New Sage-Grouse Management Plan Aims to Restore Sagebrush Ecosystem, Sage-Grouse Populations

DENVER - The Bureau of Land Management's Draft Resource Management Plan Amendment aims to restore the sagebrush ecosystem and the 350 species that depend on it, including its most famous occupant, the greater sage-grouse. This plan is the result of collaboration between the agency, state and local officials, ranchers, sportsmen and women, and other stakeholders and builds on the work started more than a decade ago to save greater sage-grouse while avoiding a costly Endangered Species Act listing.

"Greater sage-grouse are among the more than 350 species of wildlife and native plants that depend on the sagebrush ecosystem for survival. Unfortunately, we are currently losing 1.3 million acres of sagebrush habitat every year from the effects of drought, invasive species, wildfire, and human development, which puts sage-grouse at great risk," said David Willms, associate vice president for public lands at the National Wildlife Federation. "We appreciate the Biden Administration's recognition that healthy, intact landscapes are essential to both sage-grouse conservation and preserving our Western way of life. It's going to take all stakeholders - federal, state, Tribal, and local leaders; sportsmen and women; ranchers, and conservationists - continuing to work together as we have for decades to succeed in conserving this iconic species and landscape."

"Since 1998, Nevada has lost 71% of its prime sagebrush habitat. As our sage-grouse and its habitat continue to decline, it is critical that we use the best available science to steer sagebrush and sage-grouse management onto a path destined for success," said Russell Kuhlman, executive director of the Nevada Wildlife Federation. "Historical accounts claim that sage-grouse were so plentiful they would block out the sun, similar to the passenger pigeon. Without an effective management plan, the sage-grouse has the potential to be the 21st century's passenger pigeon."