Press Releases

Washington, D.C. (February 1, 2013) – Today the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service(USFWS) proposed to list the wolverine as a threatened species under the Endangered Species Act (ESA).  The proposal comes despite the wolverine’s large and growing population in North America, estimated to be at the highest point in 60 years.  The timing of this proposal was dictated by the multi-district settlement resulting from litigation brought against the USFWS by WildEarth Guardians and the Center for Biological Diversity.  In response, Western Caucus Co-Chair, Cynthia M. Lummis (R-WY), issued the following statement:

“Listing the wolverine as a threatened species despite its population growth is the latest example of what is going wrong with the Endangered Species Act.  The ESA was written to protect species in true peril – a goal we all share – not to make impossible assumptions about a species’ condition 72 years hence.  The sheer audacity of the Fish and Wildlife Service to assume they know what will happen in 2085 is breathtaking.  Further, the ESA itself does not require an analysis of what, if anything, can be done to preserve a species and at what cost.  Even if we accept the Service’s crystal ball predictions, they admit that they can do nothing to prevent a decline in wolverine population.  All this shines yet another spotlight on the need to modernize the ESA.  Prioritizing species that are not in actual decline, and listing them despite no ability to affect the outcome, joins the very long list of ESA issues crying out for attention from Congress.” 

The mission of the Western Caucus, which is in its twentieth year, is to enhance, sustain, and preserve the West’s dynamic and unique culture, and to find innovative solutions that address the distinctive concerns facing western and rural communities. The Western Caucus is also committed to protecting private property, strengthening local control, promoting economic growth, and increasing energy independence.

For more information about the Congressional Western Caucus, please visitwww.westerncaucus.pearce.house.gov.