How far is the economic reach if federal grazing is eliminated?
That is the objective of a new study by the University of Wyoming.
According to researchers, for every dollar lost in the ranching industry, $1.55 was lost in secondary economic activity. That is because there are several other businesses, not just ranching, that lose when grazing land is cut like feed stores, veterinarians, and bulk fuel dealers.
Researchers say that because of the ten-year length of federal grazing permits, removal of that land would have economic losses compounded over time.
There are currently sixteen states in the west with significant land allocated for federal grazing.
