BLM listens to Idaho State partners

Comments sought on draft proposal to coordinate state and federal conservation efforts BOISE, Idaho – The Bureau of Land Management marked a milestone today in the Administration’s effort to better align plans for managing Greater Sage-Grouse habitat on federal lands by publishing a draft environmental impact analysis of proposed changes to resource management plans in Idaho.The BLM developed the proposed changes in collaboration with the Idaho Governor, state wildlife managers and other stakeholders to align federal and state plans. State agencies are at the forefront of efforts to maintain healthy fish and wildlife populations, and the BLM is being a better neighbor by ensuring that State partners are being heard.“We are committed to being a good neighbor and respect the state’s ability to manage wildlife, while recognizing the tremendous investments of effort into improving Greater Sage-Grouse populations over the last decade,” said Department of the Interior Deputy Secretary David Bernhardt. “We look forward to receiving comments on the draft.”“Idaho ranchers, sportsmen, recreationists and everyone else interested in stewardship of public lands and protecting both the species and our state’s way of life should welcome this opportunity to have their voices heard,” Idaho Governor C.L. “Butch” Otter said. “The Trump administration is showing greater respect for on-the-ground impacts of government actions on people and communities while restoring the important role of federalism.”