Gordon signs sage grouse executive order

Wyoming Governor Mark Gordon released an executive order Wednesday he claims will improve the state’s Greater Sage Grouse Core Area Protection Strategy.

He said the order streamlines concepts fundamental to Greater sage-grouse conservation, improves clarity, recognizes valid and existing rights, and continues to provide regulatory certainty as new information emerges.

Gordon said it reflects public comments and incorporates recommendations from the Sage Grouse Implementation Team.

“This Executive Order shows how this administration has embraced a proven strategy that is the framework for how Wyoming approaches conservation,” Governor Gordon said. “It is impressive that such a wide array of interests understand the importance of this issue to Wyoming’s economy and our ecology and were willing to work together to build the strong foundation of this strategy.”

Gordon’s order replaces two previous executive orders issued by then Governor Matt Mead. Gordon said technical directives remain unchanged, including habitat maps, and definitions, stipulations for development, and compensatory mitigation requirements. The new guidance focuses on directives for coordination and agency cooperation, data collection and reporting, and adaptive management.

You can find more information on the order here.