× Thanks for reading! Log in to continue. Enjoy more articles by logging in or creating a free account. No credit card required. Log in Sign up {{featured_button_text}}

A proposal by Fish, Wildlife & Parks to put in place a new cooperative cattle grazing system on a portion of the Spotted Dog Wildlife Management Area is up for public comment.

The plan is aimed at improving elk and other wildlife habitat. It will include acreage from the McQueary Ranch, which is adjacent private land.

The proposal will need approval from the Fish and Wildlife Commission to go into effect. The commission will consider it at the April 25 meeting, which will be held at the Bozeman regional office, 1400 S. 19th St.

The plan, if approved, would remain in effect for six years beginning in early summer 2019.

The proposed plan would create periods of "rest" from cattle grazing in specific areas. FWP says the grazing system would enhance grassland habitat for elk and other wildlife by fostering more grass and shrub growth and variety.

“Plant regrowth and diversity that results from grazing is important to elk in spring and fall and can be attractive to a variety of other wildlife species for foraging or nesting,” Mike Thompson, FWP Region 2 wildlife manager, said through a news release.