Summary Outcome-based rangeland management (OBM) is currently being piloted through Outcome-Based Grazing Authorizations by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), and tested informally across multiple jurisdictions in Idaho. OBM seeks to respond to varying conditions by incorporating ranch management planning with permittees and their associated allotments while remaining within the boundaries of existing federal administrative rules and agency practices. Yet institutional and cultural barriers associated with current policies may make it difficult for agency staff to practice OBM. Policy innovations that overcome these barriers and utilize a full suite of management options may address pressing ecological challenges and generate social and economic conditions indicative of resilient rangeland communities.
Research Objectives
Explore administrative rules and BLM practices that facilitate or impede outcome-based approaches to managing wildfire risk on BLM rangelands
Identify enabling conditions that allow BLM staff and ranchers to navigate barriers, implement actions to manage wildfire risk, and promote community wildfire adaptation
Project Significance Little is known about the feasibility of implementing OBM within current policies in Idaho. OBM may offer opportunities for land managers to employ a broad suite of strategies to manage rangelands and leverage collaborative efforts of agency staff and permittees. The benefits of this research include new conceptual models about how permittees may be instrumental in leveraging current wildfire risk mitigation efforts, and actionable recommendations to the BLM for navigating barriers to implementing OBM.