The plan would restrict oil and gas drilling as well as solar and wind projects.
The Interior Department’s Bureau of Land Management (BLM) has proposed updates to the conservation strategies that preserve the habitat of the greater sage-grouse. While this bird can still be found in 10 Western states, government scientists report that the population has declined 65 percent since 1986.
The over 6,500 square miles in the Western U.S. federal lands would face restrictions on oil and gas exploration and wind and solar development. The Bureau of Land Management is accepting public comment through December 9.
“For too long, a false choice has been presented for land management that aims to pit development against conservation,” said Secretary of the Interior Deb Haaland. “Through collaborative work in local communities, developed over decades, we are presenting science-based and thoughtful proposals to protect the greater sage-grouse and its habitat.”
As the Lord Leads, Pray with Us…
- For Deputy Director Nada Culver as she serves in the Bureau of Land Management.
- For wisdom for Secretary Haaland as she oversees the Interior Department.
- For administration officials as they seek to secure their agenda goals in the remaining months of President Biden’s term.
Sources: AP News, Department of the Interior
