Enviros fight sage-grouse ruling

An environmental organization is pursuing legal action against U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) for its recent decision to name the greater sage-grouse as a candidate for the Endangered Species Act (ESA), but to preclude it at this time from the list. Members of the Western Watersheds Project (WWP) say they are worried about the bird’s future. “Because the sage-grouse has been warranted for protection, we think it should receive that protection,” said Jon Marvel, director of WWP. “The problem is there has not been a balance and that’s why sage-grouse population are declining,” Lucas said. “The (oil and gas companies) are making billions of dollars off of it and they’re paying almost nothing to protect the public lands.” Lucas said ranching practices also have negative effects on the species’ habitat. He believes there should be a voluntary retirement program for grazing allotments, where ranchers can choose to sell their permits. “A lot of these ranchers aren’t making any money at all,” he said, explaining voluntary buyouts would help them as well. He said the land could then be preserved for wildlife. “It may have some economic impacts, but it allows a lifeline for people who may not have a way out and need a way out,” Lucas said...read more