A couple of weeks ago, we discussed the potential ramifications of the Trust the Science Act (H.R. 764) on gray wolves and other endangered species in the United States. This bill, introduced by controversial Congresswoman Lauren Boebert, aims to reinstate the USFWS final rule delisting the gray wolf nationally, not subject to judicial review. The delisting of gray wolves could lead to state-managed hunting and trapping, which might negatively impact their population and recovery efforts, as it did several years ago across the U.S. when protections were lifted under the Trump administration, the impacts of which are still felt in Montana and Idaho. As we continue to monitor the progress of H.R. 764, it is essential we continue to educate and emphasize the importance of protecting gray wolves and their ecosystems.

House Natural Resources Committee Markup and Amendments

Earlier this week, the House Natural Resources Committee marked up several bills, including H.R. 764. During the markup, various amendments were offered, all of which were defeated on a party-line vote. These amendments sought to ensure meaningful consultation with affected Indian Tribes, address excessive wolf losses, protect Yellowstone National Park wolves, and allow for judicial review, among other provisions. Despite the defeat of these amendments, the discussion surrounding them highlights the ongoing debate over the best approach to gray wolf conservation. Ultimately, the bill passed on a party line vote 21-16, and it is expected that the full House will take up the bill within the next few weeks.

More Potential Threats To Endangered Species

Beyond H.R. 764, the U.S. House of Representatives’ Committee on Natural Resources has voted in favor of six bills and resolutions that threaten to remove protections from grizzly bears and gray wolves and weaken the Endangered Species Act. These proposed measures include the Grizzly Bear State Management Act (H.R. 1245) and the Comprehensive Grizzly Bear Management Act (H.R. 1419), which would remove Endangered Species Act protection for grizzly bears in specific populations. This move could expose the grizzly bear population to similar threats faced by gray wolves, such as trophy hunting and habitat loss. More information on these bills can be found on the Humane Society website, which also has a helpful tool for reaching out to your local congressional representatives to tell them why each of these bills must be fought against.

Why The Endangered Species Act Must Be Maintained

The Endangered Species Act just celebrated its 50th anniversary earlier this year, but these recent attacks remind us that the ESA is not a given.

Public awareness and engagement are critical in protecting endangered species. As threats to the Endangered Species Act and the wildlife it protects continue to emerge, it is essential for concerned citizens to remain vigilant, informed, and active in advocating for the protection of these vulnerable species. By contacting your House representatives and urging them to oppose these measures, you can help prevent the rollback of essential protections for gray wolves, grizzly bears, and other imperiled wildlife who depend on endangered species protections for their survival.

Efforts to preserve the Endangered Species Act and the wildlife it protects need to be sustained and strengthened. The recent push to dismantle the protections of endangered species calls for a renewed commitment from the public and policymakers alike.

Conclusions

The recent developments in the U.S. House of Representatives’ Committee on Natural Resources present new challenges to the protection of gray wolves, grizzly bears, and other endangered species in the United States. As the situation evolves, it is essential for concerned citizens and organizations to remain informed, engaged, and active in advocating for the protection of these vulnerable species and the integrity of the Endangered Species Act. The fate of our nation’s wildlife depends on our collective efforts to preserve and defend the laws and policies that protect them. By staying informed and taking action, we can help ensure a brighter future for these iconic species and the ecosystems they inhabit. Our actions can either contribute to the preservation of our nation’s rich biodiversity or lead to the loss of species that have shaped and defined our natural environment for centuries.