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Leasing Rangeland

Black and brown cattle with brush in the backgroundApproximately 620,000 acres of rangeland in southeast Oregon are managed by the Department of State Lands, primarily in Lake, Harney, and Malheur counties. Much of the land is arid high desert with grasses and shrubs that are well-suited for livestock grazing.

In total, DSL's rangelands have a carrying capacity of 62,000 animal unit months. AUMs are the minimum amount of land necessary to sustain grazing by one cow and unweaned calf for one month.

DSL manages these rangelands in partnership with leaseholders to ensure healthy, properly functioning ecosystems.

Rangeland Leases

State-owned rangeland may be leased from DSL or subleased from a current leaseholder to graze livestock. Leases are valid for a 20-year term and may be eligible for a 20-year renewal. Leaseholders pay an annual grazing fee to DSL based on the number of AUMs associated with the leased parcel. As of 2024, the grazing rate is $14.87/AUM. There is a minimum grazing fee of $250.

See currently available rangeland parcels below. To apply for a rangeland lease or sublease, contact us to request an application. Then, submit the completed application, along with a nonrefundable processing fee for review.


Rangeland Parcels Available for Lease

The parcels listed below are available for lease. If there is no information below, there are no vacant parcels available at this time.

CONTACT

Randy Wiest, Lead Rangeland Manager
541-410-2891
Randy.Wiest@dsl.oregon.gov

Resources

  Hiking, hunting, and other recreation on rangelands