Republican Sen. Jim Risch is co-sponsoring the Recovering America’s Wildlife Act with Democratic Sen. Joe Manchin of West Virginia. In a press release, Risch says the flexibility and control the measure would give states – including Idaho – will save time and money.
Julia Peebles is with the Backcountry Hunters and Anglers, and says the group supports the bill for a number of reasons.
“Not only does it go on the ground and help those efforts before they become a listed species," says Peebles, "it’s economically viable – it’s a long-term investment.”
Every year, the measure would take $1.3 billion the federal government already has – money from oil and gas revenues – and give it to states. In a press release last week, Idaho Fish and Game officials say they would use the money to help conserve species by need including the greater sage grouse, wolverines and wild steelhead.
Find reporter Frankie Barnhill on Twitter @FABarnhill
Copyright 2018 Boise State Public Radio
