Wyoming federal judge to rule on Elk Ridge cattle grazing dispute

A federal judge is set to rule on a legal dispute regarding cattle grazing rights in Wyoming’s Elk Ridge complex. The case involves approximately 500 cow-calf pairs that may be barred from grazing 30,500 acres near the Gros Ventre Range while litigation continues.

The Western Watersheds Project has sought a temporary restraining order, arguing that the Bridger-Teton National Forest failed to conduct the fresh environmental reviews required by the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA). Conversely, the Forest Service and cattle advocates maintain that a 1978 environmental assessment remains sufficient to cover the current short-term grazing authorizations.

The decision carries implications for both local ranching operations and grizzly bear management within the Greater Yellowstone region.