WASHINGTON – Led by the Theodore Roosevelt Conservation Partnership, members of a coalition of prominent conservation groups emphatically seconded dramatic reforms to the federal government’s minerals-leasing policy announced today by Secretary of the Interior Ken Salazar.

The TRCP Fish, Wildlife and Energy Working Group for years has urged federal leaders and policymakers to prioritize revision of the federal energy leasing and development process on Western public lands so that fish and wildlife resources and sporting opportunities can be sustained.

In a long-anticipated press conference, Secretary Salazar yesterday heralded several significant changes that the Bureau of Land Management will undertake to better conserve public-lands resources and reduce potential conflicts over federal leasing decisions. The secretary also announced creation of an “energy reform team” that will be tasked with identifying and implementing energy management revisions.

“America’s sportsmen are deeply invested in ensuring the responsible management of our federal public lands and have welcomed past opportunities to work with Secretary Salazar and the Department of the Interior to develop administrative policy promoting the outcome presented today,” said Dr. Rollin Sparrowe, working group co-chair and TRCP board member. “The secretary’s announcement comes not a moment too soon for our nation’s shared natural resources and cherished outdoor heritage.”

“Today, the Department of the Interior acknowledged that it ‘can do better’ in fulfilling its federal charge and mandate,” said Leah Elwell, conservation coordinator for the Federation of Fly Fishers and working group co-chair. “The steps outlined by Secretary Salazar should result in more effective conservation of important fish and wildlife habitat and sustaining our fishing and hunting opportunities.”

For the complete story, please go to www.trcp.org/issues/energy-- Jay Cassell