Right now, Greater Sage-Grouse chicks are working hard to fatten up before winter sets in. But the number of these chicks has drastically declined, as across its range, the population of this iconic western species is down 80 percent since 1965. Take action before October 3: Urge the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) to protect sagebrush habitat that is critical to the survival of Greater Sage-Grouse.

Earlier this year, North Dakota announced the extirpation, or regional extinction, of Greater Sage-Grouse from the state—something that should ring alarm bells regardless of where you live. Sage-grouse are indicators of how other wildlife and their shared habitat, the sagebrush steppe ecosystem, are doing. It’s clear they need help.

The BLM, the agency responsible for managing the majority of habitat where Greater Sage-Grouse are found, plays an important role in determining the bird’s future. The BLM is requesting public input on significant changes to a legally binding plan on how sage-grouse habitat will be managed on public lands. The plan will impact approximately 50 million acres across eight western states. Good land management benefits not only sage-grouse but also other wildlife and the many communities whose economies depend on healthy public lands.

Please take a moment to submit your comment today urging the BLM to use the latest science on climate change and the population needs of Greater Sage-Grouse to guide management.

These public lands are the legacy we will hand to future generations. Let’s make sure we can be proud of them.