This project takes a proactive approach to protect and restore habitat for the pygmy rabbit, a species under consideration for listing under the Endangered Species Act. The project has two main goals:

1. Testing virtual fencing to see if virtual buffers can effectively limit livestock access to sensitive pygmy rabbit burrowing areas, thereby reducing soil compaction and damage to sagebrush cover caused by cattle.
2. Planting native sagebrush in areas that were historically used by pygmy rabbits but have been degraded by wildfire. These plantings will help restore food and shelter critical to the species’ survival.

Pygmy rabbits are highly dependent on healthy sagebrush habitat. A 2023 petition to list the species as endangered cited grazing-related impacts—such as trampling of burrows and loss of sagebrush—as major threats. Recent surveys by the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife show a decline in the species' range, with only about 47% of historically occupied sites still showing signs of activity. Cattle grazing was observed at 85% of those locations.

This project is designed to support ranchers and wildlife by identifying sustainable grazing practices that protect pygmy rabbit habitat without eliminating grazing altogether. It represents a collaborative effort to find conservation solutions that work for both people and wildlife.