Committee moves toward a county fencing policy after summer disputes over grazing and trespass

A council member asked the committee to accelerate a discussion of a county fencing policy after a summer of disputes over private‑property fencing, grazing rights and trespass. The request cited multiple incidents this summer and said deputies spent significant time responding.

"The fencing policy essentially is ready for proposal if you would like to look at it," staff said, noting the county attorney had already provided small edits. Committee members examined a matrix that would designate fence‑in or fence‑out duties by zone (with an FR‑40 exception) and debated how county rules would interact with Forest Service grazing allotments. Several members emphasized that enforcement of grazing allotments and Forest Service leases is primarily a federal responsibility and that civil remedies between private parties may be the appropriate avenue for many disputes.

The committee agreed to carry the fencing item forward and asked staff to refine the matrix and bring the item back for more detailed consideration, including examples and mapping of affected areas.