CHEYENNE ā Gov. Mark Gordon is seeking public input as he begins his first review of the state’s sage-grouse protection rules.
Gordon, in a news release, said he would accept public comments until May 1 on the sage-grouse executive order first put in place by former Gov. Dave Freudenthal in 2007.
“Wyoming has been leading in sage-grouse management for more than a decade, and one of our hallmarks has been stability and predictability for all involved,” Gordon said. “I intend to use the public’s feedback to inform my review and help identify areas where we can improve upon what is already working while keeping a steady course.”
The executive order lays out procedures to minimize disturbances of areas designated as “core population areas” for the sage-grouse and encourage development outside of those areas.
The order was first signed by Freudenthal and was amended by former Gov. Matt Mead in 2015.
Gordon said he hopes to improve on existing elements of the state’s approach to sage-grouse conservation without changing the primary elements of existing rules.
“Sage-grouse are an important species to Wyoming,” he said. “The state has a significant interest in seeing that the bird remains protected while allowing for responsible development.”
The executive orders and associated documents can be seen by visitingĀ https://wgfd.wyo.gov/Habitat/Sage-Grouse-Management/Sage-Grouse-Executive-Order
Comments may be submitted toĀ wgfd.hpp@wyo.gov.
