Dr. Dave Daley, an influential figure in the California Cattlemen's Association, Public Lands Council, and National Cattlemen's Beef Association, delivered a compelling testimony before the House Natural Resources Committee. Speaking at the field hearing titled "Conservation in a Crown Jewel: A Discussion About Wildfires and Forest Management," Dr. Daley shed light on the potential of livestock grazing and effective land management to combat the escalating wildfire crisis.
In recent years, wildfires have become more common and destructive. California has recognized that livestock grazing can help prevent wildfires, and Dr. Daley has said that other wildfire resilience practices, such as prescribed burning, are also effective. He has urged bipartisan support for these proven tools, especially as the threat of worsening wildfire conditions continues to grow.
Central to Dr. Daley's testimony was the call for a comprehensive approach to land management. He stressed the need for federal recognition of livestock grazing as a crucial tool in preventing catastrophic wildfires. Dr. Daley also recommended the reinforcement of these tools through federal legislation, exemplified by the forestry title of the 2023 Farm Bill. This legislation can empower practices like grazing, prescribed fire, timber thinning, and other forestry management techniques.
Dr. Daley's testimony extended to crucial post-fire operations, emphasizing the significance of federal use of fuel breaks and addressing historical management shortcomings. By fostering collaboration between federal agencies, ranchers, and local land managers, meaningful strides can be made in enhancing landscape resiliency.
Ethan Lane, NCBA Vice President of Government Affairs, expressed appreciation for the committee's initiative to engage with local producers and gather firsthand insights. Lane highlighted the pivotal role cattle producers can play in wildfire mitigation if their expertise is harnessed.
The head of the Public Lands Council, Kaitlynn Glover, agreed with Dr. Daley. She said that it is very important for federal agencies to work together with ranchers and land managers to protect the land.
Dr. Dave Daley gave a speech about the wildfire crisis. He said that we need to take action to prevent wildfires from happening. He thinks that grazing livestock and managing the land carefully are two ways to help prevent wildfires. His speech gives us hope that we can protect California's landscapes from wildfires.
Photo Credit: pexels-islandhopper-x
Categories: Kansas, Livestock, Minnesota, Livestock, New York, Livestock, North Dakota, Livestock, South Dakota, Livestock