Press Releases from The Wilderness Society

Beyond Fear and Flames – Wildfire Season 2009

Wed, 08 Jul 2009 20:40:28 +0000

WEAVERVILLE, CA – Northern California is again entering a long wildfire season with high heat and drought conditions expected well into fall. But a panel of experts today said some communities and firefighting policies are changing the way wildfires are fought – still keeping communities safe as a top priority while also preserving forests.

Coal-Friendly Bush Energy Corridor Plan Challenged

Tue, 07 Jul 2009 22:29:12 +0000

SAN FRANCISCO – Conservation organizations and a western Colorado county today filed a legal challenge to a Bush-era plan that designated energy corridors that promote coalfired and other fossil-fuel power plants. Instead of building new electric lines and transmission towers to connect areas high in solar, wind and geothermal energy, the Bush plan envisioned building them to existing or proposed dirty coal plants.

BLM Launches New Era, Responsible Solar Energy Development Prioritized

Tue, 30 Jun 2009 20:40:12 +0000

WASHINGTON — The six states of Nevada, Arizona, California, Colorado, New Mexico and Utah could soon find themselves at the heart of the renewable energy revolution promised by President Obama and Interior Secretary Ken Salazar following the release of “Solar Energy Study Area” maps today by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM). The energy potential available in the areas highlighted in these maps could one day generate over 100,000 MW of clean solar energy for the entire nation.

Interior’s Upcoming Release of Solar Energy Study Area Maps

Mon, 29 Jun 2009 19:07:53 +0000

“Meeting our nation’s climate goals will require significant new renewable energy development and our public lands will be part of that new energy mix. The Secretary’s announcement today is first step toward ensuring that we are doing renewable energy

Statement on Passage of the American Clean Energy and Security Act

Fri, 26 Jun 2009 22:10:48 +0000

Bill Meadows, president of The Wilderness Society, today praised the U.S. House of Representatives for passing and sending to the Senate the American Clean Energy and Security Act (H.R. 2454), the landmark energy and climate package sponsored by Reps. Henry Waxman (D-Calif.) and Ed Markey (D-Mass.). Meadows’ statement follows:

Obama, Congress hit right notes on Interior funding bill

Fri, 26 Jun 2009 18:30:35 +0000

WASHINGTON – The U.S. House of Representatives passed a 2010 Interior Department funding bill today that increases the department’s budget by 17 percent over the 2009 level. The $32.3 billion legislation is a boon to important conservation programs like the National Wildlife Refuge System and to promoting scientific research on global warming.

Bingaman Wins Ansel Adams Award for Leadership in Passing Major Lands Bill

Tue, 23 Jun 2009 16:26:50 +0000

WASHINGTON — U.S. Senator Jeff Bingaman (D-NM) will receive the Ansel Adams Award from The Wilderness Society Wednesday night for his conservation leadership, particularly his role in passing a bill in March that protected two million acres of wilderness.

Report Demonstrates Need for Wildlands Preservation to Address Climate Change in Northwest

Wed, 17 Jun 2009 23:20:30 +0000

SEATTLE - Responding to a major new government science report on global climate change released by the White House yesterday, The Wilderness Society's Pacific Northwest Regional Office said that the report affirms the need for urgent action and the importance of protecting critical wildlife habitat and undisturbed natural areas.

Wilderness Society Praises Tidwell’s Nomination as Forest Service Chief

Wed, 17 Jun 2009 22:38:59 +0000

“Tom Tidwell is a good choice for chief of the Forest Service. As regional forester in the Northern Region, he understands that the American public expects our national forests to supply us with clean water as well, intact wildlife habitat, and world-class recreational opportunities. He has been a strong supporter of protecting wild lands, including roadless lands.

New Government Report Affirms Importance of Wilderness Protection for Addressing Climate Change

Wed, 17 Jun 2009 18:18:38 +0000

ANCHORAGE – Responding to a major new government science report on global climate change released at the White House yesterday, The Wilderness Society’s Alaska Regional Office said that the report affirms the need for urgent action and the importance of protecting critical wildlife habitat and undisturbed natural areas.

Preserving California’s Public Lands To Buffer Global Warming’s Effects

Wed, 17 Jun 2009 07:00:00 +0000

SAN FRANCISCO – The White House release Tuesday of “Global Climate Change Impacts in the United States” forecasts a dim future for California if action is not taken immediately.

Wilderness Society Praises Long-Overdue Release of National Climate Assessment

Tue, 16 Jun 2009 18:38:54 +0000

WASHINGTON —After five years of slow-walk, scuttle, and delay by the Bush Administration, the Obama Administration is letting global warming science speak for itself with the release today of Global Climate Change Impacts in the United States, a synthesis of years of peer-reviewed climate research conducted by 13 federal agencies beginning more than a decade ago.

Time for a new look at the pine beetle

Mon, 15 Jun 2009 15:46:06 +0000

WASHINGTON – In advance of a June 16 congressional hearing on the Western US pine beetle outbreak, representatives of the scientific, conservation and government fields said it’s time to take stock of how the federal government and local communities respond. Communities, they argued, are well served by developing strategies for coping with inevitable disturbances.

Conservationists applaud Interior plans to fix Utah oil and gas lease sale

Thu, 11 Jun 2009 20:31:26 +0000

Conservation groups today applauded a new report from Interior Secretary Ken Salazar that points to flaws in a December 2009 Utah oil and gas lease sale. The report indicates that among the BLM’s shortcomings was a failure to inform the National Park Service of a last-ditch effort that added more tracts of land to the lease sale.

“We are extremely heartened that the Department of the Interior is acknowledging that there were important errors that need to be fixed in this lease sale,” said Nada Culver, Legal Counsel at The Wilderness Society.

Groups Respond to Cultural Resources Thefts on Public Lands

Thu, 11 Jun 2009 19:19:03 +0000

WASHINGTON, DC – Today the conservation and cultural resources community applauded the Department of Interior for taking action in response to archeological thefts, stressing however that opportunities exist to improve management and protection of our public lands that are rich in cultural resources.

Interior Secretary Ken Salazar announced today that the Department of Interior has taken law enforcement action in response to a theft of archaeological and cultural artifacts from public and Indian lands in the Four Corners Area.

America’s Wildlife Heritage Act introduced in House of Representatives

Wed, 10 Jun 2009 21:08:21 +0000

WASHINGTON — Representatives Ron Kind (D-Wisc.) and Walter Jones (R-NC) introduced legislation today aimed at sustaining healthy populations of fish, wildlife and plants on federal public lands – setting off a round of applause from sportsmen’s organizations, conservation groups and outdoor enthusiasts across the country.

Obama intervenes to protect pristine forests

Thu, 28 May 2009 18:26:38 +0000

WASHINGTON – The Wilderness Society hailed a key step the Obama administration announced today that will help protect nearly 49 million acres of unroaded national forests that have remained under assault by actions of former President Bush.

Statement on the Waxman-Markey “American Clean Energy and Security Act”

Fri, 22 May 2009 19:34:53 +0000

Last night, in a bipartisan 33-25 vote, the House Energy and Commerce Committee approved the American Clean Energy and Security Act, a groundbreaking piece of legislation introduced by the committee’s chair, Rep. Henry Waxman (D-Calif.) and Rep. Edward Markey (D-Mass.), who chairs the Subcommittee on Energy and Environment. The following statement was issued by David Moulton, Director of Climate Policy and Conservation Funding for The Wilderness Society.

Statement on EPA climate change hearing in Seattle, WA

Thu, 21 May 2009 07:00:00 +0000

SEATTLE - On behalf of The Wilderness Society and our 400,000 members and supporters in the United States, I want to thank the EPA for holding this public hearing in the Pacific Northwest.

The Northwest is rightfully proud of the beautiful peaks and glaciers in the Olympic Mountains and North Cascades; the mighty salmon and steelhead that populate our free-flowing rivers; and majestic forests that support exceptional biological diversity.

Statement on Today’s White House Automobile Standards Announcement

Tue, 19 May 2009 16:06:41 +0000

Today the White House will harmonize automobile emissions and mileage standards that California had been seeking with tough new national standards for the entire country. This move will accelerate by 4 years standards adopted by Congress in 2007 to get the nation’s vehicles at a target of 35.5 mpg and, for the first time, to impose limits on global warming pollution from cars and trucks. Today’s announcement means new standards will be in place between 2016 and 2020.

Statement on the Waxman-Markey “American Clean Energy and Security Act”

Fri, 15 May 2009 19:43:44 +0000

Next week the House Energy and Commerce Committee will mark up the American Clean Energy Security Act (H.R. 2454), a groundbreaking piece of legislation introduced by the committee’s chair, Rep. Henry Waxman (D-Calif.) and Rep. Edward Markey (D-Mass.), who chairs the Subcommittee on Energy and Environment. The following statement was issued by Wilderness Society president Bill Meadows as the committee prepared to release compromise language expected to receive the support of a majority of members.

David Edelson Appointed Regional Director for California and Nevada

Thu, 14 May 2009 21:24:27 +0000

SAN FRANCISCO – David Edelson is the new Regional Director for California and Nevada overseeing The Wilderness Society’s work to preserve public lands in the Sierra Nevada, the Carrizo Plain, the San Gabriel Mountains, the Mojave Desert and other unique landscapes.

In his new role, Edelson will also lead the two-state region as it addresses the issues of global warming, energy development, roadless forests and other campaigns.

Obama budget continues strong commitment to natural resources during first 100 days

Tue, 12 May 2009 16:18:17 +0000

WASHINGTON – President Obama has unveiled his federal spending plan proposal for FY 2010, reflecting his administration’s strong commitment to natural resources and the environment, according to conservation and environmental leaders.

The president’s budget for FY 2010 is another important step in restoring much needed funding to programs hard hit in recent years, and also demonstrates the administration’s dedication to take on global warming and transition our economy to a new energy future.

Statement on the First Anniversary of Wild Sky Wilderness

Fri, 08 May 2009 07:00:00 +0000

“Today we celebrate the first anniversary of the creation of the Wild Sky Wilderness. As the first new national forest wilderness area in Washington state in over 20 years, Wild Sky Wilderness symbolizes Washington’s legacy of preserving our special wild places.

“Thanks to the unwavering commitment of our congressional champions, Senator Murray and Congressman Larsen, visitors and residents alike are able to enjoy this world-class recreation destination in the beautiful North Cascades and know that their children and grandchildren will be able to do the same.

Obama adds muscle to budget for natural resources, environment

Thu, 07 May 2009 22:34:08 +0000

TWS today issued the following assessment in response to President Obama releasing is budget for the 2010 fiscal year.

Wood Products Expansion Will Not Stave Off Climate Change, Report Concludes

Wed, 06 May 2009 15:56:39 +0000

CRAFTSBURY COMMON, VT — As policymakers weigh their options for reducing the greenhouse gas emissions that cause global warming, they hope to find solutions that allow us to have our cake and eat it too. Manufacturing renewable energy equipment or retrofitting buildings for energy efficiency, for instance, can provide new green jobs while they reduce our use of fossil fuels. Some hold out hope that long-term storage of carbon in wood products such as furniture and home-building materials can be such a win-win solution.

Statement on Climate Change Safeguards for Natural Resources Conservation Act

Thu, 30 Apr 2009 22:06:38 +0000

We applaud Chairman Nick Rahall (D-WV) and Rep. Raul Grijalva (D-AZ) of the House Natural Resources Committee for introducing legislation (H.R. 2192 ) to provide a clear federal policy in favor of protecting our natural resources. This legislation will help prioritize public lands and the critical services they provide to human communities in the face of global warming's adverse impacts. Many of these impacts are already being felt around the nation. In the Rocky Mountain West, snowpack and summer runoff has already decreased and in the Southeast droughts are on the rise.

New Mexico Wilderness Bill Introduced in Senate

Thu, 23 Apr 2009 21:26:58 +0000

WASHINGTON — Senator Jeff Bingaman (D-N.M.) today introduced legislation that would protect 235,000 acres of the most scenic and ecologically significant lands in northern New Mexico. Senator Tom Udall (D-N.M.) co-sponsored the measure.

Statement on Release of EPA’s Proposed “Endangerment” Finding

Fri, 17 Apr 2009 17:51:44 +0000

Today, in a decision based on a careful review of scientific evidence, the Environmental Protection Agency found that greenhouse gases endanger the public health and welfare under the Clean Air Act. This finding was expected, but long overdue because the previous administration respected neither the science nor the law. The consequence of this finding is that EPA will now begin the task of reducing these emissions through the permitting process provided by the Clean Air Act.

Victory Celebration for Rocky Mountain National Park Wilderness

Wed, 08 Apr 2009 22:00:47 +0000

ESTES PARK — Local elected officials and businesses, members of Colorado’s congressional delegation, diverse interests, conservationists, and Coloradans who appreciate the rugged beauty of Rocky Mountain National Park are gathering on Thursday to celebrate the designation of 250,000 acres of the park as wilderness.

Wild Lands Play Key Role in Fighting Climate Change, Wilderness Society Expert Tells House Committee

Wed, 08 Apr 2009 02:59:24 +0000

TWENTYNINE PALMS, CA - Members of a congressional subcommittee took their business to this gateway community near Joshua Tree National Park for a special oversight hearing today on the role of public lands in addressing climate change. Melyssa Watson, Senior Director for Wilderness at the Wilderness Society, was among those who testified before Rep. Raúl Grijalva's (D-Ariz.) Subcommittee on National Parks, Forests and Public Lands. Joshua Trees namesake species is one of many on U.S. public lands threatened by global warming.

Flying squirrel: Bush’s prank still not funny

Wed, 01 Apr 2009 16:11:12 +0000

WASHINGTON – George Bush has been out of office for more than two months on this April Fool’s Day – but the West Virginia northern flying squirrel certainly isn’t laughing at the pranks the former president pulled. His administration removed the charismatic squirrel from the endangered species list last August, leaving the loveable rodent hanging in, well, mid air.

Statement on House Action Today on Waxman-Markey Global Warming Legislation

Tue, 31 Mar 2009 15:36:54 +0000

By David Moulton, Climate Policy Director

Public Overwhelmingly Calls for Halt to Development in Arctic Ocean

Mon, 30 Mar 2009 18:07:30 +0000

WASHINGTON – More than 150,000 people have asked the federal government to halt plans currently in process to open 73.4 million acres of the Arctic Ocean to oil and gas leasing – the largest block of Arctic Ocean waters yet to be offered to the oil and gas industry.

Wilderness Society Receives Grant from Goldman Fund To Protect Public Lands from Off-Road Vehicle Damage

Thu, 26 Mar 2009 20:39:35 +0000

SAN FRANCISCO — The Wilderness Society has received a $125,000 grant from the Richard and Rhoda Goldman Fund of San Francisco to protect public lands in California from damage caused by unregulated use of dirt bikes and other off-road vehicles.

Bill addressing wildfire funding crisis passes U.S. House

Thu, 26 Mar 2009 17:26:33 +0000

WASHINGTON – The U.S. House of Representatives today passed a bill aimed at solving a critical part of America’s wildfire suppression funding crisis. The Federal Land Assistance, Management and Enhancement (FLAME) Act is designed to help federal agencies address the escalating cost of suppressing wildfires. It would also relieve the burden placed on other vital programs and services each year when the agencies pull money away from them to fight fires.

Nearly 700,000 Acres of Wildlands in California Designated Wilderness

Wed, 25 Mar 2009 20:51:58 +0000

SAN FRANCISCO — The U.S. House of Representative approved a landmark wild land and rivers protection bill by a vote of 285 to 140 today, following years of bipartisan work to protect hundreds of thousands of acres of wilderness. The legislation which passed the U.S. Senate on March 19, will now head to President Obama’s desk. Mr. Obama is expected to sign the legislation.

Congress Passes 5 Oregon Wilderness Bills

Wed, 25 Mar 2009 19:12:40 +0000

SEATTLE - Supporters of Oregon’s public lands celebrated today as the Omnibus Public Land Management Act of 2009 (H.R. 146), which includes Mt. Hood/Columbia Gorge Wilderness, Copper Salmon Wilderness, Oregon Badlands Wilderness, Spring Basin Wilderness and the Cascade-Siskiyou National Monument/Soda Mountain Wilderness heads to the White House for approval. All seven of Oregon’s congressional delegation demonstrated an unwavering commitment to preserving some of Oregon’s iconic landscapes.

Congress Approves First New Land Conservation System in a Generation

Wed, 25 Mar 2009 19:06:12 +0000

WASHINGTON — Earlier today, Congress approved legislation permanently establishing the National Landscape Conservation System, which will protect and restore the most scenic, ecologically and historically significant lands under the jurisdiction of the Bureau of Land Management. The System, the first of its kind in 50 years, consists of National Monuments, National Conservation Areas, Wilderness Areas, Wild and Scenic Rivers, National Scenic and Historic Trails and other protective designations totaling over 850 sites and 26 million acres.

Victory for Dominguez-Escalante National Conservation Area and Rocky Mountain National Park Wilderness

Wed, 25 Mar 2009 19:01:36 +0000

DENVER – Colorado conservationists, local elected officials, and civic organizations lauded the U.S. House of Representatives’ passage today of the Omnibus Public Lands Bill. With this vote, Congress has signed-off on the creation of the Dominguez-Escalante National Conservation Area (NCA), including the popular Dominguez Canyon Wilderness, in western Colorado and protection of Rocky Mountain National Park’s pristine backcountry as wilderness.

Monumental National Wilderness Bill Passes Congress

Wed, 25 Mar 2009 18:38:51 +0000

WASHINGTON — The U.S. House of Representatives today passed the Omnibus Public Land Management Act of 2009, which would permanently protect more than 2 million acres of America’s wilderness in California, Colorado, Idaho, Michigan, New Mexico, Oregon, Utah, Virginia, and West Virginia. The omnibus lands act provides the greatest expansion of the National Wilderness Preservation System in 15 years. It now advances to the President’s desk, where it is expected to be signed into law.

Statement on Senate Passage of the Omnibus Public Land Management Act of 2009

Thu, 19 Mar 2009 16:57:33 +0000

By Associate Director for National Wilderness Campaigns Paul Spitler

Today's action clears the most significant hurdle to protecting some of the country’s most cherished landscapes. This legislation is the most important conservation measure in a decade.

Statement on the Committee Vote on the Nomination of David J. Hayes as Deputy Secretary of the Interior

Wed, 18 Mar 2009 15:11:36 +0000

By Wilderness Society President William H. Meadows

Statement on Secretary Salazar’s Order Establishing Renewable Energy Development as Priority

Wed, 11 Mar 2009 20:39:24 +0000

By William H. Meadows, President

Statement on Omnibus Public Land Management Act of 2009

Wed, 11 Mar 2009 19:12:56 +0000

By Wilderness Society President William H. Meadows

Today’s vote, although a tremendous disappointment to all who value America’s public lands, nonetheless demonstrates the broad bipartisan support for wilderness protection. Although it missed a two-thirds majority by two votes, the final tally was lopsided in support of the legislation.

“Change” Delivered: Obama makes down payment on environmental legacy

Wed, 11 Mar 2009 17:16:00 +0000

WASHINGTON — President Barack Obama today made a down payment on his environmental legacy — and his promises to bring change to the White House — by signing the 2009 Omnibus Appropriations Bill. The legislation passed by the Senate on Tuesday provides a desperately needed funding boost for a variety of programs that will nourish public lands and natural resources.

Bill addressing wildfire funding crisis introduced in U.S. House, Senate

Tue, 10 Mar 2009 21:21:05 +0000

WASHINGTON – Like the mythological Phoenix rising from the ashes, the House of Representatives and the Senate today re-introduced a bill aimed at solving a critical part of America’s wildfire suppression funding crisis. The Federal Land Assistance, Management and Enhancement (FLAME) Act is designed to help federal agencies address the escalating cost of suppressing wildfires. It would also relieve the burden placed on other vital programs and services each year when the agencies pull money away from them to fight fires.

Coalition Opposes Murkowski-Begich Arctic Drilling Bill

Fri, 27 Feb 2009 22:12:44 +0000

Joint Release by Alaska Wilderness League, Gwich’in Steering Committee, and The Wilderness Society

WASHINGTON — Rather than join the effort to lead our country toward a clean energy future, Sen. Lisa Murkowski (R-AK) and Sen. Mark Begich (D-AK) today introduced a bill that serves as a distraction from the new administration’s energy priorities. This bill is the latest in a long string of attempts by the Alaska delegation to open up the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge to oil and gas development.

Memo: Don’t Believe Industry Scam on Drilling Arctic Refuge

Thu, 26 Feb 2009 22:55:06 +0000

TO: Environmental and Political Reporters; Editors

FROM:
Kathy Westra
Drew Bush

RE: Don’t Believe Industry Scam on Drilling Arctic Refuge: 2,000 Acres Sound Bite Ignores Reality

Statement on President Obama’s FY10 Budget Outline

Thu, 26 Feb 2009 22:25:30 +0000

By William H. Meadows, President, The Wilderness Society

U.S. House ends drought on earth-friendly funding

Wed, 25 Feb 2009 22:58:44 +0000

WASHINGTON – Thanks to the U.S. House of Representatives today passing the FY 2009 Omnibus Appropriations Bill, the end is in sight for the eight-year-old dust bowl of funding for a host of programs that will nourish our public lands and natural resources. The House accomplished a wide range of objectives that include creating green jobs, investing in green energy, restoring degraded ecoystems, protecting endangered species preserving natural resources, and slowing the increase of global warming.

Statement on Interior Secretary Announcement to Rescind Oil Shale Research and Development Leases

Wed, 25 Feb 2009 21:19:04 +0000

By Senior Energy Policy Advisor Dave Alberswerth

“We commend Secretary of the Interior Ken Salazar on his announcement today that the Bureau of Land Management will halt the Bush administration’s 11th-hour round of oil shale research and development lease solicitations. This solicitation was rushed out the door in the waning days of the Bush administration and requires much more public scrutiny.

Statement on President Obama's State of the Union Address

Tue, 24 Feb 2009 14:19:03 +0000

By David Moulton, Climate and Conservation Funding Director

"We are greatly encouraged that, in his first address to Congress tonight, President Obama continued to stress his commitment to addressing global climate change — a looming, long-term, and potentially catastrophic threat to America’s economy, national security, and environment.

Environmental Community's “Green Budget” Outlines Agency Funding Needed to Sustain Environmental Programs

Wed, 18 Feb 2009 19:04:17 +0000

Washington, D.C. — Representatives of national conservation organizations today released the annual “Green Budget” for FY 2010, a document that details the federal agency funding the groups say is needed to sustain clean air and water, lands, oceans and wildlife over the long term — an increasingly urgent priority in an era of global warming.

Statement on Passage of President Obama’s Stimulus Package

Fri, 13 Feb 2009 18:42:01 +0000

By David Moulton, Climate and Conservation Funding Director

New Analysis Guides Northern Rockies Forest Restoration, and the Future of Forest Management

Wed, 11 Feb 2009 17:00:16 +0000

The Wilderness Society released a new ecological analysis today to guide future forest restoration and assessments in the Northern Rockies. Titled “Restoration of Low-Elevation Dry Forests of the Northern Rocky Mountains: A Holistic Approach” the report argues the southwestern model for forest restoration is not appropriate to be applied across the west.

Statement on Salazar’s Comprehensive Outer Continental Shelf Energy Plan

Tue, 10 Feb 2009 23:27:04 +0000

By William H. Meadows, President

“We applaud Department of Interior Secretary Ken Salazar for taking the first step toward restoring sound science and an open process to governing how best to manage our offshore energy reserves. We agree with Secretary Salazar that the Bush administration’s midnight regulations governing offshore leasing and drilling constituted a headlong rush that did not adequately consider science or account for the concerns of states, communities and other stakeholders.

Bold Action by Department of Interior Halts Utah Leasing

Wed, 04 Feb 2009 22:18:50 +0000

WASHINGTON – More than 100,000 acres of Utah wilderness will be protected from oil and gas drilling after the Department of Interior announced today that it will cancel 77 leases issued under the Bush administration. This is among the first actions taken by the Obama administration to protect America’s wild lands.

Born To Be Wild: TWS launches virtual bus tour to build support for Omnibus Public Land Management Act

Fri, 30 Jan 2009 22:05:07 +0000

WASHINGTON — Cue the classic 1968 song from Steppenwolf, the one everybody hears in their head when they dream of hitting the open road to experience America in all its splendor…

Get your motor runnin'
Head out on the highway
Lookin' for adventure
And whatever comes our way...

Statement on Obama’s move toward higher fuel economy standards, stronger state emission standards

Mon, 26 Jan 2009 23:52:30 +0000

Statement from David Moulton, The Wilderness Society's Director of Climate Change Policy

“The Obama administration clearly understands the urgency needed to reduce our dependence on foreign oil and to create new jobs through clean energy technologies. Any state willing to tackle global warming in a manner consistent with current law should be praised, not parried.

Groups Sue Over Plans Harmful to Arizona Strip National Monuments

Mon, 26 Jan 2009 21:54:17 +0000

FLAGSTAFF – Conservation groups are suing to overturn Bush-era management plans that allow destructive use of Arizona’s Grand Canyon-Parashant and Vermilion Cliffs national monuments. Filed today in U.S. District Court in Arizona, the lawsuit demands that the Bureau of Land Management comply with the proclamations creating the monuments by rewriting the plans to protect the monuments’ historical and cultural resources and natural landscapes.

Statement by Wilderness Society President William H. Meadows On Selection of David J. Hayes as Deputy Secretary of the Interior

Fri, 23 Jan 2009 16:27:29 +0000

David J. Hayes is a superb choice and will be a first-rate partner for Interior Secretary Salazar. David served with distinction as the deputy to Secretary Babbitt, playing a significant role in stewardship decisions involving California’s redwoods, the Colorado River, and scores of other areas. I have been impressed by David’s ability to bring people together and to get things done, both during his years at Interior and while working in the private sector.

Victory in Utah: Court Orders Government to Halt Land Leasing

Sun, 18 Jan 2009 08:00:00 +0000

More than 110,000 acres of Utah wilderness will be protected from oil and gas companies as a result of a ruling last night by Judge Ricardo M. Urbina of the U.S. District Court. Judge Urbina granted a temporary restraining order that prevents the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) from moving forward with these leases. A coalition of conservation groups, including The Wilderness Society, filed a lawsuit on December 17, 2008 to prevent the leasing of public lands.

Groups Join Forces to Save Water, Communities and Wildlife from Bush-era Oil Shale Proposals

Fri, 16 Jan 2009 21:22:33 +0000

DENVER — A coalition of conservation groups joined forces this week to put the brakes on Bush-era regulations and land management plans to fast-track development of oil shale, a dirty fossil fuel that threatens water resources, communities and wildlife in the West. Oil shale development would also contribute to climate change.

Idaho Roadless Rule Challenged in Federal Court

Fri, 16 Jan 2009 18:46:59 +0000

Conservation groups filed a lawsuit today in the U.S. District Court challenging the Idaho Roadless Rule. According to the lawsuit, the Bush administration violated laws to remove protection for 400,000 acres of Idaho roadless lands and to weaken protection for an additional 5 million acres of pristine Idaho lands.

The U.S. Forest Service itself predicts the Idaho rule, which affects all 9.3 million acres of Idaho roadless lands, will more than triple road construction — up to 50 miles of new roads in 15 years — and almost double logging up to 15,000 acres.

Statement In Support of Nomination of Senator Ken Salazar for Secretary of the Interior, by Wilderness Society President William H. Meadows

Thu, 15 Jan 2009 18:40:38 +0000

WASHINGTON — “Ken Salazar has been a bridge-building conservation leader in Colorado for over a decade, and was a personally committed land steward well before that. He understands the land, water, and people of the West and the intricate connections among those key features of our natural and social landscape. For our part, The Wilderness Society has developed an excellent working relationship with Sen. Salazar and his office, though we have not always agreed with the positions he has taken on every issue of concern to us.

Statement of Wilderness Society President on Senate of Passage Omnibus Public Land Management Act

Thu, 15 Jan 2009 18:34:17 +0000

WASHINGTON — This is a great day for American wilderness and for America. Today’s action clears the way for protecting some of the country’s most cherished landscapes. If signed into law, this legislation would provide for the greatest expansion of the National Wilderness Preservation System in 15 years.

Arctic Refuge Wilderness Bill Introduced Today in Senate: Sen. Lieberman Launches New Era for Arctic Conservation

Wed, 14 Jan 2009 21:06:09 +0000

WASHINGTON - Senator Joe Lieberman (ID-CT) will reintroduce a bill in the Senate today to designate the iconic Arctic National Wildlife Refuge as wilderness. This legislation is being introduced at the beginning of a new Congress and incoming administration committed to developing a comprehensive energy strategy while preserving our nation’s public lands legacy.

Wilderness Society Makes Case for Stimulus Plan of “Green Jobs Restoring the Land”

Wed, 14 Jan 2009 17:02:06 +0000

WASHINGTON — The Wilderness Society (TWS) joined four other national conservation groups today in making a case to include jobs restoring America’s public lands in any economic recovery package being proposed by Congress and the new Obama administration.

Conservation Groups call for Halt to Road-Building in Borderlands Wilderness Area

Wed, 07 Jan 2009 20:55:14 +0000

OTAY MESA, CA — With little advance notice, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has begun bulldozing a road inside a federally-designated wilderness area on the U.S.-Mexico border. Apparently not wishing to attract national attention to the controversial project, DHS made the construction start-up announcement through its contractor on Christmas Eve. According to DHS, the road-building project is necessary to build a border wall within and immediately to the south of the 18,500-acre Otay Mountain Wilderness Area on the U.S.-Mexico border east of San Diego.

Congress Gets an Early Start to a Banner Year for Wilderness

Wed, 07 Jan 2009 20:27:34 +0000

Congress took an important first step today towards making 2009 one of the most important years for wilderness designation in nearly two decades.

Senator Jeff Bingaman, D-N.M., today introduced the Omnibus Public Lands Management Act of 2009, S. 22, which includes 16 separate wilderness bills totaling more than two million acres across nine states. Once passed, this will be the largest expansion of the National Wilderness Preservation System since 1994.

BLM Awarded for Excellent Achievements in Conservation

Mon, 29 Dec 2008 23:24:03 +0000

DENVER – The last year has been rough on our public lands managed by the Bureau of Land Management. Some of the region’s most pristine unprotected wildlands have been leased for oil and natural gas development or opened to motorized vehicle use. But there were some victories in 2008, and one of them was in your backyard.

Congress Asks President-Elect Obama to Cancel Energy Leases Sold in Sensitive Utah Lands

Tue, 23 Dec 2008 00:52:57 +0000

WASHINGTON — On the heels of a controversial sale of oil and gas leases on Bureau of Land Management (BLM) public lands in Utah, many in close proximity to popular National Parks, in lands proposed for wilderness protection, or in lands retaining sensitive archaeological resources, Congressmen Rush Holt (D-NJ), Maurice Hinchey (D-NY), and Brian Baird (D-WA) today led 58 U.S.

Auction Proceeds, But Legal Action Delays Damage to Utah Wilderness: Negotiations provide opportunity to save Utah’s wild areas

Fri, 19 Dec 2008 22:04:17 +0000

WASHINGTON – In a move that could save 100,000 acres of pristine Utah wilderness from destruction, an agreement between the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and a coalition of environmental and preservation groups was filed in court late last night. The deal will temporarily prevent BLM from issuing leases on 80 contested parcels of Utah wilderness, including land adjacent to national parks, for thirty days (until January 19). Although BLM will go forward with today’s auction, the agency has agreed not to issue the contested leases.

The Unknown Trajectory of Forest Restoration: Ecosystem monitoring key to realizing restoration’s potential

Fri, 19 Dec 2008 16:48:13 +0000

BOZEMAN — A Science and Policy Brief released by The Wilderness Society emphasizes the importance of conducting ecosystem monitoring on the growing number of restoration projects across the West. Forest restoration projects are being broadly applied on our western lands where unnaturally dense, homogenous, or even aged trees from past forestry practices are manged to reestablish more natural forest function.

Bush Gets Green Friendly in Final Days? Probably not – but head of climate change office is excellent step

Fri, 19 Dec 2008 16:35:50 +0000

WASHINGTON – The Bush administration today made an unusual move on the environment by appointing an excellent candidate to head a proposed new office tasked with enhancing efforts to mitigate global warming.

Robert Redford, Members of Congress, and Broad Coalition Call on Administration to Halt Midnight Land Sale in Utah: Environmental and Preservation Groups Take Legal Action against Bureau of Land Management

Wed, 17 Dec 2008 23:17:27 +0000

WASHINGTON — Robert Redford joined members of Congress and a coalition of environmental, preservation and business groups to stop the Interior Department from auctioning Utah wilderness to oil and gas companies. Congressmen Baird (D-WA), Hinchey (D-NY), and Holt (D-NJ) are leading the charge on the Hill to stop the auction, which is scheduled to take place on December 19.

Statement of William H. Meadows, President on Nomination of Sen. Ken Salazar as Secretary of Interior

Wed, 17 Dec 2008 17:50:57 +0000

Senator Salazar is an excellent choice to lead the Department of the Interior at a critical time when the West faces extraordinarily complex energy, conservation, and development challenges. He has a lifelong understanding and involvement in the West’s public lands issues and, as Senator, has demonstrated time and again that protecting Colorado’s natural features is a priority for him. He understands the need to defend the West’s land, water, wildlife, and communities while appropriately exploring for oil and gas and other extractive resources.

New Research by Wilderness Society Scientists Addresses Impacts of Global Warming on Public Lands

Wed, 17 Dec 2008 17:44:43 +0000

In Forests, Older is Definitely Better for Fighting Global Warming

Conservation Alliance Applauds Pick for Interior Secretary: Obama’s choice bodes well for new conservation system

Wed, 17 Dec 2008 16:51:10 +0000

WASHINGTON — An alliance of conservation and other organizations today expressed their support for what President-elect Barack Obama’s choice for Secretary of the Interior, Sen. Ken Salazar (D-Colorado), means for a system of public lands expected to receive congressional recognition in 2009.

Statement of William H. Meadows, President on Announcement of President-Elect’s Environmental and Energy Team

Tue, 16 Dec 2008 00:21:08 +0000

The Wilderness Society applauds today’s announcement of President-elect Obama’s new energy and environmental team. The appointments of Steven Chu as Secretary of Energy, Carol Browner as the new energy and climate policy czar, Lisa Jackson to head the Environmental Protection Agency, and Nancy Sutley to reinvigorate the president’s Council on Environmental Quality speaks volumes about President-elect Obama’s priorities and his vision for America.

Broad Coalition Says No to BLM “Fire Sale,” Files Formal Protest over Utah Land Leasing Spree

Fri, 05 Dec 2008 17:11:42 +0000

Today a coalition of conservation groups representing more than one million Americans will file a formal administrative protest with Utah’s Bureau of Land Management (BLM) state office to protect land and resources from a midnight “Fire Sale.” The protest challenges BLM’s decision to auction off 92 parcels of land — covering approximately 100,000 acres — for oil and gas leasing and development, including protected areas that the National Park Service asked BLM to omit from the sale.

13 Million Acres of Roadless Forests Up for Grabs?

Tue, 02 Dec 2008 23:21:22 +0000

WASHINGTON – The Wilderness Society is calling on the Bush administration to refrain from using a decision by a federal judge today as an excuse to knock down protection for an estimated 13.6 million acres of roadless national forests in 29 states. In particular, TWS is encouraging the administration to keep its sights off forests in Colorado and other Rocky Mountain states that could be opened to as many as 327 oil and gas leases.

A Bad Deal for America’s Wild Lands: Regulation Change and Environmental Rollbacks in the Bush Administration’s Waning Days

Wed, 26 Nov 2008 22:13:15 +0000

Our public lands represent a heritage that belongs to all Americans, one that is critical to safeguarding clean water and air and reducing carbon emissions. The Bush administration has treated these lands as if they belong to industry. And they’re not done yet.

BLM/Park Service Agreement Does Not Solve Problems Posed by Utah Oil & Gas Lease Sale

Wed, 26 Nov 2008 16:25:14 +0000

UTAH — Background: On Election Day, the Bureau of Land Management's (BLM) Utah office announced that its December 19 lease sale would include oil and gas leases near Arches and Canyonlands, along with eastern Utah's Dinosaur National Monument. Two weeks ago, the National Park Service said it had improperly been left out of the loop and urged the BLM to remove from the sale list more than 90 lease parcels (covering about 130,000 acres) that were close to the parks.

TV Commercial Kicks Off Campaign to Restore Mendocino National Forest

Fri, 21 Nov 2008 00:51:07 +0000

MENDOCINO COUNTY, CA — A new television commercial that begins airing today marked the launch of an educational campaign aimed at increasing support for the Forest Service to conduct more controlled burns in California’s Mendocino National Forest. The “Restore the Mendo” campaign seeks to boost awareness of the role such burns play in restoring forest ecosystems, protecting people and property, and saving taxpayer dollars.

Bush Administration Misses Yet Another Opportunity to Guide America to a Sustainable Energy Future while Failing to Protect Treasured Public Lands

Thu, 20 Nov 2008 19:23:57 +0000

DENVER —The Bush administration’s Bureau of Land Management and Department of Energy today issued a plan for energy corridors throughout the West, squandering an opportunity to move the United States toward a renewable energy based economy and opening iconic public wildlands to destructive development. The plan comes despite pleas for a new direction in energy development from Congress, state agencies, tribal governments and over 14,000 members of the public.

New Forest Service Plan Threatens Fragile Grasslands’ Nature and Wildlife

Wed, 19 Nov 2008 23:25:17 +0000

DENVER - On November 17, WildEarth Guardians, Colorado Wild, and the Wildness Society filed an objection to a proposed Forest Service plan to manage the Comanche and Cimarron National Grasslands. The plan threatens vital habitat for rare and declining wildlife and plants, the largest span of preserved dinosaur tracks in the country, and the longest stretch of the historic Santa Fe Trail on public land.

Welcome Comments Supporting Strong Action on Global Warming

Tue, 18 Nov 2008 22:41:19 +0000

The Wilderness Society welcomes President-elect Obama’s unequivocal statement today in support of strong action to reduce global warming.

Gift to Oil Industry Rushed Into Federal Register Before Bush Leaves Office

Mon, 17 Nov 2008 08:00:00 +0000

WASHINGTON - Ignoring the wishes of two governors and numerous members of Congress, the Bush administration announced today final regulations for a commercial oil shale program affecting almost 2 million acres of public lands in Colorado, Utah and Wyoming. These regulations lay out the rules governing royalty rates, evaluation of lease bids, mitigation requirements, and other technical and procedural elements of commercial oil shale leasing and production.

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Releases Flawed New Wilderness Policy for Wildlife Refuge System

Fri, 14 Nov 2008 19:30:06 +0000

WASHINGTON — The Wilderness Society (TWS) today criticized the Bush Administration for its hasty release of a flawed new U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service wilderness stewardship policy for the National Wildlife Refuge System. Major deficiencies of the new policy, issued yesterday, are that it fails to take into account the issue of climate change in managing the 21 million acres of designated Wilderness within the nation’s 540 wildlife refuges, and that it exempts all refuge lands in Alaska from requirements for wilderness reviews.

Wildlife Advocates to Name 2009 Federal Priorities

Thu, 13 Nov 2008 16:55:27 +0000

DENVER — Statement by Ann Morgan, Vice President, Public Lands Program, The Wilderness Society

Idaho Forests in Peril

Thu, 16 Oct 2008 22:32:59 +0000

BOISE – Regional and national conservation groups denounced a new state policy going into effect today that removes virtually all protection from more than 400,000 acres of national roadless forest in Idaho. The state plan promoted by the Bush administration also opens millions of acres of roadless forests to road construction, logging and mining.

Wilderness Society Commends California’s Leadership on Global Warming

Wed, 15 Oct 2008 07:00:00 +0000

SAN FRANCISCO — Statement by Wilderness Society Campaign Coordinator Stanley Van Velsor on the California Air Resources Board’s (CARB) release of their final AB 32 Scoping Plan to reduce California’s greenhouse gas emissions:

Government Ignores Process: Opens 1.9 Million Acres to Oil Shale Development

Tue, 07 Oct 2008 17:36:19 +0000

WASHINGTON — The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) undermined the Federal Land Policy and Management Act and the National Environmental Policy Act when it decided to amend 12 land management plans for Colorado, Utah and Wyoming without providing an opportunity for the public to protest, The Wilderness Society charged in a letter sent today to the U.S. Department of the Interior.

Wilderness Society Praises Dingell, Boucher for Introducing Cap-and-Trade Legislation

Tue, 07 Oct 2008 07:00:00 +0000

WASHINGTON — Statement by Wilderness Society Director of Climate Policy David H. Moulton on introduction of the House Committee on Energy and Commerce’s draft cap-and-trade legislation to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions:

Call to Finance Wall Street Bailout with Arctic Refuge Drilling is a Transparent Ploy for an Oil-Industry Land Grab

Tue, 30 Sep 2008 16:39:47 +0000

WASHINGTON — This week, as Congress and the Administration have pondered the biggest Wall Street bailout in history, the oil industry and its friends in Congress seized on the week’s news to propose the same old misguided “solution” they offer for everything: drilling the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge in Alaska.

Statement of David Moulton, Director of Climate Policy On First Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative CO2 Emissions Auction

Tue, 30 Sep 2008 16:46:45 +0000

WASHINGTON - Although the crisis on Wall Street is dominating the news, a seemingly obscure on-line auction is taking a historic first step today toward solving a much greater long-term crisis: that of global warming caused by the burning of fossil fuels. Today, the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative (RGGI) holds a historic auction of carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions allowances.

Last Minute Bush Administration Changes Undermine Endangered Species Act

Wed, 17 Sep 2008 20:59:56 +0000

Although scientists say nearly 30 percent of the world’s plant and animal species could become extinct due to global warming, the federal government may not notice if the Bush administration’s proposed rule changes to the Endangered Species Act (ESA) are allowed to take effect, The Wilderness Society charged in comments submitted to the Department of Interior late yesterday.

Federal Court Rules Clean Air, Wildlife, Quiet Must Come First in America’s Oldest National Park

Tue, 30 Sep 2008 17:05:54 +0000

WASHINGTON - A federal court ruled today that the Bush Administration’s decision authorizing snowmobile use in Yellowstone National Park violates the fundamental legal responsibility of the National Park Service to protect the clean air, wildlife, and natural quiet of national parks, including Yellowstone, for the benefit of all visitors.