A resolution recognizing 2026 as the "International Year of Rangelands and Pastoralists".
- Bill Number
- S.Res. 645
- Origin Chamber
- Senate
- Congress
- 119th Congress, Session 2
- Policy Area
- Agriculture and Food
- Status
- Introduced
- Latest Action
- 2026-03-17: Referred to the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources. (text: CR S1093-1094)
- Last Updated
- 2026-04-06T14:27:56Z
AI-Generated Summary
Purpose
This Senate resolution (S. Res. 645) aims to formally acknowledge 2026 as the "International Year of Rangelands and Pastoralists," as designated by the United Nations. It highlights the critical role of rangelands—vast open lands like grasslands and shrublands—in supporting ecosystems, economies, and communities, while honoring the contributions of those who manage them, such as ranchers and herders.
Key Provisions
The resolution includes the following main elements, based on its "Whereas" clauses (which provide background) and "Resolved" section (which states the Senate's actions):
- Background on Rangelands: Describes U.S. rangelands as covering about 770 million acres (36% of the nation's land), providing benefits like water, biodiversity, carbon storage, food production (e.g., beef, lamb, wool), energy resources, and recreation. Globally, rangelands span over 19.8 billion acres and support nearly 2 billion people.
- Role of Pastoralists: Defines pastoralists as ranchers, nomads, and herders who use traditional knowledge, science-based practices, and technology to manage these lands sustainably. Notes that grazing reduces wildfire risk by up to 60%, enhances biodiversity, and supports food security and rural economies. In the U.S., 43% of rangelands are federally managed, with much involving partnerships with private landowners.
- Senate Actions:
- Recognizes 2026 as the International Year of Rangelands and Pastoralists.
- Affirms the economic, social, and ecological value of rangelands and the generational stewardship by ranchers, farmers, land managers, and pastoralists.
- Urges federal agencies, universities, and organizations to promote education, research, and outreach on rangeland management.
Significant Changes to Existing Law
This is a non-binding resolution, so it introduces no changes to existing laws or statutes. It serves as a symbolic statement of support rather than enforceable legislation.
Potential Impacts
- On Government Agencies: Encourages voluntary participation in awareness activities, such as education and research initiatives, which could foster better coordination on land management without mandating new programs or funding.
- On Citizens: Raises public awareness of rangelands' benefits, potentially supporting rural communities, farmers, and ranchers by highlighting their role in food production, wildfire prevention, and environmental health. Could indirectly boost economic viability in agriculture-dependent areas.
- On International Relations: Aligns the U.S. with global efforts led by the United Nations, promoting international collaboration on sustainable land use through shared education, advocacy, and events like films and advertisements.
Main Stakeholders Affected
- Domestic Groups: Ranchers, pastoralists, farmers, and land managers who steward rangelands; rural communities reliant on agriculture and grazing; federal land agencies (e.g., those managing public lands); universities and research organizations focused on ecology and agriculture.
- Global Groups: International pastoral communities, governments, and organizations participating in the UN-designated year, benefiting from heightened focus on worldwide rangeland conservation and pastoralism.
Notable Legal, Constitutional, or Political Implications
- Legal/Constitutional: None significant, as resolutions like this are advisory and do not require presidential approval or create enforceable obligations. They fall under Congress's power to express policy preferences without altering the Constitution or laws.
- Political: Demonstrates bipartisan support (introduced by senators from both parties, including Republicans and Democrats) for sustainable land management and rural interests. It could influence future policy discussions on environmental and agricultural issues, emphasizing multiple-use (e.g., economic and ecological) approaches to public lands without partisan controversy.
This summary was generated by AI and may contain inaccuracies. Refer to the official source document for the authoritative text.
Sponsor
Sen. Lummis, Cynthia M. [R-WY]
Cosponsors (13)
Sen. Luján, Ben Ray [D-NM], Sen. Rounds, Mike [R-SD], Sen. Ricketts, Pete [R-NE], Sen. Blackburn, Marsha [R-TN], Sen. Daines, Steve [R-MT], Sen. Moran, Jerry [R-KS], Sen. Hyde-Smith, Cindy [R-MS], Sen. Curtis, John R. [R-UT], Sen. Crapo, Mike [R-ID], Sen. Hickenlooper, John W. [D-CO], Sen. Rosen, Jacky [D-NV], Sen. Cortez Masto, Catherine [D-NV], Sen. Bennet, Michael F. [D-CO]
Recent Actions
- 2026-03-17: Referred to the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources. (text: CR S1093-1094)
- 2026-03-17: Submitted in Senate
Bill Versions
- Recognizing 2026 as the International Year of Rangelands and Pastoralists. — issued 2026-03-17 — PDF (4 pages)