Wyoming officials are expressing deep frustration and a renewed determination to challenge the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s (FWS) recent decision not to remove the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem (GYE) grizzly bear from the Endangered Species List. This setback comes despite the bear population exceeding recovery targets, fueling arguments that federal protections are no longer necessary.

The GYE grizzly population, which spans parts of Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho, has rebounded significantly from a low of roughly 136 bears in 1975 to an estimated 1,100 today. Wyoming Governor Mark Gordon and other state leaders argue that this recovery demonstrates the success of conservation efforts and warrants a return of management authority to the state.

“This is a deeply frustrating decision, especially given that the grizzly has been fully recovered for over a decade,” stated Governor Gordon. “Wyoming has proven time and again that we are capable of managing our wildlife effectively. It’s time for the federal government to acknowledge our expertise and relinquish control.”

The FWS, however, maintains that delisting is not appropriate at this time, citing concerns about the long-term genetic health of the grizzly population and potential conflicts with human activities. This decision echoes a similar move in 2017 when a federal judge overturned a prior delisting attempt, underscoring the complex legal and scientific battles surrounding grizzly bear management.

Wyoming officials remain undeterred, vowing to pursue all available legal avenues to overturn the FWS decision. They emphasize the state’s commitment to responsible wildlife management and the need for a balanced approach that considers both conservation goals and the interests of local communities. “We will not back down from this fight,” asserted Governor Gordon. “The grizzly bear is a symbol of the West, and its future should be in the hands of those who live with it every day.”

The state’s stance is supported by various stakeholders, including hunting and agricultural groups, who argue that delisting would allow for regulated hunting, reducing conflicts with livestock and promoting human safety. Environmental groups, however, largely support the FWS decision, highlighting the importance of continued federal protections to ensure the long-term viability of the grizzly population.

The debate over grizzly bear delisting is likely to continue for the foreseeable future, with Wyoming leading the charge to reclaim management control and delisting advocates facing ongoing opposition from federal agencies and environmental organizations. The outcome of this struggle will have significant implications for the future of grizzly bears in the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem and the broader relationship between state and federal authority in wildlife management.

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