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
Violet-green Swallow
ANN ARBOR, MI

Study Led by Defenders of Wildlife Scientist Shows Noise Pollution Impacts on Migratory Birds

“The major takeaway from this study is that anthropogenic noise affects many aspects of bird behavior, with some responses more directly tied to fitness,” said Natalie Madden, lead author of the new study.
Image
Louisiana Black Bear
Raleigh, N.C.

Defenders Receives Advocacy Organization of the Year Award

Defenders of Wildlife joined its partners in the Safe Passage coalition today to accept the Advocacy Organization of the Year Award at the 2026 Sweethearts