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Trump Administration Calls on “God Squad” to Weaken Endangered Species Act Protections
The Trump administration today announced its intent to convene the Endangered Species Committee — colloquially known as the “God Squad”— on March 31, 2026, to consider an exemption under the Endangered Species Act (ESA) for oil and gas-related activities in the Gulf of Mexico.
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Defenders of Wildlife Unveils 2025 Conservation Report Card for 119th Congress
Defenders of Wildlife today released its 2025 Conservation Report Card for the 119th Congress, measuring members’ commitment to upholding federal laws that protect wildlife conservation during its first session.
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Defenders of Wildlife Sues FWS Over Extensive FOIA Request Delays
Defenders of Wildlife today filed a lawsuit against the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, citing the agency’s extensive delay in fulfilling eight Freedom of Information Act requests related to land exchanges within the National Wildlife Refuge System.
Press Releases
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Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife Releases Annual Wolf Report
“Defenders of Wildlife is encouraged by another year of steady and modest growth in Oregon’s wolf population. But wolves in Oregon are still very much in recovery."
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Annual Mexican Wolf Count Emphasizes Need for Continued Recovery Efforts
USFWS released the official Mexican gray wolf population count for November 2018 through January 2019.
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Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife Releases Annual Wolf Report
The annual wolf count showed an increase of four individual wolves, five recognized packs, and one breeding pair from the previous year in Washington.
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Conservation Groups Announce Intent to Sue to Protect Atlantic Sharks, Giant Manta Rays from Lethal Longlines, Gillnets
Defenders joined others to file notice of intent to sue the Trump administration for failing to protect oceanic whitetip sharks and giant manta rays from being killed by longlines and huge nets used by U.S. fishermen in Atlantic fisheries.
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State Water Board Votes to Implement Comprehensive Wetlands Policy
Today the State Board voted unanimously to adopt a final State Wetland Definition and Procedures for Discharges of Dredged or Fill Material to Waters of the State (“wetlands policy”).
jcovey@defenders.org
