For our user agree- ment, click here . Environmentalists are gaining support for their efforts to turn a 32,000-acre chunk of desert wilderness area into federally protected land. One rancher even says he might give up his grazing rights on the Badlands Wilderness Study Area. Permits are attached to deeded land and carry a monetary value when property changes hands, which is one reason ranchers may be reluctant to give them up. D-Ore., recommended to President Clinton this month, because such a designation would better control the area.
People cut fences, cut trees, dump garbage, and there's too much off-road vehicle activity.
But the illegal activities have increased significantly. A lot of it has to do with population pressures. It's going to get worse rather than better. Bill Marlett of the Oregon Natural Desert Association said the land, which supports mule deer, elk, antelope and other wildlife, is not especially good grazing land. From a rancher's perspective, it's probably the most pathetic land you've ever laid your eyes on.