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Committee asks LSO to draft fence‑liability language for federal allotments after landowners raise repeated‑breach concerns
Summary
Following sustained testimony from landowners about repeated breaches and fence damage by livestock on adjacent public allotments, the committee directed LSO to draft potential statutory language clarifying fence liability and owner/lessee responsibility where federal allotments abut private land.
Committee members heard prolonged testimony from ranchers and the Livestock Board on the limits of existing 'astray' and breach‑of‑enclosure law. LSO staff summarized Wyoming law and compared neighboring states: Wyoming treats unknown‑owner 'astrays' with a process that permits brand inspectors to take custody and recover feed/board costs; other states use tiered civil fines and some criminal penalties.
Several private landowners described repeated grazing pressure from BLM allotments that damages well‑maintained fences. The livestock director explained civil remedies exist (damage claims, feed liens, breach‑of‑enclosure causes of action) but said proving willful criminal conduct is difficult and that criminalization risks triggering widespread range disputes. Senator Pearson pressed for an accountability mechanism for repeat offenders. After discussion committee members asked LSO to draft a possible amendment (adding a subsection to 11 28 10 6) to explore making lessees or permit holders responsible for fence costs or for a defined share where federal allotments adjoin private property; LSO will present text at the next meeting.
