Wolverines have been in decline for at least 20 years. Now, a judge is asking the federal government to decide whether the large, carnivorous weasels deserve Endangered Species Act protection.
The ruling comes after environmental groups challenged a Trump-era decision to withhold protections for the animals in the lower 48 states, where only 250 to 300 wolverines likely remain. The elusive predators live in remote areas of Montana, Wyoming, Idaho and Washington, and wolverine sightings have also been reported in California, Utah, Colorado and Oregon.
U.S. wildlife officials will have 18 months to decide whether or not to list the wolverine as an endangered species. The environmental groups that brought the case argue that climate change is a threat to wolverines, which rely on snowpack to build dens in which they give birth and raise their young. Based on climate change modeling, some wolverine researchers predict almost two-thirds of the species’ denning habitat will disappear by 2085.
Biden cuts costs for clean energy projects on public lands
The Biden administration announced yesterday it plans to reduce the cost of building wind and solar energy projects on federal lands to help encourage renewable energy development and address climate change. The change is the result of lobbying by the clean energy industry, which has said leases and other fees are prohibitively high.
In a statement, the Interior Department said rents and fees for solar and wind projects would fall by about 50%. The White House also announced the creation of renewable energy coordinating offices in Washington, Arizona, California, Nevada and Utah.
Quick hits
Colville Tribes reflect on return of 328 acres of ancestral land in Washington
Colorado River managers plan to study water loss between Flaming Gorge and Lake Powell this summer
Greenlit powerlines portend Wyoming wind energy boom
Opinion: Why asking “when will Arizona run out of water” is the wrong question
Cows in Wyoming don flashing LED lights as part of depredation research
Crews may have turned corner in fight against New Mexico’s mega-blaze
Tapping mineral waste could offset environmental impacts of green energy
Trump policies sent U.S. tumbling in Ivy League climate ranking
Quote of the day
During Great Outdoors Month, I encourage Americans to take time to experience the natural wonders across our Nation. As we enjoy the great outdoor landscapes and seascapes, let us each recommit to doing our part in their stewardship, preservation, and sustainable use so they continue to be a source of inspiration for outdoor enthusiasts for generations to come.”
Picture this
Near-perfect reflections on another gorgeous bluebird day in Glacier Bay. There’s more blue skies and 70º weather on the way! We hope you enjoyed a meaningful, restful, memorial day weekend. Pictured: Mount Crillon (12,664′) and Mount Bertha (10,151′)
(featured image: William F. Wood via Wikimedia Commons)