Grizzly Bear ESA Status in Question as FWS Cancels Public Meetings

January 27, 2025 // NEWS: Dispatch

by Robert Chaney

FWS announced this month its decision to retain protections for grizzlies under the ESA

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service pulls out of all four meetings intended to explain its decision to retain grizzlies’ threatened status.

Federal Judges Find New Power as Chevron Precedent Falls Away

January 23, 2025 // NEWS: Dispatch

by Robert Chaney

The Supreme Court overturned Chevron deference, which could affect power plants like Colstrip going forward

Supreme Court ruling drops deference to administrative agency experts. The implications for environmental cases are vast.

Forest Service Authorizes Controversial Crazy Mountain Land Swap

January 20, 2025 // NEWS: Dispatch

by Amanda Eggert

For nearly a century, the Crazy Mountains have been the site of heated access debates

A handful of conservation easements and deed restrictions are incorporated in the Forest Service’s final iteration of the East Crazy Inspiration Divide Land Exchange.

Back to the Land

January 19, 2025 // NEWS: Dispatch

by Robert Chaney

BLM's Missouri Breaks National Backcountry Byway in North Central Montana

Tracy Stone-Manning turned in her BLM keys last week. As she exits civil service, she reflects on her career, the incoming administration, and the public’s love for public land.

Legendary Yellowstone Wolf Dies After Fight with Rival Pack

January 13, 2025 // NEWS: Dispatch

by Sophie Tsairis

Wolf 907F, Queen of the Yellowstone wolves

Wildlife enthusiasts mourn the loss of iconic Yellowstone matriarch, Wolf 907F.

FWS: Grizzly Bears to Remain Protected Under Endangered Species Act

January 8, 2025 // NEWS: Dispatch

by Robert Chaney

Grizzlies have been protected under the Endangered Species Act since 1975. For now, they'll remain so.

The agency rejected state petitions for local management, creating a single recovery area for grizzlies in the Lower 48.

Feds Buy Kelly Parcel, Conserving Last of Unprotected Land in GTNP

January 6, 2025 // NEWS: Dispatch

by Sophie Tsairis

Elk herd on the Kelly Parcel, gateway to the Path of the Pronghorn

‘Decades-in-the-making’ $100 million purchase adds 640 acres to Grand Teton National Park, while protecting a key Greater Yellowstone wildlife migration corridor.

The Daunting Challenges Facing Canada Lynx

January 3, 2025 // NEWS: Dispatch

by Ted Williams

The elusive, nocturnal and threatened Canada lynx

As a warming climate grips North America, the lynx remains threatened in the Lower 48. It could get worse.

Montana Sues Yellowstone National Park Over Bison Management Plan

December 31, 2024 // NEWS: Dispatch

by Amanda Eggert

The park's plan directs wildlife managers to aim for a herd of 3,500-6,000 animals

Department of Livestock and FWP join Gov. Gianforte in suing park over its plan to increase bison population and tolerance for bison presence outside park boundaries.