John,
Sagebrush country sweeps across millions of acres of high desert, steppe, and mountain habitats in our western states. It’s land made famous by Western movies—and is vital for the survival of over 350 wildlife species, including the imperiled greater sage-grouse.
But last spring, the Trump Administration dismantled plans to protect this delicate ecosystem and its wildlife in order to allow more oil and gas drilling. And even though the administration’s actions didn't hold up in court, they are taking another run at dismantling the plans.
Please take action today to protect sagebrush country and the diverse wildlife that live there.
Five years ago, westerners of all stripes put aside differences to craft a plan for protecting the incredible sagebrush ecosystem. It was a remarkable achievement to staunch the steady destruction of pristine habitat—that once covered virtually half of the American West—from oil and gas development, urbanization, fences, and other human impacts.
The collaborative and unprecedented agreement forged with private landowners, states, and the federal government was heralded as conservation at a scale unique in the world. Surface disturbance would be curtailed. Breeding grounds would be protected. Oil and gas leasing would be prioritized outside of sage grouse habitat. The plan offered our best shot at saving our remaining sagebrush country. It could put the greater sage-grouse on a path to recovery.
Now this landmark land and wildlife protection victory might be lost. Tell the Bureau of Land Management to go back to the agreement that protects the unique sagebrush ecosystem and the wildlife that call it home.
Our sagebrush country is vital for so many western species.
Mule deer stop over and migrate through sagebrush habitat. America’s smallest rabbit, the pygmy rabbit, nests and finds cover in the sagebrush that provides almost 100% of its winter diet. Songbirds like the Brewer’s sparrow and sage thrashers live amongst the sagebrush bushes. They all need your voice today to save sagebrush habitat.
Thank you for standing with us to save sagebrush wildlife.
