing and administration of ONAs 

is restricted to specific classes of livestock, 

seasons of use, forage consumption and 

limitations of range improvement projects, and 

access to maintain existing developments. 

Great Falls Area Grazing Lease Renewal 106 Chapter 3 
 

proposed action or current management and will 

not be discussed further. 

 Environmental Justice 

 Farmlands (Prime or Unique) 

 Wastes (Hazardous/Solid) 

 National Energy Policy (Executive Order 

13212) 

 Wild & Scenic Rivers (none present in the 

planning area) 

4.1 No Action Alternative: 

Continuation of Current 

Management 

This section discusses the impacts of renewing 

grazing leases with current terms and conditions 

and no management changes to environmental 

elements in the planning area. 

4.1.1 Rangelands/Livestock Grazing 

Implementation of the No Action Alternative 

would not impact livestock grazing because no 

changes to current operations would be 

proposed. Impacts to rangeland resources will 

be discussed below in the upland and riparian 

health sections. 

4.1.2 Upland Range Health 

Under current grazing management, upland sites 

that are meeting standards would slowly 

improve or remain stable (Appendices E and F). 

All available information indicates a 

maintenance of rangeland health or slight to 

strongly upward trend on upland sites meeting 

standards. 

Upland sites not meeting standards as a result of 

livestock grazing would continue to decline in 

productivity and upland health. Without 

periodic rest or deferment from grazing during 

the growing season, perennial grasses in these 

degraded areas would continue to have low 

vigor and density with limited reproduction of 

desirable grasses occurring. Annual plants and 

non-native, shallow-rooted perennial grasses 

would continue to dominate, and likely increase, 

4.1 

4.1.1

4.1.2 

4.1.3

4.1.4

4.1.5

4.1.6 

4.1.7

4.1.8

4.1.9 

4.1.10

4.1.11 

4.2.12 

4.1.13

4.1.14 

4.2 

4.2.1

4.2.2 

4.2.3

4.2.4

4.2.5

4.2.6 

4.2.7

4.2.8

4.2.9 

4.2.10

4.2.11 

4.2.12 

4.2.13

4.2.14 

4.2.15 

Chapter 4 

Environmental Effects 

This chapter is the scientific and analytic basis 

for the comparison of the alternatives outlined in 

Chapter 2. The potential environmental impacts 

of each alternative in relation to the issues and 

concerns identified in Chapter 1 are described. 

The information in this chapter is organized into 

the following headings: 

No Action Alternative: Continuation 

of Current Management 

 Rangelands/Livestock Grazing 

Upland Range Health 

 Riparian Health 

 Noxious Weeds 

 Recreation/Visual Resource 

 Management 

Wildlife 

 Fire Management 

 Cultural Resources 

Surface Water 

Soils 

Air Quality 

 Climate 

 Economics/Sociology 

Special Designation Areas 

Proposed Action Alternative 

 Rangelands/Livestock Grazing 

Upland Range Health 

 Riparian Health 

 Noxious Weeds 

 Recreation/Visual Resource 

 Management 

Wildlife 

 Fire Management 

 Cultural Resources 

Surface Water 

Soils 

Air Quality 

 Climate 

 Economics/Sociology 

Special Designation Areas 

 Cumulative Impacts 

The following critical elements of the human 

environment were considered but not analyzed. 

These elements would not be affected by the 

Great Falls Area Grazing Lease Renewal 107 Chapter 4 
especially in times of drought. 

Under current management, some allotments are 

not meeting the upland standard due to: 

 Poor livestock distribution 

 Lack of grazing rotation schedule 

 Continual season-long grazing 

 Large acreages of nonnative species 

Plants on these allotments are not vigorous and 

lack sufficient root reserves and root mass to 

adequately cope with drought. These allotments 

are at high risk of continued deterioration and 

may eventually lose existing plant diversity, 

topsoil, productivity, and ability for recovery. 

There are no known impacts to BLM sensitive 

plant species. 

4.1.3 Riparian Health 

Under current grazing management, riparian 

sites that are meeting standards (Appendix G) 

would improve or remain stable. All available 

information indicates a static or upward trend on 

riparian sites meeting standards. 

Riparian sites not meeting standards as a result 

of livestock grazing (Appendices E and G) 

would remain static or continue in a downward 

trend since no changes in livestock grazing 

would occur. Without periodic rest from 

grazing during the growing season, perennial 

grasses, forbs and woody species in these 

degraded areas would continue to have low 

vigor and density with limited reproduction. 

Riparian plant community succession and 

streambank stabilization would be interrupted or 

impeded leading to degradation and potential 

loss of functioning riparian areas. 

4.1.4 Noxious Weeds 

Under current management, noxious weed 

control within the planning area is somewhat 

inconsistent. Some lessees have signed 

cooperative weed control agreements and are 

actively involved in weed control on their 

allotments; others have no agreements and are 

not involved in weed control. The present level 

of weed control could lead to an increase in 

noxious weeds in the planning area, especially 

on grazing allotments lacking cooperative weed 

control agreements. The No Action Alternative 

would not require noxious weed control 

cooperative agreements as a term and condition 

of the grazing lease. 

4.1.5 Recreation/Visual Resource 

Management 

No impacts to recreation would occur under this 

alternative. 

No impacts (direct or cumulative) would occur 

to visual resources under this alternative. 

4.1.6 Wildlife 

Under current management, the riparian health, 

upland health and noxious weed infestation 

issues that have been identified would not be 

improved. Upland sites not meeting standards, 

as a result of livestock grazing, would continue 

to decline in productivity and upland health. 

Browse availability for big game species would 

continue to deteriorate. Forage and cover for 

birds and other small mammals would also 

decline. Over time, the reduction in wildlife 

forage and increased levels of invasive species 

and noxious weeds would cause a cumulative 

loss in the value of these isolated unhealthy 

areas as wildlife habitat. 

Improvement of non-functioning riparian areas 

would not occur and the trends would remain 

static or continue to degrade. Unhealthy riparian 

areas would create a negative impact to most 

wildlife species. Vegetative diversity and 

structure that are associated with healthy 

riparian areas would not be available for cover, 

foraging and nesting areas for many species. 

Most proper functioning riparian systems should 

continue to regenerate woody browse species 

and provide quality habitat for a wide variety of 

wildlife species. Healthy riparian vegetative 

Great Falls Area Grazing Lease Renewal 108 Chapter 4 
 

 

 

 

communities with diverse herbaceous understory 

would continue to be a benefit to neotropical 

birds. 

Noxious weeds would continue to spread 

because the present weed control program has 

not kept pace with infestation growth. The 

diversity of native plant species, particularly 

along the smaller riparian systems, would 

eventually decline to the point that the habitat 

would be of minimal value for cover and forage 

to wildlife. 

4.1.7 Fire Management 

Regardless of the alternative chosen, wildland 

fire suppression would be in accordance with the 

Fire/Fuels Management Plan Environmental 

Assessment/Plan Amendment for Montana and 

the Dakotas (September 2003), and the Central 

Montana Fire Zone, Lewistown Field Office 

(LFO), Fire Management Plan (September 

2004). Prescriptive fire proposals would be 

evaluated separately. 

4.1.8 Cultural Resources 

Under current management, cultural sites would 

remain static to slightly deteriorating. Direct 

impacts to specific sites from BLM approved 

actions would be reduced or eliminated where 

possible. Visual impacts to cultural resources 

from BLM actions would be mitigated or 

eliminated where setting contributes to 

significance. Less specific impacts such as the 

gradual loss or deterioration through erosion or 

weathering would continue. Loss and damage 

would also continue to occur as a result of 

unauthorized and unlawful collection and/or 

vandalism. 

Significant cultural sites would be identified for 

stabilization or mitigation of deterioration as 

time and funding allow. 

4.1.9 Surface Water 

Water quantity and quality affected by flow 

diversion, impoundments, and stream channel 

modifications would not change. Where 

infiltration and evaporation rates are altered 

because of changes in plant cover, the time of 

concentration, water quality, and water storage 

within the planning area would remain altered 

from natural levels. 

This alternative would not address the water 

quality impaired streams within the planning 

area or comply with the TMDL process, Clean 

Water Act, or the memorandum of 

understanding with MDEQ since no 

improvements would be made to upland or 

riparian vegetation. Those public lands in the 

planning area that are in less than Proper 

Functioning Condition would continue to 

possibly contribute pollutants such as sediment, 

nitrates, fecal coliform, and warmer water to 

streams. 

4.1.10 Soils 

This alternative would generate the highest level 

of soil loss from wind and water erosion. In 

some cases, accelerated erosion is occurring on 

allotments not meeting the upland standard. If 

no management changes are made, soils in these 

allotments would continue to lack sufficient 

ground cover and root density to resist erosion 

and would continue to erode at levels higher 

than expected for the site. Infiltration of 

precipitation into soils of these sites would be 

reduced by soil compaction, lack of plant and 

ground cover to intercept overland flow and lack 

of organic matter near the soil surface. 

Accelerated erosion would not occur on 

allotments that are meeting the upland standard 

as plant cover and type on these allotments 

would remain adequate to resist erosion. 

4.1.11 Air Quality 

Continuation of current management would not 

impact air quality. 

4.1.12 Climate 

Selection of the No Action Alternative would 

not affect climate since no changes to the 

existing condition would be proposed. 

Great Falls Area Grazing Lease Renewal 109 Chapter 4 
 

4.1.13 Economics/Sociology 

Continuation of current management could 

create negative economic impacts to lessees with 

allotments not meeting health standards and in a 

downward trend. Continued degradation of 

public rangelands would result in decreased 

production which would eventually lead to 

lower carrying capacities, reduced livestock 

numbers and decreased resistance to drought. 

Allotments meeting health standards would not 

be impacted by this alternative. 

Under current management there would be no 

immediate impacts to lessees or the local 

communities in the planning area. 

4.1.14 Special Designation Areas 

The No Action Alternative would not impact 

special designation areas, specifically 

Outstanding Natural Areas directly or 

cumulatively since allotments in those areas are 

considered to be in conformance with standards 

and guidelines for rangeland health and no 

changes are proposed. Livestock grazing in 

those areas would continue to be in conformance 

with the Final Rocky Mountain Front 

Outstanding Natural Area Activity 

Plan/Environmental Assessment (March 1989). 

4.2 Proposed Action 

Alternative 

The 23 allotments listed in Table 4.1 have no 

administrative changes or proposed 

modifications to the lease. 

Table 4.1 

Allotment Name Allotment No. 

Little Elk Creek 09708 

Little Sulphur Creek 09732 

Lower Flat Creek 06331 

North Antelope Mountain 06338 

Paul Creek 07618 

River BLM 06325 

Sand Coulee 09820 

Sugarloaf 11186 

Swift Dam 06321 

West Birch Creek 06323 

The following 26 allotments listed in Table 4.2 

are also meeting (or making significant progress 

toward meeting) standards and guidelines for 

rangeland health or were determined to be not 

meeting due to a cause other than current 

livestock grazing. These allotments are 

undergoing a change of ranch management and 

associated preference transfer or base property 

lease renewal. Other than terms and conditions 

listed in the Rangeland Administration section 

located in Chapter 2.3.1 and the Noxious Weed 

section located in Chapter 2.3.4, there will be no 

modifications to the existing seasons, numbers, 

class of livestock, percent public land or type 

use. In the case of base property transfers, only 

the listed name of the lessee would change. In 

the case of base property lease renewals, only 

the term of the BLM grazing lease would be 

extended to coincide with the termination date of 

the new base property lease. The Berg Lease and 

Sixteen Allotments are also being analyzed for 

transfer of permitted use. However, those 

allotments have additional changes proposed and 

will be analyzed individually (Table 4.5). 

Table 4.1 

Allotment Name Allotment No. 

Alkali Flat (East) 07615 

Bird Creek (upper) 09812 

Black Butte 09723 

Castle Reef 07613 

Crooked Creek 09688 

Dog Creek 07825 

Dry Beaver Creek 06294 

Ear Mountain Individual 09835 

Elk Creek 09800 

Florence Canal 07614 

Freezeout West 06317 

Hardy Creek 06334 

Indian Creek 07617 

Table 4.2 

Allotment Name Allotment No. 

Alkali Flat (West) 06295 

Battle Creek 06307 

Bird Creek (Lower) 11190 

Blackfeet Gulch 06329 

Chicken Coulee 06303 

Choteau Mountain 06304 

Ford Coulee 07831 

Gipsy Creek 09671 

Green Timber Gulch 06308 

Hardy 06336 

Holliday Land & Livestock 09735 

Lower Spring Creek AMP 09673 

Middle Fork Dearborn 07603 

North Fork Musselshell 09674 

Pishkun 06311 

Pishkun Reservoir 06315 

South Fork 06443 

Spring Creek Pasture 09758 

Great Falls Area Grazing Lease Renewal 110 Chapter 4 
Tiger Butte 07832 

Tintinger Slough 06337 

Water Tank Smith River 09806 

West Fork Hound Creek 09780 

West Fork Mud Creek 09697 

Willow Creek 07608 

Willow Creek (Yendrick) 07775 

Willow Creek Pasture 06314 

Table 4.4 

Allotment Name Allotment No. 

East Loco Creek 07611 

Green Timber Gulch 06308 

Salmond Ranch Company 06342 

Smith Creek 09698 

The Flat 06319 

Willow Creek 07775 

Twenty-eight allotments listed below in Table 

4.3 currently have a type use listed as active. 

These allotments would be changed from active 

type use to custodial type use. This change is 

administrative in nature and does not impact 

AUM’s or mandatory terms and conditions. The 

term and condition associated with custodial 

allotments described in Chapter 2.3.1 would be 

incorporated into the following leases. 

Table 4.3 

Allotment Name Allotment No. 

Battle Creek 09814 

Bean Lake 07605 

Belt Creek 09710 

Black Canyon 09849 

Black Coulee 06313 

Blackfeet Gulch 06335 

Cowtract 06306 

Dearborn River 07606 

Deer Creek 09728 

Devil Canyon 09709 

Divide Creek 19660 

Eagle Creek 09672 

Gipsy Creek 09671 

Hound 09747 

Indian Head Rock 07659 

Lower Sand Coulee 09836 

Middle Creek 09704 

Middle Fork 07604 

Ming Coulee 09715 

Monarch 09722 

North Fork Musselshell 09674 

North Fork Sheep Creek 09726 

South Fork Sheep Creek 09655 

Spring Creek Pasture 09758 

Tiger Butte 07832 

Tom’s Gulch 07762 

Waddel Lakes 06320 

Water Tank Smith River 09806 

Willow Creek 07608 

Conversely, six allotments listed in Table 4.4 are 

currently designated as custodial allotments but 

have known pasture boundaries and forage 

calculations for lands within those pastures. 

Stocking rates have been established on these 

allotments. Type use would be changed from 

custodial to active. No other actions are 

proposed on these allotments that would affect 

mandatory terms and conditions of the leases. 

On the allotments listed in Tables 4.1, 4.2, 4.3 

and 4.4, there are no changes in the proposed 

action for individual allotments that would result 

in impacts to upland/riparian health, noxious 

weeds, livestock grazing/rangelands, recreation/ 

VRM, wildlife, fire management, cultural 

resources, surface/groundwater, soils, air 

quality, economics/sociology or ACECs. 

These allotments are either 1) in conformance 

with standards and guidelines for rangeland 

health; 2) making significant progress toward 

achieving standards and guidelines for rangeland 

health; or 3) not in compliance with standards 

and guidelines for rangeland health due to 

reasons other than current livestock management 

practices. 

There have been no impacts which would occur 

from renewing grazing leases with the existing 

mandatory terms and conditions when current 

livestock grazing is in conformance with 

standards and guidelines for rangeland health. 

The remaining 33 allotments listed in Table 4.5 

below have changes proposed that may result in 

impacts to resources within the planning area. 

These impacts may include ground disturbance 

or wildlife displacement due to the construction 

of range improvement projects or impacts to 

vegetation and other resources due to a change 

in seasons of use and/or numbers of livestock. 

Impacts will be analyzed by issue for these 

allotments. 

Table 4.5 

Allotment Name Allotment No. 

Bedrock Creek 06347 

Berg Lease 07601 

Big Eddy 06332 

Black Reef 07609 

Calvert 01166 

Cottonwood Creek 07716 

Coyote Creek 09663 

Choteau Mountain 06304 

Daisy Dean Creek 09675 

Great Falls Area Grazing Lease Renewal 111 Chapter 4 
Dearborn River 07606 

Deep Creek 06310 

Divide Creek 19660 

Dry Hills 09743 

East Birch Creek 06322 

East Farmer’s Reservoir 06316 

East Loco Creek 07611 

Homesite 06324 

Lower Spring Creek AMP 09673 

Rhynard Individual 09801 

River Tract 09691 

Roost Hill 07607 

Ryan Coulee 06330 

Smith Creek 09698 

Simms Creek 06328 

Sixteen 09690 

South Canal Ditch 06326 

Sun River Ditch 06327 

The Flat 06319 

Tunnel Lake 06312 

Upper Pasture 02558 

Willow Creek 07775 

Willow Creek Canal 07612 

Windy Hollow 09818 

4.2.1 Rangelands/Livestock Grazing 

The proposed action would improve conditions 

on allotments not meeting standards through 

various types of rotational grazing systems or 

limited seasons of use. Water developments, 

additional fencing, salting, mineral placement, 

and changes in season of use would better 

distribute livestock and improve overall 

rangeland conditions. If monitoring indicates 

significant progress toward meeting standards is 

not occurring, management adjustments or 

corrective actions would be initiated as 

described in the Management Common to All 

Allotments section found in Chapter 2.3.9. 

The proposed action would have no impacts on 

livestock grazing on the allotments listed in 

Tables 4.1, 4.2 and 4.3. Livestock grazing would 

continue as currently permitted. Changes on 

these allotments are administrative in nature and 

impacts are limited to continuation of current 

management which has been determined to be in 

conformance with standards for rangeland health 

and guidelines for livestock management. 

Proposed changes on these allotments would 

improve orderly management of the grazing 

program which would be beneficial to rangeland 

resources. Grazing allotments listed in Table 

4.5 with proposed changes to the grazing season, 

livestock numbers, or percent public land may 

be impacted by the proposed action. Impacts 

would be limited to construction of range 

improvement projects, timing of grazing use and 

number of livestock. 

Range improvement projects and lease 

modifications are designed to improve resource 

conditions which would facilitate significant 

progress toward meeting rangeland health 

standards or provide maintenance of conditions 

on allotments where the standards are being met. 

Grazing allotments that meet rangeland health 

standards would have increased productivity, 

resistance to drought and improved flexibility 

which would positively benefit rangeland 

resources. 

4.2.2 Upland Range Health 

The upland health standard would continue to be 

met on allotments already in conformance with 

this standard (Appendix E). Trends on these 

allotments would remain static or improve. No 

range improvements are proposed on any of 

these allotments other than Black Canyon 

#09849. The development proposed on this 

allotment would not concentrate, or redistribute 

livestock in a way that would negatively impact 

upland range health. 

The following allotments have proposed changes 

that could potentially impact upland health: 

Bedrock Creek #06347 

Spur fences would provide exclusion of 

livestock on approximately 15 to 20 acres of 

uplands occurring on this 40 acre parcel. The 

southwest and northeast portions of the parcel 

consist of approximately 20 acres which are 

largely ungrazeable due to closed canopy forests 

and steep shale slopes that do not support forage 

production. Approximately 5 to 10 acres of 

uplands on the south side of Bedrock Creek 

would still be available to livestock grazing. Due 

to the restriction of adjacent water sources, 

livestock concentration would be expected to be 

reduced in these areas, particularly if the “toe” 

of the exclosure is extended which would further 

reduce availability of easily accessible livestock 

watering along Bedrock Creek. The proposed 

Great Falls Area Grazing Lease Renewal 112 Chapter 4 
action is expected to have overall positive 

impacts on upland health by allowing rest from 

livestock within the exclosure area and may 

provide modest improvements to upland health 

on other areas outside the exclosure by 

restricting easy access to water. 

Berg Lease #07601 

Construction of the drift fence in Section 24, as 

proposed, would provide significant reductions 

of livestock use on approximately 15 to 20 acres 

of uplands on the 80-acre parcel. These lands 

occur along the southern boundary of the parcel 

in loafing areas where the upland health standard 

was not being met. The proposed action would 

have positive impacts to rangeland health in 

these areas. The northern half and eastern 

aspects of TV Hill are considered to be in 

conformance with the upland health standard 

and would not be significantly impacted by the 

proposed action. 

Administrative changes associated with the 

potential transfer of permitted use would have 

no impacts beyond those addressed for 

allotments in Table 4.2. 

Big Eddy #06332 

This parcel consists of 120 acres that are fenced 

with 500-700 acres of deeded croplands. The 

proposed modification to the lease would 

authorize livestock grazing in August after the 

crop has been removed from private lands. This 

would not have a significant impact on upland 

health since the adjusted turnout date would still 

allow for a complete growth cycle of desirable 

forbs and bunchgrass species to occur. Livestock 

would still typically use the allotment through 

October and use levels would not be expected to 

change. Current and historical use levels have 

been within Lewistown guidelines and have 

been documented to be yielding achievement 

and maintenance of upland health standards. 

Black Reef #07609 

Incorporation of a term and condition specifying 

the grazing system would positively benefit 

upland health. Allowing for deferment and rest 

of pastures would continue to improve the 

capability of plants to accumulate root mass, 

carbohydrate reserves and achieve seed set 

which will provide for maintenance of upland 

health standards and achievement of rangeland 

objectives. 

Calvert #01166 

The season of use would be modified from 6/1­

11/01 to 7/1-10/15. Using tame pastures for 

early season use would allow for deferring 

grazing in the growing season which would have 

positive impacts on upland health by allowing 

for plant reproduction, restoration of existing 

plants, and establishment of new plants. 

Reduction in the fall season of use would have 

further benefits to upland health by increasing 

residual vegetation which promotes inputs of 

organic material and nutrient cycling, maintains 

soil structure and increases soil moisture and 

improves long-term productivity of the site. 

Choteau Mountain #06304 

Modification of the percent public land would 

not impact upland health because no changes in 

management are prescribed. Pasture boundaries 

and capacities of deeded lands are not known to 

the extent required to establish livestock 

numbers. Current management has resulted in 

maintenance of the late seral to PNC upland 

conditions within the allotment. 

Cottonwood Creek #07716 

Incorporation of a term and condition specifying 

the grazing system would positively benefit 

upland health. Allowing for deferment of 

pastures would continue to improve the 

capability of plants to accumulate root mass, 

carbohydrate reserves and achieve seed set 

which would provide for maintenance of upland 

health standards and achievement of rangeland 

objectives. 

Coyote Creek #09663 

Construction of 1⁄4 mile of cross fence to 

implement a three-pasture, deferred rotation 

system and associated salt block placement 

would positively benefit upland health. 

Incorporation of mandatory terms and conditions 

and modification of the lease would further 

facilitate the grazing system. Allowing for 

deferment of pastures would improve the 

capability of plants to accumulate root mass, 

carbohydrate reserves and achieve seed set 

Great Falls Area Grazing Lease Renewal 113 Chapter 4 
 

which would provide for maintenance of upland 

health standards and achievement of rangeland 

objectives. Salt block and other nutritional 

supplements placement would reduce livestock 

concentrations on areas considered not to be in 

conformance with standards for rangeland health 

and guidelines for livestock management. 

Daisy Dean Creek #09675 

Although the majority of uplands on this 

allotment are closed-canopy lodgepole pine 

forest, which does not provide understory forage 

growth, the proposed action would have positive 

impacts to accessible uplands immediately 

adjacent to Mud Creek by reducing livestock 

numbers from previous levels, restricting 

livestock trespass and horse use, and 

implementing a five-pasture deferred rotation 

grazing system. Incorporation of a term and 

condition specifying the grazing system would 

positively benefit upland health. Allowing for 

deferment of pastures would improve the 

capability of plants to accumulate root mass, 

carbohydrate reserves and achieve seed set 

which would provide for maintenance of upland 

health standards and achievement of rangeland 

objectives. If required, construction of the 

proposed fence would provide similar benefits to 

upland resources by excluding livestock use 

from these areas. Resting a portion of the pasture 

for a period of time would increase litter, 

residual forage and provide benefits to nutrient 

cycling, soil structure and improve the water 

holding capabilities of the site. 

Dearborn River #07606 

Reissuance of the grazing lease to include 

changing class of livestock from cattle to horses 

in the Dearborn River Allotment would not 

significantly impact upland range health. 

Deferment of use to July 1 would allow 

maturation of desireable bunchgrass species 

such as rough fescue. Since the BLM is 

principally located on steep, timbered slopes 

most grazing would occur primarily on open, 

deeded lands. Only incidental trailing and some 

occasional use of open areas would be expected 

on BLM. There are no localized water sources or 

other attractants that could impact upland health. 

Deep Creek #06310 

Modification to the number of livestock in the 

Willow Creek Pasture portion of the grazing 

lease would not impact upland health because no 

changes in management are prescribed. 

Historical changes in land tenureship have 

dissolved the Saypo/BLM Allotment 

Management Plan (1990) which regulated 

carrying capacities. Removal of the Ear 

Mountain Pasture from the Allotment 

Management Plan resulted in a change in the 

seasons and numbers used within the Deep 

Creek Allotment. No updated information is 

available. Pasture boundaries and capacities of 

deeded lands are not known to the extent 

required to establish livestock numbers. 

Divide Creek #19660 

Including an additional term and condition 

specifying a rest-rotation grazing system would 

positively benefit upland health. Allowing for 

deferment and rest of pastures would improve 

the capability of plants to accumulate root mass, 

carbohydrate reserves and achieve seed set 

which would provide for maintenance of upland 

health standards and achievement of rangeland 

health objectives. Since changing the class of 

livestock to include sheep would authorize an 

existing use, no additional impacts would be 

expected. Periodic, controlled use of sheep has 

maintained uplands in late seral to PNC and 

provided control of spotted knapweed and 

prevented further expansion of this species. The 

term and condition would limit sheep use to 

periodic grazing focused on noxious weed 

control. 

Removal of conifer encroachment would have 

positive effects on upland health by maintaining 

open, sagebrush parks and meadows. The 

proposal would result in an increase in forb and 

grass production and diversity. Under the 

prescription, upland conditions would be 

sustained at, or near current ecological climax 

conditions. The scope of the action would not 

significantly result in increased livestock use of 

these areas. 

Dry Hills #09743 

Implementation of a multiple-pasture 

deferred/rest rotational grazing system would 

Great Falls Area Grazing Lease Renewal 114 Chapter 4 
 

positively benefit upland health. Allowing for 

deferment and rest of pastures would improve 

the capability of plants to accumulate root mass, 

carbohydrate reserves and achieve seed set 

which would provide for achievement of upland 

health standards and meet resource objectives. 

Early spring use of private lands that contain 

crested wheatgrass would delay turnout to 

pastures containing BLM lands which would 

allow for increased maturation of cool season, 

native species. The proposed pipeline would 

further improve livestock distribution and move 

stock away from areas that aren’t in 

conformance with rangeland health standards. 

Changes in distribution patterns would not 

negatively impact areas that are previously 

unwatered, since the project would be 

accompanied by implementation of the proposed 

grazing system. However, negative impacts to 

upland vegetation affecting less than five acres 

immediately adjacent to the tank site would be 

expected. 

East Birch Creek #06322 

Restoration of portions of an agricultural field 

would have positive impacts on upland health by 

allowing native vegetation to be re-established 

on the site which would be representative of the 

natural vegetative community expected for the 

area. Removal of an unauthorized hay structure 

would also have positive impacts to upland 

health by reducing vehicular travel on the site 

which damages vegetation and creates areas of 

bare ground which are typically colonized by 

noxious weeds or annual invasive grasses and 

forbs. Proximity of hay yards is also a potential 

source for non-native seed introduction. 

East Farmer’s Reservoir #06316 

Modification of the grazing lease to facilitate 

multiple pastures being used in a controlled 

grazing system in conjunction with state and 

deeded pastures would allow for the BLM parcel 

to receive various seasons of treatment, rest, 

deferment and duration of use. This grazing 

system would continue to positively benefit 

upland health by improving the capability of 

plants to accumulate root mass, carbohydrate 

reserves and achieve seed set which would 

provide for maintenance of upland health 

standards and achievement of rangeland health 

objectives. 

East Loco Creek #07611 

Incorporation of a term and condition specifying 

the grazing system would positively benefit 

upland health by providing consistent 

management between agencies by allowing for 

deferment of pastures would improve the 

capability of plants to accumulate root mass, 

carbohydrate reserves and achieve seed set 

which would provide for maintenance of upland 

health standards and achievement of rangeland 

objectives. 

Homesite #06324 

Modification of the lease restricting use of 

horses in the River Pasture would provide 

deferment during the growing season which 

would improve the capability of plants to 

accumulate root mass, carbohydrate reserves and 

achieve seed set which would provide for 

achievement of upland health standards and 

meet rangeland objectives. Incorporation of a 

term and condition into the grazing lease would 

limit utilization in the event of drought or other 

events which may decrease annual production 

on the site. 

Lower Spring Creek AMP # 09673 

Incorporation of a term and condition specifying 

the grazing system would positively benefit 

upland health. Allowing for deferment of 

pastures would continue to improve the 

capability of plants to accumulate root mass, 

carbohydrate reserves and achieve seed set 

which would provide for maintenance of upland 

health standards and achievement of rangeland 

objectives. 

Rhynard Individual #09801 

Reduction of the permitted use associated with 

the western portion of the allotment would not 

significantly impact upland health. However, the 

proposed action would provide an accurate 

account of carrying capacity which would allow 

for improved administration of the allotment. 

Increased efforts to control spotted knapweed 

would improve upland health by reducing 

competition and limiting expansion of noxious 

weeds. 

Great Falls Area Grazing Lease Renewal 115 Chapter 4 
River Tract #09691 

The proposed action specifying rest of the 

pasture would have positive effects on upland 

health of the allotment by improving the 

capability of plants to accumulate root mass, 

carbohydrate reserves and achieve seed set. Rest 

would increase residual forage and terminal 

leader growth of shrubs which would promote 

inputs of organic material and nutrient cycling, 

maintain soil structure, increase soil moisture 

and long-term productivity of the site. 

Modification of the grazing lease would allow 

for long-term, hot season deferment of the 

pasture. This would maintain gains initiated by 

rest while providing a mechanism for removal of 

non-native grasses and weed species which 

could eventually lead to declines in productivity, 

particularly among native plants. 

Roost Hill #07607 

Increasing the permitted use associated with the 

allocated portion of the allotment would not 

significantly impact upland health. The proposed 

action would provide an accurate account of 

carrying capacity occurring on the BLM which 

would allow for improved administration of the 

allotment. While AUM’s would be increased, 

the action would not increase herd size, duration 

of use, or the amount of forage consumed. 

This is because BLM lands are intermixed with 

adjacent private and Forest Service lands. 

Pasture boundaries and associated forage 

calculations for non-BLM lands are not known. 

Therefore, a carrying capacity for pastures 

containing BLM has not been established and 

custodial use would continue to be authorized. 

Standards for rangeland health and guidelines 

for livestock management would continue to be 

met. 

Incorporation of a term and condition specifying 

the grazing system would positively benefit 

upland health. Allowing for a variable season, 

rest-rotation would continue to improve the 

capability of plants to accumulate root mass, 

carbohydrate reserves and achieve seed set 

which would provide for maintenance of upland 

health standards and achievement of rangeland 

objectives. 

Ryan Coulee #06330 

This parcel consists of 251 acres of BLM that 

are fenced with deeded croplands. The proposed 

modification to the lease would authorize 

livestock grazing during a later season to 

coincide with grazing of residual crops on 

private lands. This would not have a significant 

impact on upland health since an adjusted 

turnout date would still allow for a complete 

growth cycle of desirable forbs and bunchgrass 

species to occur. Livestock would still typically 

use the allotment during the core months of 

December and January. Use levels would not be 

expected to change. Current and historical use 

levels have been within Lewistown guidelines 

and have been documented to be yielding 

achievement and maintenance of upland health 

standards. 

Simms Creek #06328 

Changing the season of use from 12/15-4/15 to 

8/1-10/31 would not have a significant impact to 

upland health since the cross-fence located on 

the boundary of Sections 19 and 20 extending 

southward into Section 29 is not functional. This 

has resulted in season-long grazing in 

conjunction with adjacent, deeded pastures. 

Repair of the fence would improve management 

and allow for a season of use to be established. 

Mandatory terms and conditions would require 

modification since there is no water availability 

in the winter for this pasture. Direct impacts of 

the proposed action would implement a deferred 

season of use until fall which would allow for a 

complete growth cycle of desirable forbs and 

bunchgrass species to occur. This would result 

in significant progress toward achievement of 

upland health 

objectives. 

standards and rangeland 

Sixteen #09690 

Modification of the mandatory terms and 

conditions would allow for a three-pasture, 

deferred rotation system to be used, in 

conjunction with the Wall Mountain and 

Sixteenmile Creek Pastures. The expanded 

season would be required to accommodate 

alternating spring and fall use of the pasture 

containing the BLM parcel. Incorporation of a 

term and condition specifying this grazing 

system would positively benefit upland health. 

Great Falls Area Grazing Lease Renewal 116 Chapter 4 
 

 

 

Allowing for a three pasture, deferred-rotation 

would continue to improve the capability of 

plants to accumulate root mass, carbohydrate 

reserves and achieve seed set which would 

provide for significant progress to be made 

toward achieving upland health standards and 

rangeland objectives. Maintenance of the fence 

would eliminate trespass use from adjacent 

landowners which would have positive benefits 

to upland health by reducing an additional 

source of livestock use. 

These measures would provide interim 

conformance with provisions of standards for 

rangeland health and guidelines for livestock 

management. Disposal, potentially through 

direct sale, would eliminate the requirements of 

subpart 4180 since these lands would no longer 

be regulated as federal lands. Actual resource 

conditions would not be affected because the 

parcel represents a small percentage of the 

overall ranch property. Ownership of this parcel 

would not affect livestock management. Further 

cultural and wildlife inventories, realty 

appraisals and additional planning may be 

required prior to changes in land tenure. 

Administrative changes associated with the 

potential transfer of permitted use would have 

no impacts beyond those addressed for 

allotments in Table 4.2. 

Smith Creek #09698 

Removal of conifer encroachment would have 

positive effects on upland health by maintaining 

open, sagebrush parks and meadows. The 

proposal would result in an increase in forb and 

grass production and diversity. Under the 

prescription, upland conditions would be 

sustained at, or near current ecological climax 

conditions. The scope of the action would not 

significantly result in increased livestock use of 

these areas. 

South Canal Ditch #06326 

Modification of the mandatory and additional 

terms and conditions of the grazing lease would 

have positive effects on upland health by 

implementing rest and deferment of the pasture 

containing BLM lands. Deferment would 

improve the capability of plants to accumulate 

root mass, carbohydrate reserves and achieve 

seed set. Rest would increase residual forage and 

terminal leader growth of shrubs which would 

promote inputs of organic material and nutrient 

cycling, maintain soil structure and increase soil 

moisture and improve long-term productivity of 

the site. 

Modification of the grazing lease would allow 

for long-term, hot season deferment of the 

pasture. This would maintain gains initiated by 

rest while providing a mechanism for removal of 

non-native grasses and weed species which 

could eventually lead to declines in productivity, 

particularly among native plants. 

While these modifications would lead to 

significant progress towards achievement of 

standards for rangeland health, implementation 

of the proposed water gap would further 

facilitate the opportunity for integrated 

management of riparian/upland habitats 

occurring on the BLM parcel, in conjunction 

with other pastures containing Bureau of 

Reclamation lands. 

Sun River Ditch #06327 

Restoration of 23 acres of an agricultural field 

would have a positive impact on upland health 

by allowing native vegetation 

established on the site which 

representative of the natural 

community expected for the area. 

to be 

would 

vegetative 

rebe 

The Flat #06319 

Modification of the mandatory terms and 

conditions of the grazing lease would implement 

a carrying capacity representative of forage 

conditions currently existing on the allotment. 

Deferring early and mid-season use would allow 

plants to complete a full growth cycle and 

achieve seed set. 

While these modifications would lead to 

improvement of upland health, implementation 

of the proposed fence, if required, would further 

facilitate the opportunity for integrated 

management of the BLM parcel, in conjunction 

with adjacent state and private lands. 

Great Falls Area Grazing Lease Renewal 117 Chapter 4 
 

Tunnel Lake #06312 

Incorporation of a term and condition specifying 

the grazing system would positively benefit 

upland health. Allowing for deferment and rest 

of pastures would continue to improve the 

capability of plants to accumulate root mass, 

carbohydrate reserves and achieve seed set 

which would provide for maintenance of upland 

health standards and achievement of rangeland 

objectives. 

Upper Pasture #02558 

Changing the class of livestock to include horses 

would authorize an existing, historical use which 

was determined to be in conformance with 

standards for rangeland health and guidelines for 

livestock management. Maintenance of a 

desirable, bunchgrass community in PNC would 

be expected to continue. 

Willow Creek #07775 

Including a term and condition into the grazing 

lease specifying a three-pasture, deferred 

rotation system would positively benefit upland 

health. Allowing for deferment of pastures by 

using private, non-native pastures in the spring 

and allowing native species to complete growth 

would improve the capability of plants to 

accumulate root mass, carbohydrate reserves and 

achieve seed set which would provide for 

maintenance of upland health standards and 

achievement of rangeland objectives. Removal 

of livestock prior to fall would allow 

accumulation of residual forage which would 

increase residual forage and terminal leader 

growth of shrubs. This would promote inputs of 

organic material and nutrient cycling, maintain 

soil structure and increase soil moisture and 

improve long-term productivity of the site. 

Willow Creek Canal #07612 

Modification of the mandatory terms and 

conditions of the grazing lease would implement 

a carrying capacity that accurately represents 

forage conditions that occur on the allotment. 

Due to changes in land tenure, the previous lease 

contained mandatory terms and conditions based 

on incorrect public land percentages. The 

proposed action would have positive effects on 

upland health by providing an accurate account 

of the forage production occurring on BLM, 

state and private lands fenced within the 

allotment. The shift in grazing season would 

accommodate a grazing rotation system which 

would provide for maintenance of upland health 

standards and achievement of rangeland 

objectives. 

Windy Hollow #09818 

Construction of the proposed cross fence from 

Baldy to the NE1/4NE1/4 of Section 5 would 

facilitate implementation of a three-pasture, 

deferred rotation grazing system that would 

include lands in Wegner and Stickney Creek 

being used in conjunction with the Cottonwood 

Creek Allotment #07716. Currently, there is 

some attempt at using these pastures as a threepasture, deferred system, but since there is no 

cross-fence, livestock commonly breach the 

divide and re-enter Wegner Creek to access a 

perennial water source. Construction of the cross 

fence would prevent season-long access of any 

pasture which would have positive benefits to 

uplands by allowing growing season deferment 

of one pasture annually. Modification of the 

season of use would further accommodate 

implementation of this system. 

Modification of the class of livestock from cattle 

to horses in the East Fork of Hound Creek would 

authorize an existing, historical use which was 

determined to be in conformance with the 

standards for rangeland health and guidelines for 

livestock management. Maintenance of a 

desirable, bunchgrass community in PNC would 

be expected to continue under this use. 

The remaining parcels in the Windy Hollow 

Allotment occur within numerous pastures with 

intermixed deeded, state and federal lands. The 

BLM parcels located in the upper reaches of 

Spring, Pole and Tyrell Creeks along with those 

parcels located in the far west and southern 

portions of the allotment are managed under a 

short-duration, high-intensity grazing system. 

Modification to the season of use is required 

since any of these pastures may be scheduled for 

use anytime throughout the calendar year. This 

system was determined to be yielding 

maintenance of the standards for rangeland 

health. Maintenance of desirable rangeland 

conditions would be expected under 

Great Falls Area Grazing Lease Renewal 118 Chapter 4 
 

 

continuation of this system. Incorporation of a 

term and condition specifying the grazing 

system would positively benefit upland health. 

Allowing for a variable season grazing system 

would continue to improve the capability of 

plants to accumulate root mass, carbohydrate 

reserves and achieve seed set which would 

provide for maintenance of upland health 

standards and achievement of rangeland 

objectives. 

4.2.3 Riparian Health 

Noxious weeds are a large component affecting 

riparian health. Development and 

implementation of weed cooperative agreements 

could potentially have a positive impact on the 

riparian health on all affected allotments. The 

proposed action would increase Integrated Pest 

Management (IPM) efforts within the riparian 

zone including biological control, selective, 

localized herbicide control and the possibility of 

sheep grazing. Weed control efforts would 

emphasize prevention of spread into the uplands 

and containment and control of existing weed 

populations within the riparian zone. A 

combination of these weed control methods 

would have a positive effect on riparian area 

health by reducing the existing noxious weed 

infestations. 

The riparian health standard would continue to 

be met on allotments already in conformance 

with this standard (Appendix E). Trends on 

these allotments would remain static or improve. 

No range improvements are proposed on any of 

these allotments. 

The following allotments have proposed changes 

that could potentially impact riparian health: 

Bedrock Creek #06347 

Two spur fences would prevent livestock 

grazing from occurring on a majority of the 

BLM portion of Bedrock Creek. Exclusion from 

livestock grazing would allow recovery of 

riparian trees, shrubs, and streamside vegetation. 

Increased vigor of riparian plant species would 

allow for the potential recovery of stream 

channel function with associated decreases in 

width/depth ratios and floodplain development. 

However, the portion of the BLM land may be 

too small to facilitate channel recovery as 

channel instability is widespread over a much 

larger area than just the BLM-managed lands. 

Berg Lease #07601 

Livestock would be excluded from their loafing 

areas in the bottom of an unnamed tributary of 

the South Fork of the Musselshell River by an 

electric fence. Improved vigor of riparian trees, 

shrubs, and streamside vegetation would be 

expected. As vegetation improves, stream 

channel width/depth ratios would be anticipated 

to decrease. 

Administrative changes associated with the 

potential transfer of permitted use would have 

no impacts beyond those addressed for 

allotments in Table 4.2. 

Black Reef #07609 

Grazing use would occur in a three-pasture, 

deferred, rest-rotation system between 5/15 and 

9/30, which would be authorization of the 

existing use. Maintenance of lentic riparian 

function and riparian-wetland vegetation on the 

unnamed wetland would continue. 

Daisy Dean Creek #09675 

Under the proposed action, the allotment season 

of use would be changed from 3/1-2/28 to 6/1­

12/31. Boundary fences would be reconstructed 

and grazing use would occur in a 5-pasture, 

deferred rotation grazing system. This would 

decrease the amount of time livestock spend in 

the riparian area on Mud Creek. Decreases in 

the utilization of willow species and red-osier 

dogwood and increases in the canopy cover of 

the fore mentioned species would be expected. 

Stream channel function would also improve 

with an associated improvement in streamside 

vegetation. 

Divide Creek #19660 

Grazing use would occur in a rest-rotation 

system, and sheep use would be authorized for 

up to 10 days in each pasture. This would 

facilitate noxious weed control and would be 

authorization of historic use. Maintenance of 

riparian condition on North Fork of the 

Musselshell River would continue. 

Great Falls Area Grazing Lease Renewal 119 Chapter 4 
 

There are no vegetative treatments proposed 

within or near riparian zones. 

East Loco Creek #07611 

Alternating seasons of use between 7/01 to 8/06 

and 8/07 to 9/15 would facilitate improvement in 

riparian conditions by decreasing the amount of 

time livestock spend in streamside zones. This 

would allow for decreased use levels on woody 

vegetation such as cottonwoods. 

Homesite #06324 

Season of use would be changed from yearlong 

to 7/1 to 8/31 in the River Pasture. This would 

facilitate improvements in the health, vigor, and 

recruitment of riparian vegetation. However, 

poor physical channel conditions associated with 

the Swift Dam failure would remain. 

River Tract #09691 

River Tract would be rested from livestock 

grazing in 2010 and 2011 to facilitate 

improvement in the vigor of riparian trees, 

shrubs, and streambank species. Following the 

rest, spring or fall use would be allowed. 

Although fall grazing would lead to the 

possibility of utilization on preferred riparian 

trees and shrubs, grazing use for limited 

amounts of time during cooler seasons. This 

would facilitate continued improvement in 

riparian condition. 

Roost Hill #07607 

Animal unit months would be increased from 1 

to 14 and would be authorization of existing use 

and forage availability. Pastures would still be 

used in a variable season, rest-rotation grazing 

system. Cutrock Creek would be anticipated to 

remain in proper functioning condition or above. 

Ryan Coulee #06330 

Grazing use would be shifted from 11/10-2/12 to 

12/1-2/28. Under current management, the 

condition rating of the spring within the 

allotment is proper functioning condition. The 

minor shift in season of use would be unlikely to 

affect conditions because both sets of dates fall 

within winter time grazing. 

Smith Creek #09698 

There are no vegetative treatments proposed 

within or near riparian zones along the North 

Fork of Smith Creek. There is no soil 

disturbance associated with upland treatments 

that would lead to increased sediment yield or 

significant changes in runoff flow. 

South Canal Ditch #06326 

Under the proposed action, the BLM land would 

be rested in 2010/2011, thereby providing two 

years of rest. Following the rest, the BLM land 

would be rested every other year and deferred 

during the hot season. The health and vigor of 

riparian vegetation would be expected to 

improve. As the condition of the vegetation 

improves, riparian community types would have 

the opportunity to expand. As root masses 

stabilize the banks, sediment would be captured 

and a decrease in stream channel width/depth 

ratios and percent fines in the channel would be 

expected. 

Tunnel Lake #06312 

Incorporation of a term and condition specifying 

the grazing system would positively benefit 

riparian health. Allowing for deferment and rest 

of pastures would continue to allow for 

maintenance and recovery of wetland 

vegetation. Increased vigor of riparian plant 

species would maintain and/or improve lentic 

wetland function. 

Windy Hollow #09818 

Construction of the proposed cross fence from 

Baldy to the NE1/4NE1/4 of Section 5 would 

facilitate implementation of a three-pasture 

deferred rotation grazing system that would 

include lands in Wegner and Stickney Creek 

being used in conjunction with the Cottonwood 

Creek Allotment #7716. Currently, there is some 

attempt at using these pastures as a three-pasture 

deferred system, but since there is no crossfence, livestock commonly breach the divide and 

re-enter Wegner Creek to access a perennial 

water source. Once back in Wegner Creek, even 

small numbers of livestock can prevent recovery 

of riparian vegetation and streambanks by 

remaining in the bottom. Implementation of the 

proposed action would facilitate the “clean-up” 

of pastures. Improvements in the health and 

Great Falls Area Grazing Lease Renewal 120 Chapter 4 
 

 

vigor of riparian vegetation, decreases in 

Kentucky bluegrass, decreased utilization on 

trees and shrubs, and increased stream channel 

stability would be expected. 

Modification of the class of livestock from cattle 

to horses in the East Fork of Hound Creek would 

authorize an existing, historical use which was 

determined to be in conformance with standards 

for rangeland health and guidelines for livestock 

management. The riparian condition on the East 

Fork of Hound Creek would be maintained in 

proper functioning condition or above. 

4.2.4 Noxious Weeds 

Implementation of the proposed action would 

initiate a comprehensive, cooperative weed 

control effort to systematically treat noxious 

weeds in the planning area. Priorities would be 

established utilizing the weed categories 

outlined in Chapter 3. Infested acres of noxious 

weeds would decrease through an aggressive, 

concentrated effort involving all facets of an 

integrated weed management program. 

Wildfire could lead to a temporary increase in 

post-burn noxious weed infestations. Canada 

thistle and houndstongue are particularly 

problematic noxious weeds following a fire 

event. 

Variable conditions influencing noxious weeds 

include: 

 burn severity 

 survival of desired plants 

 pre-burn noxious weed cover 

 survival of weeds 

 reproductive capability of noxious weed 

species 

 pre-burn and post-burn soil moisture 

 revegetation 

Existing infestations of Priority 2b noxious 

weeds would be contained and suppressed 

utilizing herbicides and biological control. 

Biological control of leafy spurge has produced 

very favorable results within the watershed; 

continual monitoring, dissemination, and new 

releases of biocontrol agents in addition to 

continued herbicide control would perpetuate a 

steady downward trend in leafy spurge acreage. 

Assertive monitoring would assist in the 

prevention of new infestations of Priority 2b 

weeds through early detection and control. 

Existing infestations of Priority 2a noxious 

weeds would be contained and suppressed or 

eradicated utilizing herbicides and biological 

control. Small, relatively new infestations 

would be eradicated with herbicides. 

Established, larger infestations of Category 2 

weeds would be contained and suppressed with 

herbicides and applicable biocontrol agents. 

Assertive monitoring and public 

awareness/outreach would assist in the 

prevention of new infestations of Priority 2b 

weeds through early detection and eradication. 

Priority 1b noxious weeds have not been 

detected in the watershed area or may be found 

only in small, scattered, localized infestations. 

Assertive monitoring and public 

awareness/outreach would assist in the 

prevention of new infestations of Priority 1b 

weeds through early detection and eradication. 

4.2.5 Recreation/Visual Resource 

Management 

Impacts to the visual resources under this 

alternative would include livestock 

developments such as stock tanks and fences. 

Livestock developments would be sited away 

from hilltops and ridges, preferably where 

vegetation or topography could screen the 

structures. Stock tanks located in highly visible 

areas would be painted using approved BLM 

earth tone colors. 

4.2.6 Wildlife 

The proposed action would have no additional 

impacts to wildlife resources on the allotments 

listed in Tables 4.1, 4.2, 4.3 and 4.4. The 

majority of these allotments are meeting the 

biodiversity standard. Some are not meeting the 

biodiversity standard due to causes other than 

livestock. For instance, five allotments are not 

Great Falls Area Grazing Lease Renewal 121 Chapter 4 
 

 

meeting due to the abundance of naturalized, 

invasive grasses associated with logging 

practices. Five are due to the presence of 

noxious weeds. One is caused by an agricultural 

trespass and one is due to historical grazing 

where the allotment is making significant 

progress towards meeting standards. In these 

specific allotments, the factors are either 

historical and/or beyond the control of the 

current livestock grazing lessees. No specific 

grazing management changes or range 

improvements are proposed to remedy issues not 

related to current livestock management. 

There are no changes proposed for these 

allotments other than the addition of the terms 

and conditions listed in the Rangeland 

Administration section located in Chapter 2.3.1 

and the Noxious Weed section located in 

Chapter 2.3.4. 

There are no additional impacts which would 

occur from renewing grazing leases with the 

existing mandatory terms and conditions when 

current livestock grazing is in conformance, 

making significant progress, or where impacts 

are caused by factors not related to current 

livestock management. 

On allotments where noxious weeds are 

prevalent, the BLM would incorporate 

cooperative weed control agreements into the 

terms and conditions of the 10-year grazing 

leases. As cooperative agreements for weed 

control are implemented, vegetative diversity 

would increase and wildlife habitat conditions 

would improve. 

On the remaining allotments (Table 4.5) that are 

not meeting standards due to livestock grazing 

or require lease modifications, proposals would 

include one or more of the following: 

 The BLM and lessees would develop new 

upland water sources. 

 New fence construction. 

 The BLM and lessees would collaborate on 

new grazing systems to provide for the 

needs of vegetation, wildlife and the 

individual ranching operation. 

 Seasons of use and/or livestock numbers 

would be modified to mitigate impacts to 

wildlife. 

These methods would generally have a positive 

effect on sensitive species and associated 

wildlife in the planning area. The proposed 

actions have been developed specific to each 

allotment and are designed to maintain 

conformance with standards and guidelines for 

rangeland health. As such, allotments already 

meeting the biodiversity standard would 

maintain late seral to PNC conditions that 

already exhibit diverse, native plant 

communities with forage production, structure 

and residual vegetation necessary to support a 

broad array of wildlife species. On allotments 

not currently in conformance with the 

biodiversity standards, actions have been 

proposed specifically to improve the condition 

of forage, browse and cover. 

Fences would be constructed using 

specifications designed for easy passage for 

mammals and sited to prevent bird collisions and 

reduce predation. Water developments would be 

designed to facilitate grazing management 

systems that would relieve grazing pressure on 

areas near existing water sources without 

negatively impacting areas already in late seral 

or PNC condition. Any new tanks or existing 

tanks on BLM would be fitted with bird ladders 

to prevent incidental take of non-game species. 

Rest or deferred rotation grazing management 

would be incorporated into these allotments. 

Alteration of the scheduled dates or 

implementation of deferred rotation systems was 

proposed if rest rotation was not feasible. 

Allotments not meeting standards in the 

planning area would be monitored according to 

the schedules outlined in appendices F and G. 

The proposed action would not negatively affect 

any threatened or endangered or their associated 

habitat. 

Canada lynx 

All proposed actions occur outside of designated 

critical habitat for Canada lynx. Although lynx 

may use portions of the affected areas, there are 

Great Falls Area Grazing Lease Renewal 122 Chapter 4 
 

 

no proposed actions that would negatively 

impact habitat for Canada lynx. Risk factors 

from livestock grazing include direct 

competition with snowshoe hares, a primary 

prey base, for herbivory and winter browse, 

particularly aspen and high elevation willow. 

Conflicts with livestock can occur when grazing 

results in the decline and degradation of riparian 

willow communities and aspen stands, which 

relates to the loss of habitat structure and 

browse. Proposed actions on allotments adjacent 

to critical habitat have been developed to 

maintain or improve vegetative conditions and 

riparian habitats which would be favorable to 

lynx and prey species. 

Grizzly bear 

The following allotments (Table 4.6) occur in 

the Northern Continental Divide Ecosystem 

(NCDE) recovery zone for grizzly bears: 

Table 4.6 

Allotment Name Allotment Number 

West Birch Creek 06323 

East Birch Creek 06322 

Homesite 06324 

Swift Dam 06321 

Waddell Lakes 06320 

Chicken Coulee 06303 

Choteau Mountain 06304 

Cowtract 06306 

Indian Head Rock 07659 

Blackfeet Gulch 06335 

Ear Mountain Individual 09835 

Salmond Ranch Company 06342 

Deep Creek 06310 

Battle Creek 06307 

Green Timber Gulch 06308 

Tunnel Lake 06312 

Castle Reef 07613 

Willow Creek Canal 07612 

Alkali Flat (West) 06295 

Roost Hill 07607 

Bean Lake 07605 

Dearborn River 07606 

Bedrock Creek 06347 

Middle Fork 07604 

Middle Fork Dearborn 07603 

The proposed actions specific to these 

allotments would not adversely impact grizzly 

bear populations or their habitat. Guidelines 

recommended by the Interagency Grizzly Bear 

Committee would be implemented on an 

allotment-specific basis that may include but are 

not limited to, incorporation of rotational 

grazing, deferring livestock turnout dates, 

maintaining or improving riparian areas to PFC 

or above and maintaining and improving mesic 

stands of aspen. Proposed actions are designed 

to maintain and improve habitat, minimize 

grizzly-human conflicts and resolve conflicts 

when they arise. 

The term and condition described in 2.3.1 would 

have positive effects on grizzly bear by 

identifying grizzly bear/livestock conflicts so 

that specific measures can be adopted to prevent 

and resolve situations, particularly livestock 

depredations that could habituate and result in 

behaviors harmful to bears. The provision for 

livestock carcass removal would also have 

positive effects on grizzly bears by removing 

attractants which increase bear vulnerability to 

man-caused mortality as they become habituated 

to livestock. 

If potential impacts to grizzly bears exist, 

analysis and associated mitigation measures 

will be discussed specific to each allotment. 

Piping plovers 

The proposed action would have no effects to 

piping plovers. There is no critical habitat within 

the planning area. Direct evidence of breeding is 

documented on Alkali Lake in Pondera County; 

however no suitable nesting or foraging habitat 

exists with allotments located along Birch 

Creek. There is also an observation of piping 

plovers on Freezeout Lake. The Flat Allotment 

#06319 contains potential nesting and foraging 

habitat. The proposed action would not result in 

direct or indirect impacts to piping plovers since 

livestock grazing would be deferred until after 

nesting and brooding is completed. Spring and 

summer livestock deferment would eliminate 

the possibility of indirect nest abandonment or 

direct impacts due to trampling and chick 

mortality. Expected increases in residual 

vegetation, due to the proposed action would not 

negatively impact piping plovers because 

portions of the allotment are high in alkalinity 

where soil conditions severely limit herbaceous 

production regardless of livestock management. 

Sage grouse 

The proposed action would have no effects to 

sage grouse on allotments outside of Meagher 

Great Falls Area Grazing Lease Renewal 123 Chapter 4 
 

County. Within Meagher County impacts would 

be positive. Although, the affected area is 

outside of core sage grouse areas identified by 

MDFWP and no leks are located on or near 

BLM allotments, the proposed action would still 

result in maintenance or improvement of 

nesting, brooding and winter habitats within 

sagebrush-steppe habitats. Residual forage and 

forb growth would be improved or maintained 

under this alternative which addresses the long 

term needs of sage grouse and other sagebrush 

associated species. 

Spragues pipits 

The proposed action would have neutral to 

positive impacts to Sprague’s pipits. While 

Sprague’s pipits are a documented breeding 

resident in mixed grass prairies within the 

planning area, the relative density of occurrences 

is less significant than those of northeastern and 

northcentral Montana, particularly near 

Bowdoin and Medicine Lake National Wildlife 

Refuges. The Sprague's Pipit is more abundant 

in native prairie than in exotic vegetation 

(Dechant et al. 2001) Dechant (2001). The 

proposed action would implement actions and 

objectives designed to reduce the presence of 

non-native species and manage livestock grazing 

to maintain or improve native communities and 

reduce the abundance and cover of annual 

invasive and introduced species. 

This pipit is also known to utilize and breed in 

alkaline meadows and around the edges of 

alkaline lakes (Johnsgard 1986). Allotments 

within the planning area containing these 

habitats would implement management actions 

to maintain or improve these habitats. 

wolverine 

The proposed action would have no effects to 

wolverines. Banci (1986) reported "habitat 

requirements appear to be large, isolated tracts 

of wilderness supporting a diverse prey base, 

rather than specific plant associations or 

topography." Grove (1988) characterized the 

wolverine’s requirements as being of "large, 

mountainous, and essentially roadless areas." 

The proposed action would continue to 

implement management guidelines for selected 

species along the Rocky Mountain Front. 

Although wolverines are not a “selected 

species”, the guidelines for management would 

directly benefit wolverines by implementing 

seasonal and use restrictions specific to reducing 

destruction of habitat and decreasing humancaused disturbances. Range projects and lease 

modifications would also be implemented to 

improve aspen and riparian habitats that are 

important for winter use by wolverines. 

The following allotments have actions proposed 

that could impact wildlife resources: 

Bedrock Creek #06347 

Two spur fences would prevent livestock 

grazing from occurring on a majority of the 

BLM portion of Bedrock Creek. Exclusion from 

livestock grazing would allow recovery of 

riparian trees, shrubs, and streamside vegetation. 

Improved growth and vigor of riparian plant 

species such as cottonwood and willow would 

increase available browse and cover for wildlife. 

Fences would be constructed using 

specifications designed for easy passage for 

mammals and sited to prevent bird collisions and 

to reduce predation. Construction activities 

would not take place prior to June 1 to mitigate 

potential impacts to grizzly bears. Other 

mitigation measures related to food storage and 

other construction activities would be 

incorporated into the cooperative agreement for 

the project. 

Berg Lease #07601 

Livestock would be excluded from their loafing 

areas in the bottom of an unnamed tributary of 

the South Fork of the Musselshell River. 

Improved growth and vigor of riparian trees, 

shrubs, and streamside vegetation would be 

expected. Improved growth and vigor of 

riparian plant species such as cottonwood and 

willow would increase available browse and 

cover for wildlife. Fences would be constructed 

using specifications designed for easy passage 

for mammals and sited to prevent bird collisions 

and reduce predation. 

Administrative changes associated with the 

potential transfer of permitted use would have 

no impacts beyond those addressed for 

allotments in Table 4.2. 

Great Falls Area Grazing Lease Renewal 124 Chapter 4 
 

 

 

Big Eddy #06332 

The proposed modification to the lease would 

authorize livestock grazing in August after the 

crop is removed from private lands. This would 

not have a significant impact on wildlife since 

the adjusted turnout date would still allow for a 

complete growth cycle of desirable forbs and 

bunchgrass species. Livestock would still 

typically use the allotment through October and 

use levels would not be expected to change. 

Current and historical use levels have been 

within Lewistown guidelines and are yielding 

achievement and maintenance of biodiversity 

standards. 

Black Reef #07609 

Incorporation of a term and condition specifying 

the grazing system would positively benefit 

wildlife species within the allotment. Allowing 

for deferment and rest of pastures would 

continue to increase forage, structure and 

standing residual within the allotment which 

would provide for maintenance of health 

standards and achievement of biodiversity 

objectives. No construction of infrastructure 

would be required that could result in incidental 

take, fragmentation, restriction of movement, or 

other potentially negative impacts to wildlife. 

Calvert #01166 

Using tame pastures for early season use would 

allow for deferring grazing in the growing 

season which would have positive impacts on 

wildlife and biodiversity by allowing for plant 

reproduction, restoration of existing plants, and 

establishment of new plants. Reduction in the 

fall season of use would have further benefits to 

upland health by increasing residual vegetation 

which improves forage, cover and structure for 

wildlife and benefits long-term productivity of 

the site. 

Choteau Mountain #06304 

Modification of the percent public land would 

not impact wildlife or biodiversity because no 

changes in management are prescribed. Pasture 

boundaries and capacities of deeded lands are 

not known to the extent required to establish 

livestock numbers. Acknowledging that there is 

no information available regarding the carrying 

capacity of deeded lands fenced in with this 

allotment, would allow current management to 

continue. Current management has maintained 

the biodiversity standard and has resulted in late 

seral to PNC habitat conditions which directly 

relate to quality forage, cover and vegetative 

structure. 

Cottonwood Creek #07716 

Incorporation of a term and condition specifying 

the grazing system would positively benefit 

wildlife species. Allowing for deferment of 

pastures would continue to improve the 

productivity, structure and residual growth of 

diverse, native plant species which directly 

relates to the maintenance of land health 

standards and achievement of biodiversity 

objectives. No construction of infrastructure 

would be required that could result in incidental 

take, fragmentation, restriction of movement or 

other potentially negative impacts to wildlife. 

Coyote Creek #09663 

Modification of the lease, including 

incorporating additional terms and conditions 

into the grazing lease specifying a three-pasture, 

deferred rotation system and associated salt 

block placement would positively benefit 

wildlife species. Allowing for deferment of 

pastures would continue to improve the 

productivity, structure and residual growth of 

diverse, native plant species which directly 

relates to the maintenance of land health 

standards and achievement of biodiversity 

objectives. Removal of salt blocks and other 

nutritional supplements from BLM lands would 

increase winter forage by reducing livestock 

concentrations on elk wintering areas considered 

not to be in conformance with standards for 

rangeland health and guidelines for livestock 

management. 

Daisy Dean #09695 

Under the proposed action, the allotment season 

of use would be changed from 3/1-2/28 to 6/1­

12/31. Boundary fences would be reconstructed 

and grazing use would occur in a 5-pasture, 

deferred rotation grazing system. This would 

decrease the amount of time livestock spend in 

the riparian area on Mud Creek. Decreases in 

the utilization of willow species and red-osier 

dogwood and increases in the canopy cover of 

Great Falls Area Grazing Lease Renewal 125 Chapter 4 
the fore mentioned species would be expected. 

Stream channel function would also improve 

with an associated improvement in streamside 

vegetation. This would improve habitat for 

riparian-dependant wildlife species. 

Dearborn River #07606 

Reissuance of the grazing lease to include 

changing class of livestock from cattle to horses 

in the Dearborn River Allotment would not 

significantly impact wildlife. Deferment of use 

to July 1 would allow maturation of desireable 

bunchgrass species such as rough fescue. Since 

the BLM is principally located on steep, 

timbered slopes most grazing would occur 

primarily on open, deeded lands. Only incidental 

trailing and some occasional use of open areas 

would be expected on BLM. There are no 

localized water sources or other attractants that 

could impact wildlife. BLM would conduct a 

site visit prior to issuance of the lease to 

determine the status of the biodiversity standard. 

A new lease would not be issued if this standard 

is not being met, or if additional impacts are 

identified that are not sufficiently mitigated in 

this document. 

Deep Creek #06310 

Modification to the number of livestock in the 

Willow Creek Pasture portion of the grazing 

lease would not impact wildlife because no 

changes in management are prescribed. The 

modification is primarily administrative and has 

no implications to conditions found on the 

ground. Current management has sustained a 

variety of habitats favorable to wildlife and is 

resulting in maintenance of the biodiversity 

standard. The modification would provide 

continued authorization for management already 

demonstrating desired results. 

Divide Creek #19660 

Including an additional term and condition 

specifying a rest-rotation grazing system would 

positively benefit wildlife species by allowing 

for deferment and rest of pastures which would 

continue to improve the productivity, structure 

and residual growth of diverse, native plant 

species which directly relates to the maintenance 

of land health standards and achievement of 

biodiversity objectives. No construction of 

infrastructure would be required that could result 

in incidental take, fragmentation, restriction of 

movement, or other potentially negative impacts 

to wildlife. Since changing the class of livestock 

to include sheep is authorizing an existing use, 

no additional impacts would be expected. 

Periodic, controlled use of sheep has maintained 

uplands in late seral to PNC and provided 

control of spotted knapweed and prevented 

further expansion of this species. The term and 

condition would limit sheep use to periodic 

grazing focused on noxious weed control. There 

would be no additional impacts to gray 

wolves since this allotment is continuing 

previous management and there have been 

no known conflicts between sheep and 

wolves on the allotment. Removing conifer 

encroachment would ensure open meadow 

and sagebrush habitats persist. 

Removal of conifer encroachment, targeting 

trees less than 4” dbh would not result in 

significant alteration of forest habitats. Closed 

canopy forests are becoming increasingly 

abundant in the southern Little Belt Mountains. 

The proposed action would maintain open and 

mixed, parkland habitats that are decreasing due 

to conifer encroachment. Habitat for sagebrush 

obligate species would be maintained. 

Dry Hills #09743 

Implementation of a multiple-pasture, 

deferred/rest rotational grazing system would 

positively benefit wildlife by allowing for 

deferment and rest of pastures that would 

improve the productivity, structure and residual 

growth of native bunchgrasses which directly 

relates to the achievement of land health 

standards and meeting biodiversity objectives. 

Placement of salt blocks away from BLM lands 

would increase residual forage in meadow areas 

frequented by wildlife. The proposed pipeline 

would further improve vegetative conditions of 

areas lacking residual forage and habitat 

structure. Changes in distribution patterns would 

not negatively impact areas previously 

unwatered, since the project would be 

accompanied by implementation of the proposed 

grazing system. However, negative impacts to 

upland habitats affecting less than 5 acres 

Great Falls Area Grazing Lease Renewal 126 Chapter 4 
 

immediately adjacent to the tank site would be 

expected. Construction of the pipeline project 

may result in temporary displacement of some 

wildlife species and could result in incidental 

take of ground nesting birds and small 

mammals. 

East Birch Creek #06322 

Restoration of portions of an agricultural field 

would have positive impacts for wildlife species 

by allowing native vegetation to be reestablished on the site which would improve 

biodiversity and cover throughout the year. 

Removal of an unauthorized hay structure would 

also have positive impacts to wildlife by 

reducing vehicular travel on the site which could 

displace wildlife and may increase the likelihood 

of landowner/wildlife conflicts. Hay yards are 

also a potential source for non-native seed and 

noxious weed introduction which could have 

detrimental impacts to the biodiversity standard. 

East Farmer’s Reservoir #06316 

The proposed action would allow for the BLM 

parcel to receive various seasons of treatment, 

rest, deferment and duration of use. This grazing 

system would continue to positively benefit 

wildlife species by maintaining and improving 

site productivity, structure and residual growth 

of diverse, native plant species which directly 

relates to the maintenance of land health 

standards and achievement of biodiversity 

objectives. No construction of infrastructure 

would be required that could result in incidental 

take, fragmentation, restriction of movement, or 

other potentially negative impacts to wildlife. 

East Loco Creek#07611 

Incorporation of a term and condition specifying 

the grazing system would provide neutral or 

positive benefits to wildlife species by providing 

consistent management between agencies and 

allowing for deferment of pastures which would 

allow for decreased use levels on woody 

vegetation such as cottonwoods. 

Homesite #06322 

Modification of the lease restricting use of 

horses in the River Pasture would implement 

deferment during the growing season which 

would improve the productivity, structure and 

residual growth of native bunchgrasses which 

directly relates to the achievement of land health 

standards and meeting biodiversity objectives. 

Incorporation of a term and condition into the 

grazing lease would limit utilization in the event 

of drought or other events which would result in 

increased forage availability for wildlife. 

Lower Spring Creek AMP #09673 

Incorporation of a term and condition specifying 

the grazing system would positively benefit 

wildlife by allowing for deferment of pastures 

which would continue to improve site 

productivity, structure and residual growth of 

diverse, native plant species which directly 

relates to the maintenance of land health 

standards and achievement of biodiversity 

objectives. No construction of infrastructure 

would be required that could result in incidental 

take, fragmentation, restriction of movement or 

other potentially negative impacts to wildlife. 

Rhynard Individual #09801 

Reduction of the permitted use associated with 

the western portion of the allotment would not 

impact wildlife. Increased efforts to control 

spotted knapweed would improve biodiversity 

by reducing competition and limiting expansion 

of noxious weeds that limit diversity and 

production of native species. 

River Tract #09691 

The proposed action specifying rest of the 

pasture would have positive effects on wildlife 

by improving vigor of riparian trees, shrubs and 

streambank species which directly relates to 

meeting health standards and achieving 

biodiversity objectives for the allotment. Rest 

would increase residual forage and terminal 

leader growth of shrubs which would increase 

browse availability, cover, structure and longterm productivity of the site. 

Modification of the grazing lease would allow 

for long-term, hot season deferment of the 

pasture which would maintain gains initiated by 

rest while providing a mechanism for removal of 

non-native grasses and weed species which 

could eventually lead to declines in biodiversity 

and productivity, particularly among native 

plants. No construction of infrastructure would 

Great Falls Area Grazing Lease Renewal 127 Chapter 4 
 

be required that could result in incidental take, 

fragmentation, restriction of movement, or other 

potentially negative impacts to wildlife. 

Roost Hill #07607 

Increasing the permitted use associated with the 

allocated portion of the allotment would not 

significantly impact wildlife species because the 

action would not result in impacts to habitat 

conditions found within the allotment. Increase 

of permitted use would not be directly related to 

forage consumption on BLM lands which would 

result in reductions of forage currently available 

for wildlife. Biodiversity standards would 

continue to be met. 

Incorporation of a term and condition specifying 

the grazing system would positively benefit 

wildlife by maintaining and improving site 

productivity, structure and residual growth of 

diverse, native plant species which directly 

relates to the maintenance of land health 

standards and achievement of biodiversity 

objectives. No construction of infrastructure 

would be required that could result in incidental 

take, fragmentation, restriction of movement, or 

other potentially negative impacts to wildlife. 

Ryan Coulee #06330 

The proposed modification to the lease would 

authorize livestock grazing during a later season 

to coincide with grazing of residual crops on 

private lands. This would not have a significant 

impact on wildlife or the biodiversity standard. 

The adjusted turnout date would still allow for a 

complete growth cycle of desirable forbs and 

bunchgrass species to occur. Livestock would 

still typically use the allotment during the core 

months of December and January. Use levels 

would not be expected to change. Current and 

historical use levels have been yielding abundant 

residual forage and a vegetative component 

consisting of a diverse mix of native plants 

which is directly related to the achievement of 

objectives and maintenance of the biodiversity 

standard. 

Simms Creek #06328 

Changing the season of use from 12/15-4/15 to 

8/1-10/31 would not have significant impacts to 

wildlife since the cross fence located on the 

boundary of Sections 19 and 20 extending 

southward into Section 29 is currently not 

functional. Implementing a deferred season of 

use until late summer/early fall would benefit 

wildlife species by improving upland health. 

This would result in significant progress toward 

achievement of health standards and biodiversity 

objectives by increasing residual forage and 

improving habitat diversity and structure. No 

new construction of infrastructure would be 

required that could result in incidental take, 

fragmentation, restriction of movement, or other 

potentially negative impacts to wildlife. ­

Maintenance of the existing fence and associated 

proposed action would also have positive 

impacts to riparian habitats occurring on 

adjacent private lands. 

Sixteen #09690 

Incorporation of a term and condition specifying 

the proposed grazing system would positively 

benefit wildlife by allowing for a three pasture, 

deferred-rotation system that would improve site 

productivity, habitat structure and residual 

growth of diverse, native plant species which 

directly relates to the maintenance of land health 

standards and achievement of biodiversity 

objectives. No new construction of infrastructure 

would be required that could result in incidental 

take, fragmentation, restriction of movement, or 

other potentially negative impacts to wildlife. 

Administrative changes associated with the 

potential transfer of permitted use would have 

no impacts beyond those addressed for 

allotments in Table 4.2. 

Smith Creek #09698 

Removal of conifer encroachment, targeting 

trees less than 4” dbh would not result in 

significant alteration of forest habitats. Closed 

canopy forests are becoming increasingly 

abundant in the southern Little Belt Mountains. 

The proposed action would maintain open and 

mixed, parkland habitats that are decreasing due 

to conifer encroachment. Habitat for sagebrush 

obligate species would be maintained. 

Great Falls Area Grazing Lease Renewal 128 Chapter 4 
 

South Canal Ditch #06326 

Modification of the mandatory and additional 

terms and conditions of the grazing lease would 

have positive effects for wildlife species by 

implementing rest and deferment of the pasture 

containing BLM lands. Deferment would 

improve site productivity, habitat structure and 

residual growth of diverse, native plant species 

which directly relates to the achievement of 

biodiversity standards and objectives. Rest 

would increase residual forage and terminal 

leader growth of shrubs which would increase 

browse availability, cover, structure and longterm productivity of the site. 

Modification of the grazing lease would allow 

for long-term, hot season deferment of the 

pasture. This would maintain gains initiated by 

rest while providing a mechanism for removal of 

non-native grasses and weed species which 

could eventually lead to declines in biodiversity 

and productivity of native bunchgrasses. 

While these modifications would lead to 

significant progress towards achievement of 

standards for rangeland health, implementation 

of the proposed water gap would further 

facilitate the opportunity for integrated 

management of riparian/upland habitats 

occurring on the BLM parcel, in conjunction 

with other pastures containing Bureau of 

Reclamation lands. The water gap fences, if 

required, would be constructed using 

specifications designed for easy passage for 

mammals and sited to prevent bird collisions and 

reduce predation, where needed. 

Sun River Ditch #06327 

Restoration of portions of an agricultural field 

would have positive impacts for wildlife species 

by allowing native vegetation to become reestablished on the site which would promote 

biodiversity and cover throughout the year. 

The Flat #06319 

Modification of the mandatory terms and 

conditions of the grazing lease would implement 

a carrying capacity representative of forage 

conditions currently existing on the allotment. 

Deferring early and mid-season use would allow 

maturation and seed set of native bunchgrasses 

which would increase forage availability and 

improve nesting cover and habitat structure. 

While these modifications would lead to habitat 

improvement of increases in biodiversity, 

implementation of the proposed fence, if 

required, would further facilitate the opportunity 

for integrated management of the BLM parcel, 

in conjunction with adjacent state and private 

lands. Fence construction may result in 

temporary displacement and possibly incidental 

take of small, non-game species. Wildlifefriendly specifications would be used to provide 

easy passage. 

Tunnel Lake #06312 

Incorporation of a term and condition specifying 

the grazing system would positively benefit 

wildlife. Allowing for deferment and rest of 

pastures would continue to improve the forage 

production, residual cover and diversity of the 

community. 

Upper Pasture #02558 

Changing the class of livestock to include horses 

is authorizing an existing, historical use. This 

use, while not explicitly listed on the previous 

lease was determined to be yielding resource 

conditions that are in conformance with 

standards for rangeland health and guidelines for 

livestock management. Maintenance of a 

desirable, bunchgrass community in PNC would 

be expected to continue. Current vegetative 

conditions are directly related to abundant 

nesting cover, habitat structure, and forage 

production beneficial to wildlife species. 

Willow Creek #07775 

Including a term and condition into the grazing 

lease specifying a three-pasture, deferred 

rotation system would positively benefit wildlife 

by allowing for deferment of native pastures 

which would continue to improve site 

productivity, structure and residual growth of 

native plant communities which directly relates 

to the maintenance of land health standards and 

biodiversity objectives. No construction of 

infrastructure would be required that could result 

in incidental take, fragmentation, restriction of 

movement or other potentially negative impacts 

to wildlife. 

Great Falls Area Grazing Lease Renewal 129 Chapter 4 
 

Willow Creek Canal #07612 

The proposed action would have no effects or 

slightly positive effects to wildlife by providing 

an accurate account of forage production 

occurring on BLM, state and private lands 

fenced within the allotment. This would allow 

for an improved accounting of forage production 

and consumption. The shift in grazing season 

would accommodate a grazing rotation system 

that would continue to provide for maintenance 

of conditions which are in conformance with the 

biodiversity standard. 

Windy Hollow #09818 

Implementation of a three-pasture, deferred 

rotation grazing system and construction of the 

cross fence would prevent season-long use 

which would have positive benefits to riparian 

habitat and associated wildlife species by 

allowing growing season deferment of one 

pasture annually. Deferment would result in 

improved growth and reproduction of the woody 

vegetation which would provide more hiding 

and thermal cover for big game and many other 

species of small animals and migratory birds. 

The changes would also improve fisheries 

habitat by increasing stream bank vegetation of 

sedges and willows thereby providing greater 

amounts of shade and cover. Modification of the 

season of use would further accommodate 

implementation of this system. The cross fence 

would be constructed using specifications 

designed for easy passage for mammals and 

would remain charged only while allotment is in 

use. 

Modification of the class of livestock from cattle 

to horses in the East Fork of Hound Creek is 

authorizing an existing, historical use which was 

determined to be in conformance with standards 

for rangeland health and guidelines for livestock 

management. This use, while not explicitly 

listed on the previous lease was determined to be 

yielding resource conditions that are in 

conformance with the biodiversity standard. 

Maintenance of a desirable, bunchgrass 

community in PNC would be expected to 

continue. Current vegetative conditions are 

directly related to abundant nesting cover, 

habitat structure and forage production 

beneficial to wildlife species. 

The remaining parcels in the Windy Hollow 

Allotment occur within numerous pastures with 

intermixed deeded, state and federal lands. BLM 

parcels located in the upper reaches of Spring, 

Pole and Tyrell Creeks along with those parcels 

located in the far west and southern portions of 

the allotment are managed under a shortduration, high-intensity grazing system. 

Modification to the season of use is required 

since any of these pastures may be scheduled for 

use anytime throughout the calendar year. This 

system was determined to be yielding 

maintenance of standards for rangeland health. 

Maintenance of desirable habitat conditions 

would be expected under continuation of this 

system. Incorporation of a term and condition 

specifying this grazing system would positively 

benefit wildlife by allowing for a variable season 

grazing system that would continue to improve 

site productivity, structure and residual growth 

of native plant communities. Maintenance of 

these conditions directly relates to land health 

standards and achieving biodiversity objectives. 

4.2.7 Fire Management 

Implementation of the proposed action would 

not alter current wildland fire suppression 

management. Fire suppression would be in 

accordance with the Fire/Fuels Management 

Plan Environmental Assessment/ Plan 

Amendment for Montana and the Dakotas 

(September 2003) and the Central Montana Fire 

Zone, Lewistown Field Office (LFO) Fire 

Management Plan (September 2004). 

This planning area lies mostly within the LFO 

Breaks Fire Management Unit (FMU). 

Implementation of the proposed action would 

result in the continuation of current wildland fire 

suppression policy for this FMU to utilize 

appropriate fire suppression strategies based on 

safety, current fire danger, values at risk, cost, 

suppression resource availability and predicted 

weather. Each fire occurrence would be 

evaluated on these elements and a determination 

made as to the most appropriate course of action. 

Under certain circumstances, appropriate 

strategies may include using indirect suppression 

tactics and utilization of natural fuel breaks to 

Great Falls Area Grazing Lease Renewal 130 Chapter 4 
 

 

 

return fire to its natural role in the ecology of the 

area. 

Implementation of the proposed action may 

result in a potential increase in fine fuel loads in 

allotments that would incorporate a grazing 

system. This increase in fine fuel loads would 

increase a wildland fire’s resistance to control 

efforts and slightly increased smoke emissions. 

Prescribed burning is not proposed, however, the 

use of prescribed fire as a land management tool 

in this area may be considered in future 

analyses/planning efforts. Fire Regime 

Condition Class (FRCC) would be considered in 

conjunction with rangeland health standards. 

4.2.8 Cultural Resources 

Effects from grazing practices would be the 

same as identified in the No Action Alternative 

for the allotments with no proposed changes. 

Season of use changes in other analysis areas in 

the Lewistown Field Office have not been 

shown to affect cultural resources. 

Some minor beneficial impacts could result from 

management actions that reduce erosion. 

Proposed surface disturbing activities, especially 

water developments at springs and other water 

sources, could create negative impacts if 

mitigation were not incorporated into project 

designs. A file search and/or Class III cultural 

resource inventory would be conducted prior to 

all surface disturbance actions proposed in this 

watershed plan to determine the presence of 

historic properties within the proposed areas of 

potential effects. Possible benefits could include 

identification of additional resources during 

inventories. 

Proposed actions in four allotments have the 

potential to affect cultural resources; three of 

those however (Black Canyon #9849, Gipsy 

Creek #9671, Sixteen #9690) have had cultural 

resource inventories completed resulting in “No 

Historic Properties Affected” determinations. 

Black Canyon #9849 has a proposed turkey 

guzzler; that area was surveyed in 1997 (BLM 

Report #97-MT-067-011) with no historic 

properties identified. Gipsy Creek #9671 has 

proposed mining reclamation and debris 

removal. This area was surveyed in 2000 (BLM 

Report #01-MT-067-001). The mining was 

documented at that time and not determined to 

be eligible for the National Register of Historic 

Places. The 40-acre parcel included in the 

Sixteen #09690 Allotment was identified as a 

disposal tract, and is considered the same in this 

analysis. It also was surveyed in 2000 (BLM 

Report #01-MT-067-001). One lithic site was 

documented (24ME1049), but was determined 

ineligible for listing in the National Register. 

Two recorded prehistoric quarry sites 

(24ME0467, 24ME0232), 11 quarry site leads, 

lithic scatter/camp sites, and tipi rings have been 

identified either within the area of potential 

effect (APE) or in close proximity to the 

proposed stockwater pipeline in the Dry Hills 

#9743 Allotment. The site, known as the Camp 

Baker Quarry (24ME0467) is outside the area of 

potential effect, but its close proximity to the 

proposed pipeline identifies a potential resource 

conflict. Quarry sites this extensive tend to 

have associated sites, such as short-term 

habitation sites, in the general area. Pipeline 

construction could affect the integrity of these 

sites, as could increased livestock use, 

depending on the final location of the pipeline 

and tank. Artifact breakage and dispersal, 

trampling, and vertical mixing of assemblages 

could occur if the tank were placed in an area 

with surface and subsurface artifacts. 

Cattle loafing can affect rock art sites (i.e. 

pictographs, petroglyphs). A potential conflict 

exists in the Monarch #9722 Allotment. Since 

the site was not documented prior to this 

analysis, changes in condition are unknown, as 

are the effects of livestock on the site. In 

discrete areas where cattle impacts could destroy 

or damage rock art sites, barriers or fences could 

be placed to mitigate the potential for damage. 

If a conflict were to exist between the proposed 

action and the presence of cultural resources, 

mitigation measures would be factored into the 

project’s design. Such measures could include 

complete documentation of the site to exhaust its 

information potential, evaluating the site and 

making a determination that the site is not 

eligible for inclusion on the National Register of 

Great Falls Area Grazing Lease Renewal 131 Chapter 4 
 

Historic Places, avoiding the site through project 

redesign or implementing protective measures to 

prevent impacts to the characteristics of the site 

that make the site eligible. Such measures could 

include installing fences or barriers to protect 

sites, placing mats or other pads to prevent 

erosion or soil compaction if a site needed to be 

crossed, or installing sections of jack-leg fence 

in areas where subsurface disturbance would be 

a concern. 

4.2.9 Surface Water 

The water quality standard would continue to be 

met on allotments already in conformance with 

this standard (Appendix E). Trends on these 

allotments would remain static or improve. No 

range improvements are proposed on any of 

these allotments. Those riparian and upland 

areas in proper functioning condition would 

continue to mitigate non-point source pollutants 

from entering streams and is supported by the 

Montana Nonpoint Source Management Plan 

developed by Montana Department of 

Environmental Quality. MDEQ’s goal for 

sustainable range land management is to support 

the long term ecological health of grazing 

resources and meet water body beneficial uses. 

Their objective 6.1 is to “support PFC, as a first 

tier assessment approach for riparian grazing 

management and monitoring, on private, state, 

and federal riparian areas in Montana.” 

This alternative would improve plant cover and 

increase infiltration rates in riparian and upland 

zones, thereby increasing the time of 

concentration and the quantity of water stored on 

the BLM lands within the planning area. 

Water quantity and quality affected by flow 

diversion, impoundments, irrigation return flows 

and stream channel modifications would not 

change. 

The water quality impaired streams in the 

planning area would be addressed by improving 

riparian and upland condition adjacent to 

impaired streams and decreasing the amount of 

sediment, fecal coliform, nutrients, etc. being 

contributed to waterbodies. Under this 

alternative, livestock would spend less time on 

water quality impaired streams. 

Any impacts to surface water from the range 

improvement projects would be immeasurable. 

The following allotments have proposed changes 

that could potentially improve water quality: 

Bedrock Creek #06347 

Although no State determination exists for 

Bedrock Creek, degraded riparian conditions 

were attributed to declining conditions. Two 

spur fences would prevent livestock grazing 

from occurring on a majority of the BLM 

portion of Bedrock Creek. Exclusion from 

livestock grazing would allow recovery riparian 

trees, shrubs, and streamside vegetation. 

Increased vigor of riparian plant species would 

allow for the potential recovery of stream 

channel function with associated decreases in 

width/depth ratios and floodplain development. 

However, the small portion of the BLM land 

may be too small to facilitate channel recovery 

as channel instability is widespread over a much 

larger area than just the BLM managed lands. 

Berg Lease #07601 

Livestock would be excluded from their loafing 

areas by an electric fence in the bottom of an 

unnamed tributary of the South Fork of the 

Musselshell River, which did not meet the BLM 

water quality standard although no State 

determination exists. Improved vigor of riparian 

trees, shrubs, and streamside vegetation would 

be expected. As vegetation improves, stream 

channel width/depth ratios would be anticipated 

to decrease. 

Daisy Dean Creek #09675 

Declining riparian conditions on Mud Creek 

were attributed to livestock. Under the proposed 

action, the allotment season of use would be 

changed from 3/1 to 2/28 to 6/1 to 12/31. 

Boundary fences would be reconstructed and 

grazing use would occur in a 5-pasture, deferred 

rotation grazing system. This would decrease 

the amount of time livestock spend in the 

riparian area on Mud Creek. Decreases in the 

utilization of willow species and red-osier 

dogwood and increases in the canopy cover of 

the fore mentioned species would be expected. 

Great Falls Area Grazing Lease Renewal 132 Chapter 4 
 

Stream channel function would also improve 

with an associated improvement in streamside 

vegetation. 

River Tract #09691 

The Missouri River from Sheep Creek to the 

Sun River is water quality impaired because of 

sedimentation/siltation. River Tract would be 

rested from livestock grazing in 2010 and 2011 

to facilitate improvement in the vigor of riparian 

trees, shrubs, and streambank species. 

Following the rest, spring or fall use would be 

allowed. Although fall grazing would lead to 

the possibility of utilization on preferred riparian 

trees and shrubs, grazing use for limited 

amounts of time during cooler seasons would 

facilitate continued improvement in riparian 

condition. 

South Canal Ditch #06326 

Degraded riparian conditions on an unnamed 

tributary of Muddy Creek were attributed to 

declining conditions. Under the proposed 

action, the BLM land would be rested again in 

2010, thereby providing two years of rest. 

Following the rest, the BLM land would be 

rested every other year and deferred during the 

hot season. The health and vigor of riparian 

vegetation would be expected to improve. As 

the condition of the vegetation improves, 

riparian community types would have the 

opportunity to expand. As root masses stabilize 

the banks, sediment would be captured and a 

decrease in stream channel width/depth ratios 

and percent fines in the channel would be 

expected. 

Windy Hollow #09818 

Construction of the proposed cross fence from 

Baldy to the NE1/4NE1/4 of Section 5 would 

facilitate implementation of a three pasture 

deferred rotation grazing system that would 

include lands in Wegner and Stickney Creek 

being used in conjunction with the Cottonwood 

Creek Allotment #7716. Currently, there is some 

attempt at using these pastures as a three-pasture 

deferred system, but since there is no crossfence, livestock commonly breach the divide and 

re-enter Wegner Creek to access a perennial 

water source. Once back in Wegner Creek, even 

small numbers of livestock can prevent recovery 

of riparian vegetation and streambanks by 

remaining in the bottom. Implementation of the 

proposed action would facilitate the “clean up” 

of pastures. Improvements in the health and 

vigor of riparian vegetation, decreases in 

Kentucky blue grass, decreased utilization on 

trees and shrubs, and increased stream channel 

stability would be expected. 

Modification of the class of livestock from cattle 

to horses in the East Fork of Hound Creek is 

authorizing an existing, historical use which was 

determined to be in conformance with standards 

for rangeland health and guidelines for livestock 

management. The riparian condition on the East 

Fork of Hound Creek would be maintained in 

proper functioning condition or above. 

4.2.10 Soils 

Grazing management changes which result in 

allotments making significant progress toward 

meeting rangeland health standards would create 

a positive impact to soils in the planning area. 

Rangelands meeting or exceeding health 

standards exhibit a higher percentage of 

increaser forage species, fewer annual grasses 

and forbs, increased plant vigor and root mass, a 

decrease in the percentage of bare ground and an 

increase in available water holding capacity and 

infiltration. These characteristics greatly benefit 

rangeland soils. 

The cumulative impact of these proposed 

projects would have an effect on the soil 

resource, though it would be minimal. The vast 

area encompassed by the watershed and 

mitigation measures associated with each of the 

projects would minimize or eliminate negative 

impacts. The proposed projects are spread 

among the 100 allotments and over 8 million 

total acres within the planning area. 

Soil could be affected by implementation of 

proposed range improvement projects in two 

ways: surface disturbances and compaction. 

Spillage of equipment lubricants, fluids and 

fuels could also adversely impact soils 

associated with the range improvement projects. 

Great Falls Area Grazing Lease Renewal 133 Chapter 4 
 

Construction equipment and vehicular traffic 

associated with the proposed projects would 

cause soil compaction; severity would be 

directly related to soil type, frequency, and 

weight (lbs./sq. inch) of equipment. Compaction 

alters soil structure – decreasing porosity, 

infiltration rate, air space, and available water 

holding capacity. A combination of these 

factors would decrease the vegetative capacity 

and increase the potential for water and wind 

erosion of affected areas. Mitigation would 

include limitation of unnecessary traffic 

associated with the projects and limitation of 

traffic during wet periods. Excessively wet soils 

would be defined as soil moisture high enough 

to: 

 foul blades, augers or equipment 

 create 3" deep ruts 

 conglomerate mud on tires and tracks 

Construction and farm equipment and vehicular 

traffic associated with the proposed projects 

would also create surface disturbances which 

could lead to accelerated wind and/or water 

erosion. Mitigation would include timely 

rehabilitation of all project-induced surface 

disturbances as directed by the authorized 

officer. All seed mixes would be recommended 

and approved by the authorized officer. Seed 

would be State of Montana certified or 

registered seed (or certified/registered by the 

state of origin); certification tags would be made 

available to the authorized officer for inspection 

before the seed is planted. Seed would be 

planted using a disc drill equipped with depth 

bands (or a suitable depth regulator to ensure 

proper depth of planting) and packer wheels. 

Seed would be drilled between one-half inch 

(1/2") and three-quarters inches (3/4") deep. 

Where drilling is not possible, seed would be 

broadcasted and the area would be harrowed or 

raked to cover the seed. Care would be 

exercised to prevent burying the seed deeper 

than one inch (1"). If seed must be broadcasted, 

the drill seeding rate provided by the authorized 

officer would be doubled. The seeding would be 

repeated until a satisfactory stand is established 

as determined by the authorized officer. 

Evaluation of growth would not be made before 

completion of the first growing season following 

seeding. Seeding would be completed in the late 

fall/early winter or early spring between the 

dates of 10/15 and 05/15. Seedings would not 

be made when the soil is frozen or snow 

covered. If moisture conditions are favorable in 

late summer, seeding may be completed between 

08/15 and 09/15, allowing a minimum of 45 

days for germination and seedling development 

before the seedlings go dormant. Late summer 

plantings should be attempted only when soil 

moisture is adequate at or very near the surface 

and to a substantial depth in the profile. 

Silt fence would be properly installed to control 

offsite movement of any required soil stockpiles 

in areas with slopes greater than 15 percent, and 

adjacent to waterways and stream channels. 

Topsoil would not be used as padding in 

trenches or for any other use as a construction 

material. Standard erosion control practices 

would be employed to minimize erosion during 

construction operations. If a high groundwater 

table is encountered requiring dewatering, water 

would be pumped and discharged in a manner 

that would minimize sedimentation and prevent 

off-site erosion and bottom scour in adjacent 

waterways. Discharge to the surface would be 

allowable if vegetation is adequate to effectively 

function as a filter medium. If vegetation is 

inadequate, bale filters or other appropriate 

measures would be used to limit siltation. 

Soils could also be impacted by fluid spills 

including engine oil, hydraulic oil, gear lube, 

anti-freeze and fuel. These spills could severely 

affect soil in localized areas; concentrations may 

be capable of soil sterilization. Mitigation 

would include removal and approved disposal of 

soil from localized spill areas followed by 

replacement with clean soil and rehabilitation as 

directed by the authorized officer. Equipment 

leaks and drips would be fixed immediately 

upon discovery by the contractor, lessee or BLM 

personnel. 

All barbed wire fence construction would utilize 

steel T posts and wooden set posts at corners, 

stress panels and fence breaks. Wheeled 

equipment may be used to install the posts and 

wire creating a short-term impact on vegetation 

and soils adjacent to the fence alignment. New 

roads or trails would not be initiated along 

Great Falls Area Grazing Lease Renewal 134 Chapter 4 
 

 

proposed fence routes, though lessees would be 

authorized to travel adjacent to fences for 

maintenance purposes. New fences would alter 

traditional livestock movement patterns and 

could create trailing along alignments. Minimal 

impacts to soils if trailing occurs would be 

concentrated to the linear fence routes. 

Proposed stock water pipelines would be 

installed utilizing rotary chain trenchers or using 

the “rip” method. Rotary trenchers create a 

surface disturbance 6-12” wide, minimizing soil 

disturbance and potential negative impacts. 

Trenches would be backfilled immediately upon 

pipe installation and pressure test completion. 

Reseeding of the backfilled trenches is generally 

not required due to the low level of surface 

disturbance and natural encroachment of 

adjacent vegetation. The “rip” method typically 

involves two D-9 Caterpillars pulling pipe 

through the ground. The lead machine plows an 

8-inch seam to a suitable depth. The pipeline is 

then pulled through the seam. Once the pipe is 

laid, the rear machine compacts the seam back 

into place. This method results in significantly 

less surface disturbance than traditional 

trenching methods. Disturbance would be 

limited to heavy equipment tracks and vehicle 

disturbance along the line. The “rip line” is 

visible but will heal nearly completely in one to 

two growing seasons. Most vegetation will be 

held in place so that bare soil is minimized 

reducing the likelihood of weed infestation and 

erosion. 

Stock tank installation associated with proposed 

pipeline construction projects would impact 

soils. The small footprint required during the 

construction phase (20’ x 20’) would minimize 

short-term impacts. Long-term impacts would 

result from concentrated livestock use around 

the stocktanks and associated trailing to and 

from the water source. Stock tanks would not be 

placed on narrow ridges, in confined spaces or 

corridors, in riparian areas, or on slopes greater 

than 5 percent. 

The farming operations associated with these 

projects would compact soils, creating the 

possibility for accelerated wind and water 

erosion. Mitigation would include prompt 

completion of all initiated projects and 

adherence to seeding requirements discussed 

above. Long-term impacts would be positive as 

native vegetation establishes a natural, effective 

soil protective mechanism. 

4.2.11 Air Quality 

The proposed action would not impact air 

quality. 

4.2.12 Climate 

The proposed action would not significantly 

impact climate. Emissions resulting in an 

accumulation of greenhouse gases would be so 

small that its incremental contribution to global 

and national emissions would not be 

measureable at the level of precision existing on 

a watershed area scale. This emission would not 

merit reporting under the EPA rule on 

mandatory reporting of greenhouse gases, which 

presents a reporting threshold of 25,000 metric 

tons of carbon dioxide equivalent for industrial 

and agricultural sectors (40 CFR 98.2). 

Estimates for grazing cattle typically assume a 

methane emission rate of .168 metric tons of 

carbon dioxide equivelant per AUM (EPA 

2009). Continuing to lease this area for grazing 

use at the proposed level of 5,602 AUM’s would 

represent approximately .000007% of livestock 

emissions in the United States. Emissions from 

other sources of greenhouse gases associated 

with livestock grazing would not be different 

than the No Action Alternative. The majority of 

allotments are intermixed with non-federal lands 

which would require an equivalent amount of 

emissions to administer these areas regardless of 

public land leases. Alternatively, some 

emissions from livestock grazing and associated 

management practices may be offset by an 

increase in carbon storage due to increased plant 

turnover and changes in plant species 

composition (Follett et al. 2001). 

4.2.13 Economics/Sociology 

The proposed action would create a short-term 

economic impact on lessees with allotments not 

Great Falls Area Grazing Lease Renewal 135 Chapter 4 
 

meeting rangeland health standards. The BLM 

would require grazing management changes or 

range improvements to meet upland and/or 

riparian health standards. The lessees would be 

responsible for a portion of most proposed 

projects. In the long term, however, proposed 

changes would lead to healthy rangelands and 

sustainable livestock grazing. There would be 

no impacts to lessees whose allotments are 

meeting rangeland health standards. 

The management actions and range 

improvements included in the proposed action 

would generally improve the efficiency of 

livestock grazing on public lands and the 

condition of those lands. Lease renewals would 

allow for continuation of public lands ranching 

within the planning area. 

4.2.14 Special Designation Areas 

Implementation of the proposed action would 

not result in impacts beyond those described for 

livestock grazing in the Rocky 

Mountain/Outstanding Natural Area Activity 

Plan Final Environmental Assessment (March 

1989) 

4.2.15 Cumulative Impacts 

This section discusses the cumulative impacts of 

both alternatives. Federal agencies are required 

to analyze and disclose effects that result from 

the incremental impact of an action “when added 

to other past, present, and reasonably 

foreseeable future actions regardless of what 

agency (federal or nonfederal) or person 

undertakes such other actions.” (40 CFR 

1508.7). 

A detailed discussion of cumulative impacts 

specific to BLM’s range program can be found 

on pages 27 and 28 of the Standards for 

Rangeland Health and Guidelines for Livestock 

Grazing Management EIS completed in May of 

1997. 

Proposed Action: Specific to the Great Falls 

planning area, on allotments not meeting 

Standards and Guidelines, selection of the 

proposed action would ensure significant 

progress is being made toward achieving 

Standards while ensuring long-term stability to 

the livestock industry. Allotments that are 

currently meeting, or are making significant 

progress towards meeting standards, are 

currently mitigating the impacts of livestock 

grazing on upland/riparian health, wildlife, and 

other resources. 

Under the proposed action, vegetation within 

rested pastures would accumulate root mass, 

carbohydrate reserves and set seed. Grazing 

during the winter season would have positive 

impacts on upland health by eliminating much of 

the hot season use on native plants. 

The proposed action would provide more 

growing season deferment for many cool season 

species and reduce impacts to streambeds and 

banks while soils are saturated. 

The proposed action would also allow a larger 

percentage of desirable, native vegetation to 

complete annual growth and develop seed which 

would allow for an increase in reproduction and 

result in improvements to upland health. 

Improved native vegetation would provide 

increased forage for big game and nesting cover 

for sharp-tail, sage grouse and other ground 

nesting birds. Improved growth and 

reproduction of the woody vegetation would 

provide more hiding and thermal cover for big 

game and many other species of small animals 

and migratory birds. 

For riparian areas and water quality within the 

planning area, the proposed action is more 

environmentally friendly than the no action 

alternative. In general, those areas that were not 

meeting riparian or water quality standards 

would receive shorter seasons of use and rest, 

which would allow for recovery of streambank 

stabilizer plant species, decrease alteration 

levels, and promote functional riparian areas. 

Furthermore, reducing the existing noxious 

weed infestations would minimize streambank 

alteration and allow recovery of streambank 

stabilizing herbaceous species. 

Great Falls Area Grazing Lease Renewal 136 Chapter 4 
 

Those areas currently meeting standards would 

continue to promote healthy riparian areas and 

comply with the Clean Water Act and water 

quality impaired streams by mitigating non-point 

source pollution. 

In general, water quality decreases downstream 

in the watersheds within the planning area as 

irrigation withdrawals and returns, erosion, and 

development cumulatively begin to affect water 

quality. In the Sun River watershed, the biggest 

influence on water quality is irrigation return 

flows and agricultural runoff (Alan Rollo, Sun 

River Watershed Group Coordinator, personal 

communication 2010). For example, water 

quality data collected by the Sun River 

Watershed Group indicates decreasing water 

quality from the Sun River at Augusta to the Sun 

River at Fort Shaw. A portion of the water 

quality data from the 2009 Sun River Watershed 

Water Quality Monitoring Project 2009 Report 

(Hershberger and Bauder, 2009) is shown 

below. 

The Sun River at Augusta was chosen because it 

is located in the upper portion of the watershed 

and allows for characterization of water quality 

entering the watershed, and the Sun River at 

Great Falls is located near the mouth. 

According to Hershberger and Bauder (2009), 

salinity clearly increases as you move from 

Augusta to Great Falls and is likely sourced 

from Sun River tributaries. 

Nutrient loading of nitrogen and phosphorus 

follows similar patterns of increases between 

Augusta and Great Falls. 

Total suspended sediment also increases 

significantly. 

Although minimal, improving conditions on the 

BLM lands not meeting land health standards 

would cumulatively improve water quality. 

However, BLM lands account for less than 1% 

of the total land areas within the watersheds and 

have not been identified as probable sources of 

pollutants on most water quality impaired 

streams. Those lands identified as potential 

contributors of non-point source pollutants 

would receive actions under the proposed action 

Great Falls Area Grazing Lease Renewal 137 Chapter 4 
that would decrease water quality cumulative 

effects. 

No Action: Selection of the No Action 

Alternative would result in continuation of 

current management that has led to conditions 

that are not in conformance with regulations. 

This could result in cumulative degradation to 

watersheds especially where similar conditions 

exist on adjoining lands. 

Upland sites not meeting standards, as a result of 

current livestock grazing, would continue to 

cause a decline in productivity and upland 

health. Annual grasses, shallow-rooted perennial 

grasses, forbs, and non-native invasive species 

would continue to dominate, and likely increase, 

especially in times of drought. Riparian sites not 

meeting standards, due to current livestock 

management, would remain static or continue in 

a downward trend. Riparian plant community 

succession and streambank stabilization would 

be interrupted or impeded leading to degradation 

and potential loss of functioning riparian areas. 

The present level of weed control could lead to 

an increase in noxious weeds in the planning 

area. Browse, forbs and grass availability for 

elk, deer, antelope and mountain goats would 

continue to decline. Over time, the reduction in 

wildlife forage and increased levels of noxious 

weeds would cause a cumulative loss in the 

wildlife value of these areas. Those public lands 

in the planning area that are in less than proper 

functioning condition would continue to 

contribute pollutants such as sediment, nitrates, 

fecal coliform, and warmer water to streams. 

In some cases, accelerated erosion is occurring 

on allotments not meeting the upland standard. 

Soils in these allotments would continue to lack 

sufficient ground cover and root density to resist 

erosion and would continue to erode at levels 

higher than naturally expected for the sites. 

The BLM lands account for less than 1 percent 

of the total land area within the affected 

watersheds. The remaining areas are private and 

state lands that are primarily used for livestock 

grazing and agriculture. Private lands account 

for most of the total land area within the 

planning unit. On those lands, the Natural 

Resources and Conservation Service (NRCS) 

reported the following actions for the Two 

Medicine River, Belt Creek, Smith River, Upper 

Missouri, Upper Missouri-Dearborn, Teton 

River, Sun River and Upper Musselshell from 

1980 to 2009. 

287,688 ac. Conservation cover 

154,640 ac. Conservation crop rotation 

51, 325 ac. No-till direct seedings 

16 miles Shelterbelt est. and recovery 

308 miles fence 

289 miles Pipeline 

1,185 Watering facilities 

131 Spring developments 

61 Wells 

112,892 ac Use exclusion 

343,520 ac Prescribed grazing 

76,314 ac. Range, hay plantings 

326,244 ac. Upland wildlife habitat mgt. 

5,455 ac. Restoration of rare and declining 

habitats. 

Implementation of projects and land 

management practices are likely to continue at 

current levels into the foreseeable future. Similar 

activities may be occurring simultaneously on 

private or other lands within the planning area 

that are not reported by NRCS. 

Reasonably Foreseeable Future Actions 

	 The risk of wildfire on all ownerships 

will continue to increase, particularly in 

areas where mountain pine beetle 

outbreaks have resulted in large portions 

of stand mortality. Fire suppression 

efforts, utilizing appropriate 

management response criteria, will 

continue on federally-administered lands 

in the watershed. 

	 Recreation is expected to increase in the 

Great Falls planning area in the future. 

Impacts expected from this increased 

use are new camp sites, OHV use, 

spreading of weed seed, more use of 

roads and increased wildlife disturbance. 

	 Sub-dividing and development of 

private land within the planning area is 

Great Falls Area Grazing Lease Renewal 138 Chapter 4 
 

currently occurring on a large scale. 

Subdivision is expected to expand in the 

foreseeable future. Sub-dividing and 

development causes habitat 

fragmentation, increases traffic, soil and 

vegetation disturbance, spread of 

noxious and invasive species, and other 

human disturbances. 

	 Timber harvest and vegetative 

treatments are expected to increase on 

private, state and federal lands due to 

outbreaks of mountain pine beetle. BLM 

currently has plans for two timber 

harvest projects. The Strawberry Gulch 

Project located in Meagher County 

(T13N, R4E S14) is approximately 120 

acres. The Pinnacle Salvage is located in 

the south Devil’s Kitchen area (T15N, 

R1W S14) would affect approximately 

165 acres of timber. 

	 The BLM currently holds oil and gas 

leases within the planning area. Much of 

the leases along the Rocky Mountain 

Front have been withdrawn. It is likely 

that the remainder of the active leases 

would not be developed within the time 

span of this document. 

	 Gibson Dam Hydroelectric transmission 

line FERC No.P-12478-003 is proposed 

which would consist of buried 

transmission line along the Sun River to 

a BLM substation (T22N, R8W S35). 

Above-ground transmission line would 

continue due west to Jackson Corner 

along Highway 287. 

	 Crop conversion of native rangelands is 

expected to continue at levels related to 

current grain markets. 

	 Fencing on other land ownerships and 

on BLM boundaries may lessen the 

benefit of fence modification efforts on 

public lands to improve wildlife 

movements. 

Great Falls Area Grazing Lease Renewal 139 Chapter 4 
Great Falls Area Grazing Lease Renewal 140 Chapter 4 
 

Chapter 5 

Consultation and Coordination 

The Great Falls Area Grazing Lease Renewal 

EA was prepared by a BLM interdisciplinary 

team including: 

- Dan Brunkhorst, Team Leader/Rangeland 

Management Specialist 

- Chad Krause, Hydrologist 

- Betty Westburg, Range Technician 

- Abel Guevara, Wildlife Biologist 

- Matt Comer, Wildlife Biologist 

- Fred Roberts, Wildlife Biologist 

- Zane Fulbright, Archaeologist 

Other BLM personnel who provided assistance 

and/or review: 

- Jerry Majerus, NEPA Coordinator 

- Dan Frank, Cartographic Technician 

- Willy Frank, Field Manager 

- Adam Carr, Supervisory NRS 

- Craig Flentie, Public Affairs Specialist 

- Bruce Reid, Forester 

- Rod Sanders, Outdoor Rec. Specialist 

- Lowell Hassler, NRS 

Other agency personnel involved during the 

planning process: 

- Mike Madel, Brent Lonner, Anne Tews, 

Cory Loecker, Mark Schlepp/ Montana 

Department of Fish Wildlife and Parks 

- Lou Haneberry, Katrina Dixon/ U.S. Fish & 

Wildlife Service 

- Erik Eneboe/ Montana Department of 

Natural Resource and Conservation 

- Erin Fryer, Jason Oltrogge/U.S. Forest 

Service, Lewis and Clark National Forest. 

- Jennifer Woodward, Shanna 

Huckins/Natural Resource Conservation 

Service 

All interested parties, grazing lessees and base 

property owners were contacted during the 

planning process. The BLM met with all lessees 

whose allotments were not meeting one or more 

of the rangeland health standards due to 

livestock grazing. Five open-house meetings 

were held throughout the planning area as 

follows: 

January 28, 2010: Martinsdale, MT 

February 2, 2010: Augusta, MT 

February 4, 2010: White Sulphur Springs, MT 

February 9, 2010: Great Falls, MT 

February 11, 2010: Cascade, MT 

Comments on the Preliminary 

Environmental Analysis 

In August 2010 the preliminary environmental 

analysis was distributed to lessees, interested 

parties, organizations, the Central Montana 

Resource Advisory Council and members of the 

public. Listed below are the summarized 

comments along with responses. 

Comment 1: PFC is a condition that is less 

protective than PNC. To fully support wildlife 

values according to BLM Technical Reference 

1537-15, PNC is necessary. P3 1.5.2 “maintain 

or improve to PFC or above within 10 years” is 

not adequate. Why are riparian areas managed 

to a lesser standard when they are of critical 

importance? 

Response 1: Riparian areas are managed in 

accordance with Standards for Rangeland Health 

and Guidelines for Livestock Grazing 

Management. Lewistown Standard #2 is that 

riparian and wetland areas are in proper 

functioning condition. All uses of public 

rangelands are required to achieve or make 

significant progress towards this condition. 

Those allotments that were not meeting the 

requirements of this standard because of 

livestock grazing had management actions 

proposed to address the concern. 

Comment 2: A document referenced in this PEA 

is the Missouri Breaks Grazing Environmental 

Impact Statement (Nov.1979). This document did 

Great Falls Area Grazing Lease Renewal EA 141 Chapter 5 
 

 

not evaluate riparian areas as a vegetation 

category. To tier this document and subsequent 

management to an incomplete and outdated EIS 

is not adequate. 

Response 2: BLM lands within the Great Falls 

planning area were not analyzed in the Missouri 

Breaks Grazing Environmental Impact 

Statement. All references to this document have 

been omitted from this EA. 

. 

Comment 3: P.3 1.5.2 “ensure the establishment 

of cottonwoods, willow, birch, silverberry and 

other desirable woody species on sites capable 

of supporting such species”....Here BLM is 

contradictory, on P9 2.3.2 “The utilization of 

preferred woody species are not objectives but 

rather they are indications of impending 

resource damage.,” 

Response 3: Utilization of woody species, or 

herbaceous for that matter, are not objectives. 

They are use indicators. However, to “ensure 

the establishment of cottonwoods, willow, birch, 

silverberry and other desirable woody species on 

sites capable of supporting such species” seems 

to be a very reasonable goal. 

Comment 4: All allotments appear to allow hot 

season grazing (July, Aug, Sept) largely 

acknowledged to be detrimental to riparian 

health. All allotments appear to allow fall 

grazing which on page 127 states, “would lead 

to the possibility of utilization on preferred 

riparian trees and shrubs.” 

Response 4: Appendix I summarizes the 

current allotment information. In cases where 

hot season livestock use was determined to be 

resulting in resource conditions that are not in 

conformance with the riparian standard, 

restrictions were proposed on hot season use 

through modification of the mandatory terms 

and conditions or by fencing. These 

modifications can be located specific to 

individual allotments in Chapter 2. Other 

allotments with extended seasons of use that 

include hot season and fall grazing may be 

facilitating deferment, rotation or rest of riparian 

or other pastures which have demonstrated 

benefits to rangeland resources. 

Comment 5: This PEA starts a discussion about 

drought and the impacts of drought on resource 

conditions. What is not stated is how 

management will address drought conditions in 

a timely manner to protect resources... The 

proposed drought management actions do not 

give the resource enough protection and do not 

assess drought conditions in a timely and 

protective manner. Why look at last year’s data 

to determine this year’s use?...For the BLM to 

say that each allotment must be evaluated for 

drought seems excessive and the BLM will not 

be able to respond to situations in a timely 

manner...Letting livestock onto public land in 

moderate or severe drought is not acceptable. 

Response 5: The PEA on page 9 ( Chapter 

2.3.2) proposes that allotments within the Great 

Falls Area continue to be managed in 

accordance with BLM’s Montana/Dakotas 

drought policy which is provided in Appendix 

D. The Montana/Dakotas BLM drought policy, 

supported by the bureau-wide drought policy, is 

based on existing laws and regulations used to 

guide livestock grazing during periods of 

drought. The principle focus of BLM’s drought 

policy is to maintain the long -term health and 

productivity of public lands. 

A four-phased approach to detection and 

management of drought is outlined in this 

policy. The “early assessment” phase outlines 

actions and tools recommended four or more 

months prior to livestock turnout and/or the peak 

plant growth period to determine the potential 

for, extent, and severity of drought. The “preassessment” phase, which occurs within 3 

months of livestock turnout and/or the peak 

plant growth period, supplements and builds 

upon the actions taken during the “early 

assessment” phase. The “continuing 

assessment” phase outlines actions that are 

recommended during the grazing season. The 

“post drought” phase emphasizes the importance 

of assessing on–the-ground conditions and using 

an inter-disciplinary approach to establish sitespecific criteria required to be present before 

livestock use is returned to permitted levels. 

Due to the extensive geographic area covered 

within the planning area, implementation of this 

Great Falls Area Grazing Lease Renewal EA 142 Chapter 5 
policy typically does not occur at an allotmentspecific level, especially during the earlyassessment phases. Groups of allotments within 

basins or sub-basins may be evaluated together 

to assess impacts, or potential impacts, of 

drought over a larger area. However, individual 

management and resource conditions within 

each allotment are taken in to consideration. 

Allotment-specific factors such as grazing 

rotations, rest-cycles, stocking rates and existing 

plant communities can affect the ability of an 

area to withstand impacts of drought. BLM’s 

drought policy allows management actions to be 

determined on a localized or large-scale area, as 

needed, and to act in a timely manner in 

moderate to severe drought situations where 

livestock grazing may not be appropriate. 

Comment 6: Appendix D-3 mid Nov-Jan 

“review past seasons monitoring results”, what 

season’s monitoring? BLM monitors every 5-10 

years. 

Response 6: The monitoring schedule does not 

include allotment visits for monitoring of 

restoration or prescribed fire projects, random 

compliance inspections, project 

planning/implementation and collection of 

actual use data. More information about an 

allotment (or group of allotments) is typically 

available, in addition to, the formal monitoring 

listed on the monitoring schedule. During the 

mid-November to January winter assessment 

period, actual use records, utilization and other 

monitoring studies are calculated, and other site 

visits are ongoing which may indicate if 

conditions on a specific allotment, or group, of 

allotments give early indication of an area’s 

susceptibility to damage from potential drought 

in the upcoming year. 

Comment 7: Appendix G, Riparian Health 

Assessments and Monitoring Schedule shows 

that riparian areas are monitored every 5-10 

years and 22 parcels show no 

monitoring...There appears to be insufficient 

monitoring. 

Response 7: An incomplete version of 

Appendix G was included in the draft 

preliminary environmental assessment. The 

complete version is included in the final 

environmental assessment. 

Comment 8: Salt blocks are a management tool 

to achieve improved livestock distribution and 

should not be excluded from public land. 

Response 8: Standards for Rangeland Health 

and Guidelines for Livestock Grazing (Appendix 

B & C) would be incorporated into all grazing 

leases in the Great Falls Planning Area. 

Lewistown Guideline #8 on page C-2 states: 

“When provided, supplemental salt and minerals 

should not be placed adjacent to watering 

locations or in riparian-wetland areas so not to 

adversely impact streambank stability, riparian 

vegetation, water quality, or other sensitive areas 

(i.e. key wildlife wintering areas.) Salt and 

minerals should be placed in upland sites to 

draw livestock away from watering areas or 

other sensitive areas and to contribute to more 

uniform grazing distribution.” To this end, 

BLM will not generally restrict use of 

supplemental salts and minerals but may require 

rotating the place of delivery to prevent 

prolonged, localized damage to soils and 

vegetation. BLM may also restrict placement of 

salt blocks and minerals on key wildlife 

wintering sites and other sensitive areas. 

Comment 9: Range improvement projects 

should not be required if they are not needed to 

achieve rangeland health standards. 

Response 9: The proposed actions specific to 

each allotment detailed in Chapter 2 are 

designed to maintain desired vegetative 

conditions where allotments have been 

determined to already be in conformance with 

standards for rangeland health and improve 

allotments that are not meeting those standards. 

If a project is required to achieve resource 

objectives on allotments that are not in 

conformance with standards and guidelines, then 

a lessee would be required to carry forth their 

commitments outlined in the planning document 

and subsequent cooperative agreements. If a 

proposed project is not specifically required to 

meet resource objectives on an allotment not 

meeting standards, the project would not be 

Great Falls Area Grazing Lease Renewal EA 143 Chapter 5 
required as a mandatory condition of the lease 

renewal. 

Comment 10: The last sentence of section 3.1 

states that there are no sheep or alternative 

classes of livestock permitted within the 

planning area. However, according to the EA 

sheep grazing is permitted on the Divide Creek 

Allotment (Lease #19660). 

Response 10: Section 3.1 refers to the affected 

environment and, specifically, to current classes 

of livestock on existing leases. The proposed 

action for Divide Creek Allotment #19660 

would include sheep on a renewed lease. The 

allotment was determined to be in conformance 

with standards and guidelines for rangeland 

health and sheep use in this area has 

demonstrated to be an effective tool for 

controlling noxious weeds which are a 

significant factor in maintaining rangeland 

health. Sheep have historically grazed pastures 

for short durations within this allotment which 

include BLM parcels. By oversight, they were 

not included on previous leases. No negative 

impacts related to this use were documented 

during the assessment or the planning process. 

Comment 11: In relation to the proposed turkey 

guzzler on the Black Canyon Allotment (Lease 

#09849). The guzzler is being proposed by the 

lessee primarily for the benefit of elk. However, 

this area is primarily elk winter range and there 

is no desire to enhance the likelihood of having 

a yearlong resident elk herd in this area by 

increasing water availability, if it’s currently 

limited. While the guzzler may increase elk use 

on the BLM parcels in question, it may also 

increase elk use on the adjacent private 

properties. Increased elk use on private land in 

this area is undesirable from MFWP’s point of 

view given the fact that elk are generally 

unavailable to the public for hunting in this 

area, as there is no public access to the BLM 

parcels in question and public access to the 

adjacent private properties for hunting is 

severely limited. If there was public access for 

elk hunting in the area, then MFWP would 

probably be less concerned about the effects of 

the proposed guzzler. 

Response 11: BLM shares MFWP’s goal of 

providing quality public hunting experiences on 

public land within the planning area. Where 

possible, BLM will consider the implications of 

management actions on the availability of 

wildlife for public hunting opportunities. 

However, BLM cannot control the locations of 

guzzlers, food plots and other attractants on 

intermingled deeded lands. The proposed action 

will be modified to reflect consideration of the 

placement of water developments on BLM 

lands. 

Comment 12: MFWP would recommend 

mechanical removal of encroaching Douglas fir 

to maintain the big sagebrush/grassland 

communities in the Divide Creek Allotment 

(#19660) and Smith Creek Allotment (#09698). 

Response 12: Vegetative treatments, including 

prescribed fire and broadcast burning, in 

addition to, mechanical treatments adjacent to 

the project area were recently proposed for 

these allotments in the Mass Geiss 

Environmental Assessment (June 2009). Units 

were principally proposed to utilize prescribed 

fire to burn existing openings and sage brush 

parks to remove encroaching conifers less than 

8” dbh. Although this project was not carried 

forward, BLM would consider future 

mechanical treatments including hand thinning 

or grinding using a rubber tracked Bobcat to 

reduce pine encroachment. 

Comment 13: What sort of compliance 

monitoring will be done by the BLM to ensure 

that permittees use and/or the recognized 

carrying capacity of public land is not being 

exceeded, particularly in situations where the 

type of use is custodial? 

Response 13: 

BLM requires that a minimum of 5% of 

allotments are inspected randomly each year. 

However, compliance inspections are also 

conducted during health assessments, 

monitoring of restoration or prescribed fire 

projects, project planning/implementation and 

collection of actual use data. The Lewistown 

Field Office conducted 76 compliance 

inspections in FY 2010. Estimates of utilization 

Great Falls Area Grazing Lease Renewal EA 144 Chapter 5 
to ensure the recognized carrying capacity is not 

being exceeded are based on BLM Technical 

Reference 4400-3. On custodial allotments that 

would not typically be a high priority for 

intensive monitoring, a combination of use 

pattern mapping, ocular estimates, end-of-season 

stubble heights, browse utilization and informal 

paired plot/grazed class methods may be 

adapted, as needed, on key species within the 

ecological site. 

Comment 14: MFWP encourages the BLM to 

work with it’s lessees to incorporate any pasture 

that has a BLM allotment in it into some sort of 

rotational grazing system to limit the number of 

days of actual use even if the BLM allotment is 

currently meeting BLM’s standards and 

guidelines for rangeland health. 

Response 14: 

Mandatory and other terms and conditions 

of grazing leases proposed in Chapter 2 of 

the PEA are designed to facilitate and 

encourage rotational grazing systems in all 

pastures containing BLM parcels. 

Additional measures requiring 

implementation of grazing systems may also 

be proposed specific to each allotment. 

Comment 15: Comments were submitted to 

BLM regarding the Little Elk Creek Allotment 

#09708 regarding utilization levels, historical 

use, beaver populations related to woody 

regeneration and elk management. 

Response 15: The rangeland health assessment 

data collected in August 2007 reinforces 

comments submitted about historical sheep use 

and other past uses of this allotment. 

In October of 2008, BLM revised the procedures 

for evaluating determinations of rangeland 

health standards. Instructional Memorandum 

2009-007 outlines the process for incorporating 

comments received from lessees, public and 

other governmental agencies, as well as 

integrating new, revised information into 

rangeland health determinations. These 

comments have been included into the health 

evaluation for the Elk Creek Allotment #09708. 

Comment 16: Grazing plans should consider 

the use of adjoining lands so big picture of land 

use benefits the lessee and all other natural 

resource benefits. So always include adjoining 

landowners when considering best options for 

livestock distribution and health of those lands. 

Response 16: The majority of BLM lands 

within this planning unit are intermixed with 

private, state and other federal lands. Proposed 

actions for lease renewals considered grazing 

management of all surrounding lands and 

developed mandatory terms and conditions to 

facilitate grazing rotations and other 

management which is beneficial to all lands 

within a pasture regardless of ownership. 

Proposed actions were intended to avoid altering 

distribution patterns in order to maintain or 

improve BLM parcels at the expense of other 

adjacent, intermixed lands. 

Comment 17: BLM and lessee must work better 

with the county weed districts and the local 

watershed efforts that are fighting weeds from a 

large scale approach. 

Response 17: BLM will maintain existing 

cooperative existing cooperative agreements and 

develop new agreements on allotments where 

weeds have been identified as an issue. 

Cooperative agreements may be expanded, as 

needed, to include multiple allotments over a 

broader scale and could include additional 

cooperators, where needed. BLM will continue 

to provide funding, chemical and biological 

agents to county weed districts, landowners and 

other affected interests, and will continue to 

pursue improved methods of weed control 

within the planning area. 

Comment 18: In some cases, the best tool to 

improve the riparian health is simple off-stream 

water which should be considered when 

evaluating best needs for the land and the lessee. 

Response 18: Where riparian health was not 

meeting standards for rangeland health, a range 

of alternatives was considered in the early 

scoping process including exclosure fencing, 

implementation of grazing rotations, 

Great Falls Area Grazing Lease Renewal EA 145 Chapter 5 
development of new water sources and 

modifications to season of use and livestock 

numbers. Depending on management 

alternatives available, the PEA brought forth the 

the preferred method for improving riparian 

health based on existing water sources, livestock 

distribution, fences and integration of current 

management. 

Great Falls Area Grazing Lease Renewal EA 146 Chapter 5 
 

 

 

 

Appendix A 

Land Use Plan Guidance 

	 Soils: Soils will be managed to maintain productivity and to minimize erosion. (Headwaters Final EIS 1983 

p.12). 

	 Water Resource Management: Water quality will be maintained or improved in accordance with State and 

Federal standards, including consultation with State agencies on proposed projects that may significantly affect 

water quality. Management actions on public land within municipal watersheds will be designed to protect 

water quality and quantity. Management activities in riparian zones will be designed to maintain or, where 

possible, improve riparian habitat condition. (Headwaters Final EIS 1983 p. 12). 

	 Range Program (Headwaters Final EIS p.18-22) : All grazing allotments in the resource area have been 

assigned to one of three management categories based on present resource conditions and the potential for 

improvement. 

Multiple-use management objectives have been developed for each allotment in the I category. 

Future management actions will be tailored to meet those objectives. 

Monitoring will also be used to measure the changes brought about by new livestock management practices 

and to evaluate the effectiveness of management changes in meeting stated objectives. 

Range Improvements and Treatments: The extent, location and timing of such actions will be based on the 

allotment-specific management objectives adopted through the resource management planning process; 

interdisciplinary development and review of proposed actions; operator contributions; and BLM funding 

capability 

Grazing Systems: The type of system to be implemented will be based on consideration of the following 

factors: Allotment specific management objectives; resource characteristics including vegetation potential 

and water availability; operator needs; and implementation costs. 

Unleased Tracts: Unleased tracts generally will remain available for further consideration for authorized 

grazing. However certain tracts not currently authorized for grazing use will remain unleased. 

	 Wildlife and Fisheries Management (Headwaters Final EIS p.23-24): 

Fish and wildlife habitat will continue to be evaluated on a case-by-case basis as a part of project level 

planning. 

Seasonal restrictions will continue to be applied where they are needed to mitigate the impacts of human 

activities on important seasonal wildlife habitat. 

Whenever possible, management activities in habitat for threatened, endangered or sensitive species will be 

designed to benefit those species through habitat improvement. 

Sufficient forage and cover will be provided for wildlife on seasonal habitat. Forage and cover 

requirements will be incorportated into allotment management plans and will be specific to areas of 

primary wildlife use. 

Range improvements generally will be designed to achieve both wildlife and range objectives. 

Great Falls Area Grazing Lease Renewal A-1 Appendix A 
 

 

 

 

 

	 Recreation: Recreation resources will continue to be evaluated on a case-by-case basis as a part of project 

level planning. Such evaluation will consider the significance of the proposed project and sensitivity of 

recreation resources in the affected area. (Headwaters Final EIS p.15) 

	 Visual Resource Management: Visual resources will continue to be evaluated as a part of activity and project 

planning. (Headwaters Final EIS 1983 p.16). 

	 Forest Management: Major forest activity plans generally will be required prior to initiating forest 

management activities in such areas Exceptions will be allowed for small sawlog, or commercial thinning 

sales. Exceptions will also be allowed for post and ple sales sold on a public demand basis and for emergency 

salvage sales of insect, weather, or fire killed timber of less than 250,000 board feet. (Headwaters Final EIS 

p.17). 

	 Lands: Public land within retention areas generally will remain in public ownership and be managed by the 

BLM. Transfers to other public agencies will be considered where improved management efficiency would 

result. Minor adjustments involving sales or exchanges or both may be permitted based on site specific 

application of the land ownership adjustment criteria. (Headwaters Final EIS 1983 p. 14) 

Great Falls Area Grazing Lease Renewal A-2 Appendix A 
 

 

 

 

Appendix B 

Standards for Rangeland Health 

Standards are statements of physical and biological condition or degree of function required for health sustainable 

rangelands. Achieving or making significant and measurable progress towards these functions and conditions is required 

of all uses of public rangelands. Historical data, when available, should be used when assessing progress towards these 

standards. 

Standard #1: Uplands Are In Proper Functioning Condition 

This means that soils are stable and provide for capture, storage and safe release of water appropriate to soil type, climate 

and landform. The amount and distribution of ground cover (i.e., litter, live and standing dead vegetation, microbiotic 

crusts, and rock/gravel) for identified ecological site(s) or soil-plant associations are appropriate for soil stability. 

Evidence of accelerated erosion in the form of rills and/or gullies, erosional pedestals, flow patterns, physical soil 

crusts/surface scaling and compaction layers below the soil surface is minimal. Ecological processes including hydrologic 

cycle, nutrient cycle and energy flow are maintained and support healthy biotic populations. Plants are vigorous, biomass 

production is near potential and there is a diversity of species characteristic of and appropriate to the site. Assessing proper 

functioning conditions will consider use of historical data. 

As indicated by: 

Physical Environment Biotic Environment 

 erosional flow patterns  cover distribution 

 surface litter  community richness 

 soil movement by water and wind  community structure 

 soil crusting and surface sealing  exotic plants 

 compaction layer  plant status 

 rills  seed production 

 gullies  recruitment 

 nutrient cycle 

Standard #2: Riparian and Wetland Areas Are In Proper Functioning Condition 

This means that the functioning condition of riparian-wetland areas is a result of the interaction among geology, soil, water 

and vegetation. 

Riparian-wetland areas are functioning properly when adequate vegetation, landform or large woody debris is present to 

dissipate stream energy associated with high water flows, thereby reducing erosion and improving water quality; filter 

sediment, capture bedload, and aid floodplain development; improve flood water retention and groundwater recharge; 

develop root masses that stabilize streambanks against cutting action; develop diverse ponding and channel characteristics 

to provide the habitat and the water depth, duration, and temperature necessary for native fish production, waterfowl 

breeding, and other uses appropriate for the area that will support greater species richness. 

The riparian-wetland vegetation is a mosaic of species richness and community structure serving to control erosion, shade 

water, provide thermal protection, filter sediment, aid floodplain development, dissipate energy, delay flood water, and 

increase recharge of groundwater where appropriate to landform. 

The stream channels and flood plain dissipate energy of high water flows and transport sediment appropriate for the 

geomorphology (e.g., gradient, size, shape, roughness, confinement, and sinuosity), climate, and landform. 

Great Falls Area Grazing Lease Renewal B-1 Appendix B 
 

 

 

 

 

 

Soils support appropriate riparian-wetland vegetation, allowing water movement, filtering sediment, and slowing ground 

water movement for later release. Stream channels are not entrenching beyond natural climatic variations and water levels 

maintain appropriate riparian-wetland species. 

Riparian areas are defined as land directly influenced by permanent water. It has visible vegetation or physical characteristics 

reflective of permanent water influence. Lake shores and streambanks are typical riparian areas. Excluded are such sites as 

ephemeral streams or washes that do not exhibit the presence of vegetation dependent upon free water in the soil. Assessing 

proper functioning conditions will consider use of historical data. 

As indicated by: 

Hydrologic 

 floodplain inundated in relatively frequent events (1-3 years) 

 amount of altered streambanks 

 sinuosity, width/depth ratio, and gradient are in balance with the landscape setting (i.e., landform, geology, and 

bioclimatic region); and upland watershed not contributing to riparian degradation. 

Erosion/Deposition 

 plain and channel characteristics; i.e., rocks, coarse and/or woody debris adequate to dissipate energy 

 point bars are being created and older point bars are being vegetated 

 lateral stream movement is associated with natural sinuosity 

 system is vertically stable 

 stream is in balance with water and sediment being supplied by the watershed (i.e., no excessive erosion or 

deposition) 

Vegetation 

 reproductive and diverse age class of vegetation 

 diverse composition of vegetation 

 species present indicate maintenance of riparian soil moisture characteristics 

 streambank vegetation is comprised of those plants or plant communities that have deep binding root masses capable 

of withstanding high streamflow events 

 utilization of trees and shrubs 

 riparian plants exhibit high vigor 

 adequate vegetative cover present to protect banks and dissipate energy during high flows 

 where appropriate, plant communities in the riparian area are an adequate source of woody debris 

Standard #3: Water Quality Meets Montana State Standards 

This means that surface and ground water on public lands fully support designated beneficial uses described in the Montana 

Water Quality Standards. Assessing proper functioning conditions will consider use of historical data. 

As indicated by: 

 dissolved oxygen concentration 

 pH 

 turbidity 

 temperature 

 fecal coliform 

 sediment 

 color 

 toxins 

Appendix B B-2 Great Falls Area Grazing Lease Renewal 
 

 

	 others: ammonia, barium, boron, chlorides, chromium, cyanide, endosulfan, lindane, nitrates, phenols, phosphorus, 

sodium, sulfates, etc. 

Standard #4: Air Quality Meets Montana State Standards 

This means that air quality on public lands helps meet the goals set out in the State of Montana Air Quality Implementation 

Plan. Efforts will be made to limit unnecessary emissions from existing and new point or non-point sources. 

The BLM management actions or use authorizations do not contribute to air pollution that violates the quantitative or 

narrative Montana Air Quality Standards or contributes to deterioration of air quality in selected class area. 

As indicated by: 

Section 176(c) Clean Air Act which states that activities of all federal agencies must conform to the intent of the appropriate 

State Air Quality Implementation Plan and not: 

	 cause or contribute to any violations of ambient air quality standards 

	 increase the frequency of any existing violations 

	 impede the State’s progress in meeting their air quality goals 

Standard #5: Habitats are provided to maintain healthy, productive and diverse populations of 

native plant and animal species, including special status species (federally threatened, endangered, 

candidate or Montana species of special concern as defined in BLM Manual 6840, Special Status 

Species Management) 

This means that native plant and animal communities will be maintained or improved to ensure the proper functioning of 

ecological processes and continued productivity and diversity of native plant lifeforms. Where native communities exist, the 

conversion to exotic communities after disturbance will be minimized. Management for indigenous vegetation and animals 

is a priority. Ecological processes including hydrologic cycle, and energy flow, and plant succession are maintained and 

support healthy biotic populations. Plants are vigorous, biomass production is near potential, and there is a diversity of plant 

and animal species characteristic of and appropriate to the site. The environment contains components necessary to support 

viable populations of a sensitive/threatened and endangered species in a given area relative to site potential. Viable 

populations are wildlife or plant populations that contain an adequate number of reproductive individuals distributed on the 

landscape to ensure the long-term existence of the species. Assessing proper functioning conditions will consider use of 

historical data. 

As indicated by: 

	 plants and animals are diverse, vigorous and reproducing satisfactorily noxious weeds are absent or insignificant in 

the overall plant community 

	 spatial distribution of species is suitable to ensure reproductive capability and recovery 

	 a variety of age classes are present 

	 connectivity of habitat or presence of corridors prevents habitat fragmentation 

	 species richness (including plants, animals, insects and microbes) are represented 

	 plant communities in a variety of successional stages are represented across the landscape. 

Great Falls Area Grazing Lease Renewal B-3 Appendix B 
Appendix B B-4 Great Falls Area Grazing Lease Renewal 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Appendix C 

Guidelines for Livestock Grazing Management 

Guidelines for management of herbivory (including domestic animals and wildlife) are preferred or advisable 

approaches to ensure that standards can be met or that significant progress can be made toward meeting the 

standard(s). Responsible state and Federal wildlife agencies must be involved in this management if standards are to 

be achieved. 

Guidelines are provided to maintain or improve resource conditions in upland and riparian habitats. In both riparian 

and upland habitats, these guidelines focus on establishing and maintaining proper functioning conditions. The 

application of these guidelines is dependent on individual management objectives. Desired future conditions in 

plant communities and streambank characteristics will be determined on a case-by-case basis. 

Lewistown GUIDELINE #1: 

Grazing will be managed in a manner that will maintain the proper balance between soils, water, and vegetation over 

time. This balance varies with location and management objectives, historic use, and natural fluctuations, but 

acceptable levels of use can be developed that are compatible with resource objectives. 

Lewistown GUIDELINE #2: 

Manage grazing to maintain watershed vegetation, species richness, and flood plain function. Maintain riparian 

vegetative cover and structure to trap and hold sediments during run-off events to build streambanks, recharge 

aquifers, and dissipate flood energy. Grazing management should promote deep-rooted herbaceous vegetation to 

enhance streambank stability. Where non-native species are contributing to proper functioning conditions, they are 

acceptable. Where potential for palatable woody shrub species (willows, dogwood, etc.) exists, promote their 

growth and expansion within riparian zones. 

Lewistown GUIDELINE #3: 

Pastures and allotments will be managed based on their sensitivity and suitability for livestock grazing. Where 

determinations have not been previously documented, suitability for grazing will be determined by: topography, 

slope, distance from water, vegetation habitat types, and soil types must be considered when determining grazing 

suitability. Unsuitable areas should be excluded from grazing. 

Lewistown GUIDELINE #4: 

Management strategies for livestock grazing will ensure that long-term resource capabilities can be sustained. End 

of season stubble heights, streambank moisture content, and utilization of herbaceous and woody vegetation are 

critical factors which must be evaluated in any grazing strategy. These considerations are essential to achieving 

long-term vegetation or stream channel objectives and should be identified on a site-specific basis and used as terms 

and conditions. 

Lewistown GUIDELINE #5: 

Grazing will be managed to promote desired plants and plant communities of various age classes, based on the rate 

and physiological conditions of plant growth. Management approaches will be identified on a site-specific basis and 

implemented through terms and conditions. Caution should be used to avoid early spring grazing use when soils and 

streambanks are wet and susceptible to compaction and physical damage that occurs with animal trampling. 

Likewise, late summer and fall treatments in woody shrub communities should be monitored closely to avoid 

excessive utilization. 

Lewistown GUIDELINE #6: 

The development of springs and seeps or other projects affecting water and associated resources shall be designed to 

protect the ecological functions and processes of those sites. 

Great Fall Area Grazing Lease Renewal C-1 Appendix C 
 

 

 

 

 

 

Lewistown GUIDELINE #7: 

Locate facilities (e.g., corrals, water developments) away from riparian-wetland areas. 

Lewistown GUIDELINE #8: 

When provided, supplemental salt and minerals should not be placed adjacent to watering locations or in 

riparian-wetland areas so not to adversely impact streambank stability, riparian vegetation, water quality, or 

other sensitive areas (i.e., key wildlife wintering areas). Salt and minerals should be placed in upland sites 

to draw livestock away from watering areas or other sensitive areas and to contribute to more uniform 

grazing distribution. 

Lewistown GUIDELINE #9: 

Noxious weed control is essential and should include: cooperative agreements, public education, and 

integrated pest management (mechanical, biological, chemical). 

Lewistown GUIDELINE #10: 

Livestock management should utilize practices such as those referenced by the NRCS published prescribed 

grazing technical guide to maintain, restore or enhance water quality. 

Lewistown GUIDELINE #11: 

Grazing management should maintain or improve habitat for federally listed threatened, endangered, and 

sensitive plant and animals. 

Lewistown GUIDELINE #12: 

Grazing management should maintain or promote the physical and biological conditions to sustain native 

populations and communities. 

Lewistown GUIDELINE #13: 

Grazing management should give priority to native species. Non-native plant species should only be used 

in those situations where native seed is not readily available in sufficient quantities, where native plant 

species cannot maintain or achieve the standards, or where non-native plant species provide an alternative 

for the management and protection of native rangelands. 

Lewistown GUIDELINE #14: 

Allotment monitoring determines how on-going management practices are affecting the rangeland. To do 

so, the evaluations should be based on: measurable management objectives; permanent and/or repeatable 

monitoring locations; and short-term and long-term data. 

Appendix C C-2 Great Falls Area Grazing Lease Renewal 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Appendix D 

Drought Policy 

Bureau of Land Management 

Policy for Administering Public Land Grazing 

In 

Montana, North and South Dakota 

During Periods of Drought
 

Introduction 

Livestock grazing is but one of the activities that BLM manages on the public lands. Drought stresses all resources: 

vegetation, wildlife, soils, watershed, and timber as well as livestock. Unfortunately, only livestock and human 

activity can be readily controlled or restricted from access to public lands. The other resources are either immobile 

or not readily controlled. This policy deals with livestock use and implements provisions of existing laws and 

regulations. Other uses that may require special consideration during severe drought may be addressed in separate 

policy statements or actions. 

Vegetation cover is one part of productive rangelands because it strongly affects soil moisture. When drought 

reduces the total forage produced and the normal residual vegetation (standing and down plant material) is used by 

livestock, insects, and other grazing animals; soil moisture and temperature are affected. Soil temperatures are 

lowered by the residual cover during warm periods and are raised by the residual cover during cold periods. 

Moisture intake and penetration into soils is keyed to the amount and type of residual cover found on a 

soil/ecological site. In fact, with little or no residual cover on rangelands, moisture events will likely produce little 

effective penetration into the soil. Residual cover provides protection for soils, vegetation, wildlife, watersheds, and 

for the many other resources dependent upon good vegetation and livestock management. 

Authority 

This document implements provisions of: 

- Taylor Grazing Act of June 28, 1934, as amended; 

- Federal Land Policy and Management Act of 1976, as amended; 

- Public Rangelands Improvement Act of 1978; 

- Regulations in 43 code of Federal Regulations, Group 4100(43 CFR 4100). 

Policy 

It is the policy and objective of the BLM to: manage the public lands and authorize livestock grazing under the 

principles of multiple use and sustained yield; provide for the orderly administration of grazing by domestic 

livestock on the public lands; and provide for the conservation and protection of soil and vegetation resources. 

Accomplishment of these objectives becomes more difficult during periods of range depletion caused by drought. 

Normal grazing schedules and livestock management practices may have to be modified. Additional coordination, 

consultation, and data exchange between livestock operators and Bureau personnel will be required, over and above 

Great Falls Area Grazing Lease Renewal D-1 Appendix D 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

that level normally practiced. Appropriate state agencies and other interested parties will have to be involved at 

appropriate times and kept informed at all time. 

The principal thrust of the policy and procedures in this document, and other regulatory and procedural requirements 

not repeated here, will be for the livestock operator and BLM to jointly develop strategies for livestock use on public 

land during and following drought. Strategies selected should be those that best protect rangeland resources while 

minimizing impacts on the operator to the extent possible. To that end, every degree of flexibility provided by the 

laws and implementing regulations will be available to authorized officers of the Bureau. 

Voluntary adjustments in livestock use of public lands should be sought at the earliest date it becomes apparent that 

"normal” grazing schedules cannot be followed; or, if followed, would result in degradation of long-term resource 

productivity. The earlier an agreement can be reached or a decision is made that "normal” grazing schedules cannot 

be followed; the more opportunities livestock operators will have to consider alternatives to minimize impacts on his 

or her operation. Waiting until the last minute before scheduled turnout to make a determination or decision will 

reduce the options available to both the operator and the Bureau. 

In keeping with established Bureau policies and priorities, efforts to manage public rangeland under drought 

conditions will be directed first to allotments with resource concerns such as "I” category allotments. Specific 

allotments in the "M” and "C” categories can also be considered high priority when resource values or conditions so 

require. Regardless of the category assigned to an allotment, operators should be aware of the procedures and 

flexibilities available for dealing with drought condition. 

BLM fully expects that the vast majority of livestock operators will recognize the need for and voluntarily make 

adjustments in livestock use of public lands if the extended drought continues. These adjustments will be 

recognized during the permitting process and grazing bills will be adjusted accordingly. In those situations where 

agreement cannot be reached, authorized officers of the Bureau have the final responsibility and accountability for 

ensuring that public lands are not permanently damaged by improper use. 

If issuance of a decision concerning livestock use becomes necessary, the procedure specified in 43 CFR 4160 will 

be followed. Briefly, this procedure calls for a proposed decision, setting forth the proposed action. 

Proposed decisions are issued by the Field Office Manager. The permittee then has 15 days in which to protest the 

proposed decision and set forth reasons why he or she believes the proposed decision is in error. The authorized 

officer then reviews the proposed decision in light of the protestant's statement of reasons and any other information 

that may bear on the case. At the conclusion of the review, a final decision is prepared and served on appropriate 

parties. Any person whose interest is adversely affected by a final decision may appeal the decision for the purpose 

of a hearing before an Administrative Law Judge. 

It should be further understood that final decisions can be modified or rescinded, if the conditions that existed when 

the decision was issued no longer exist. If significant amounts of precipitation occur during the growing season, 

producing significant changes in the amount of moisture available to plants, this may cause decisions to be 

reconsidered. The consultation and coordination process will be used to obtain livestock operator involvement in 

such cases. 

If a proposed decision is not protested, during the 15-day period, it becomes the final decision of the authorized 

officer without further action. 

In cases such as the need for temporary changes caused by conditions such as drought, final decisions may become 

effective upon issuance (43 CFR 4160.3(f) 4110.3-2(a)). 

Procedures 

The following guidelines and procedures are intended to provide the data, flexibility and direction for public land 

managers and livestock operators to develop strategies and make decisions during drought conditions. Consultation 

and coordination with livestock operators and other interested parties will be carried out during all procedural steps. 

Appendix D D-2 Great Falls Area Grazing Lease Renewal 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

I. Winter Assessment (Mid-November - January) 

A. Analysis 

1. Review past season's monitoring results. Analyze plant growth, actual use, occurrence of insect infestations, and 

especially the use of "rest” pastures. 

2. Analyze precipitation records and distribution patterns from the National Weather Service, local cooperators, 

BLM, and other agencies. Tabulate moisture departures from normal levels and timing of precipitation in relation to 

past years' growing season. 

3. In "I” allotments where there is concern because there is less residual cover, effective precipitation well below 

normal, rest pastures already used, etc., measure soil moisture in representative areas. Where available, use 

RAWS/OMNI sites, existing soil moisture stations, etc. Additional soil moisture samples are to be taken at the 

rooting depth of major forage species in representative areas using techniques found in agency manuals/handbooks 

and professional literature and experienced personnel. 

B. Action 

1. Where it is apparent resource degradation might occur if drought continues, begin to notify operators through 

letters and news releases that the coming year's livestock grazing might be affected. 

2. Set up range user meetings in affected communities to discuss available information and possible actions to 

prevent range resource damage. 

3. Encourage operators to make needed changes in their grazing schedules, including applying for non-use. If nonuse is taken then activated, BLM will waive the $10 service fee in accordance with 43 CFR 4130.8.3. Authorized 

officers may issue refund or credit of grazing fees under 43 CFR 4130.8-2(b). 

4. Meet with individual operators when available information indicates a particular allotment is affected by severe 

drought condition. Attempt to reach agreement on alternative grazing strategies if conditions do not change. 

II. Late Winter and Spring Assessment (February - April) 

A. Analysis 

1. Review precipitation and soil moisture data for winter and early spring. 

2. Review the effects of winter grazing use; snow pack influence for stock water, soil temperatures, etc3. Continue soil moisture measurements where problems are apparent or in areas of concern. Measurements at 

rooting depth to measure available water for plants will be especially important during this period. 

4. Assess availability of livestock water, in consultation with permittees. 

B. Action 

1. If drought conditions are continuing, or becoming more severe, follow up winter letters and news releases with 

more releases and letters that update the situation. Conduct meetings with Grazing and District Advisory Boards. 

Meetings are encouraged with other concerned individuals and agencies as a part of the grazing management 

strategy. 

2. Contact remaining operators who have not voluntarily made needed changes. Where you believe you have 

enough information to indicate an allotment is in severe drought condition, meet with the operator to review and 

explain the information you have and attempt to reach agreement on a grazing strategy. If an agreement cannot be 

reached and, especially if the allotment has a relatively early turnout date, issue a proposed decision. The extent of 

Great Falls Area Grazing Lease Renewal D-3 Appendix D 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

use adjustment contained in this decision (delayed turnout, reduction in numbers or duration, total exclusion, etc.) 

will depend on your assessment of all the factors involved. These include past grazing use, range condition, residual 

cover, precipitation, soil moisture and the land use objectives for the allotment. 

3. If soil moisture is below the middle line on Figure 1, delay turnout until key forage plants have grown to 

approximately one-half their normal height (for most of our native grass species about 6 inches). 

III. Continuing Assessment (throughout grazing season) 

A. Analysis 

1. Continue to closely monitor precipitation in "I” allotments and areas of concern. Attention is directed to 

determining effective (soil moisture) growing season precipitation. 

2. Closely monitor utilization of key plant species and key areas. Remember to consider management objectives 

when selecting key species and areas. 

3. Continue to measure soil moisture in "I” allotments and areas of concern. 

4. Monitor factors other than livestock grazing, such as insect infestations, congregations of wildlife, availability of 

livestock water, etc. 

B. Action 

1. If soil moisture drops below the middle line on Figure 1 and utilization has reached objective levels or a 

maximum of 30 percent utilization has occurred, livestock are to be removed. 

2. If soil moisture remains unacceptable (below the bottom line in Figure 1) during most of the spring and early 

summer with little or no growth in primary forage species for livestock (i.e., range readiness has not been reached), 

advise affected permittees that fall and winter ranges may not be available for use during the current year. Also 

advise that production in subsequent years may be affected if plant basal areas and density have been severely 

reduced. 

3. For those permittees in "I”, allotments with AMPs having available standing forage in rest pastures or fall or 

winter use pastures, advise the permittees that livestock must be removed from public lands; when consumption of 

standing forage has reached objective levels or a maximum of 50 percent. 

4. Adjust monitoring plans to collect data concerning plant death, loss of basal area, density, and yield for analysis 

and use in later years. 

IV. Other Considerations 

1. The use of salt, mineral, and certain mineral supplements as necessary to overcome natural shortages of minerals 

in rangeland forage may be authorized as necessary to provide for proper range management(4130.3-2(c)). 

2. Maintenance feeding on public lands is not authorized except under very unusual short-term conditions and by 

permit only. Maintenance feeding during drought conditions is specifically excluded. 

3. Applications for a maintenance feeding permit due to poor forage conditions associated with drought should be 

denied and livestock removed or not allowed. 

Definitions 

Available water. That portion of water in a soil that plants can extract from the soil. Generally measured per unit 

volume of soil. 

Appendix D D-4 Great Falls Area Grazing Lease Renewal 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Basal area (range). The area of ground surface covered by the stem or stems of a range plant, usually measured 1 

inch above the soil in contrast to the full spread of the foliage. 

Density. (1) The number of individual plants per unit area; (2)Refers to the relative closeness of plants to one 

another. 

Flexibility. The ability to alter the grazing management plan to meet changing conditions. 

Flushing. Feeding female animals a concentrated feed shortly before and during the breeding period for the purpose 

of stimulating ovulation. 

Growing season. In temperate climates, that portion of the year when temperature and moisture are usually most 

favorable for plant growth. 

Key species. (1) Forage species whose use serves as our indicator to the use of associated species; (2) Those species 

which must, because of their importance, be considered in the management program. 

Maintenance feeding. Supplying feed to range animals when available forage is too limited to meet their minimum 

daily requirement (examples are cubes, pellets, baled or loose hay). 

Phenology. The study of periodic biological phenomenon such as flowering, seeding, etc., especially as related to 

climate. 

Range readiness. The defined stage of plant growth at which grazing may begin under a specific management plan 

without permanent damage to vegetation or soil. 

Supplemental feed. A feed which supplements the forage available from the public lands and is provided to improve 

livestock nutrition and good animal husbandry and rangeland management practices. An example is salt or mineral 

block. Creep feeders to supplement feed for calves and supplemental feeding to "flush” cattle and sheep for 

breeding may be authorized on public lands when compatible with the resource management objectives. 

Great Falls Area Grazing Lease Renewal D-5 Appendix D 
 

 

 

 

 

 

When using Figure 1, the following information should be kept in mind. 

a. Soil moisture is measured the depth of plant roots or to a root limiting layer. It will vary by plant(s) and soil type. 

b. Soluble salts, gravel and heavy clay will decrease plant available water capacity. 

c. Organic matter, good soil structure will increase plant available water capacity (The capacity increases about 1 

percent for each 1 percent of organic matter). 

d. Soils with water restricting layers like naturally compact subsoil, shallow bedrock or stratification can increase 

plant available water capacity of the overlying soil layers. 

e. Soils that are deep, medium textured and uniform can have decreased plant available water but allow for deeper 

rooting. 

Figure 1 was developed from research done in the 1980s in northern and eastern Montana. Published research was 

reviewed by soil scientists, range scientists and plant physiologists. These data are currently found in USDA, NRCS 

soil survey manuals, engineering manuals, irrigation guides, ARS and University research. It is tested and well 

accepted information. 

The lines on the graph represent the relationship of various soil texture and soil water available to plants common to 

the Northern Gt. Plains and nearby Rocky Mountains. 

For site specific application the lines should be adjusted to reflect the needs of key forage species on a given soil in 

area of interest. For example, a western wheat plant is capable of extracting more soil moisture from a silty clay soil 

than is a bluegrass plant. 

The area above the top line is the amount of soil water in excess of what a given soil type can hold. This soil water 

will likely move down, through and 

out of the soil root zone and possibly become ground water. 

The area between the middle and top lines represents the soil moisture contents which most plants need for normal 

growth. 

The area below the bottom line indicates soil moisture that is not available to the plant; e.g., if there is less than 4 

percent moisture in a loamy sand soil within the root depth of the plant, it will not grow. 

The area between the bottom and middle lines indicates a moisture level that is marginal to plant growth. The plant 

is becoming stressed at this point and, if further stressed by removal or damage to the top growth, it will begin to 

lose vigor, roots and thus its ability to grow. It is not unusual to reach this moisture level during late summer in 

much of Montana and other semi-arid areas. 

Appendix D D-6 Great Falls Area Grazing Lease Renewal 
Appendix E 

Executive Summary for Rangeland Health Determinations 

Allotment Name 

Allotment 

No. 

Standard 1 

(Uplands) 

Standard 2 

(Riparian) 

Standard 3 

(Water Qlt) 

Standard 5 

(Biodiversity) 

Cause 

(by Standa

CASCADE COUNTY (35) BELT CREEK 09710 Not Meeting n/a n/a Not Meeting Due to past logging practices/non-

BIG EDDY 06332 Meeting n/a n/a Meeting 

BIRD CREEK (Lower) 11190 Meeting n/a n/a Meeting 

BIRD CREEK (Upper) 09812 Meeting n/a n/a Meeting 

BLACK BUTTE 09723 Not Meeting n/a n/a Not Meeting Due to past logging practices/non-BLACKFEET GULCH (Portage) 06329 Meeting n/a n/a Meeting 

CALVERT 01166 Not Meeting n/a n/a Not Meeting Livestock is considered to be a sigDEVIL CANYON 09709 Meeting n/a n/a Meeting 

FORD COULEE 07831 Meeting Meeting Meeting Meeting HARDY 06336 Not Meeting n/a n/a Not Meeting Significant progress is being made 

HARDY CREEK 06334 Meeting n/a n/a Meeting 

HOUND 09747 Meeting n/a n/a Meeting 

LOWER FLAT CREEK 06331 Meeting n/a n/a Meeting 

LOWER SAND COULEE 09836 Meeting n/a n/a Meeting MIDDLE CREEK 09704 Meeting n/a n/a Meeting 

MING COULEE 09715 Meeting n/a n/a Meeting 

MONARCH 09722 Meeting n/a Meeting Meeting N. ANTELOPE MTN. 06338 Meeting n/a n/a Meeting 

NORTH FORK SHEEP CR 09726 Meeting Meeting Meeting Meeting PAUL CREEK 07618 Meeting Meeting Meeting Meeting 

RIVER TRACT 09691 Not Meeting Not Meeting Not Meeting Not Meeting Livestock is considered to be a sig

RYAN COULEE 06330 Meeting Meeting Meeting Meeting 

SAND COULEE 09820 Meeting n/a n/a Meeting 

SIMMS CREEK 06328 Not Meeting n/a n/a Not Meeting Livestock is considered to be a sig

SOUTH CANAL DITCH 06326 Not Meeting Not Meeting Not Meeting Not Meeting Livestock is considered to be a sig

SOUTH FORK SHEEP CR 09655 Meeting Meeting Meeting Meeting 

SUGARLOAF 11186 Meeting n/a n/a Meeting 

SUN RIVER DITCH 06327 Not Meeting n/a n/a Not Meeting Due to agricultural trespass 

Great Falls Area Grazing Lease Renewal E-1 
Allotment Name 

Allotment 

No. 

Standard 1 

(Uplands) 

Standard 2 

(Riparian) 

Standard 3 

(Water Qlt) 

Standard 5 

(Biodiversity) 

Cause 

(by Standa

TIGER BUTTE 07832 Meeting n/a n/a Meeting 

TINTINGER SLOUGH 06337 Not Meeting Meeting Meeting Not Meeting Due to the presence of naturalized 

TOMS GULCH 07762 Meeting n/a n/a Meeting 

WATER TANK SMITH R. 09806 Meeting n/a n/a Meeting 

UPPER PASTURE 02558 Meeting n/a n/a Meeting 

WEST FORK HOUND CR 09780 Meeting n/a n/a Meeting 

WILLOW CREEK (Yendrick) 07775 Not Meeting n/a n/a Not Meeting Due to the presence of naturalized WINDY HOLLOW 09818 Not Meeting Not Meeting Not Meeting Not Meeting Livestock is considered to be a sigLEWIS AND CLARK CO. (16) ALKALI FLAT (East) 07615 Meeting Meeting Meeting Meeting ALKALI FLAT (West) 06295 Meeting n/a n/a Meeting 

BEAN LAKE 07605 Meeting Meeting Meeting Meeting 

BEDROCK CREEK 06347 Not Meeting Not Meeting Not meeting Not Meeting Livestock is considered to be a sig

BLACK REEF 07609 Meeting Meeting Meeting Meeting 

COTTONWOOD CREEK 07716 Meeting n/a n/a Meeting 

DEARBORN RIVER 07606 undetermined undetermined undetermined undetermined FLORENCE CANAL 07614 Meeting n/a n/a Meeting 

MIDDLE FORK 07604 Meeting Meeting Meeting Meeting 

MIDDLE FORK DEARBORN 07603 Not Meeting n/a n/a Not Meeting Due to past logging practices RIVER BLM 06325 Meeting n/a n/a Meeting 

ROOST HILL 07607 Meeting Meeting Meeting Meeting 

SOUTH FORK 06443 Meeting Meeting Meeting Meeting 

WILLOW CR. PASTURE 06314 Meeting n/a n/a Meeting 

WILLOW CREEK 07608 Meeting n/a n/a Meeting 

WILLOW CREEK CANAL 07612 Meeting Meeting Meeting Meeting 

MEAGHER COUNTY (25) BERG LEASE 07601 Not Meeting Not Meeting Not Meeting Not Meeting Livestock is considered to be a sig

BATTLE CREEK 09814 Meeting Meeting Meeting Meeting 

BLACK CANYON 09849 Meeting n/a n/a Meeting 

COYOTE CREEK 09663 Not Meeting n/a n/a Not Meeting Livestock is considered to be a sig

CROOKED CREEK 09688 Meeting n/a n/a Meeting 

DAISY DEAN CREEK 09675 Not Meeting Not Meeting Not Meeting Not Meeting Livestock is considered to be a sig

 Great Falls Area Grazing Lease Renewal E-2 
Allotment Name 

Allotment 

No. 

Standard 1 

(Uplands) 

Standard 2 

(Riparian) 

Standard 3 

(Water Qlt) 

Standard 5 

(Biodiversity) 

Cause 

(by Standa

DEER CREEK 09728 Meeting n/a n/a Meeting 

DIVIDE CREEK 19660 Meeting Meeting Meeting Not Meeting Due to the presence of spotted kna

DRY BEAVER CREEK 06294 Meeting n/a n/a Meeting 

DRY HILLS 09743 Not Meeting n/a n/a Not Meeting Livestock is considered to be a sig

EAGLE CREEK 09672 Meeting Meeting Meeting Meeting 

EAST LOCO CR. 07611 Meeting Meeting Meeting Meeting 

ELK CREEK 09800 Meeting Meeting Meeting Meeting 

GIPSY CREEK 09671 Meeting n/a n/a Meeting 

HOLLIDAY L&L IND 09735 Meeting n/a n/a Meeting 

INDIAN CREEK 07617 Meeting n/a n/a Meeting 

LITTLE ELK CREEK 09708 Meeting Meeting Meeting Meeting LITTLE SULPHUR CREEK 09732 Meeting n/a n/a Meeting 

LOWER SPRING CR AMP 09673 Meeting n/a n/a Meeting 

N FORK MUSSELSHELL 09674 Meeting n/a n/a Meeting 

RHYNARD IND 09801 Not Meeting n/a n/a Not Meeting Due to the presence of sp

SIXTEEN 09690 Not Meeting n/a n/a Not Meeting Livestock is considered to bSMITH CREEK 09698 Meeting Meeting Meeting Meeting 

SPRING CREEK PASTURE 09758 Meeting n/a n/a Meeting 

WEST FORK MUD CREEK 09697 Meeting n/a n/a Meeting 

PONDERA COUNTY (5) E. BIRCH CREEK 06322 Meeting Not Meeting Meeting Not Meeting Due to the presence of sp

HOMESITE 06324 Not Meeting Not Meeting Meeting Not Meeting spotted knapweed and cur

SWIFT DAM 06321 Meeting n/a n/a Meeting 

WADDEL LAKES 06320 Not Meeting Not Meeting Meeting Not Meeting Due to the presence of spWEST BIRCH CREEK 06323 Meeting Not Meeting Meeting Not Meeting Due to the presence of sp

POWELL COUNTY (1) DOG CREEK 07825 Meeting Meeting Meeting

 Meeting

 Powell Co.- Managed by Lew.FO fo

TETON COUNTY (19) BATTLE CREEK (ONA) 06307 Meeting Meeting Meeeting Meeting 

BLACK COULEE 06313 Meeting n/a n/a Meeting 

BLACKFEET GULCH 06335 Meeting n/a n/a Meeting

 Great Falls Area Grazing Lease Renewal E-3 
Allotment Name 

Allotment 

No. 

Standard 1 

(Uplands) 

Standard 2 

(Riparian) 

Standard 3 

(Water Qlt) 

Standard 5 

(Biodiversity) 

Cause 

(by Standa

CASTLE REEF 07613 Meeting n/a n/a Meeting 

CHICKEN COULEE 06303 Meeting Meeting Meeting Meeting 

CHOTEAU MTN 06304 Meeting n/a n/a Meeting 

COWTRACK 06306 Meeting n/a n/a Meeting 

DEEP CREEK 06310 Meeting Meeting Meeting Meeting 

E FARMERS RESEVOIR 06316 Meeting n/a n/a Meeting 

EAR MOUNTAIN INDIV. 09835 Meeting n/a n/a Meeting FREEZEOUT WEST 06317 Meeting n/a n/a Meeting 

GREEN TIMBER GULCH 06308 Meeting Meeting Meeting Meeting 

INDIAN HEAD ROCK 07659 Meeting Meeting Meeting Meeting PISHKUN RESERVOIR 06315 Meeting n/a n/a Meeting 

PISHKUN 06311 Meeting n/a n/a Meeting 

SALMOND RANCH CO. 06342 Meeting Meeting Meeting Meeting THE FLAT 06319 Not Meeting n/a n/a Not Meeting Livestock is considered to be a signif

TUNNEL LAKE 06312 Meeting Meeting Meeting Meeting

 Great Falls Area Grazing Lease Renewal E-4 
Appendix F

Upland Health Assessments and Monitoring Schedule

Allotment Name 

Allotment 

Number 

Ecol. Site Index 

Score/seral stage Trend 

Range Health Indicators 

(departure from expected for the 

site) Transect UTM Coordinates 

ALKALI FLAT (East) 07615 Undet. 5 Upward none-slight Z12 E0385185 N5271693 

35 mid seral 4 Upward none-slight Z12 E0384756 N5277338 

ALKALI FLAT (West) 06295 78 PNC 8 Upward none-slight Z12 E0373902 N5274511 

Undet. Undet. none-slight Z12 E0375877 N5274025 

68 late seral 10 Upward none-slight Z12 E0377397 N5274605 

BATTLE CREEK 06307 79 PNC 8 Upward none-slight Z12 E0374214 N5285087 

85 PNC 2 Upward none-slight Z12 E0374911 N5285320 

BATTLE CREEK 09814 60 late seral 7 Upward none-slight Z12 E0504112 N5128374 BEAN LAKE 07605 Undet. Undet. Undet. Z12 E0388710 N5238720 

Undet. 5 Upward none-slight Z12 E0384169 N5238645 Undet. Undet. Undet. Z12 E0385277 N5242978 

BEDROCK CREEK 06347 Undet. 2 Downward none-moderate Z12 E0396542 N5225301 

BELT CREEK 09710 Undet. 5 Upward none-slight Z12 E0505994 N5220766 

BERG LEASE 07601 97 PNC 5 Upward none-moderate Z12 E0544122 N5142639 

BIG EDDY 06332 47 mid seral 2 Downward none-slight Z12 E0495622 N5273115 

BIRD CREEK (Lower) 11190 50 late seral 8 Upward none-slight Z12 E0453508 N5237067 

BIRD CREEK (Upper) 09812 85 PNC 7 Upward none-moderate Z12 E0453585 N5218011 

BLACK BUTTE 09723 31 mid seral 5 Upward none- moderate Z12 E0485342 N5218914 

Undet. 2 Upward none- moderate Z12 E0486369 N5219630 

BLACK CANYON 09849 Undet. Undet. none-slight Z12 E0000000 N0000000 

BLACK COULEE 06313 72 PNC 6 Upward none-slight Z12 E0382520 N5278043 BLACK REEF 07609 98 PNC 5 Upward none-slight Z12 E0380202 N5275632 

38 mid seral 5 Upward none-slight Z12 E0387995 N5268104 

BLACKFEET GULCH 06329 55 late seral 5 Upward none-slight Z12 E0496784 N5275346 

BLACKFEET GULCH 06335 Undet. 10 Upward none-slight Z12 E0376801 N5302675 CALVERT 01166 32 mid seral 5 Upward none- moderate Z12 E0491424 N5221299 

CASTLE REEF 07613 60 late seral 5 Upward none-slight Z12 E0373946 N5277519 CHICKEN COULEE 06303 84 PNC 9 Upward none-slight Z12 E0374328 N5310790 

CHOTEAU MTN 06304 Undet. Undet. Undet. Z12 E0375055 N5300753 

COTTONWOOD CREEK 07716 Undet. 7 Upward none-slight Z12 E0438150 N5204652 COWTRACT 06306 82 PNC 8 Upward none-slight Z12 E0374303 N5305776 

COYOTE CREEK 09663 27 mid seral 3 Upward none- moderate Z12 E0536400 N5148429 

CROOKED CREEK 09688 Undet. 6 Upward none- moderate Z12 E0459456 N5200818 DAISY DEAN CREEK 09675 Undet. Undet. Undet. no upland inventory DEEP CREEK 06310 Undet. Undet. Undet. Z12 E0373776 N5291392 

90 PNC 7 Upward none-slight Z12 E0375028 N5287951 

DEER CREEK 09728 80 PNC 6 Upward none- moderate Z12 E0532910 N5137998 DEVIL CANYON 09709 43 mid seral 4 Upward none-slight Z12 E0490797 N5216479 

DIVIDE CREEK 19660 Undet. 5 Upward none- moderate Z12 E0528684 N517519 

68 late seral 3 Upward none- moderate Z12 E0528049 N5168608 

74 late seral 2 Upward none- moderate Z12 E0526598 N5169048 

Undet. 8 Upward none-slight Z12 E0527937 N5169911 

Great Falls Area Grazing Lease Renewal F-1 
Allotment Name 

Allotment 

Number 

Ecol. Site Index 

Score/seral stage Trend 

Range Health Indicators 

(departure from expected for the 

site) Transect UTM Coordinates 

73 late seral 3 Upward none-slight Z12 E0531312 N5167774 

Undet. 4 Upward none- moderate Z12 E0530642 N5169534 

81 PNC 2 Upward slight - moderate Z12 E0527821 N5172500 

Undet. Undet. none-slight Z12 E0528087 N5170927 

DOG CREEK 07825 Undet. Undet. Undet. no upland inventory 

DRY BEAVER CREEK 06294 Undet. 5 Upward none-slight Z12 E0473445 N5178899 DRY HILLS 09743 43 mid seral 3 Upward none- moderate Z12 E0484937 N5182465 

55 mid seral 0 Static none- moderate Z12 E0484258 N5181723 

E FARMERS RESEVOIR 06316 63 late seral 10 Upward none-slight Z12 E0400495 N5308176 E. BIRCH CREEK 06322 70 late seral 8 Upward none-moderate Z12 E0000000 N0000000 

89 PNC 7 Upward none-moderate Z12 E0000000 N0000000 

EAGLE CREEK 09672 Undet. 4 Upward none- moderate Z12 E0493560 N519062 

Undet. 4 Upward none-slight Z12 E0493039 N5187961 

Undet. 5 Upward none-slight Z12 E0494258 N5187409 

EAR MOUNTAIN INDIV. 09835 87 PNC 10 Upward none-slight Z12 E0374883 N5301658 EAST LOCO CR. 07611 Undet. 8 Upward none- moderate Z12 E0548623 N5126366 ELK CREEK 09800 71 late seral 0 Static none- moderate Z12 E0479541 N5165424 

75 PNC 7 Upward none-slight Z12 E0478094 N5164429 

FLORENCE CANAL 07614 50 late seral 2 Upward none- moderate Z12 E0403725 N5255598 FORD COULEE 07831 75 PNC 8 Upward none-slight Z12 E0510226 N5229582 

62 late seral 8 Upward none-slight Z12 E0511213 N5231517 

FREEZEOUT WEST 06317 31 mid seral 1 Upward none- moderate Z12 E0418728 N5278493 

GIPSY CREEK 09671 46 mid seral 7 Upward none-slight Z12 E0486980 N5152277 

GREEN TIMBER GULCH 06308 60 late seral 1 Upward none- moderate Z12 E0373371 N5280122 

65 late seral 10 Upward none-slight Z12 E0373920 N5281833 

HARDY 06336 44 mid seral 2 Upward none- moderate Z12 E0437937 N5226665 

HARDY CREEK 06334 53 late seral 5 Upward none-slight Z12 E0437064 N5229572 

73 late seral 8 Upward none-slight Z12 E0437082 N5234209 

HOLLIDAY L&L IND 09735 68 late seral 9 Upward none-slight Z12 E0543057 N5157363 HOMESITE 06324 12 early seral 2 Downward slight - moderate Z12 E0000000 N0000000 HOUND 09747 73 late seral 9 Upward none-slight Z12 E0467434 N5209478 

INDIAN CREEK 07617 Undet. 4 Upward none-slight Z12 E0464806 N5189696 

INDIAN HEAD ROCK 07659 Undet. Undet. Undet. Z12 E0373530 N5304505 LITTLE ELK CREEK 09708 Undet. 4 Upward none- moderate Z12 E0553306 N5135265 LITTLE SULPHUR CREEK 09732 81 PNC 3 Upward none- moderate Z12 E0497813 N5167119 LOWER FLAT CREEK 06331 63 late seral 0 Static none- moderate Z12 E0423281 N5229760 

LOWER SAND COULEE 09836 Undet. 2 Upward none-slight Z12 E0493389 N521809 LOWER SPRING CR AMP 09673 82 PNC 4 Upward none- moderate Z12 E0538856 N5156415 

67 late seral 10 Upward slight - moderate Z12 E0541397 N5157363 

MIDDLE CREEK 09704 95 PNC 9 Upward none- moderate Z12 E0452332 N5203614 

55 late seral 1 Upward none- moderate Z12 E0452798 N5198234 

Undet. Undet. Undet. Z12 E0451430 N5197493 

MIDDLE FORK 07604 94 PNC 7 Upward none-slight Z12 E0397082 N5220388 MIDDLE FORK DEARBORN 07603 Undet. 1 Upward none- moderate Z12 E0395333 N5220026 

MING COULEE 09715 Undet. 5 Upward none-slight Z12 E0490910 N5219527 

MONARCH 09722 35 mid seral 7 Upward none-slight Z12 E0511363 N5218830 

Great Falls Area Grazing Lease Renewal F-2 
Allotment Name 

Allotment 

Number 

Ecol. Site Index 

Score/seral stage Trend 

Range Health Indicators 

(departure from expected for the 

site) Transect UTM Coordinates 

N FORK MUSSELSHELL 09674 65 late seral 8 Upward none-slight Z12 E0539753 N5152831 

68 late seral 2 Upward slight - moderate Z12 E0538349 N5152073 

95 PNC 5 Upward none- moderate Z12 E0538453 N5156571 

65 late seral 5 Upward none- moderate Z12 E0538170 N5155745 

28 mid seral 5 Upward none- moderate Z12 E0541455 N5157457 

53 late seral 6 Upward none- moderate Z12 E0542539 N5158178 

63 late seral 5 Upward none- moderate Z12 E0542769 N5157906 

N. ANTELOPE MTN. 06338 88 PNC 9 Upward none-slight Z12 E0440249 N5233768 

NORTH FORK SHEEP CR 09726 Undet. Undet. none-slight Z12 E0447008 N5223658 

Undet. Undet. none-slight Z12 E0448279 N5223068 

Undet. Undet. none-slight Z12 E0445860 N5219221 

Undet. Undet. none-slight Z12 E0448271 N5219751 

Undet. Undet. none-slight Z12 E0449614 N5220865 

PAUL CREEK 07618 67 late seral 5 Upward none-slight Z12 E0430446 N5223521 

PISHKIN RESERVOIR 06315 68 late seral 10 Upward none-slight Z12 E0387749 N5283223 

PISHKUN 06311 87 PNC 9 Upward none-slight Z12 E0392524 N5282415 

79 PNC 9 Upward none- moderate Z12 E0392500 N5283701 

RHYNARD IND 09801 50 mid seral 0 Static slight - moderate Z12 E0521409 N5133696 

RIVER BLM 06325 75 PNC 1 Upward none- moderate Z12 E0399789 N5233984 

RIVER TRACT 09691 24 early seral 3 Upward none- moderate Z12 E0448093 N5236281 

ROOST HILL 07607 Undet. 4 Upward none-slight Z12 E0448093 N5236281 

RYAN COULEE 06330 37 mid seral 5 Upward none-slight Z12 E0448093 N5236281 

SALMOND RANCH CO. 06342 Undet. Undet. none-slight Z12 E0374350 N5298802 

Undet. Undet. none-slight Z12 E0374697 N5293790 

SAND COULEE 09820 59 late seral 4 Upward none-slight Z12 E0495698 N5220884 

SIMMS CREEK 06328 48 mid seral 0 Static slight - moderate Z12 E0374697 N5293790 

SIXTEEN 09690 40 mid seral 0 Static none- moderate Z12 E0527645 N5171257 SMITH CREEK 09698 75 PNC 1 Downward slight - moderate Z12 E0374697 N5293790 

65 late seral 3 Upward slight - moderate Z12 E0527118 N5170088 

SOUTH CANAL DITCH 06326 30 mid seral 0 Static none- moderate Z12 E0527118 N5170088 SOUTH FORK 06443 Undet. Undet. none-slight Z12 E0000000 N0000000 

SOUTH FORK SHEEP CR 09655 Undet. Undet. Undet. no upland inventory 

Undet. Undet. Undet. Z12 E0442198 N5218973 

Undet. Undet. Undet. Z12 E0445115 N5219190 

SPRING CREEK PASTURE 09758 Undet. 6 Upward none-slight Z12 E0485632 N5192135 

Undet. 9 Upward none-slight Z12 E0484920 N5192121 

SUGARLOAF 11186 65 late seral 5 Upward none-slight Z12 E0431069 N5224098 

SUN RIVER DITCH 06327 46 mid seral 8 Upward none-slight Z12 E0449984 N5257335 

67 late seral 6 Upward none-slight Z12 E0449241 N5257475 

SWIFT DAM 06321 81 PNC 10 Upward none-slight Z12 E0363693 N5336909 THE FLAT 06319 25-45 mid ser. 3 Downward none-moderate Z12 E0417841 N5282820 

TIGER BUTTE 07832 Undet. 4 Upward none-slight Z12 E0499364 N5222215 

TINTINGER SLOUGH 06337 47 mid seral 5 Upward none-slight Z12 E0444458 N5231660 

TOMS GULCH 07762 Undet. 4 Upward none-slight Z12 E0497069 N5219176 

47 mid seral 0 Static none-slight Z12 E0496552 N5220369 

TUNNEL LAKE 06312 92 PNC 6 Upward none-slight Z12 E0379790 N5280011 

Great Falls Area Grazing Lease Renewal F-3 
Allotment Name 

Allotment 

Number 

Ecol. Site Index 

Score/seral stage Trend 

Range Health Indicators 

(departure from expected for the 

site) Transect UTM Coordinates 

UPPER PASTURE 02558 95 PNC 10 Upward none-slight Z12 E0510171 N5230921 

WADDEL LAKES 06320 Undet. 1 Downward Undet. Z12 E0362238 N5337195 

Undet. Undet. Undet. no upland inventory 

Undet. Undet. Undet. no upland inventory 

WATER TANK SMITH RIVER 09806 Undet. Undet. Undet. Z12 E0482340 N5217214 WEST BIRCH CREEK 06323 90 PNC 9 Upward none-slight Z12 E0000000 N0000000 

WEST FORK HOUND CR 09780 Undet. Undet. Undet. Z12 E0447318 N5214350 

WEST FORK MUD CREEK 09697 Undet. 9 Upward none-moderate Z12 E0543522 N5157651 WILLOW CR. PASTURE 06314 55 late seral 7 Upward none-slight Z12 E0389684 N5270942 

WILLOW CREEK 07608 81 PNC 9 Upward none-slight Z12 E0397074 N5266617 WILLOW CREEK 07775 32 mid seral 1 Upward none-slight Z12 E0520796 N5252941 WILLOW CREEK CANAL 07612 73 late seral 4 Upward none-slight Z12 E0376672 N5276277 

72 late seral 8 Upward none-slight Z12 E0373286 N5275103 

79 late seral 2 Upward none-slight Z12 E0373286 N5275103 

89 PNC 10 Upward none-slight Z12 E0377479 N5274780 

WINDY HOLLOW 09818 Undet. Undet. Undet. Z12 E0442809 N5215961 

Undet. Undet. Undet. no upland inventory 

Wegner, SF Stickney Cr Pastures will be monitoring 3-5 years. East Fork Hound will be monitored every 5 years. 

Undet. Undet. Undet. no upland inventory 

Undet. Undet. Undet. no upland inventory 

Undet. Undet. Undet. no upland inventory 

Undet. Undet. Undet. Z12 E0445723 N5212583 

Undet. Undet. Undet. no upland inventory 

50 late seral 5 Upward none-slight Z12 E0446854 N5211371 51 late seral 5 Upward none-slight Z12 E0442570 N5209734 

79 PNCl 10 Upward none-slight Z12 E0445367 N5209938 86 PNCl 10 Upward none-slight Z12 E0440239 N5207956 

77 PNC Undet. none-slight Z12 E0442272 N5206000 

67 late seral 10 Upward none-slight Z12 E0443075 N5204440 53 late seral 6 Upward none-moderate Z12 E0441904 N5203085 65 late seral 10 Upward none-slight Z12 E0445369 N5202917 

44 mid seral 9 Upward none-slight Z12 E0453846 N5204560 

96 PNCl 3 Upward none-moderate Z12 E0452011 N5212170 

62 late seral 0 Static slight - moderate Z12 E0451462 N5212209 

79 PNCl 9 Upward none-slight Z12 E0454434 N5210106 

Undet. Undet. Undet. Z12 E0447570 N5195244 

68 late seral 2 Upward none-slight Z12 E0448254 N5194103 50 late seral 1 Upward none-slight Z12 E0447544 N5193159 

*Bolded fields denote UTM's collected in NAD27 

Great Falls Area Grazing Lease Renewal F-4 
 Riparian Health Assessments and Monitoring Schedule

Allotment Name Allotment No. Stream Name Health Rating 

Distance 

(miles) 

Meeting 

Standards? 

Reason Not 

Meeting Standard

Ford Coulee 07831 Ford Coulee PFC 0.5 Yes 

Monarch 09722 Unnamed Tributary of Belt Creek PFC Yes 

North Fork Sheep Creek 09726 North Fork of Sheep Creek PFC 0.76 Yes 

Paul Creek 07618 Paul Creek PFC 0.31 Yes 

River Tract 09691 Missouri River FAR(d) 0.28 No Livestock Ryan Coulee 06330 small spring PFC Yes 

South Fork Sheep Creek 09655 South Fork of Sheep Creek PFC 1.48 Yes 

South Canal Ditch 06326 Unnamed Tributary of Muddy Creek NF 0.28 No Livestock 

Tintinger Slough 06337 Missouri River PFC 0.1 Yes 

Windy Hollow 09818 South Fork of Stickney Creek PFC 0.97 Yes 

Windy Hollow 09818 Wegner Creek NF 0.58 No Livestock 

Windy Hollow 09818 Tyrell Creek PFC 0.25 Yes 

Windy Hollow 09818 East Fork of Hound Creek PFC 0.42 Yes 

Dog Creek 07825 Rich Spur FAR(d) 1 Yes 

Alkali Flat North 07615 Sun River PFC 0.09 Yes 

Alkali Flat North 07615 Unnamed Seasonal Wetland PFC 44 acres Yes 

Bean Lake 07605 Clemons Creek PFC 0.34 Yes 

Bedrock Creek 06347 Bedrock Creek FAR(d) 0.3 No Livestock 

Black Reef 07609 Sun River PFC Yes 

Black Reef 07609 Unnamed Seasonal Wetland PFC 112 acres Yes 

Middle Fork 07604 

Unnamed Tributary of Middle Fork of the Dearborn PFC 0.6 Yes 

Roost Hill 07607 Cutrock Creek PFC 1.2 Yes 

South Fork 06443 South Fork Stickney Creek PFC 1.16 Yes 

Willow Creek Canal 07612 Sun River PFC 1.86 Yes 

Battle Creek 09814 Battle Creek FAR(U) 0.4 Yes 

Berg Lease 07601 

Unknown Tributary of South Fork Musselshell River FAR(d) 0.29 No Livestock 

Daisy Dean Creek 09675 Mud Creek FAR(d) 0.12 No Livestock 

Daisy Dean Creek 09675 Mud Creek FAR 0.14 No Livestock 

Divide Creek 19660 North Fork of Musselshell River PFC 0.31 Yes Eagle Creek 09672 Park Creek PFC 0.37 Yes Eagle Creek 09672 Eagle Creek Unknown 0.5 Yes East Loco Creek 07611 Loco Creek PFC 0.18 Yes Elk Creek 09800 Elk Creek PFC 0.46 Yes 

Great Falls Area Grazing Lease Renewal G-1 
 Riparian Health Assessments and Monitoring Schedule

Little Elk Creek 09708 Little Elk Creek PFC .12 Yes Smith Creek 09698 North Fork Smith River PFC 0.71 Yes East Birch Creek 06322 Birch Creek FAR No Homesite 06324 Birch Creek FAR No Waddell Lakes 06320 Birch Creek FAR No West Birch Creek 06323 Birch Creek FAR No Chicken Coulee 06303 Blindhorse Creek PFC 2.59 Yes Chicken Coulee 06303 French Coulee PFC 0.45 Yes Chicken Coulee 06303 Pamburn Creek PFC 0.5 Yes Chicken Coulee 06303 Two Unnamed Lentic Wetlands PFC Yes Deep Creek 06310 Edwards Creek PFC 0.89 Yes Deep Creek 06310 North Fork of Deep Creek PFC 1.56 Yes Deep Creek 06310 South Fork of Deep Creek PFC 1.8 Yes Green Timber Gulch 06308 Green Timber Gulch PFC 0.81 Yes Indian Head Rock 07659 North Fork of the Teton River PFC 0.31 Yes Salmond Ranch 06342 Edwards Creek PFC 0.89 Yes Tunnel Lake 06312 Three unnamed Lentic Wetlands PFC 40.73 acres Yes 

Great Falls Area Grazing Lease Renewal G-2 
Appendix H
 

Proposed Range Improvement Projects
 

Allotment Name Allotment No. 

Proposed Range 

Improvement Projects Project Area 

Bedrock Creek 06347 Two spur fences .1 miles 

Berg lease 07601 fence .2 miles 

Coyote Creek 09663 fence .25 miles 

Divide Creek 19660 conifer removal 221 acres 

Daisy Dean 09675 fence .2 miles 

Dry Hills 09743 pipeline .7 miles 

Simms Creek 06328 fence repair (deeded land only) 2.5 miles 

Smith Creek 09698 conifer removal 300 acres 

South Canal Ditch 06326 fence .25 miles 

The Flat 06319 fence 1.25 miles 

Windy Hollow 09818 electric fence .75 miles 

Great Falls Area Grazing Lease Renewal H-1 Appendix H 

 

Appendix H2: Proposed Range Improvement Projects 

Diagram H2a: Bedrock Creek (06347) Diagram H2b: Simms Creek (06328) 

Diagram H2c: Daisy Dean Creek (09675) Diagram H2d: Berg Lease (07601) 

Diagram H2e: Dry Hills (09743) Diagram H2f: The Flat (06319) 

Great Falls Area Grazing Lease Renewal H2-1 Appendix H 
 

 

 

Diagram H2g: Coyote Creek (09663) Diagram H2j: Divide Creek (19660) 

Diagram H2h: South Canal Ditch (07601) Diagram H2k: Spring Creek (09698) 

Diagram H2i: Windy Hollow (09818) 

Appendix H H2-2 Great Falls Area Grazing Lease Renewal 
Appendix I; Current Allotment Information Summary, Great Falls Administrative Area 

Allotment Name Allotment No. Public Acres AUMs % Public Land Livestock No. Season of Us

CASCADE COUNTY BELT CREEK 09710 348 20 100 5 6/1-9/30 BIG EDDY 06332 120 17 100 3 9/1 - 2/28 BIRD CREEK (Lower) 11190 40 7 100 11 6/1-9/30 BIRD CREEK (Upper) 09812 480 43 100 20 3/1-2/28 BLACK BUTTE 09723 1362 190 100 38 7/1-11/1 BLACKFEET GULCH 06329 40 14 100 2 5/1-10/31 CALVERT 01166 40 8 100 1 6/1-11/1 DEVIL CANYON 09709 480 48 100 4 3/1-2/28 FORD COULEE 07831 150 30 100 3 6/1-11/15 HARDY 06336 200 54 100 11 5/1-9/30 

HARDY CREEK 06334 401 51 100 10 6/1-10/31 HOUND 09747 160 35 100 7 6/1-10/31 LOWER FLAT CREEK 06331 321 62 17 90 6/1-9/30 

LOWER SAND COULEE 09836 559 55 100 18 6/15-9/15 MIDDLE CREEK 09704 960 111 100 28 6/1-9/29 MING COULEE 09715 319 15 100 7 7/1-8/31 MONARCH 09722 165 5 100 1 5/20-12/31 

N. ANTELOPE MTN. 06338 40 8 100 1 5/1-9/30 

NORTH FORK SHEEP CR 09726 2614 158 100 40 6/1-9/30 PAUL CREEK 07618 120 26 100 2 6/1-9/30 RIVER TRACT 09691 38 25 100 6 11/1-2/28 

RYAN COULEE 06330 251 51 100 17 11/10-2/12 SAND COULEE 09820 80 3 100 3 6/1-10/31 SIMMS CREEK 06328 160 59 100 15 12/15-4/15 SOUTH CANAL DITCH 06326 40 13 100 2 6/1-10/31 SOUTH FORK SHEEP CR 09655 768 35 100 2, 10 6/1-8/31 

SUGARLOAF 11186 120 10 100 2 7/1-10/31 SUN RIVER DITCH 06327 114 30 100 8 8/1-12/31 

TIGER BUTTE 07832 520 20 10 40 6/1-10/31 TINTINGER SLOUGH 06337 17 3 2 30 5/15-10/1 

TOMS GULCH 07762 700 19 100 2 5/1-11/30 

WATER TANK SMITH R. 09806 320 70 6/1-11/30 

UPPER PASTURE 02558 50 10 100 1 3/1-2/28 

WEST FORK HOUND CR 09780 541 17 100 4 6/1-10/15 WILLOW CREEK 07775 81 12 47 20 7/2-8/10 WINDY HOLLOW 09818 5043 545 100 121 6/1-10/15 

LEWIS AND CLARK CO. ALKALI FLAT (EAST) 07615 440 100 100 85, 60, 85 3/1-2/28,5/1-9/30,5/15-7/14 

ALKALI FLAT (West) 06295 245 30 50 30 6/1/-7/31 

BEAN LAKE 07605 1955 112 100 44 7/16-9/30 BEDROCK CREEK 06347 40 4 100 1 3/1-1/24 BLACK REEF 07609 1391 180 23 171 5/15-9/30 

COTTONWOOD CREEK 07716 360 145 100 87 6/15-10/14 

Page 1 of 3 Page 1 of 3 
Appendix I; Current Allotment Information Summary, Great Falls Administrative Area 

Allotment Name Allotment No. Public Acres AUMs % Public Land Livestock No. Season of Us

FLORENCE CANAL 07614 80 16 100 3 5/1-10/31 MIDDLE FORK 07604 160 20 100 5 6/15-10/15 

MIDDLE FORK DEARBORN 07603 640 35 100 12 6/15-9/15 

RIVER BLM 06325 40 11 100 1 3/1-2/28 

ROOST HILL 07607 428 1 100 1 6/1-9/1 SOUTH FORK 06443 640 45 100 15 6/1-9/15 

WILLOW CR. PASTURE 06314 80 27 100 6 6/15-10/15 

WILLOW CREEK 07608 40 4 100 1 6/1-10/31 WILLOW CREEK CANAL 07612 939 159 100, 42 6, 60 6/1-10/31 

MEAGHER COUNTY BERG LEASE 07601 80 13 100 67 3/1-2/28 

BATTLE CREEK 09814 200 57 100 1 10/15-11/14 BLACK CANYON 09849 480 35 100 7 6/1-10/31 

COYOTE CREEK 09663 156 27 100 2 3/1-2/28 CROOKED CREEK 09688 81 19 100 4 6/1-10/31 DAISY DEAN CREEK 09675 40 10 100 1 3/1-2/28 DEER CREEK 09728 80 18 100 9 4/1-5/31 

DIVIDE CREEK 19660 1082 234 100 42 5/15-10/31 DRY BEAVER CREEK 06294 640 50 100 10 3/1-2/28 

DRY HILLS 09743 846 127 37, 75, 100 128, 96, 1 5/10-6/10,5/10-6/10,3/1-2/28 

EAGLE CREEK 09672 360 57 100 16 6/1-9/15 

EAST LOCO CR. 07611 40 8 2 175 7/1-9/15 

ELK CREEK 09800 149 30 100 7 6/1-9/30 

GIPSY CREEK 09671 184 59 100 16 7/1-10/20 HOLLIDAY L&L IND 09735 40 13 100 1 3/1-2/28 INDIAN CREEK 07617 240 37 100 6 7/1-11/30 

LITTLE ELK CREEK LITTLE ELK CREEK 09708 120 30 100 76/1-10/31 6/1 10/31

LITTLE SULPHUR CREEK 09732 50 16 100 1 3/1-2/28 

LOWER SPRING CR AMP 09673 155 5 2 60 6/21-10/15 

N FORK MUSSELSHELL 09674 245 133 100 11 3/1-2/28 

RHYNARD IND 09801 80 24 100 2 3/1-2/28 SIXTEEN 09690 40 12 100 4 7/10-10/9 SMITH CREEK 09698 600 69 10 200 6/15-9/15 

SPRING CREEK PASTURE 09758 440 80 100 32 7/1-9/15 

WEST FORK MUD CREEK 09697 160 40 100 3 3/1-2/28 PONDERA COUNTY E. BIRCH CREEK 06322 577 102 100 9 3/1-2/28 HOMESITE 06324 26 9 100 1 3/1-2/28 SWIFT DAM 06321 40 9 100 2 5/15-12/14 WADDEL LAKES 06320 309 25 100 2 3/1-2/28 WEST BIRCH CREEK 06323 42 11 100 1 3/1-2/28 

Page 2 of 3 Page 2 of 3 
Appendix I; Current Allotment Information Summary, Great Falls Administrative Area 

Allotment Name Allotment No. Public Acres AUMs % Public Land Livestock No. Season of Use 

POWELL COUNTY DOG CREEK 07825 206 51 100 13 6/1-9/30 

TETON COUNTY BATTLE CREEK 06307 1597 62 100 11 5/15-10/31 BLACK COULEE 06313 40 14 100 3 6/1-9/30 BLACKFEET GULCH 06335 60 6 100 3 7/1-9/1 CASTLE REEF 07613 196 63 100 9, 10 3/1-6/15,12/1-2/28 CHICKEN COULEE 06303 3340 279 44 210 7/1-9/30 

CHOTEAU MTN 06304 240 12 100 1 3/1-2/28 

COWTRACK 06306 360 36 100 10 6/15-9/30 DEEP CREEK 06310 3000 285 13, 100 211, 12 5/15-10/15,3/1-2/28 

E FARMERS RESEVOIR 06316 40 13 100 3 8/15-1/15 

EAR MOUNTAIN INDIV. 09835 884 53 100 15 7/1-9/30 FREEZEOUT WEST 06317 200 30 100 8 6/1-9/30 GREEN TIMBER GULCH 06308 728 35 18 50 6/15-10/15 

INDIAN HEAD ROCK 07659 78 4 100 2 7/1-8/31 

PISHKIN RESERVOIR 06315 78 26 100 6 6/15-10/15 PISHKUN 06311 93 27 100 2 3/1-2/28 SALMOND RANCH CO. 06342 1242 95 7 267 5/15-10/15 

THE FLAT 06319 157 49 100 4 3/1-2/28 

TUNNEL LAKE 06312 2960 485 68 158 6/15-9/15 

Page 3 of 3 Page 3 of 3 

 

 

 

 

Appendix J 

Montana Noxious Weed List (effective January 2010) 

Priority 1A These weeds are not present in Montana. Management criteria will require eradication if 

detected; education; and prevention. 

Yellow starthistle (Centaurea solstitialis) 

Priority 1B These weeds have limited presence in Montana. Management criteria will require 

eradication or containment and education. 

Dyer’s woad (Isatis tinctoria) 

Flowering rush (Butomus umbellatus) 

Japanese knotweed complex (Polygonum spp.) 

Purple loosestrife (Lythrum spp.) 

Rush skeletonweed (Chondrilla juncea) 

Eurasian watermilfoil (Myriophyllum spicatum) 

Scotch broom (Cytisus scoparius) 

Curlyleaf pondweed (Potamogeton crispus) 

Priority 2A These weeds are common in isolated areas of Montana. Management criteria will require 

eradication or containment where less abundant. Management shall be prioritized by 

local weed districts. 

Tansy ragwort (Senecio jacobaea) 

Meadow hawkweed complex (Hieracium spp.) 

Orange hawkweed (Hieracium aurantiacum) 

Tall buttercup (Ranunculus acris) 

Perennial pepperweed (Lepidium latifolium) 

Yellowflag iris (Iris pseudacorus) 

Blueweed (Echium vulgare) 

Hoary alyssum (Berteroa incana) 

Priority 2B These weeds are abundant in Montana and widespread in many counties. Management 

criteria will require eradication or containment where less abundant. Management shall 

be prioritized by local weed districts. 

Canada thistle (Cirsium arvense) 

Field bindweed (Convolvulus arvensis) 

Leafy spurge (Euphorbia esula) 

Whitetop (Cardaria draba) 

Russian kapweed (Centaurea repens) 

Spotted knapweed (Centaurea stoebe or maculosa) 

Diffuse knapweed (Centaurea diffusa) 

Dalmatian toadflax (Linaria dalmatica) 

St. Johnswort (Hypericum perforatum) 

Sulfur cinquefoil (Potentilla recta) 

Common tansy (Tanacetum vulgare) 

Oxeye daisy (Chrysanthemum leucanthemum or Leucanthemum vulgare) 

Houndstongue (Cynoglossum officinale) 

Yellow toadflax (Linaria vulgaris) 

Saltcedar (Tamarix spp.) 

Priority 3 Regulated Plants: (NOT MONTANA LISTED NOXIOUS WEEDS) 

These regulated plants have the potential to have significant negative impacts. The plant 

may not be intentionally spread or sold other than as a contaminant in agricultural 

products. The state recommends research, education and prevention to minimize the 

spread of the regulated plant. 

Cheatgrass (Bromus tectorum) 

Hydrilla (Hydrilla verticillata) 

Great Falls Area Grazing Lease Renewal J-1 Appendix J 

Appendix K 

Monitoring and Evaluation
 

Key areas would be established for upland and riparian utilization. Existing upland study sites would 

continue to be used where appropriate. Fixed transects and additional sites may be established if 

necessary. Additional riparian study sites would need to be established. There should be a minimum of 

one upland and one riparian study site per pasture unless no significant riparian habitat exists in the 

pasture. Monitoring would be conducted utilizing the key species dominant at each study site. In most 

cases, key upland species would be western wheat grass, green needle, blue bunch wheat grass, and rough 

fescue. 

Monitoring would be collected by lessees and the BLM. Lessees would be responsible to constantly 

monitor livestock distribution, utilization levels, and stubble heights on their allotments to ensure that 

livestock grazing is consistent with established guidelines. Monitoring would be conducted according to 

site specific goals and objectives for each allotment. Lessees would be encouraged to develop 

cooperative monitoring efforts with the BLM. Upland study plots are marked by UTM coordinates listed 

in Appendix F. Riparian reaches are described in Appendix G. BLM would monitor sites (riparian and 

upland) according to a variety of factors including: 

 Proper Functioning Condition 

 Functioning At Risk 

 Non-Functioning 

 Upland trend 

 Priority of allotment 

 Change of management actions 

 Causal factors 

BLM personnel will be available to provide monitoring assistance for Lessees. 

Review of monitoring data would occur yearly. An evaluation taking into account applicable watershed 

impacts would need to be completed within 10 years for lease renewal. 

The monitoring schedule was established based on current resource conditions and the need to assess 

impacts of proposed changes. Random visits will also be taken to the allotments listed above to assess 

overall conditions. The schedule shown above does not include allotment visits for monitoring of 

restoration or prescribed fire projects, compliance inspections, or project planning and implementation. 

Great Falls Area Grazing Lease Renewal K-1 Appendix K 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Appendix L 

References 

Aaberg, Stephen A., Chris Crofutt, Jayme Green, Judson Finley, William Eckerle and Sasha Taddie, 

2007.Archaeological and Geoarchaeological Investigations and Data Recovery at 24ME633, 24ME634 

and 24ME747 as Part of the Dry Range Land Exchange, Meagher County, Montana. Report prepared by 

Aaberg Cultural Resource Consulting Service, Billings, Montana. Report prepared for Burnett Land, 

LLC, Douglas, Inc., the Helena National Forest, and the Bureau of Land Management-Great Falls Field 

Station. 

Atkinson, S. J. and Dood, A. R. 2006. Montana Piping Plover Management Plan. 

Montana Department of Fish, Wildlife and Parks, Bozeman, Montana. 78 pp. 

Bailie, Allison, Stephen Roe, Holly Lindquist, Alison Jamison Montana Greenhouse Gas Inventory and Reference 

Case Projections 1990-2005 Center for Climate Strategies and Montana Department of Environmental 

Quality 2007 

Burton, Timothy A., Steven J. Smith, and Ervin R. Cowley. 2008. Monitoring Stream Channels and Riparian 

Vegetation – Multiple Indicators. Interagency Technical Bulletin. 

Clary, Warren P. and Wayne C. Leininger. 2000. Stubble height as a tool for management of riparian areas. 

Journal of Range Management Vol. 53:562-573. 

Greer, Mavis and John Greer. 1999. Handprints in Montana Rock Art. Plains Anthropologist 44(167):59-71. 

Hershberger, Kim and Dr. Jim Bauder. 2009. Sun River Watershed Water Quality Monitoring Project. Montana 

State University Extension Water Quality. 

Johnson, S.J and Griffel, D.E. Sheep Losses on Grizzly Bear Range. 1982. Journal of Wildlife Management. 

46(3): 786-790. 

Montana Department of Commerce. 2001. http://ceic.commerce.state.mt.us 

Montana Department of Environmental Quality. 2006. 2006 Montana Water Quality Database. 

http://deq.mt.gov/CWAIC/default.aspx 

Montana Department of Environmental Quality. 2007 Montana Nonpoint Source Management Plan. Helena, MT. 

Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation. August, 1999. Monitoring for success. Office of the 

Governor. Helena, MT. 

Montana Field Guide [Electronic database] 2008 Montana Natural Heritage Program. Available: 

http://nhp.nris.state.mt.us/ 

Montana Watershed Coordination Council. 1999. Best management practices for grazing. USDA Department of 

Natural Resources and Conservation. Helena, MT. 29 p. 

Natural Heritage Tracker [Electronic database] 2008. Montana Natural Heritage Program. Available: 

http://nhp.nris.state.mt.us/ 

Great Falls Area Grazing Lease Renewal L-1 Appendix L 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Gregory T. Pederson , Lisa J. Graumlich , Daniel B. Fagre , Todd Kipfer , Clint C. Muhlfeld 

A century of climate and ecosystem change in Western Montana: what do temperature trends portend? 

 Springer Science; Climatic Change (2010) 98:133–154

 Received: 7 February 2008 / Accepted: 29 June 2009 / Published online: 21 August 2009
 

University of Idaho, Forest, Wildlife and Range Experiment Station. 2004. University of Idaho Stubble Height 

Study Report. University of Idaho Forest, Wildlife and Range Experiment Station Contribution No. 986. 

Ruediger, Bill, Jim Claar, Steve Gniadek, Bryon Holt, Lyle Lewis, Steve Mighton, Bob Naney, Gary Patton, Tony 

Rinaldi, Joel Trick, Anne Vandehey, Fred Wahl, Nancy Warren, Dick Wenger, and Al Williamson. 2000. 

Canada lynx conservation assessment and strategy. USDA Forest Service, USDI Fish and Wildlife Service, 

USDI Bureau of Land Management, and USDI National Park Service. Forest Service Publication #R1-00-

53, Missoula, MT. 142 pp 

U.S. Department of Agriculture, National Agricultural Statistics Service. 1999. 1997 Census of Agriculture. 

Montana State and County Data. Volume 1, Geographic Area Series, Part 26. Washington, DC. 

U.S Department of Interior. 2009. Endangered, Threatened, Proposed, and Candidate Species Montana counties. 

Fish and Wildlife Service, Montana Field Office, Helena, MT. 5 pg. 

U.S. Department of the Interior, Bureau of Land Management. 1981. Prairie Potholes Vegetation Allocation 

Environmental Impact Statement. Lewistown, Montana. 

U.S. Department of the Interior, Bureau of Land Management. 1983. Butte District Office. Headwaters Resource 

Area Resource Management Plan (HRMP). 

U.S. Department of the Interior, Bureau of Land Management. 1989. Lewistown District Office/Great Falls 

Resource Area. Rocky Mountain Front Outstanding Natural Area: Activity Plan/Environmental 

Assessment. 

U.S. Department of the Interior, Bureau of Land Management.	 May, 1997. Standards for Rangeland Health and 

Guidelines for Livestock Grazing Management Environmental Impact Statement. Montana State Office: 

Billings, Montana. 

U.S. Department of the Interior, Bureau of Land Management. 1998. A User Guide to Assessing Proper 

Functioning Condition and the Supporting Science for Lotic Areas. Technical Reference 1737-15. National 

Applied Resources Sciences Center. Denver, CO. 

U.S. Department of the Interior, Bureau of Land Management. 1999. A User Guide to Assessing Proper 

Functioning Condition and the Supporting Science for Lentic Areas. Technical Reference 1737-16. 

National Applied Resources Sciences Center. Denver, CO. 

U.S. Department of the Interior, Bureau of Land Management. 2000. Interpreting Indicators of Rangeland Health. 

Technical Reference 1734-6. National Science and Technology Center Information and Communications 

Group. Denver, Colorado. 119 p. 

U.S. Department of the Interior, Bureau of Land Management. 2003. Fire/Fuels Management Plan Environmental 

Assessment/Plan Amendment for Montana and the Dakotas. Billings, Montana. 

U.S Department of the Interior, Bureau of Land Management. 2004. Fire Management Plan for Central Montana 

Fire Zone, Lewistown Field Office (LFO). 

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. 1993. Grizzly Bear Recovery Plan. U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Denver, CO. 

Pages 39-58. 

Appendix L	 L-2 Great Falls Area Grazing Lease Renewal 
 

Vallentine, J.F. 1990. Grazing Management. Academic Press, Inc. New York. 

Walker-Kuntz, Patrick and Sunday Walker-Kuntz. 2010. Class I Overview of the BLM Central Montana District: 

Including portions of Blaine, Cascade, Chouteau, Fergus, Judith Basin, Lewis & Clark, Meagher, 

Petroleum, Phillips, Pondera, and Teton Counties, Montana. Lewistown, MT. 

Werner, Maxell, Hendricks, Flath. 2004. Amphibians and Reptiles of Montana. Mountain Press Publishing. 

Winward, Alma H. 2000. Monitoring the vegetation resources in riparian areas. Gen. Tech. Rep. RMRS-GTR-47. 

Ogden, UT: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Rocky Mountain Research Station. 49p. 

Great Falls Area Grazing Lease Renewal L-3 Appendix L