The refuge proposes to expand the prescribed grazing program for use as a management tool on Refuge grasslands. Currently, Refuge grasslands are managed with prescribed fire, mowing, and herbicide application in an effort to control invasive species and encourage native plant communities. We believe that adding livestock grazing as a management option will enhance our invasive species control efforts.
Washita National Wildlife Refuge, located in Western Oklahoma, is situated in the mixed-grass prairies of the Great Plains. These prairie ecosystems developed over time with natural grazing by large herds of bison and supported a myriad of wildlife. After settlement, grazing of these grasslands continued using cattle rather than bison. Grazing was discontinued on the Refuge in 1979, and the lack of natural grazing and burning regimes combined with the arrival of invasive species resulted in degradation of the native grasslands. Johnsongrass (Sorghum halepense) is the most widespread and damaging invasive species on the Refuge, displacing approximately 50% (1,286 acres) of the remaining Refuge grasslands. Left unchecked, it outcompetes native plants and forms dense monocultures that provide little value to wildlife and pose safety concerns due to risk of wildfire. Johnsongrass is also a major deterrent for public use (hunting, wildlife viewing, hiking etc…) due to the height of stands, lack of wildlife present, and general view shed degradation.
Degradation of native habitats negatively impacts wildlife and undermines the purpose of Washita NWR and the mission of the National Wildlife Refuge System. The Refuge utilizes many tools for the management of native habitats and control of invasive species that have been reviewed through previous projects and documents. These management actions, as mentioned above, are important tools, but can be expensive and ineffective in the control of Johnsongrass. Use of livestock grazing for the control of Johnsongrass and management of native grasslands, in combination with existing tools, has the potential to increase effectiveness of Johnsongrass control while keeping costs low.
The proposed action is to expand prescribed grazing from the initial experimental grazing treatments conducted on 68 acres near the McClure Recreation Area on the Refuge. Grazing periods and intensities will be based on prescribed stocking rates determined by measured forage availability. The grazing treatment area will be monitored and grazing intensity and duration adjusted as needed. Permittees will be responsible for complying with state livestock health laws, maintaining in good repair all existing fences and other improvements, providing water for livestock, and any loss of livestock. A Draft Compatibility Determination has been completed and is available for review, and in hard copy at the Refuge Headquarters.
The public is encouraged to provide input by writing to: Refuge Manager, Washita NWR, 20834 E 940 Rd. Butler, OK 73625; or may email the refuge at washita@fws.gov (with “Grazing Comments” as the subject). Comments will be accepted from April 12- April 26, 2022. If you need additional information, please visit our office or call (580/664-2205).
Original source can be found here.
