Ada Reporter

U.S. Congressman Russ Fulcher, along with Senators Mike Crapo and Jim Risch, have voiced their opposition to a recent announcement by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) regarding grizzly bears. The delegation's response follows the USFWS's decision to deny petitions from Wyoming and Montana seeking to delist grizzly bear populations in those states.

Fulcher stated, "States—not the federal government—are best positioned to manage grizzly bear populations in a way that protects and meets community needs." He criticized the current administration for attempting to override state solutions and expressed his commitment to returning management responsibilities back to Idaho.

Crapo highlighted concerns about the species' status under the Endangered Species Act (ESA), stating, “The grizzly bear’s current Endangered Species Act (ESA) status disregards the successful recovery of the species within its historic range and overlooks scientifically supported, common-sense management practices.” He further noted that local conservation efforts have achieved significant results but are being overlooked by federal decisions.

Risch also criticized the federal approach: “Grizzly bears are overrunning communities in Idaho, and USFWS’s announcement is yet another example that the Biden administration doesn’t care.” He emphasized that several grizzly populations have reached recovery targets but accused the federal government of continually shifting goals.

The background of this issue includes ongoing advocacy from Idaho's delegation for removing ESA protections for grizzlies, advocating instead for locally tailored conservation strategies aimed at safeguarding communities in Idaho.