The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service announced earlier today that the greater sage-grouse will not be listed as an endangered species. The Service found, after its review of the best available scientific and commercial information, that (1) the Columbia Basin population does not qualify as a distinct population segment and (2) listing the greater sage-grouse is not warranted at this time. It noted that the primary threats to greater sage-grouse “have been ameliorated by conservation efforts implemented by Federal, State, and private landowners.”
The Service will work with its Federal and State partners to conduct a sage-grouse status review in five years. Before then, all parties involved expect there to be significant litigation regarding this decision. If the administrative record supports the Service’s non-listing decision and the current land management plans, this author does not expect to see significant change as a result of litigation.
If you have any questions, please contact Kate Moore.
