Wyoming Receives Award For State-Led Sage Grouse Plan

Sage-grouse have been a continuing concern for several western states as their habitat has been decreasing in recent years. The state of Wyoming has made a strong push to keep the sage-grouse from appearing on the endangered species list. Wyoming's efforts were recognized by U.S. Secretary of the Interior Ken Salazar.

According to a press release from the office of Governor Matt Mead, Wyoming was one of 17 recipients of a Partners in Conservation Award.

“I am pleased that Secretary Salazar would recognize Wyoming and all of our partners for the hard work that went into creating the sage-grouse plan,” Governor Matt Mead said. “More than that, I hope this is also an acknowledgement that Wyoming, the energy industry, agriculture producers and private landowners are significantly affected by this plan, and deserve thanks for making sacrifices in their support of it.”

Governor Mead spearheaded sage-grouse protection efforts by signing the Sage-Grouse Core Area Protection Executive Order in June. It updated an Order signed by Governor Freudenthal providing more flexibility for management in the core areas. “I do believe what makes this plan work is that it was a state-led effort and I am glad to see the federal government recognize Wyoming with this award.”

Information courtesy of the Office of Governor Matt Mead.