Trump Administration to Push for Grizzly Bear Delisting from Endangered Species List
A top official from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service informed Idaho lawmakers that the Trump administration intends to immediately pursue the removal of grizzly bears from the endangered species list once a proposed rule is finalized. This proposed rule, announced in July by Governor Brad Little and Interior Secretary Doug Burgum, aims to grant states greater authority in managing endangered grizzly bears. Karen Budd-Falen, a Fish and Wildlife deputy director, stated that the proposed rule would not alter the bears' current protection status but would instead empower states like Idaho, Montana, and Wyoming to implement their own recovery plans. Grizzly bears have been listed as endangered since 1975, receiving broad protections against hunting and habitat development after their populations were severely depleted by settlers. The proposed rule is also intended to serve as a safeguard in case any delisting efforts face legal challenges, ensuring states retain governing positions over the bears' management...
