Indian ranchers on the Fort Belknap Reservation in Montana fear an increase in grazing fees will drive them out of business.

The Bureau of Indian Affairs and the Office of Special Trustee increased the fees by 51 percent. The decision was made to generate more income for Indian landowners.

But the higher rate is more than what any other rancher in the state or on reservations in Montana and Wyoming pay. Coming off a bad winter, ranchers say they will earn less and spend more to keep their livestock going.

Get the Story:
Fort Belknap grazing rates soar (The Great Falls Tribune 7/4)

Relevant Links:
Office of Special Trustee - http://www.ost.doi.gov