Conservation Ranching in the Rockies

Our Goals
Stabilize declining grassland bird populations in partnership with farmers and ranchers.
What We’re Doing
Working with landowners to support better bird habitat.
Greater Sage-Grouse display at sunrise in front of a herd of cattle.

North America's grasslands are among the most imperiled ecosystems in the world. America’s grassland birds have declined more than any other bird group in the continent, some species by as much as 80 percent. Because the vast majority breed on private lands, working with ranchers is our best hope for conserving them.

A wildlife habitat initiative of the Ô¼ÅÚÊÓÆµ with a unique market connection, aims to stabilize declining grassland bird populations in partnership with farmers and ranchers. Ô¼ÅÚÊÓÆµ Conservation Ranching’s enrollment includes more than 100 ranches and nearly 3 million acres that have earned status as Ô¼ÅÚÊÓÆµ Certified Bird-Friendly Land. Incentivizing this habitat work for birds and biodiversity are consumers with an appetite for conservation, who support it by purchasing products grazed on these lands. Shoppers see a special package designation – the Ô¼ÅÚÊÓÆµ Certified Bird-Friendly seal – that sets these products apart. For more information, visit .

News
Western Meadowlark carrying insects perched on a fence post.
Habitat Management Assistance for Western Wyoming Ranchers
July 20, 2022 — Ô¼ÅÚÊÓÆµ Rockies receives grant to expand Conservation Ranching Initiative.
A red hill rises above sagebrush growing in a meadow.
Eagle Ridge Ranch
September 28, 2021 — Adapting to drought on an Ô¼ÅÚÊÓÆµ-certified ranch in Wyoming.
Long-billed Curlew flapping its wings.
Curlews, Ranching, and Reconsideration
July 02, 2021 — A Wyoming rancher discusses the surprising benefits of an alternative form of grazing.
A fence runs through shortgrass prairie.
Reconciling Ranching and Conservation
January 11, 2021 — A rancher reflects upon the potential for holistic grazing to complement conservation.
Dusty Downey with cattle on the Downey Ranch.
Conservation Ranching During the Pandemic
August 19, 2020 — A Q&A with two ranchers about providing local food during a health crisis.