For Immediate Release
Washington, DC

Today the Bureau of Land Management released records of decision (RODs) amending the National Greater Sage-Grouse Planning Strategy. Revisions to the Obama-era plans will lessen protections for the sage-grouse on tens of millions of acres across the West.

Jamie Rappaport Clark, president and CEO for Defenders of Wildlife, issued this statement:

“Once again the Trump administration demonstrates that it is willing to bend to the will of Big Oil, even at the cost of sage-grouse and their habitat, and the western communities and sustainable economies that depend on these public resources. It’s tragic to see so much progress on sage-grouse conservation undone by these roll backs. Acting Secretary of the Interior Bernhardt characterized these cuts as ‘sanding the rough edges’ of these plans, but this is in fact a hatchet job on sage-grouse conservation.”

For over 75 years, Defenders of Wildlife has remained dedicated to protecting all native animals and plants in their natural communities. With a nationwide network of nearly 2.1 million members and supporters, Defenders of Wildlife is a leading advocate for innovative solutions to safeguard our wildlife for generations to come. To learn more, please visit https://defenders.org/newsroom or follow us on X @Defenders.

  

Media Contact

News

Image
Ocelot
WASHINGTON, D.C.

Fish and Wildlife Service Misguided in Rescinding Vital Strategic Growth Policy for the National Wildlife Refuge System

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service quietly rescinded its Refuge System Strategic Growth Policy in December, bypassing the legally required public comment period for such a change, despite having issued the policy with an accompanying public comment period in 2014.
Image
2010.12.27 - Florida Manatee - Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge - Florida - Keith Ramos - USFWS
Washington, DC

Defenders Celebrates Tremendous Step to Restored Florida Rivers

On Monday, the Northeast Florida Rivers, Springs, and Community Investment Act was filed to restore the natural flow of the Ocklawaha River, Silver and St