RENO, Nev. (AP) - It may be the dead of winter, but federal land managers already are preparing for a repeat of summer drought conditions in Nevada.

U.S. Bureau of Land Management officials say it's possible drought conditions could again force the removal of livestock or temporary closure of grazing allotments on some federal land this summer.

The agency's Elko District Office has released an environmental assessment detailing how it plans to respond to drought conditions, and has asked grazing permitees to meet with BLM staff to assess range conditions before turning out livestock.

Nevada Cattlemen's Association President JJ Goicoechea says last year was one of the toughest years ever for public lands ranchers because of less forage stemming from drought and wildfires.

He's hoping a wet spring will ease drought concerns.

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