Dome Mountain Wildlife Management Area Agricultural Lease Renewal - Environmental Assessment
Feb 17, 2021 11:22 AM
The Environmental Assessment (EA) below has been prepared for the proposed renewal of an agricultural (hay) lease on the Dome Mountain Wildlife Management Area for a 5-year period (2021-2025). This project proposes to continue a share-crop agreement with a long-time, competent lessee whereby the lessee cultivates and retains the first-cutting of alfalfa and grain hay, then continues to irrigate but does not harvest the second growth alfalfa and grain hay, instead leaving the second growth for wildlife use during winter months. The benefit and purpose is primarily for wintering elk and deer providing forage for 2,000 – 3,000 elk. The area is also used by upland game birds including sandhill cranes. The primary objective is to retain elk on the WMA during winter months and reduce elk presence on nearby private agricultural lands where elk come into conflict with cattle. This area is open to public hunting during the archery and general rifle seasons, and provides opportunity for elk, deer and upland game birds.
This agricultural field has been under lease with the same lessee since 1986. The lessee has shown initiative in farming practices to increase productivity including fertilizing and conditioning soil, and noxious weed management. The lessee has maintained the fields in good condition, and has fulfilled all conditions of previous leases.
In response to public comments received during the previous lease renewal, elk utilization of the agricultural field was monitored over the course of the previous 3-year lease (2012-2015). Results indicated near daily use of the field by elk during winter months, with heavy utilization during late winter and early spring.
Related Documents
- Full EA (PDF)
- Appendix A (PDF)
- Appendix B (PDF)
Public Comment Opportunity
Comments will be accepted until 5:00 p.m., March 18, 2021 by mail or email.
Michael Yarnall
Livingston Area Biologist
1400 South 19th Ave
Bozeman, MT
406-224-1162