Sherburne National Wildlife Refuge, Sherburne County, MN is considering interested cattle producers (other species will be considered) to graze on two designated areas on the Refuge. One grazing cell is approximately 2,266 acres and the second is 4,670 acres. Both grazing cells consist of mainly prairie openings with woodland, and wetland habitat types. The refuge is seeking producers with herds consisting of roughly 120-150 animals or 100-125 cow/calf pairs. The grazing period will be from May 1st to September 1st.
The permittee will be responsible for maintaining permanent boundary fence and installing and moving temporary fence. Under this arrangement producers may be offered to graze up to a period of five years while within compliance of the grazing contract.
The purpose of the grazing program is to utilize this powerful habitat management tool as a biological control method to promote and enhance native grass and forb diversity in the prairies, reduce invasive species in the oak savanna and woodland habitats, and to aid in the control of reed canary and cattail in the wetlands.
Individuals will be selected based on receipt of a sealed high bid. All bids must be received no later than 3:30 pm Tuesday, February 16.
Anyone interested in this program should please contact Greg Dehmer, Assistant Refuge Manager at 763-389-3323 to obtain a grazing bid package which will provide detailed information of the program, bidding requirements and expectations of the grazing permittee.
Sherburne Refuge is managed by the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service, and is located near the cities of Princeton, Zimmerman, and St. Cloud, in central Minnesota. Website: http://www.fws.gov/refuge/sherburne/.
The mission of the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service is working with others to conserve, protect and enhance fish, wildlife, plants and their habitats for the continuing benefit of the American people. USFWS is both a leader and trusted partner in fish and wildlife conservation, known for scientific excellence, stewardship of lands and natural resources, dedicated professionals and commitment to public service. For more information on USFWSvisit http://www.fws.gov.
