For Now, Sage Grouse Not Endangered

Legislators slipped in a provision through the federal budget bill in December that may, or may not, affect the sage grouse. Just one sentence prohibited the Department of Interior from changing the classification of the sage grouse.

That's good news for farmers, ranchers and those with active oil pumps in Eastern Montana. Although it might not impact the overall decision that is eventually made, it prohibits this for up to a year.

Valley County would encounter a direct impact if the bird were listed as endangered. Local ranchers and farmers in the area have been keeping close watch on what might take place.

Montana has formed a committee that has helped create an executive order through the governor's office that sets a plan in place for Fish, Wildlife and Parks. The Greater Sage Grouse Plan was something the secretary of interior suggested all states take a part in to prove they were making steps to help with the conservation of the bird.

Some practices laid out in the plan suggest removing unused and abandoned structures and minimizing predators. More research and monitoring of the bird has also been laid out in the plan, which could be modified.