Description
The California Department of Fish and Wildlife is seeking a qualified permittee to conduct a non‑exclusive grazing/vegetation‑disposal program on approximately 175 acres of the Whaley Unit within the Cosumnes River Ecological Reserve. The awardee will manage excess vegetation, protect wildlife habitat, control invasive species, maintain riparian health, and meet specific residual dry‑matter targets while adhering to strict bio‑security, fencing, and reporting requirements. The permit term runs for four years and nine months, with an annual grazing window from January through July and a maximum stocking density of 11 animal units per month. Payments are made on a per‑animal‑unit‑per‑month basis.
• Conduct prescribed grazing to achieve ~1,000 lb/acre residual dry matter each season.
• Protect and restore habitat for listed wildlife (geese, cranes, garter snake, etc.) and control invasive plants.
• Maintain fence integrity, provide water, respond to emergencies within 1 hour, and submit annual reports and attend mandatory site inspections.