Photos: Graham’s beardtongue (left) by Kevin Megown/U.S. Forest Service, and White River beardtongue (right) by Gina Glenne/U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service.

Service Withdraws Proposed Listing of Graham’s and White River Beardtongues under the Endangered Species Act

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service finds two plants, the Graham’s beardtongue and White River beardtongue, do not warrant protections under the Endangered Species Act (ESA). Scientific analysis revealed the threats to these plants are not as significant as believed at the time of the proposed listings. The conservation actions of our partners, including the state of Utah, also provided protections to the Graham’s and White River beardtongues.

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Meltwater stonefly (Lednia tumana) on a rock in an alpine stream in Glacier National Park. Credit: NPS, Renata Harrison

Public Invited to Comment on Draft Recovery Plan for Montana Stoneflies

Today the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is announcing the availability of a draft recovery plan for the Meltwater Lednian Stonefly (Lednia tumana) and Western Glacier Stonefly (Zapada glacier). The Service invites the public to provide comments for the next 60-days; the draft recovery plan is available for public review on ECOS.

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Parachute beardtongue, by U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service.

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Invites the Public to Comment on Parachute Beardtongue Plant Draft Recovery Plan

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is announcing the availability of the Parachute beardtongue (Penstemon debilis) draft Recovery Plan and is inviting the public to comment on this plan no later than February 12, 2022. This draft Recovery Plan includes specific recovery objectives and criteria that, when achieved, will enable us to remove this species from the list of endangered and threatened plants.

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Bull Trout. Photo by Jim Mogen, USFWS

Public Comment Sought on Proposed Habitat Conservation Plan Amendment for the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is seeking public comment on the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation’s application to amend their existing Habitat Conservation Plan to extend the incidental take permit coverage to an additional 14,642 acres of acquired lands.

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Take the Pledge to Keep Bears Wild

Interagency Team Steps Up Efforts to Protect Grizzly Bear #399

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, the National Park Service, and other agencies at the request of USFWS have partnered in an intensive effort to ensure the safety of grizzly bear #399 and her four yearlings and to mitigate further human-bear conflict. USFWS also thanks the Teton County Sheriff’s office for their support with public safety efforts.

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U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Seeks Public Comments on Land Exchange at Henefer Echo Wildlife Management Area in Summit and Morgan Counties, Utah

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is seeking public comment on a Draft Environmental Assessment regarding the Utah Department of Natural Resources (UDNR) proposed “Henefer Echo Land Exchange.” UDNR acquired the Henefer Echo Wildlife Management Area with Federal grant funds through the Pittman-Robertson Wildlife Restoration Act (PR) grant program.

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Humpback chub (Gila cypha) as seen in the Little Colorado River, Summer 2021. ©Freshwaters Illustrated/USFWS

Humpback Chub Reclassified from Endangered to Threatened: Collaboration by Partners Has Improved Conservation Status

Thanks to the hard work of state, regional, Tribal and federal agencies, as well as private partners, significant progress has been made conserving and recovering the humpback chub. Following a review of the best available science, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is announcing that it has reclassified the humpback chub from endangered to threatened under the Endangered Species Act (ESA). Today’s announcement follows the publication of the proposed rule in January 2020 and subsequent public comment period.

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A grizzly bear visits a hair snare corral in southwest Montana, June 2021. Credit: U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service

Grizzly Bear Genetic Sampling Study Finds Grizzly Bears in Previously Undocumented Area of Southwest Montana

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, in partnership with the U.S. Forest Service and Defenders of Wildlife, has completed grizzly bear genetic survey activities for 2021. As part of ongoing efforts to monitor grizzly bears in the lower-48 states, this project collected photography and genetic data to assist biologists in understanding more about the grizzly bears that have been dispersing throughout southwest Montana over the past decade.

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Moose and magpie at Seedskadee National Wildlife Refuge, Photo by Tom Koerner, USFWS

Celebrate National Wildlife Refuge Week October 10-16, 2021

Take a walk in nature and get connected to the natural world during National Wildlife Refuge Week, October 10-16, 2021. Celebrate your access to a wide range of outdoor recreation opportunities on the nation’s largest network of public lands dedicated to wildlife conservation, the National Wildlife Refuge System, managed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

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Hunter Injured in Wyoming Grizzly Bear Attack

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and Wyoming Game and Fish Department are currently investigating a grizzly bear attack. On Saturday morning, a man was injured by a grizzly bear while elk hunting west of Cody, Wyoming. The man rode out to the trailhead and was flown by helicopter to an area hospital where he is receiving treatment for what was initially reported as non-life threatening injuries.

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Rays of sun alight the Northwest Montana Wetland Management District. Photo by Dave Fitzpatrick, USFWS.

US Fish and Wildlife Service Northwest Montana Wetland Management District Announces Draft Environmental Assessment Public Comment Period for Administrative Facilities

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service announced the availability of a draft Environmental Assessment for the proposed construction of replacement facilities to administer the Northwest Montana Wetland Management District.

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Photos courtesy of Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks

Joint Investigation of Juvenile Grizzly Bear Shot Along Dupuyer Creek

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks are investigating the death of a grizzly bear found on Aug. 23. The year-old male bear was shot on Aug. 22 while in a chokecherry patch along Dupuyer Creek between Valier and Dupuyer. There were no known or reported human-bear conflicts in the vicinity where the bear was found, and this is being investigated as a poaching incident.

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Art by James Hautman

Minnesota Artist James Hautman Wins 2021 Federal Duck Stamp Art Contest

After two days of competition, James Hautman of Chaska, Minnesota, emerged as the winner of the 2021 Federal Duck Stamp Art Contest with his painting of a pair of redheads floating in the water.

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A Virgin spinedace (Lepidomeda mollispinis mollispinis). Credit: Rick Fridell, Utah Division of Wildlife Resources.

Service Finds Endangered Species Protection Not Warranted for Virgin Spinedace Fish

Thanks to the conservation efforts of state, local and federal partners, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has determined that the Virgin spinedace, a fish species found in the Virgin River, does not require Endangered Species Act protection.

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Conceptual design of the future National Elk Refuge Visitor Center. Image by MITHUN Design.

Jackson’s National Elk Refuge to Host Open House and Draft Environmental Assessment Public Comment Period for Replacement Visitor Center

Today the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service announced a public comment period on a draft Environmental Assessment for the proposed replacement Visitor Center on the National Elk Refuge.

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A gray wolf (Canis lupus) as seen at the National Elk Refuge. Credit: Lori Iverson, USFWS

Service to Initiate Status Review of Gray Wolf in the Western U.S.

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has completed the initial review of two petitions filed to list gray wolves in the western U.S. as threatened or endangered under the Endangered Species Act. The Service finds that the petitions present substantial, credible information indicating that a listing action may be warranted and will initiate a comprehensive status review of the gray wolf in the western U.S.

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Neosho River in eastern Kansas. Peoria Tribe photo, used with permission.

Public Invited to Comment on Permit and Agreement Package

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is inviting the public to review and provide comments on a proposed programmatic Candidate Conservation Agreement with Assurances and Safe Harbor Agreement for 14 aquatic species within the state of Kansas.

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Hunting at Kirwin National Wildlife Refuge in Kansas. Photo by USFWS.

Interior Announces Largest Expansion of Fishing and Hunting on U.S. Fish and Wildlife Managed Lands and Waters

The Department of the Interior announced today that the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) has opened new or expanded hunting and sport fishing opportunities across 2.1 million acres, the largest expansion of outdoor recreation opportunities in recent history.

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Topeka shiner (Notropis topeka). Photo by Konrad Schmidt/USFWS

Collaborative Conservation in the Great Plains Leads to Recommendation of Improved Status for Topeka Shiner

Due to collaborative conservation efforts across six states in the Great Plains, the Topeka shiner has a brighter and more sustainable future. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is announcing today the completion of a five-year review which recommends a change in the species’ status from endangered to threatened and has published a final recovery plan to continue efforts to recover the species.

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US Department of Justice

Pipeline Company to Pay $35 Million in Criminal Fines and Civil Penalties for Largest-Ever Inland Spill of Produced Water from Oil Drilling

The Department of Justice today filed criminal charges under the Clean Water Act against Summit Midstream Partners LLC, a North Dakota pipeline company that discharged 29 million gallons of produced water from its pipeline near Williston, North Dakota, over the course of nearly five months in 2014-2015.

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A razorback sucker by Sam Stukel, USFWS

Conservation Partnerships in Colorado River Basin Contribute to Proposed Status Improvement for Razorback Sucker

Thanks to decades of collaborative work by conservation partners to support the razorback sucker throughout its range, this native fish is swimming towards recovery. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is proposing to reclassify the species from endangered to threatened. The proposed rule to reclassify this unique fish will publish in the  Federal Register on  July 7, 2021, opening a 60-day public comment period.

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Image of a Mosquito Range mustard plant (Eutrema penlandii). Credit: Sheila Lamb, USFS

Draft Recovery Plan for Mosquito Range Mustard Plant Available

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is releasing a draft recovery plan today for the Mosquito Range mustard, formerly known as the Penland alpine fen mustard. Since listing as a threatened species under the Endangered Species Act in 1993, the Service has worked with local, state, and federal agencies as well as non-profit groups to protect this distinctive plant’s habitat while continuing to provide for access and recreation on the public lands that the plant inhabits.

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People and cars dangerously close to a grizzly bear on U.S. Highway 26/287, creating unsafe conditions for people and wildlife. Credit: Todd Stiles/U.S. Forest Service

Initial Success Seen in Hazing Grizzly Bear 863 on Togwotee Pass; Public Urged to Continue to Avoid the Area

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and partners have completed an intensive 14-day hazing operation on Togwotee Pass in Wyoming that indicates initial success in teaching grizzly bear 863 and cubs to avoid vehicles and people. The public’s avoidance of the area in recent days has contributed to the ability of wildlife managers to conduct operations safely and productively. However, grizzly 863’s healthy fear of people and vehicles will continue only if the public avoids the area and practices responsible wildlife viewing behavior.

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New Federal Duck Stamp and Junior Duck Stamp Soar Into Their Debut by U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service

Hunters, birders and stamp collectors celebrated as the 2021-2022 Federal Migratory Bird Hunting and Conservation Stamp – commonly known as the Duck Stamp – went on sale. The new Federal Duck Stamp and its younger sibling, the Junior Duck Stamp, debuted today and are now available for purchase.

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1993-1994 Duck Stamp by Bruce Miller

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Announces Proposed Change to Federal Duck Stamp Contest

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is proposing to revise regulations governing the annual Migratory Bird Hunting and Conservation Stamp (Duck Stamp) Contest beginning with the 2022 contest. The proposed revisions would provide artists more flexibility when designing their art and broaden the appeal of the Duck Stamp to more audiences.

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Western Oxyloma sp. from Vasey's Paradise, Grand Canyon, AZ. Photo by Jeff Sorenson, AZ Game and Fish

Advances in Genetic Research Reveal Kanab Ambersnail Not a Distinct Subspecies

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is announcing today the publication of a final rule to remove the Kanab ambersnail (Oxyloma haydeni kanabensis) from the Endangered Species Act list of threatened and endangered species. This determination follows a review of the best available science, which has indicated the Kanab ambersnail is not a distinct subspecies and therefore cannot be listed as an entity under the Endangered Species Act. This action follows the publication of the proposed rule on January 6, 2020.

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Typical water howellia wetland. Photo credit: Rod Gilbert, U.S. Department of Defense

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Delists Water Howellia from Endangered Species Act Due to Recovery

Based on a thorough review of the best available science, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is delisting the water howellia from the Endangered Species Act due to recovery. The decision follows public comment and peer review periods on the proposed decision published in October 2019.

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Baird's Sparrow. Photo by Rick Bohn, USFWS

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Publishes Birds of Conservation Concern 2021

In continuing proactive efforts to protect migratory birds, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service today released its Birds of Conservation Concern 2021 report. The publication identifies 269 species of birds that represent high conservation priorities for the Service and deserve proactive attention. This science will be used for cooperative research, monitoring and management actions that can directly or indirectly affect migratory birds with the help of international, federal, state, Tribal and private partners.

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Scouting Troop 2119 conducts pollinator garden and bluebird rest stop maintenance at Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge Headquarters. Photo by USFWS.

Denver’s Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge Receives Long-term Funding Increase to Support Inclusive Urban Programming

Today the U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service announced that Denver’s Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge will be awarded $1 million in additional annual funding to expand their Urban Wildlife Conservation Program. With this funding, the Refuge will be able to better support local communities in the metro Denver area by offering a safe outdoor place for the community and visitors to enjoy recreation in their nearby nature. The Refuge will also be able to improve infrastructure, provide more environmental education opportunities, and support community partnerships.

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Comunicado de prensa

People and cars dangerously close to a grizzly bear on U.S. Highway 26/287, creating unsafe conditions for people and wildlife. Credit: Todd Stiles/U.S. Forest Service

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and Partners Conducting Grizzly Hazing Operations on Togwotee Pass, Public Asked to Avoid Area

As a result of continued harassment by wildlife viewers creating unsafe conditions on Togwotee Pass in Wyoming, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and partners plan to conduct targeted hazing operations on grizzly bear 863. The Service and partners ask the public to avoid the area if possible and not interfere with these management operations, currently planned for the remainder of June 2021. Allowing wildlife experts to address this issue uninterrupted will increase the chances of this management tactic being successful.

Press Release

A grizzly bear (Ursus arctos horribilis) in Grand Teton National Park. Credit: Joe Lieb, USFWS

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and Partners Urge Responsible Grizzly Bear Viewing in Togwotee Pass Area in Wyoming

For the past four summers, many people have viewed and photographed grizzly bears near U.S. Highway 26/287 between Dubois and Moran Junction in the Togwotee Pass area in Wyoming. A female grizzly bear, known as “863” by wildlife managers and “Felicia” by public observers, and her two cubs have become habituated to the roadside along Highway 26/287. As more people have become aware of these bears, it has created unsafe conditions for people and wildlife. The public’s help is needed to ensure the continued safety of these bears and people passing through the area.

Press Release

Lesser prairie-chicken on a lek in the Red Hills of Kansas. Photo by Greg Kramos, USFWS.

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Seeks Comment on Proposal to List the Lesser Prairie-Chicken under the Endangered Species Act

After a thorough review of the best available science, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is proposing to list two distinct population segments of the lesser prairie-chicken under the Endangered Species Act. The Service is requesting comments or information from the public, governmental agencies, the scientific community, industry, or any other interested parties concerning this proposed rule.

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A grizzly bear visiting a hair snare corral in Yellowstone National Park. Photo by Jennifer Fortin-Noreus, USFWS

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and Partners Conducting Genetic Sampling for Grizzly Bear Research in Montana

As part of ongoing efforts to monitor grizzly bears in the lower-48 states, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, in partnership with the U.S. Forest Service and Defenders of Wildlife, will be conducting a genetic survey during the summer of 2021 to document grizzly bears in southwest Montana. This project aims to collect data that will assist biologists in understanding more about the grizzly bears that have been dispersing throughout southwest Montana over the past decade.

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Hunting at Kirwin National Wildlife Refuge in Kansas. Photo by USFWS.

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Promotes Public Access to Hunting and Fishing in Largest Expansion of Opportunities to Date

Continuing the Department of the Interior’s efforts to increase recreational access on public lands, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has announced a proposal for new or expanded hunting and sport fishing opportunities for game species across 2.1 million acres at 90 national wildlife refuges and on the lands of one national fish hatchery.

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Right: Hooded mergansers by Margaret McMullen. Right: Redhead by Daniel Schumacher

Kansas And North Dakota Take 1st and 2nd Place in 2021 National Junior Duck Stamp Art Contest

Margaret McMullen, an 18-year-old from Kansas, took top honors in the Service’s National Junior Duck Stamp Art Contest with an acrylic painting of a pair of hooded mergansers. Second place winner was Daniel Schumacher, age 18, from North Dakota, with an acrylic painting of a redhead. The 2021-2022 Junior Duck Stamp will go on sale June 25 and supports conservation education for students in kindergarten through 12th grade.

Press Release

Lesser prairie-chicken on a lek in the Red Hills of Kansas. Photo by Greg Kramos, USFWS.

Service Seeks Public Comment on Lesser Prairie-Chicken Habitat Conservation Plan for Renewable Energy Development in Great Plains

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service seeks public comment on a draft habitat conservation plan (HCP) and draft environmental assessment covering potential impacts to the lesser prairie-chicken from renewable energy development in the Great Plains. The HCP would cover wind and solar project development as well as transmission lines across the lesser prairie-chicken’s range in Kansas, Colorado, Oklahoma, Texas and New Mexico.

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A grizzly bear (Ursus arctos horribilis) in Grand Teton National Park. Credit: Joe Lieb, USFWS

Grizzly Bears in Lower-48 States to Retain Threatened Status Under Endangered Species Act

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is recommending no change to the current listed status of the grizzly bear in the lower 48 states as threatened under the Endangered Species Act following the completion of a five-year status review. This recommendation follows a thorough review of the best available science, informed by an independently peer-reviewed species status assessment.

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A grizzly bear (Ursus arctos horribilis) and her cub in Yellowstone National Park. Credit: Jennifer Fortin-Noreus, USFWS

As Grizzly Bears Emerge from Dens, USFWS Urges Public to Stay Safe and Keep Bears Wild

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service reminds the public to remain vigilant as grizzly bears emerge from their dens this spring. Most grizzly bear conflicts can be avoided by practicing the basic bear safety guidelines below. Feeding, approaching, or otherwise disturbing grizzly bears not only poses a significant threat to humans and bears but is also a federal offense under the Endangered Species Act (ESA).

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Lost Trail Conservation Area. Photo: Chris Boyer/Kestral Aerial Services

Northwest Montana Conservation Area to Preserve Public Access, Protect Wildlife Habitat and Provide Sustainable Timber Harvest

Today, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) released a draft environmental assessment and draft land protection plan outlining a proposal to establish the Lost Trail Conservation Area in northwest Montana. These documents are now available for a 30-day public review and comment.

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Elizabeth Ann, the first cloned black-footed ferret and first-ever cloned U.S. endangered species, at 68-days old. Credit: USFWS National Black-footed Ferret Conservation Center.

Innovative Genetic Research Boosts Black-footed Ferret Conservation Efforts by USFWS and Partners

Black-footed ferret recovery efforts aimed at increased genetic diversity and disease resistance took a bold step forward Dec. 10, 2020, with the birth of “Elizabeth Ann,” created from the frozen cells of “Willa,” a black-footed ferret that lived more than 30 years ago. The groundbreaking effort to explore solutions to help recover this endangered species results from an innovative partnership among the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and species recovery partners and scientists at Revive & Restore, ViaGen Pets & Equine, San Diego Zoo Global, and the Association of Zoos and Aquariums.

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Desert tortoise (Gopherus agassizii) commonly known as the Mojave desert tortoise. Photo by the Desert Tortoise Recovery Office, USFWS

Interior Releases Decisions for the Northern Corridor to Help Support Local Communities While also Protecting Habitat and Species

The Bureau of Land Management and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service announce today decisions that provide Washington County, Utah, the foundation for the future infrastructure needed to support one of the fastest growing communities in the nation, while providing protections to conserve the Mojave desert tortoise. The BLM and the Service are the co-lead agencies for the environmental impact statement that supported the Records of Decision for a highway right-of-way, amended habitat conservation plan and issuance of an incidental take permit for the Mojave desert tortoise, and approved resource management plan amendments.

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Bald eagle in flight. Photo by Tom Koerner, USFWS

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Issues Eagle Take Permit for Dunlap Wind Energy Project

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is releasing the final environmental assessment, finding of no significant impact and findings document related to the issuance of an incidental eagle take permit for the Dunlap Wind Energy Project located southeast of the Freezeout Mountains and southwest of the Shirley Basin in Carbon County, Wyoming. The 30-year permit authorizes the potential take of bald and golden eagles associated with the operation of the existing 74-turbine wind energy project, and outlines required conservation and compensatory mitigation measures for minimizing and offsetting potential eagle take.

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Grizzly bear (Ursus arctos horribilis). Credit: Frank T. van Manen, USGS

Public Invited to Comment on BNSF Railway Permit Application for Incidental Take of Grizzly Bears

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service today announced the availability of an Incidental Take Permit application submitted by BNSF Railway for the take of grizzly bears, listed as threatened under the Endangered Species Act. The application includes BNSF’s proposed habitat conservation plan, which outlines measures the company will take to reduce impacts to grizzly bears.

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Jones cycladenia (Cycladenia humilis var. jonesii), Credit: Daniela Roth, USFWS

Public Invited to Comment on Jones cycladenia Draft Recovery Plan

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is announcing the availability of the Jones cycladenia Draft Recovery Plan and is inviting the public to review and comment on this plan no later than 60-days after publication in the Federal Register.

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Grizzly bear (Ursus arctos horribilis). Credit: Frank T. van Manen, USGS

Trump Administration Continues Funding for Grizzly Conflict Management

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is announcing continued funding through 2021 to the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service and Wildlife Services for collaborative efforts addressing grizzly bear-livestock conflicts in Montana.

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June sucker (Chasmistes liorus), USFWS

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Announces June sucker has moved from Endangered to Threatened

Thanks to the joint conservation efforts of state, local and Federal partners, one of Utah’s endangered fishes, the June sucker, is one step further on the path to recovery.

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Waterfowl at Quivira National Wildlife Refuge. Photo by Dan Severson, USFWS.

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Identifies Solutions for Water at Quivira National Wildlife Refuge in 2021

Working collaboratively with our partner, the Big Bend Groundwater Management District #5, and the local community, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service identified voluntary solutions to remedy water impairment at Quivira National Wildlife Refuge. Through this effort, the Service does not intend to submit a request to secure water for Quivira National Wildlife Refuge.

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U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Seeks Information in Illegal Killing of Grizzly Bear

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is seeking information on the illegal killing of a grizzly bear found September 9, 2020, in the Crow Creek drainage on the Wind River Reservation in west central Wyoming. Grizzly bears are currently listed as threatened under the federal Endangered Species Act.

Press Release

Southern white-tailed ptarmigan (Lagopus leucurus altipetens). Left photo by Peter Plage, USFWS. Right photo by Craig Hansen, USFWS

Endangered Species Act Protections for Southern White-Tailed Ptarmigan Found to be Not Warranted

Following a review of the best available science, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) is publishing a not-warranted for listing under the Endangered Species Act (ESA) finding for the southern white-tailed ptarmigan.

Press Release

Left: Whitebark pine tree, photo by Shawn McKinney, RMRS. Right: Whitebark pine cones, photo by Richard Sniezko, USFS

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Proposes Protections for Whitebark Pine, a Keystone Species of the American West 

New proposed conservation protections for the whitebark pine, an emblem of the American West, would aim to bolster new and ongoing conservation actions for the species’ pine recovery so these unique trees, and the many plants and animals they support, continue to endure for future generations.

Press Release

Peppered Chub. Photo by Daniel Fenner, USFWS

Service  Proposes Endangered Status and Designation of Critical Habitat for Peppered Chub 

Based on a review of the best available scientific information, the Service is proposing to protect the peppered chub as an endangered species under the Endangered Species Act (ESA) due to its significant decline. The Service is also proposing to designate 1,068 river miles in Kansas, New Mexico, Oklahoma and Texas as critical habitat that will be essential to the conservation of the species.

Press Release

18th Place - Red Cliffs Desert Tortoise Reserve. Photo by Larry Crist, USFWS

The BLM and USFWS release the Northern Corridor Final Environmental Impact Statement, Washington County Habitat Conservation Plan and Proposed Resource Management Plan Amendments

The Bureau of Land Management and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service have issued the final environmental impact statement (Final EIS) that considers a highway right-of-way application, amended habitat conservation plan and incidental take permit for the Mojave desert tortoise and proposed amendments to resource management plans in Washington County, Utah.

Press Release

Moose and magpie at Seedskadee National Wildlife Refuge, Photo by Tom Koerner, USFWS

Celebrate National Wildlife Refuge Week October 11-17, 2020

Enjoy stellar outdoor recreation and the country’s wildlife heritage during National Wildlife Refuge Week, October 11-17, 2020. Celebrate your access to nature on the nation’s largest network of public lands dedicated to wildlife conservation, the National Wildlife Refuge System, managed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

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Photo by Maia C. licensed under Creative Commons.

Science Shows Wolverines in the Contiguous U.S. Are Healthy

New research and analysis show that wolverine populations in the American Northwest remain stable, and individuals are moving across the Canadian border in both directions and returning to former territories. The species, therefore, does not meet the definition of threatened or endangered under the Endangered Species Act (ESA). Accordingly, the Service has withdrawn its listing proposal.

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Eastern black rail. Photo credit by Brian Hires, USFWS

Service Finalizes Listing the Eastern Black Rail as Threatened Under the Endangered Species Act

The eastern black rail, a small, secretive marsh bird historically known to exist in 35 states east of the Rocky Mountains, Puerto Rico, Canada, Brazil, and several countries in the Caribbean and Central America, will be listed as a threatened species under the Endangered Species Act.

Press Release

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Seeks Information in Montana Grizzly Bear Killing and Removal of GPS Collar

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is seeking information on the illegal killing of a sow grizzly bear in northern Montana. The bear, collared by Montana Fish, Wildlife, and Parks, was last known to be alive on May 4, 2020. Law enforcement agents believe the bear was killed on or around May 4 near Paisley Road, on the Blackfeet Indian Reservation.

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U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Seeks Information in Illegal Removal of Parts from Deceased Grizzly Bear

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is seeking information on the illegal removal of claws from a grizzly bear struck and killed by a vehicle on Highway 2 Southwest of East Glacier Park Village, on U.S. Forest Service land. The bear was likely struck by a vehicle on September 13, 2020. Inspection of the carcass by Montana Fish, Wildlife, and Parks showed that some of the claws had been removed.

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Endangered razorback sucker. Photo by Nathan Vargas, USFWS

Drought-Stressed Fish in the Colorado River to Benefit from XTO Energy and Other Water Donors

Endangered fish relying on flow in the Colorado River near Grand Junction, Colorado, will soon get a welcome boost when additional water in Ruedi Reservoir near Basalt, Colorado, is made available to enhance streamflows during this increasingly concerning drought year.

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Chapin Mesa milkvetch (Astragalus schmolliae). Photo credit: Colorado Natural Heritage Program

Rare Colorado Plant Proposed for Listing as Threatened Under Endangered Species Act

After completing an in-depth species status assessment using the best available science, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) is proposing to list the Chapin Mesa milkvetch as threatened under the Endangered Species Act (ESA) and designate critical habitat for the species.

Press Release

A photo of a portion of the Lost Trail Conservation Area. Photo courtesy of Chris Boyer/Kestrelaerial.com

Conservation Area Proposed in Northwest Montana Would Support American Grizzly Bear Populations, Canada Lynx, Elk, and Much More

Today, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) released a draft environmental assessment and draft land protection plan outlining a proposal to establish the Lost Trail Conservation Area in northwest Montana. These documents are now available for a 30-day public review and comment.

Press Release

Yellow-billed cuckoo perched on a tree with food in its beak. Photo credit: Felix Uribe/Creative Commons. 

Service Completes Finding on Petition to Delist Western Distinct Population of the Yellow-Billed Cuckoo

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has completed its review of a petition to remove Endangered Species Act protection from the western distinct population segment of the yellow-billed cuckoo.

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Moose at Agassiz National Wildlife Refuge in Minnesota. Photo by USFWS

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Seeks Public Comment on Draft Environmental Assessment Evaluating Impacts from Dunlap Wind Energy Project in Wyoming on Bald and Golden Eagles

After a thorough review of the best available scientific and commercial information, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has determined that the U.S. population of the northwestern subspecies of moose is not a distinct population segment and does not warrant listing under the Endangered Species Act.

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Bald eagle at Seedskadee National Wildlife Refuge. Photo by Tom Koerner, USFWS

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Seeks Public Comment on Draft Environmental Assessment Evaluating Impacts from Dunlap Wind Energy Project in Wyoming on Bald and Golden Eagles

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is seeking public comment on a draft Environmental Assessment (EA) for PacifiCorp, doing business as Pacific Power/Rocky Mountain Power, the developer and operator of the Dunlap Wind Energy Project.

Press Release

American Burying Beetle. Photo by Jay Pruett.

Partnership-Driven Efforts Lead to Downlisting of the American Burying Beetle

Thanks in part to the efforts of dedicated partners across this species’ range, the first insect added to the endangered species list is staging a comeback: the American burying beetle. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is downlisting the ABB under the Endangered Species Act, from endangered to threatened.

Press Release

Hunting at Kirwin National Wildlife Refuge in Kansas. Photo by USFWS.

Secretary Bernhardt Announces Historic Expansion of Hunting and Fishing Opportunities on Public Lands

Today, U.S. Secretary of the Interior David L. Bernhardt announced the historic opening and expansion of over 850 hunting and fishing opportunities across more than 2.3 million acres at 147 national wildlife refuges and national fish hatcheries. This rule is the single largest expansion of hunting and fishing opportunities by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service in history.

Press Release

Comments Sought on Habitat Conservation Plan and Draft Environmental Assessment for American Burying Beetle

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is publishing a Notice of Availability to request public comment on a Habitat Conservation Plan (HCP) and Draft Environmental Assessment (EA) in response to an Incidental Take Permit (ITP) application submitted by TC Energy for American burying beetle, a species listed under the Endangered Species Act (ESA), as part of the Keystone XL pipeline project.

Press Release

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and Partners Still Seeking Information in Montana Grizzly Bear Shooting

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and Blackfeet Fish and Wildlife Department are still seeking information on the illegal shooting of a female grizzly bear in Montana. The GPS-collared bear was last known to be alive on May 11, 2020. The Service is now offering an increased monetary reward of up to $5,000 for information contributing significantly to and furthering the investigation into the death of this grizzly bear.

Press Release

Arctic Grayling at Bozeman Fish Technology Center. Photo by Mikaela Oles, USFWS

Efforts by Service and Conservation Partners Lead to a Positive Outlook for the Arctic Grayling on Upper Missouri River

Like its iridescent dorsal fin, the future of Upper Missouri River Arctic grayling is shining brightly, thanks to efforts of diverse conservation partners. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service announced today that Endangered Species Act (ESA) protections for the Upper Missouri River distinct population segment (DPS) of the Arctic grayling are not warranted, based on a review of the best available science.

Press Release

Artist at Two Ponds National Wildlife Refuge. Photo by Seth Beres, USFWS

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and Union Sportsmen’s Alliance Join Forces to Increase Public Access for Outdoor Recreation

Today, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the Union Sportsmen’s Alliance (USA) have reaffirmed an existing relationship that promises to benefit hunters, anglers and other outdoor enthusiasts for generations to come. A recently signed agreement builds on past successes between the Service and the USA by creating new volunteer opportunities for skilled union trades workers to engage in infrastructure and access projects on national wildlife refuges and national fish hatcheries.

Press Release

Wood duck at Seedskadee National Wildlife Refuge. Photo by Tom Koerner, USFWS

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Debuts 2020-2021 Federal Duck Stamp and Junior Duck Stamp

Hunters, birders and stamp collectors across the United States join in celebrating with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) as the 2020-2021 Federal Migratory Bird Hunting and Conservation Stamp – commonly known as the Duck Stamp – is now on sale. Beginning today, the new Federal Duck Stamp and its younger sibling, the Junior Duck Stamp are available for purchase at official locations and online.

Press Release

Green River at Three Fords Rapids. Photo by Larry Crist, USFWS

Interior Grant Programs Provide Over $344 Thousand to Benefit Recreational Boaters, Local Waterways and Communities in Utah

Boaters, anglers, communities, and aquatic life in Utah will reap benefits from more than $344 thousand dollars in grant funds, thanks to two U.S. Department of the Interior and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) programs focusing on ensuring clean water and recreational access. Funding to states under the Service’s Clean Vessel Act (CVA) and Boating Infrastructure Grant (BIG) programs total over $32 million nationwide in 2020.

Press Release

June sucker. Photo by Utah Division of Wildlife Resources

A Decade in the Making: Officials Break Ground on Nearly 260-acre Provo River Delta Project to Help Recover the Endangered June Sucker

After more than a decade of planning and coordination, Chris Keleher, Director of Species Recovery at the Utah Department of Natural Resources, climbed aboard an excavator to perform a literal groundbreaking, while other project partners joined him to usher in the construction of the nearly 260-acre Provo River Delta project. The project will restore the interface between the Lower Provo River and Utah Lake as another step in the effort to recover the endangered June sucker.

Press Release

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks Seek Information on Illegal Killing of a Bald Eagle

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks are seeking information on the illegal killing of a bald eagle in the area of Reed Point in Stillwater County, Montana.

Press Release

Red Cliffs Desert Tortoise Reserve. Photo by Larry Crist, USFWS

BLM and USFWS invite the public to review and comment on the Northern Corridor Draft Environmental Impact Statement and proposed Washington County HCP

The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) will issue the Northern Corridor Project Draft Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) and Draft Amended Washington County Habitat Conservation Plan (HCP) for a 90-day public comment period on June 12.

Press Release

White Ibis. Photo: USFWS

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Solicits Comments on a Draft Environmental Impact Statement on Proposed Migratory Bird Treaty Act Regulatory Changes

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) has made available a draft Environmental Impact Statement (DEIS) under the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA). This action is a required next step for the Service in its regulatory undertaking to define the scope of the Migratory Bird Treaty Act (MBTA) to provide regulatory certainty to the public, industries, states, tribes and other stakeholders.

Press Release

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Proposes Rule on Cormorant Management

Today, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is announcing a proposed rule and associated draft environmental impact statement (DEIS) to responsibly manage conflicts associated with double-crested cormorants in the United States.

Press Release

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and Partners Seek Information in Montana Grizzly Bear Shooting

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and Blackfeet Fish and Wildlife Department are seeking information on the illegal shooting of a female grizzly bear in Montana. The GPS-collared bear was last known to be alive on May 11, 2020. Law enforcement agents believe the bear was killed on the Blackfeet Indian Reservation on or around May 12 near Boarding School Road.

Press Release

Grizzly Bear with Cub, Yellowstone. Photo: Frank van Manen, USGS

USFWS and USDA Providing Additional Support to Montana Livestock Producers

As a result of increased grizzly bear depredations on livestock, the U.S. Department of Interior’s (DOI) Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) and the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) are collaborating to provide additional support to Montana livestock producers.

Press Release

McCown's Longspur, at Durham, Canada. Photo: WCS

Migratory Birds to Benefit from $25 Million in Federal and Matching Funding Throughout the Americas

Twenty years ago, the passage of the Neotropical Migratory Bird Conservation Act (NMBCA) spurred new opportunities for innovation in bird conservation that continue today. This year, birds and people throughout the Americas will benefit from a new round of projects under the act, totaling more than $25 million in federal grants and matching funds.

Press Release

Razorback Sucker at Gavins Point National Fish Hatchery. Photo: Sam Stukel, USFWS.

Targeted Reservoir Operations Begin May 29 to Benefit Endangered Fishes in Upper Colorado River

Sufficient water runoff from melting mountain snowpack in Colorado River headwaters this year means that most headwater reservoirs will more than meet their storage needs. As a result, participants in the Coordinated Reservoir Operations (CROS) program will ramp-up water releases into the Colorado River to benefit four rare fishes protected under the federal Endangered Species Act.

Press Release

Northern Pintail, Kulm Wetland Management District in North Dakota. Photo: Krista Lundgren, USFWS

Secretary Bernhardt Announces $160 Million in Funding for Wetland Conservation Projects and National Wildlife Refuges

As we celebrate American Wetlands Month, hundreds of bird species will benefit from $160 million in funding for various wetland conservation projects in North America. The funding was approved by the Migratory Bird Conservation Commission, which is chaired by U.S. Secretary of the Interior David L. Bernhardt

Press Release

Little brown bat with fungus, New York, 2008. Photo: Ryan von Linden/New York Department of Environmental Conservation

White-Nose Syndrome Attributed to Death in Bats in North Dakota

On May 20, North Dakota Game and Fish Department announced the state's first confirmed bat deaths attributed to a nonnative fungal disease known as white-nose syndrome. The disease currently affects bats in 34 other states.

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Cinnamon Teal on Seedskadee National Wildlife Refuge. Photo: Kom Koerner, USFWS

Change to Federal Duck Stamp Contest Celebrates the Conservation Achievements of Waterfowl Hunters

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service today is celebrating the remarkable conservation achievements of waterfowl hunters and our unique American hunting heritage with the permanent addition of a theme for the Federal Migratory Bird Hunting and Conservation Stamp, commonly known as the Duck Stamp.

Press Release

A wood duck by Madison Grimm. USFWS. Note to Editors: Digital File of Winning Artwork Available Upon Request

Madison Grimm, Aged 13, Wins U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service 2020 National Junior Duck Stamp Art Contest

A talented young artist from South Dakota has taken top honors at the National Junior Duck Stamp Art Contest. A wood duck by 13-year old Madison Grimm, will grace the 2020-2021 Junior Duck Stamp, which raises funds to educate and engage our nation’s youth in wildlife and wetlands conservation and outdoor recreation.

Press Release

Hunting at Kirwin National Wildlife Refuge in Kansas. Photo by USFWS.

Historic proposal for new and expanded hunting and fishing opportunities

In spring 2020, U.S. Secretary of the Interior David L. Bernhardt announced a historic proposal for new and expanded hunting and fishing opportunities across more than 2.3 million acres at 97 national wildlife refuges and 9 national fish hatcheries, including Quivira National Wildlife Refuge in Kansas and Cokeville Meadows National Wildlife Refuge in Wyoming.

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People and cars dangerously close to a grizzly bear on U.S. Highway 26/287 in 2019, creating unsafe conditions for people and wildlife. Credit: Todd Stiles/U.S. Forest Service

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and Partners Urge Responsible Grizzly Bear Viewing in Togwotee Pass Area in Wyoming

For the past three summers, many people have viewed and photographed grizzly bears near U.S. Highway 26/287 between Dubois and Moran Junction in the Togwotee Pass area in Wyoming. A female grizzly bear, known as “863” by wildlife managers and “Felicia” by public observers, and her cub, “Pepper,” have become habituated to the roadside along Highway 26/287. As more people have become aware of these bears, it has created unsafe conditions for people and wildlife.

Press Release

A colored pencil drawing of two male wood ducks in flight by Rohit Pandit. USFWS

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Announces Winners of the 2020 Colorado Junior Duck Stamp Contest

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service this month announced that Rohit Pandit, a 17-year-old student from Fort Collins, took top honors once again by winning the “Best of Show” in Colorado at the 2020 Junior Duck Stamp Contest. Entries from Colorado were judged by a panel of waterfowl enthusiasts and professional wildlife artists. Recognition for all participants and prizes for the top 25 drawings in each of four age groups (K-3, 4-6, 7-9 and 10-12) are awarded each year.

Press Release

NBR. Photo by Dave Fitzpatrick, USFWS

National Bison Range to Close Temporarily Starting April 9, 2020

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is temporarily suspending public visitation and use at the National Bison Range, effective April 9, 2020. The suspension of operations is to ensure the health and safety of our visitors and employees in light of the novel coronavirus pandemic and the large increase in visitation experienced at the refuge in recent days that was precluding effective social distancing.

Press Release

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Seeks Information in Illegal Poisoning Deaths of Golden Eagle and Ravens in Wyoming

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the Wyoming Game and Fish Department are seeking information in the poisoning deaths of a golden eagle and ravens in the area southwest of Wamsutter, west of the Eureka Headquarters, in Sweetwater County, Wyoming

Press Release

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Seeks Information in Wyoming Wildlife Poisoning Crime

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the Wyoming Game and Fish Department (WGFD) are seeking information in the poisoning deaths of a bald eagle, a golden eagle, a swainson’s hawk, 14 ravens, 17 magpies, one coyote and several small mammals in the East Fork and Horse Creek drainages located in northwest Fremont County, Wyoming.

Press Release

2019-2020 Migratory Bird Hunting and Conservation Stamp. Artist: Scot Storm, Wood Duck & Decoy

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Proposes Changes to the Duck Stamp to Celebrate the Conservation Achievements of Waterfowl Hunters

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service today proposed to celebrate these hunters’ remarkable achievements and our unique American hunting heritage with a permanent change to the Federal Migratory Bird Conservation Stamp, commonly known as the Duck Stamp.

Press Release

Helmuth Marsh.

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Seeks Public Comments on Proposed Helmuth Marsh Property Disposal and Modification of Wetland Reserve Program Easement in Lancaster County, Nebraska

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) is seeking public comment on a Draft Environmental Assessment (Draft EA) regarding the State of Nebraska’s proposed Helmuth Marsh property disposal and modification of the Wetland Reserve Program easement in Lancaster County, Nebraska. The Service’s decision to approve the disposal and modification constitutes a Federal action subject to the provisions of the National Environmental Policy of 1969, as amended (NEPA). This Draft EA has been prepared to comply with NEPA provisions to assess potential impacts on the human environment. Public comments will be accepted for a 30-day period ending February 23, 2020.

Press Release

Humpback Chub. Photo by USFWS.

Conservation Gains for Humpback Chub Prompt Service to Propose Downlisting Native Colorado River Fish from Endangered to Threatened

One of the Colorado River’s native fishes is one-step closer to recovery thanks to the collaborative conservation work of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and numerous state, federal, tribal and private partners.

Press Release

Topeka shiner (Notropis topeka). Photo by Konrad Schmidt, USFWS.

Draft Recovery Plan for the Topeka Shiner Available for Review: U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Seeks Public Comments

In the late 1990s, the Topeka shiner, a native fish of the Great Plains, was in trouble. Once common across its range, the tiny three-inch minnow has faced impacts associated with the health of its habitat, predation, sedimentation, and changes in water quality. As a result, the fish’s populations declined almost 70 percent over 50 years. The species was listed under the Endangered Species Act (ESA) in 1998.

Press Release

Photo: Mathias Canyon riparian area edge north side facing west.

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Seeks Public Comments on Brigham Face Wildlife Management Area Evans and Mathias Canyons Debris-Retention Basins Project

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) is seeking public comment on a Draft Environmental Assessment regarding the Utah Department of Natural Resources proposed “Brigham Face Wildlife Management Area Evans and Mathias Canyons Debris-Retention Basins Project.”

Press Release

Photo: Jackson Elk Herd at the National Elk Refuge in Wyoming by Carol Highsmith/U.S. Library of Congress

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Releases Final Environmental Assessment to Guide Management at National Elk Refuge

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service today released a final Environmental Assessment (EA) and final Bison and Elk Management Step-down Plan (with an addendum) to guide future management at the National Elk Refuge in Wyoming.

Press Release

Photo: Sunset is a serene time on the Little Salt Marsh at Quivira National Wildlife Refuge. Photo by: Ryan Moehring, USFWS

Quivira NWR and Big Bend Groundwater Management District 5 Meet to Discuss Water Management

Staff from the Quivira National Wildlife Refuge in Kansas and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s Denver Regional Office recently met with representatives from the Big Bend Groundwater Management District No. 5 (District) to discuss future opportunities to collaborate on water management and conservation.

Press Release

Photo: A blooming skiff milkvetch plant in Gunnison, Colorado by USFWS

No Endangered Species Act Protection Needed for Skiff Milkvetch

In southwestern Colorado, a tiny, wispy plant found only in Gunnison and Saguache counties is maintaining a stable, long-term population, which is why the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service today announced it is not warranted for listing under the Endangered Species Act (ESA).

Press Release

Bison calves and adults at the National Bison Range in Montana by USFWS

National Bison Range Releases Final Record of Decision to Guide Future Management and Continue Conservation Legacy

Today, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service continues the national wildlife refuge’s lasting conservation legacy for wildlife, visitors, surrounding communities and partners by releasing a final Record of Decision (ROD) for the refuge’s final Comprehensive Conservation Plan (CCP) and final Environmental Impact Statement (EIS).

Press Release

June sucker (Chasmistes liorus). Photo: USFWS

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Announces Proposed Change in Status for the Endangered June Sucker

Thanks to the collaborative conservation efforts of state, local and federal partners, such as the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, one of Utah’s endangered fishes, the June sucker, is one step further on the path to recovery.

Press Release

Left: Meltwater lednian stonefly. Right: Western glacier stonefly. Photos: Joe Giersch

Two Stonefly Species Receive Endangered Species Act Protection

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) will protect the meltwater lednian stonefly and western glacier stonefly as threatened under the Endangered Species Act in a final listing decision announced today.

Press Release

One of the new entrance signs at Pablo National Wildlife Refuge in Montana by USFWS

New Signs at Ninepipe and Pablo National Wildlife Refuges in Montana are Markers and Milestones

Visitors to the Ninepipe National Wildlife Refuge and Pablo National Wildlife Refuge in Montana can now get their bearings spatially, and culturally, with new signs that offer a true sense of place.

Press Release

Colorado Butterfly Plant. Photo: Tyler Abbott, USFWS.

Colorado Butterfly Plant Delisted from Endangered Species Act Due to Recovery

Thanks to the work of local landowners and partners at the City of Fort Collins Natural Areas Department and F.E. Warren Air Force Base, the once-threatened Colorado butterfly plant has been removed from the Federal List of Endangered and Threatened Plants by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

Press Release

Gunnison sage-grouse Photo: courtesy of Helen H. Richards/The Denver Post

Draft Plan to Guide Recovery of the Gunnison Sage-Grouse Open for Public Comment

Today, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service will release a draft recovery plan and ask for public comments on the conservation actions necessary to stop population declines and achieve recovery of the Gunnison sage-grouse. The bird was listed under the Endangered Species Act as threatened in November 2014. Now, the Service seeks public comments on a draft plan, especially from local communities and species experts.

Press Release

Whooping Cranes. Photo: USFWS.

Whooping Crane Fall Migration Has Begun

hooping Cranes have begun leaving their Canadian breeding grounds and heading south in the Central Flyway, meaning that Kansans will soon have opportunities to see these rare birds during their migration stopovers. Annually each fall, central Kansas is one of the few places where it is possible to see Whooping Cranes. They occur in and around Quivira National Wildlife Refuge in small groups over a period of several weeks, most often in late October and early November. The earliest-recorded first arrival, October 5, occurred in 2018, but the average first arrival date is October 21.

Press Release

Scott Riffle Beetle. Photo: USFWS

Endangered Species Act Protection Not Needed For Rare Insect Found Only in Kansas

In an isolated natural spring tucked away in Scott County, Kansas, lives a rare native insect found nowhere else on earth: the Scott riffle beetle. A few decades after scientists described the diminutive beetle, some worried the insect was potentially at risk of extinction. Thanks to ongoing conservation actions and protections by Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks, and Tourism (KDWPT), today the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service announced that federal protections for the beetle under the Endangered Species Act (ESA) are not warranted.

Press Release

Photo: Oregon Department of Agriculture

Water Howellia Flourish Once Again in the Pacific Northwest Thanks to Federal, State and Nongovernmental Recovery Efforts

An aquatic plant found in freshwater wetlands and ponds across the Pacific Northwest no longer needs protection under the Endangered Species Act thanks to conservation actions taken by federal, state and non-governmental partners. Today, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is proposing to remove the water howellia from the Federal List of Endangered and Threatened Plants.

Press Release

Photo: Creative Commons

USFWS, Colorado Public Health and Environment Provide Notice of Availability for Draft Restoration Plan for Suncor Energy Oil Spill

The federal and state of Colorado natural resource trustees settled a Natural Resources Damage Assessment and Restoration (NRDAR) case for monetary damages with Suncor in February, 2014. The Trustees would like to know what you think about the draft RP. It is available for public review and comment beginning October 3, 2019. All comments received by November 1, 2019 will be considered.

Press Release

Elk wintering at the National Elk Refuge. Photo by Lori Iverson/USFWS.

Draft Plan to Guide Future Wildlife Management at the National Elk Refuge Open for Public Comment

Since its establishment in 1912, the National Elk Refuge in Jackson Hole, Wyoming, has continually supported a variety of native wildlife, including the iconic Jackson elk herd. As part of ongoing planning and management efforts, today the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service opened a 30-day public comment period on a draft Environmental Assessment (EA) and associated Bison and Elk Management Step-down Plan for the refuge.

Press Release

Smith Lake Waterfowl Production Area. Photo by USFWS.

Bird Habitat Added to the Smith Lake Waterfowl Production Area Through Partnership

On September 6th, 257 acres of important bird habitat was added to the Smith Lake Waterfowl Production Area in Flathead County, Montana thanks to a partnership between private landowners, Flathead Land Trust, The Conservation Fund, and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

Press Release

White River beardtongue (left), Jessi Brunson/USFWS. Graham’s beardtongue (right), Kevin Megown/USFS

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Seeks New Scientific Information to Inform Conservation of Two Rare Colorado and Utah Plants

On September 12th, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service opened a 30-day public comment period to help inform future conservation of two rare Colorado and Utah plants: Graham's beardtongue and White River beardtongue.

Press Release

A female bison and her calf at the National Bison Range in Montana. Photo by Mike Borgreen/USFWS.

Service Announces Final Management Plan at the National Bison Range

Since 1908, when the National Bison Range in western Montana was established by President Theodore Roosevelt, this 18,800-acre national wildlife refuge has continued to play an important role in the conservation and recovery of American bison. Several hundred bison now thrive on these accessible public lands, which also support Rocky Mountain elk, mule deer, white-tailed deer, pronghorn, bighorn sheep and more than 200 bird species.

Press Release

Maguire Primrose. Photo by USFWS.

Service Announces Recovery Plan Revisions for 78 Species, Including 10 Mountain-Prairie Species

As part of an agency-wide effort to advance the recovery of our nation’s most imperiled species, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has made publicly available draft revisions for 49 Endangered Species Act (ESA) recovery plans that provide a recovery roadmap for 78 federally protected species. Ten of these species are in the Mountain-Prairie region.

Press Release

Photo: Frank Van Manen, USGS.

Reinstatement of Endangered Species Act Listing for the Grizzly Bear in the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem, in Compliance with Court Order

Today the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service revised the List of Endangered and Threatened Wildlife to again include grizzly bears in the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem (GYE) as part of the existing listing for grizzly bears under the Endangered Species Act (ESA). This action was taken to comply with a September 24, 2018, Montana District Court order.

Press Release

An elk at the National Bison Range in Montana. Credit: David Fitzpatrick, USFWS.

Wyoming Man Sentenced for Illegally Possessing and Transporting 104 Pounds of Elk Antlers

Joshua Anders Rae, formerly of Jackson, Wyoming, pleaded guilty to illegally possessing and transporting 104 pounds of unlawfully taken elk antlers. Through a plea deal with the U.S. Attorney’s Office, Rae was sentenced to five years of unsupervised probation; a five year ban from the National Elk Refuge and Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Parks; $15,000 in restitution to the Wyoming Game and Fish Department; and a loss of hunting privileges worldwide for five years.

Press Release

American burying beetle. Photo by Mark Dumont, CC BY-NC 2.0.

Habitat Conservation Plan Approved: Incidental Take Permit Issued for the R-Project Transmission Line in Nebraska

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) signed a Record of Decision, and approved a Habitat Conservation Plan (HCP) that sets aside 600 acres of suitable habitat for the protection and management for the endangered American burying beetle, as well as other beneficial activities. An HCP must accompany an application for an incidental take permit. The Service issued the incidental take permit for Nebraska Public Power District’s (NPPD) R-Project transmission line for incidental take of the beetle over a 50-year period.

Press Release

Randy Matchett (left). Credit: John Ashley. Paul Marinari (right). Credit: USFWS.

Two Leaders in Black-Footed Ferret Conservation Receive National Recognition

Today the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) Mountain-Prairie Region recognizes two individuals for their exceptional efforts to conserve and protect the nation’s rarest fish, wildlife, and plants. Randy Matchett, a supervisory wildlife biologist at Charles M. Russell National Wildlife Refuge in Montana, and Paul E. Marinari, a senior curator at the Smithsonian’s National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute, have been named the 2018 Recovery Champions for their work in recovering the endangered black-footed ferret.

Press Release

American burying beetle. Photo by Mark Dumont, CC BY-NC 2.0.

Conservation Partnerships Contribute to Proposed Downlisting of American Burying Beetle

The American burying beetle, one of nature’s most unique creatures, appears to be more plentiful, thanks in part to the efforts of a wide array of partners across its range. Following the beetle’s listing in 1989 as endangered under the Endangered Species Act (ESA), the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and stakeholders implemented conservation and recovery efforts, and now the Service is proposing to downlist it from endangered to threatened.

Press Release

Bison at the National Bison Range during the 2016 Bison roundup. Credit: Dave Fitzpatrick/USFWS

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Continues Celebrated Conservation Legacy at National Bison Range in Montana With Proposed New Management Plan

Members of the Public are Invited to Participate in a 45-day Public Comment Period and Three Public Meetings to Inform Refuge Management Over the Next 15 years

DENVER — Since 1908, when the National Bison Range in western Montana was established by conservation visionary President Theodore Roosevelt, this cherished 18,800-acre national wildlife refuge has continued to play a vital role in the conservation and recovery of American bison. Several hundred bison now thrive on these accessible public lands, which also support Rocky Mountain elk, mule deer, white-tailed deer, pronghorn, bighorn sheep, and over 200 bird species.

Press Release

Rainwater Wetland Management District: Neighbors helping neighbors

Last week a large winter storm known as a "bomb cyclone" brought snow, wind and rain to the central plains. One hard hit area was the State of Nebraska where run off and rising stream and rivers are flooding many parts of the Cornhusker State. Despite the challenges these flood waters have created for communities and citizens, employees of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Rainwater Basin Wetland Management District (WMD) have found a way to help their neighbors.

Press Release

A map of the proposed R-line route. Credit: USFWS.

Final Environmental Impact Statement for the R-Project Transmission Line in Nebraska

DENVER — Today the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is releasing the final environmental impact statement for the Nebraska Public Power District’s (NPPD) application for a permit for take of the endangered American burying beetle. The statement analyzes potential effects to the beetle and other factors to the human environment that would result from issuance of a take permit associated with the proposed R-Project transmission line.

Press Release

Frisco clover. Photo by USFWS.

Three Southern Utah Plant Species Do Not Need Endangered Species Act Protection

DENVER — Using the best available science, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has released a 12-month finding, determining that the Frisco buckwheat, Ostler’s peppergrass, and Frisco clover are not warranted for listing under the Endangered Species Act. Prior to making this determination, the Service completed an in-depth species status assessment for these three southern Utah plant species. This assessment provided the scientific analysis needed for the Service to make this decision.

Press Release

Fremont County rockcress. Photo by Bonnie Heidel.

Unique Wyoming Plant Flourishes under Habitat Protections

DENVER — Due to the Bureau of Land Management’s conservation actions, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has determined that the Fremont County rockcress, a high elevation perennial herb found only in the southern foothills of the Wind River Range in Wyoming, is not warranted for listing under the Endangered Species Act. First collected in 1981, there is only one known population of this unique plant found on 160 acres of federal land.

Press Release

Deseret milk-vetch. Photo by Bekee Hotze, USFWS.

A Unique Utah Plant Flourishes Under a Successful Conservation Agreement

DENVER — After assessing the best scientific information about threats to an endemic Utah plant, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service today is removing the Deseret milkvetch from the Federal List of Endangered and Threatened Species. The Service found threats to the plant either have not occurred to the extent anticipated, are being adequately managed through a conservation agreement, or the species is more tolerant of these stressors than originally known.

Press Release

Razorback sucker, photo by USFWS.

Scientific Review Suggests Reclassification of the Razorback Sucker from Endangered to Threatened

DENVER — The razorback sucker, a native fish found in the Colorado River basin is making a comeback thanks to the work of conservation partnerships between the U.S Fish and Wildlife Service (Service), states, federal agencies, Tribes, industry and environmental groups. The Service recently completed a species status assessment (SSA) and a 5-year status review, utilizing the best available science, that concluded the current risk of extinction is low, such that the species is no longer in danger of extinction throughout all of its range. The SSA explained that large populations of adults have been re-established in the Colorado, Green, and San Juan Rivers. Populations are also present in Lake Powell, Lake Mead, Lake Mohave and Lake Havasu. As a result, in the future the Service proposes to reclassify the fish from endangered to threatened.

Press Release

The landscape photo is of the New 13 acre easement, photo by Simi Batra/USFWS.

Western Rivers Conservancy Land Donation Establishes San Luis Valley Conservation Area in Colorado

CONEJOS COUNTY, COLORADO — Today, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service accepted a 12.82-acre conservation easement donation in Colorado’s San Luis Valley from Western Rivers Conservancy. With the donation, the San Luis Valley Conservation Area becomes the 567th unit of the National Wildlife Refuge System, an unparalleled network of public lands and waters dedicated to the conservation of native wildlife and their habitats.

Press Release

Ducks beautify the sky at Bear River Migratory Bird Refuge in Utah. Credit: Mike Guyant

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Announces Proposed Hunting Expansion for Bear River Migratory Bird Refuge in Utah

DENVER – Today the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service), as part of the 2018-2019 Refuge-Specific Hunting and Sport Fishing Regulations process, proposes to expand hunting on over 13,000 additional acres at the Bear River Migratory Bird Refuge (Refuge) in Utah. These additional areas would be open to waterfowl and pheasant hunting and would align with State regulations for these species. Details on the proposed alternatives for these additional hunting areas are available on the Refuge’s website. The Service aims to make a decision regarding these hunting areas in time for the 2018-2019 hunting season.

• Press Release
• Environmental Assessment
• FAQs
• Refuge Hunting and Fishing News Webpage

Colorado butterfly plant. Credit: Allison Michael.

Colorado Butterfly Plant Populations Bounce Back

DENVER – Thanks in large part to successful partnerships with landowners that have helped recover the species, today the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service announced plans to remove the Colorado butterfly plant from the Federal List of Endangered and Threatened Plants and to remove designated critical habitat. The species is a member of the evening primrose family and is found primarily in southeastern Wyoming, northcentral Colorado, and western Nebraska.

Press Release

Two grizzly bears. Credit: USFWS.

Information Sought on Grizzly Bear Shooting North of Libby

Kalispell, MT — The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks are seeking information on the shooting death of a sub-adult male grizzly bear found dead on Forest Road 4859 in the Kootenai Forest, north of Libby in Northwest Montana. Read the full press release below.

Press Release

Arctic grayling. Credit: Courtesy of Mark Conlin.

Public Comment Sought on Draft Environmental Assessment, Voluntary Conservation Opportunities to Protect Arctic Grayling in the Centennial Valley

DENVER - The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is seeking public comment on a draft Environmental Assessment and Candidate Conservation Agreement with Assurances (CCAA) to help conserve Arctic grayling in the Centennial Valley, Montana. The Centennial Valley CCAA is designed to improve living conditions for this freshwater fish through habitat restoration and other voluntary conservation projects. These actions are expected to increase the distribution of the species, which will help support ongoing conservation efforts.

Press Release
Download the Draft Centennial Valley Arctic Grayling Candidate Conservation Agreement with Assurances
Download the Draft Environmental Assessment
Download the Federal Register Notice of Availability/Request for Comment

A female grizzly bear in northwestern Montana. Courtesy of Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks

Fish and Wildlife Service Publishes the Final Chapter in its Guide to Recover the Northern Continental Divide Ecosystem of Grizzly Bears

DENVER - The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) announced today the availability of the final Grizzly Bear Recovery Plan Supplement: Habitat-Based Recovery Criteria for the Northern Continental Divide Ecosystem (Recovery Plan Supplement). The final Recovery Plan Supplement provides objective, habitat-based criteria for the recovery of Northern Continental Divide Ecosystem grizzly bears, and builds upon the existing roadmap to grizzly bear recovery for the Service and our conservation partners.

Press Release
Grizzly Bear Recovery Plan Supplement: Habitat-Based Recovery Criteria for the Northern Continental Divide Ecosystem
Recovery Zone Map

Service Provides Final Supplemental Environmental Impact Statement for the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation’s Amended Habitat Conservation Plan

DENVER - The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) today released the final Supplemental Environmental Impact Statement (SEIS) for the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation’s (DNRC) application to amend an incidental take permit to add 81,416 acres to their Habitat Conservation Plan (HCP). Adding these lands to the HCP would increase the level of anticipated take of grizzly bear, Canada lynx, bull trout, and westslope cutthroat trout from forest management activities and would require an amended permit from the Service.

Finding of No Significant Impact for Environmental Assessment of Eagle Incidental Take Permit in Broomfield County, Colorado

DENVER - Today, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) is announcing the availability of a Finding of No Significant Impact (FONSI) for a disturbance permit application for a pair of bald eagles in Broomfield County, Colorado. Garrett Construction Company LLC (Garrett) applied for an eagle incidental take permit for disturbance that may occur while constructing an apartment complex from early May 2018 through late 2019. Based on our finding, the Service is issuing an eagle incidental take permit to Garrett.

Wind turbines. Scott Covington/USFWS

Public Comment Sought on Draft Environmental Assessment Evaluating Impacts of Potential Issuance of a Bald Eagle Take Permit for Courtenay Wind Farm

DENVER - The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) is seeking public comment on a draft Environmental Assessment for the Northern States Power Company, doing business as Xcel Energy (Applicant), for the Courtenay Wind Farm (Project). The draft Environmental Assessment evaluates the impact of issuing an eagle take permit for the existing 100-turbine wind facility located approximately 15 miles north of Jamestown, North Dakota.

Pallid sturgeon. Credit: Ken Bouc, Nebraska Game and Parks Commission.

Partnership Continues to Conserve Endangered Species in the Missouri River Basin

DENVER -The endangered animals that call the Missouri River basin home are as iconic as the river itself, and a biological opinion issued yesterday by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) concludes that two shorebirds and one ancient fish found in the river and currently receiving Endangered Species Act (ESA) protections will not be jeopardized, even as in-river management activities move forward. In fact, the science-based adaptive management techniques proposed in the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers’ (Corps) Missouri River Recovery Management Plan will provide biologists with opportunities to deepen their knowledge of the piping plover, interior least tern, and pallid sturgeon in order to maximize conservation while also meeting the Corps’ obligations to other river interests.

Utah prairie dog. Credit: © Laura Romin and Larry Dalton. Photo used with permission of Laura Romin.

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Releases Plan to Protect Utah Prairie Dogs and Benefit Economic Productivity

DENVER – Today, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) in consultation with the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources (UDWR) and affected counties released a 10-year general conservation plan (GCP) that will aid the conservation of threatened Utah prairie dogs while benefiting economic productivity in the region and reducing undue regulatory burdens.

Screenshot of greater sage-grouse for the lekcam. Photo credit: USFWS

Lek Cam Offers Streaming Video of the Sage-Grouse Strut

Have you ever seen a sage-grouse strut? For the fourth straight year, you can witness the greater sage-grouse dancing to find a mate on a live-streaming wildlife camera. Located on a breeding ground called a lek, these birds puff out their chests and fan their tail feathers every morning from approximately 5:00 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. PDT. You can visit The Nature Conservancy’s website to watch live and recorded footage at www.nature.org/lekcam.

After Scientific Review, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to Propose Reclassification of the Humpback Chub from Endangered to Threatened

DENVER — Things are looking up for a rare Colorado River fish, the endangered humpback chub. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) recently completed a species status assessment (SSA) and a 5-year status review that concluded the current risk of extinction is low, such that the species is not in danger of extinction throughout all of its range. The SSA explained that the largest population of humpback chub, which is found in the Colorado and Little Colorado rivers in the Grand Canyon of Arizona, is a stable population of about 12,000 adults.
Read more

Press Release
Species Status Assessment for the Humpback Chub
5-Year Review of the Humpback Chub

Sagebrush at the end of a rainbow. Photo: Tom Koerner/USFWS

NFWF Announces $724,200 in Grants to Improve Sagebrush Landscapes

DENVER (December 12, 2017) –The National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF) today announced $724,200 in grants to support habitat restoration and partnerships in sagebrush landscapes conservation in Colorado, Idaho, Montana and Wyoming. The grants will generate $1.1million in matching contributions for a total conservation impact of more than $1.8 million.
Read more

Lake Darling, a main focal point of Upper Souris National Wildlife Refuge, was named after political cartoonist Jay N. "Ding" Darling. Photo Credit: Jennifer Jewett / USFWS

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Expands Hunting and Fishing Opportunities on North Dakota National Wildlife Refuges

DENVER – In a continuing effort to increase access to hunting and fishing on public lands, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service today announced a final rule to open or expand opportunities across 132,000 acres on 10 national wildlife refuges. This will bring the number of refuges where the public may hunt up to 373 and up to 311 where fishing is permitted.

A chestnut collared longspur, a grassland bird. Photo credit: Rick Bohn.

Public Comment Invited on Proposal to Benefit Landowners, Grassland Birds and Greater Sage-Grouse in Montana

HELENA – A new, voluntary wildlife conservation opportunity designed with Montana ranchers in mind is now open for public comment, and the benefits to five species of birds in need could be remarkable.

Bison at the National Bison Range during the 2016 Bison roundup. Credit: Dave Fitzpatrick/USFWS

National Bison Range Postpones Annual Bison Roundup Due to Smoke and Fire Risk

MOIESE, Mont. – Citing safety concerns, the National Bison Range (NBR) announced today that its annual bison roundup is postponed indefinitely. The event was previously scheduled for October 2 and 3, 2017.

Secretary Zinke Announces Recovery and Delisting of Yellowstone Grizzly Bear

WASHINGTON – Due to the success of conservation efforts and collaboration among a variety of stakeholders, U.S. Secretary of the Interior Ryan Zinke announced today that the Yellowstone population of the grizzly bear has been recovered to the point where federal protections can be removed and overall management can be returned to the states and tribes. The population has rebounded from as few as 136 bears in 1975 to an estimated 700 today and meets all the criteria for delisting.  Press Release.

Lek Cam Offers Streaming Video of the Sage-Grouse Strut

PORTLAND, OR— Have you ever seen a sage-grouse strut? For the third straight year, you can witness the greater sage-grouse dancing to find a mate on a live-streaming wildlife camera. Located on a breeding ground called a lek, these birds puff out their chests and fan their tail feathers every morning from approximately 5:00 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. PDT. You can visit The Nature Conservancy’s website to watch live and recorded footage at http://bit.ly/LekCam2017..

Bald eagle flying in a blue sky. Photo credit: Tom Koerner / USFWS

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Investigating Bald Eagle Shooting Near Athol, South Dakota

BISMARCK, N.D. – the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) is investigating the death of a bald eagle, which was shot near the town of Athol, South Dakota sometime before March 28th in Spink County.

Bull Elk. Credit: USFWS.

Hunting Guide from Elk County Charged with Lacy Act Violations

WICHITA, KAN. – A Kansas hunting guide was indicted Tuesday on charges of violating the Lacy Act and the federal Migratory Bird Treaty Act, U.S. Attorney Tom Beall said. Two of the guide’s employees and a hunter from Georgia also were charged.

Whitebark Pine Credit: Richard Sniezko.

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Evaluating Federal Protection for Whitebark Pine

DENVER – Whitebark pine is a tough tree surviving in poor soils, withstanding whipping winds on steep mountain slopes. Often dwarfed by exposure and hugging the ground, whitebark pine grow higher in elevation than any other pine, all the way up to the tree line in the Pacific Coast and Cascade ranges, Sierra Nevada and Rocky Mountains.

Northern Rocky Mountain Fisher Credit: U.S. Forest Service.

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to Consider Northern Rocky Mountain Fisher Population for ESA Protection

DENVER – The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) announced today the initiation of a status review for the distinct population segment (DPS) of Northern Rocky Mountain (NRM) Fisher, to determine whether this population meets the definition of an endangered or threatened species under the Endangered Species Act (ESA).

Salt Creek Tiger Beetle / Copyright Bradley A. Miles

Final Recovery Plan Available for the Endangered Salt Creek Tiger Beetle

DENVER - The endangered Salt Creek tiger beetle is not only one of the worlds rarest insects but also a voracious predator that pounces like a tiger, using part of its mandibles to capture prey that is as big as it is.

Pilot Jonas Marcinko prepares to launch the drone. Credit: WWF-US / Conservation Media

Partnerships, Innovation (and Peanut Butter) Give New Hope for America’s Most Endangered Mammal

LEWISTOWN, MT — An unlikely combination of peanut butter and drones has given researchers renewed hope for the future of North America’s rarest mammal, the endangered black-footed ferret. The project, which is a joint effort between the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, World Wildlife Fund, U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) National Wildlife Health Center, Model Avionics, and Support XXL, involves dropping vaccine-laced, peanut butter-flavored baits from drones in an effort to vaccinate the black-footed ferret’s primary prey: prairie dogs. FAQ

Wolverine walking through the snow. Credit: Steve Kroschel.

Court Ruling Reopens Comment Period on North American Wolverine Proposed Listing Rule

DENVER – The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) is reopening the public comment period on a proposed rule to list the North American wolverine as threatened under the Endangered Species Act (ESA).

Meltwater lednian stonefly, Credit: Joe Giersch / USGS

Two Types of Stoneflies Proposed for Endangered Species Act Protections

LAKEWOOD, Colo. –Both the meltwater lednian stonefly and the western glacier stonefly are tiny winged insects about the size of your pencil eraser. They live in mountain-top streams and lake outlets where the frigid waters are fed from glaciers and permanent snowfields in and near Glacier National Park, in northwest Montana.

Credit: USFWS

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Reopens Comment Period on Yellowstone Grizzly Bear Population Delisting Proposal

The Service is reopening of the comment period on the proposed rule to delist the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem grizzly bear population, which initially published March 11, 2016.​ This decision comes after July’s release of the findings of an extensive scientific peer review of the delisting proposal. The extended comment period also allows the public to comment on the protective measures passed by Idaho, Montana, and Wyoming for post-delisting management of grizzly bears.​

2016 Meeteetse Black-footed Ferret Reintroduction. Photo Credit: Ryan Moehring / USFWS

Black-footed ferrets Return to Ancestors’ Stomping Grounds in Wyoming

July 28, 2016

One of North America’s most endangered mammals, the black-footed ferret, took another step toward recovery this week thanks to a historic reintroduction back to the ranches where the species was rediscovered in 1981 after having been believed to be extinct. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, the Wyoming Game and Fish Department and the owners of two ranches released 35 black-footed ferrets outside Meeteetse, Wyoming.
News Release »
Learn More »

Grizzly Bear in Yellowstone National Park Credit: USFWS

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Posts Yellowstone Grizzly Bear Delisting Rule Peer Reviews

DENVER, Colo. - The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has received five independent peer reviews on the Yellowstone grizzly bear population proposed delisting rule. The peer reviewers all agree that the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem grizzly bear population is biologically recovered and the 2016 Conservation Strategy, which is the post-delisting management plan, is sufficient to maintain a recovered population.

White Pelicans at Bear River Conservation Area Photo Credit: Brian Ferguson / USFWS

Utah Family Land Donation Establishes Bear River Watershed Conservation Area

BRIGHAM CITY, Utah – Today, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is accepting a 30-acre conservation easement donation west of Brigham City, Utah, from the Ferry Ranch and Farm family. Their contribution formally establishes the Bear River Watershed Conservation Area as the 565th national wildlife refuge.

The Wyoming toad only lives in Albany County, Wyoming and was released into three properties along the Little Laramie River. Credit: Rob Mansheim / USFWS.

Friends of the Wyoming Toad Have a Ribbiting Good Time Near Laramie Wyoming

LAKEWOOD, Colo. –In the continuing efforts to recover one of Americas most endangered amphibians, 900 adult Wyoming toads were released at three sites in the Laramie River basin on June 1st.

2015 Recovery Champion honoree Alex Diekmann holding a brown trout from the O’Dell Creek in Madison Valley, Mont.

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Announces 2015 Endangered Species Recovery Champions

DENVER, Colo. – The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) today recognizes two individuals and teams for their exceptional efforts to conserve and protect the nation’s rarest fish, wildlife, and plants by designating them as 2015 Recovery Champions.

Credit: USFWS

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Seeks Comment on Utah Cacti Draft Recovery Plan

LAKEWOOD, Colo. – Both the Winkler and San Rafael cacti are small, yellow to peachy-pink flowering plants, which are found only in Utah. Amazingly, these cacti retract entirely into the ground during the winter and dry seasons.

Adult Bonytail

Endangered Bonytail Spawning Confirmed in a Green River Floodplain

JENSEN, UTAH – For the past four years, the Upper Colorado River Endangered Fish Recovery Program and its partner the Bureau of Reclamation have coordinated spring releases from Flaming Gorge Dam to connect floodplain habitats along the Green River near Jensen, Utah to provide important nursery habitat for endangered Colorado River fish.

Northern Long-eared bat

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Determines Critical Habitat is Not Prudent for Threatened Northern Long-eared Bat

Given the nature of the primary threats facing the species and the potential harm of publishing its hibernation locations, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has determined that designating critical habitat for the northern long-eared bat under the Endangered Species Act (ESA) is not prudent.

• Press Release
• FAQs (PDF)
• Range and WNS Map (PDF)
• Learn More
  

Public Comment Sought on Draft Environmental Impact Statement Evaluating Impacts from Proposed Chokecherry and Sierra Madre Phase I Wind Energy Project

LAKEWOOD, Colo. – The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) is seeking public comment on a Draft Environmental Impact Statement (DEIS) for the Power Company of Wyoming’s (PCW) Chokecherry and Sierra Madre Phase I Wind Energy Project (CCSM). The DEIS evaluates the impact of issuing an eagle take permit for the 500-turbine project to be built south of Rawlins, Wyoming.

• Press Release
• FAQs (PDF)
• Project Map (JPG)
  

The 12,000-acre Ladder Ranch is spread over several parcels but headquartered here under Battle Mountain. Photo by Phil Taylor.

The O'Tooles -- polar opposites of the Bundys

SAVERY, Wyo. -- Pat O'Toole trudged through ankle-deep snow to the confluence of Battle Creek and the Little Snake River, a place where beaver trappers fought the Sioux, Cheyenne and Arapaho in 1841.

Photo: Scott Flaherty/USFWS

Condor pair likely incubating an egg in Zion National Park

 A pair of California condors appear to be nesting again in Zion National Park. Park staff first observed the pair entering a cavity in Zion Canyon on Feb. 26. Since then, the pair has been regularly observed in the cavity and the surrounding area. Biologists from The Peregrine Fund, the private non-profit that releases and monitors condors, has confirmed that GPS locations and daily behavior of both parents indicate regular incubation.

Credit: Greg Kramos / USFWS

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Helps Recover Threatened, Endangered Species at National Wildlife Refuges in Kansas, Utah, Montana

DENVER – The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, through its Cooperative Recovery Initiative (CRI), is committing $6.86 million to 16 projects across 27 states for recovery of some of the nation’s most at-risk species on or near national wildlife refuges.

Credit: USFWS

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Seeks Public Input on Draft Recovery Plan for the Preble’s Meadow Jumping Mouse

LAKEWOOD, Colo. – One of the most elusive rodents along Colorado’s Front Range is getting a boost on the road to recovery. 
The Preble’s Meadow Jumping Mouse (Preble’s mouse), which lives along vegetated streams from El Paso County, Colorado to southern Wyoming, was designated a threatened species under the Endangered Species Act in 1998. With its large hind legs and long tail, this mouse can jump many times its own body length when alarmed, but spends most of its time scurrying about through grass and other vegetation within or near the 100 year flood plain.

Credit: USFWS

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to Host Public Meetings on Proposed Yellowstone Grizzly Bear Population Delisting

LAKEWOOD, Colo. – The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) will host two informational open house meetings and public hearings on the Yellowstone grizzly bear population proposed delisting rule on   April 11-12, 2016, in Cody, Wyo. and Bozeman, Mont.

Piping Plover on Alkali. Photo Credit: Steven Tucker/USFWS

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Seeks Public Comment on Draft Revised Recovery Plan for Northern Great Plains Piping Plover Population

BISMARCK, N.D. –The piping plover, a small, sparrow-sized migratory shorebird known for its melodic mating call, may benefit from increased conservation activities, thanks to a new recovery plan released today by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service).

• Press Release
• FAQs
• Species Profile
• Learn More

Credit: Steve Amus / USDA

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Mountain-Prairie Region Evaluating the Status of Two Species

LAKEWOOD, Colo. – The western bumble bee, like all bumble bees, is a yellow and black bee that is an important pollinator of a wide variety of flowering plants and agricultural crops in western North America. This bee has a wide geographic range that stretches down the west coast from Alaska to California and reaches as far east as Nebraska and the Dakotas. 

• 90 Day Findings
• Press Release

Credit: USFWS

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Proposes Delisting Yellowstone Grizzly Bear Due To Recovery

LAKEWOOD, Colo. – In response to the successful recovery of one of the nation’s most iconic animals, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) today proposed to remove the grizzly bear in the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem from the Federal Lists of Endangered and Threatened Wildlife.

• Proposed Rule
• Press Release
• FAQs
• Supplement to 1993 Grizzly Bear Recovery Plan
• Draft 2016 Conservation Strategy for the Grizzly Bear in the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem
• Proposed Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem Grizzly Delisting Rule Literature Cited
• Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem Map

Credit: USFWS

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Evaluating the Status of Species

LAKEWOOD, Colo. – The Northern Rocky Mountain fisher lives along streams in the forests of Idaho, Montana, and Wyoming. This long, bushy-tailed animal nearly disappeared from this area in the 1920s due to unregulated trapping. Fisher populations have rebounded, but new evidence suggests hunting, habitat loss, and poisoning may still be of concern. The fisher is just one of 17 other species that have been petitioned by environmental groups to list as threatened or endangered.

Press Release
January 2016 90 Day Findings

Credit: USFWS

New Rule Will Help Conservation of Endangered Ferrets in Wyoming

LAKEWOOD, Colo. – One of the most endangered mammals in North America received a boost today, thanks to collaborative efforts between the federal government and the State of Wyoming.

Press Release
FAQs
Factsheet
BFF Photos & B-roll

Credit: Joe Giersch / USGS

U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service to Evaluate Two Stoneflies for ESA protection

LAKEWOOD, Colo. – Two stoneflies found in high-elevation coldwater streams in and near Glacier National Park, Mont. will be evaluated by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) in the coming year to determine whether they warrant protection under the Endangered Species Act (ESA).

Press Release

Credit: USFWS

Black-footed Ferret Reintroduction on Rocky Mountain Aresnal NWR

On Monday, October 5, 2015, at Rocky Mountain Arsenal NWR just outside of Denver, Colorado, we reintroduced what was once, the most endangered mammal in North America, the black-footed ferret.

Video Press Release

Wyoming Toad Credit: Sara Armstrong / USFWS

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and Wyoming Game and Fish Department Announce Final Recovery Plan for Endangered Wyoming Toad

LARAMIE, Wyo. – A deadly disease responsible for devastating global amphibian populations is threatening one of North America’s rarest amphibians, the endangered Wyoming toad.

Press Release
Species Profile
Final Recovery Plan

Photo of a Dakota skipper (left) and a Poweshiek skipperling (right). Credit: USFWS.

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Designates Critical Habitat for Two Prairie Butterflies under the Endangered Species Act

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service today announced final critical habitat designations for the Dakota skipper and Poweshiek skipperling, two species of prairie butterflies listed under the Endangered Species Act in 2014.

Press Release

FAQs

Bull Trout Credit: Joel Sartore/ National Geographic & Wade Fredenberg/ USFWS

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Completes Final Bull Trout Recovery Plan

BOISE, Idaho – Efforts to conserve a key cold-water fish species got a boost today when the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) released the final Bull Trout Recovery Plan, which outlines the conservation actions needed to recover bull trout (Salvelinus confluentus).

Press Release

BullTrout - FAQ and Map (PDF)

Greater Sage-Grouse

Greater Sage-Grouse ESA Finding

DENVER- An unprecedented conservation partnership led by federal and state agencies, private landowners, industry and conservation groups has significantly reduced threats to the greater sage-grouse. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has found the species remains relatively abundant and well-distributed and does not need the protection of the Endangered Species Act.

Press Release

2015 Finding

USFWS Greater Sage-Grouse site

Colorado Parks and Wildlife

Court affirms Rodebaugh sentence, poacher from Meeker remains in prison

DENVER- Convicted poacher and former outfitter Dennis Eugene Rodebaugh, 73, of Meeker, Colo., learned on Tuesday that his appeal to the 10th Circuit Court of Appeals has failed, affirming the 41-month prison sentence and fines the former outfitter received in early 2013 for illegally baiting deer and elk with salt.

Press Release

Credit: USFWS

State Endangered Species Conservation Efforts Receive $37.2 Million Boost Through Service Grants: Colorado, Utah and Montana to Receive Funding

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) is awarding $37.2 million in grants to 20 states to support conservation planning and acquisition of vital habitat for threatened and endangered species across the nation. The grants, awarded through the Cooperative Endangered Species Conservation Fund (CESCF), will benefit numerous species ranging from the coastal California gnatcatcher to the Karner blue butterfly. For a complete list of the 2015 grant awards, see www.fws.gov/endangered/grants/index.html.

Press Release

Credit: USFWS

San Luis Valley National Wildlife Refuge Complex Announces Final Comprehensive Conservation Plan and Environmental Impact Statement

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) announced today the publication of its final Comprehensive Conservation Plan (CCP) and Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) for the San Luis Valley National Wildlife Refuge Complex.

Press Release

Credit: USFWS

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Seeking Input on Proposed Native American Policy Update

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) wants to know what you think about its draft Revised Native American Policy (NAP) with today’s publication of the Notice of Availability in the Federal Register.

Press Release

Credit: USFWS

U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service Announces Availability of a Draft Recovery Plan for the endangered Salt Creek Tiger Beetle

One of the world’s rarest insects is getting a boost to its recovery. In order to keep this unique insect from extinction a draft recovery plan has been developed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) that may help keep it from disappearing from the Cornhusker State.

Press Release | More Information

Credit: USFWS

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Seeks Tribal Input on Listing Status of the Yellowstone Grizzly Bear

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is in the early stages of considering the Endangered Species Act (ESA) listing status of the Yellowstone grizzly bear. While we recently reached out to tribes near the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem (GYE), we did not initially appreciate the breadth of historical, cultural, and spiritual connection some tribes outside that area have with the grizzly bear and the GYE. As a result, we at the Service are redoubling our efforts to engage our valued tribal partners who may be interested in government-to-government consultation on this matter.

Bulletin | Letter

Credit: Joel Sartore/ National Geographic & Wade Fredenberg/ USFWS

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Invites Comment on Implementation Plans for Bull Trout Recovery

BOISE, Idaho – Efforts to conserve a key cold-water fish species got a boost today when the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) released draft Recovery Unit Implementation Plans (Implementation Plans) that will be part of a final recovery plan outlining the conservation actions needed to recover bull trout (Salvelinus confluentus).

News Release

Credit: USFWS

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Announces 2014 Endangered Species Recovery Champions

DENVER, Colo. – The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) today recognized individuals and teams for their exceptional efforts to conserve and protect the nation’s rarest fish, wildlife, and plants by designating them as the 2014 Recovery Champions.

News Release

Photo credit: International Migratory Bird Day 2015 poster by Amelia Hansen for Environment for the Americas

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Celebrates International Migratory Bird Day

The Service is once again a proud sponsor of International Migratory Bird Day (IMBD), this Saturday, May 9th. The Service invites people to celebrate and support migratory bird conservation in their local communities and beyond.

News Release | Related Link

Ferret / USFWS

Partners Across the United States to Celebrate 10th Annual Endangered Species Day

The 10th annual national Endangered Species Day will be celebrated May 15, 2015, with special events and programs that recognize our nation’s efforts to conserve and protect America’s most imperiled species.

News Release

Photo credit: USFWS

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to Hold Public Meetings for Draft Comprehensive Conservation Plan for the Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) will hold a series of public meetings focused on explaining and obtaining comments on a revised Comprehensive Conservation Plan (CCP) for the Rocky Mountain Arsenal National Wildlife Refuge.

News Release

Service Announces Request for Proposals for the FY16 Tribal Wildlife Grants Program

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is requesting proposals for the FY 2016 Tribal Wildlife Grants (TWG) Program. The program provides a competitive funding opportunity for federally recognized tribal governments to develop and implement programs for the benefit of wildlife and their habitat, including species of Native American cultural or traditional importance and species that are not hunted or fished.

News Release

Service Provides $1.1 Billion to State Wildlife Agencies Benefiting Outdoor Recreationists, Conservation, Regional Economies

WASHINGTON – The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service announced today that it will distribute $1.1 billion in revenues generated by the hunting and angling industry to state and territorial fish and wildlife agencies throughout the nation. The funds support critical fish and wildlife conservation and recreation projects that benefit all Americans.

News Release

Potholes and Wind Turbines by Krista Lundgren / USFWS.

Final Programmatic Environmental Impact Statement Available for Wind Energy Projects in the Upper Great Plains

LAKEWOOD, Colo.  — The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) and Western Area Power Administration have published a final Programmatic Environmental Impact Statement (PEIS), which evaluates the environmental impacts of wind energy development in the Upper Great Plains states of Minnesota, Montana, Nebraska, North Dakota, and South Dakota. The final PEIS, when coupled with project-specific environmental assessments, is designed to standardize the environmental review process while ensuring protection for wildlife and other natural resources in the Upper Great Plains.

News Release | PEIS, Volume 1, April 2015 (54.8mb pdf) | PEIS, Volume 2, April 2015 (33.4mb pdf) | More information:

Bi-State Sage-grouse Jeanne Stafford / USFWS

Service withdraws Bi-State DPS listing proposal

RENO, NV – The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service today announced it was withdrawing a proposal to list the Bi-State Distinct Population Segment of greater sage-grouse as threatened because a locally developed conservation plan and $45 million in funding will address the major threats to the species.

News Release

Ferret / USFWS

Service Helps Recover Species at National Wildlife Refuges in Colorado, Kansas, Nebraska and Montana

DENVER-The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, through its Cooperative Recovery Initiative (CRI), is committing $5.8 million to 14 projects across 18 states for recovery of some of the nation’s most at-risk species on or near national wildlife refuges.

News Release

Barn Owl / USFWS

Utah man pleads guilty and is sentenced for Airborne Hunting Act violation

Dell Schanze, age 45, of American Fork, Utah, pled guilty to using an aircraft to harass wildlife and pursuing a migratory bird in U.S. District Court in Salt Lake City Friday afternoon. There was no plea agreement, and federal prosecutors made no concessions to Schanze as a part of his guilty plea to both counts of the Misdemeanor Information.

News Release

Black-footed ferret kits by Ryan Moehring / USFWS

Service Proposes Measures to Facilitate Recovery of Endangered Black-footed Ferrets in Wyoming

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is seeking public comment on a proposal to designate the State of Wyoming as a special area for the reintroduction of black-footed ferrets, which are federally listed as endangered.

News Release | Frequently Asked Questions | Black-footed Ferret Recovery | Species Photos and B-roll

Greater sage-grouse by Tom Koerner / USFWS

Partners for Fish and Wildlife Program Highlighted by Sage Grouse Initiative

The Sage Grouse Initiative regularly features its many partners as part of its Featured Friend series. They recently honored the USFWS Partners for Fish and Wildlife Program, which helps to fund many of SGI's field staff, and also works with SGI in the field by carrying out conservation projects with private ranchers.

News Release | Partners for Fish and Wildlife

Northern long-eared bat in cave Credit: Jill Uturp/USFWS

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Protects Northern Long-eared Bat as Threatened Under Endangered Species Act

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service announced today it is protecting the northern long-eared bat as a threatened species under the Endangered Species Act (ESA), primarily due to the threat posed by white-nose syndrome, a fungal disease that has devastated many bat populations.

News Release | Interim 4(d) FAQ | Listing FAQ|Buffer Zone and Range Map for Northern Long-eared Bat | Species Factsheet | Do I need a permit?

Pronghorn Credit: Tom Koerner/USFWS

Tribes in 13 States Receive $4.2 Million From Service for Conservation Work

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service today announced nearly $4.2 million in Tribal Wildlife Grants to Native American Tribes in 13 states. The awards will support conservation projects that benefit a wide range of wildlife and habitat.

News Release