09/12/2026
TEAM FOR THE DE-FENCE: VOLUNTEERS HOLD COURT ON HABITAT RESTORATION IN THE SHEYENNE NATIONAL GRASSLAND
The Sheyenne National Grassland recently hosted a Pheasants Forever Hands-on Habitat project, where 13 volunteers—including two Forest Service staff—spent a calm Saturday morning removing old field fencing. This was the second successful Hands-on Habitat event held on the Grassland.
Armed with fencing pliers, prybars, and simple hand tools, volunteers spread out across the quiet prairie. Their mission was straightforward but meaningful: clear away aging barbed wire and posts that had long outlived their usefulness. Over six hours, the team removed four complete exclusion fences, originally installed as erosion-control structures to protect fragile landforms from people, livestock, and wildlife during times of extreme drought.
According to Seth Owens, Pheasants Forever Education and Outreach Coordinator, “Remnant fencing interrupts the prairie landscape, alters animal movement, and can cause direct harm to wildlife, people, and pets who may encounter these hidden fences.” He added that old fencing can impede mammals such as deer and foxes, and can be especially problematic for gamebird chicks and other young birds that cannot navigate through or over it.
As the volunteers worked, a strong sense of camaraderie grew. The team for the "de-fence" included hunters, hikers, birders, and outdoor enthusiasts of all kinds—each contributing their time and energy.
Sheyenne District Ranger Aidan McCarty said, “We welcome the help and thoroughly enjoy spending the day with these folks. They bring enthusiasm and innovation. Seth Owens and Pheasants Forever continue to demonstrate a genuine desire to help the Grasslands and build constructive, collaborative relationships to do so. We’re thankful.”
By midday, the final rolls of wire and stacks of posts were hauled away. For many volunteers, the most rewarding moment wasn’t the physical effort—it was knowing their work directly improved the landscape. By day’s end, the Grassland stood a little freer, safer, and more visually welcoming, thanks to the dedication of every volunteer.
