Assignment Problem: Domestic livestock grazing is the most widespread and extensive use of western federal rangelands. The federal government owns approximately 30 percent of the United States. A significant percent of this land is eligible for domestic livestock grazing in combination with other commodity and amenity uses. These lands are administered by the U.S. Secretary of the Interior through the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) or the Secretary of Agriculture through the U.S. Forest Service.
One of the most contentious issues about grazing on public lands is the fee the rancher pays to the American public. In general, the fee itself is less than what is charged to graze livestock on private or state lands. Many argue that all of these fees should be commensurate.
Should grazing of livestock be allowed on publicly owned lands? Why or why not? (Remember to support your claim and to cite sources of information). If so, should the fees be the same as what is charged for private land leases? Why or why not? Try to be inclusive of as many viewpoints on this issue as possible when formulating your response.