Grizzly bear is no longer endangered
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Services released a proposal to remove the Yellowstone Grizzly Bear from the endangered species list.
Federal wildlife officials say they have reached a major milestone in the recovery effort for Yellowstone-area grizzly bears.
The move could open the door to future hunts for the fearsome bears across parts of three states: Idaho, Montana and Wyoming.
State Sen. James E. Risch said “After a preliminary briefing, it appears this plan will require the three states to work together collaboratively to manage the bears to the average number.”
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Director Dan Ashe explains the reason behind the proposal.
“We’ve seen a spike in human caused bear mortality. Also an increase in bear mortality, a slight decrease in the population but scientist tell us it’s nothing to be alarmed with,” Ashe said.
Since 1975, the number of grizzlies in the three-state Yellowstone region increased from 136 to an estimated 700 to 1,000 animals.
“Bears have more than doubled their range since the mid 1970’s. And it’s more like 22,500 square miles in and around the Yellowstone ecosystem that’s an area larger than the state of New Hampshire, Massachusetts and Rhode Island combined,” Ashe said.
Hunting within Yellowstone National Park would still be prohibited, but the proposal could allow animals to be taken in surrounding parts of Montana, Idaho and Wyoming.
An estimated 700-1000 grizzlies live in the Yellowstone region of Montana, Wyoming and Idaho.
Executive Director of the Greater Yellowstone Coalition Caroline Byrd put out a statement on the proposal.
“Yellowstone Grizzly Bears are one of the country’s greatest conservation success stories and transitioning bears off the endangered species list must be done in a way that continues this legacy,” said Caroline Byrd.
Opponents say lifting protections could prove disastrous for a population that’s seen its food supplies diminish due to factors including climate change.
A final decision is due within a year.
