A Victory for Endangered Species!

By April 29, 2009Sea Turtles

Before the last administration left office, a measure was introduced that was so incredibly unacceptable that I couldn’t believe what I was reading.  If it had passed, important decisions could have been made regarding projects involving endangered plants and animals WITHOUT the federal agency consulting scientists.  Well, thanks to all of you who read my blog of Feb. 15 asking for support of a House Joint Resolution to strike down this ridiculous proposal and contacted your US representatives.

Today, April 29 is a  glorious day for the Endangered Species Act and for all of us! Interior Secretary Ken Salazar and Commerce Secretary Gary Locke are reinstating the consultation provision under the Endangered Species Act.  Their decision requires federal agencies to once again consult with federal wildlife experts at the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration before taking any action that might affect threatened or endangered species.  The Interior Secretary has until May 10 to reverse rulings that would restrict protection for the polar bears.  We know that President Obama approved the changes to strengthen the Endangered Species Act and we need to thank him and your representatives for stopping this last-minute effort to damage the ESA.  Now, let’s help the Polar bears!