The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) aims to increase access to public lands in several Western states for energy and mining development, in accordance with President Donald J. Trump’s Executive Order, “Unleashing American Energy.” Now they are requesting public comment related to previous plans protecting the habitat of the Common Sage Grouse to make way for these energy projects.
The BLM controls the most significant chunk of sage grouse habitat in the U.S. – almost 65 million out of 145 million acres. While environmentalists worry how these new priorities might affect the Sage grouse population, officials say their proposals take into account studies done on how sage grouse respond to environmental disturbances.
Sage grouse populations are dwindling. What used to be in the millions is now under 800,000, mainly because of habitat loss worsened by droughts, wildfires, and invasive species. However, the sage grouse also shares its habitat with over 350 other species of wildlife, including pronghorn, mule deer, and pygmy rabbits.
These lands also support Western rural economies based on activities such as recreation, ranching, farming, energy, and small businesses, so finding a balance between protecting the species and other realities is a bit of a challenge. That’s why the BLM is requesting public comment to help align its priorities.
The amendments would affect BLM-managed public lands in California, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, North Dakota, South Dakota, Utah, and Wyoming.
UC Davis Professor and Extension Specialist Dr. Frank Mitloehner joined us on Friday’s Market Day Report to preview the festivities and share why this event has become such a special tradition for the ag community.
September 26, 2025 03:21 PM
·
Chad Rezniek with the Colorado AgrAbility Project joined us as part of National Farm Safety and Health Week to discuss the growing need for behavioral health support in rural communities.
September 26, 2025 02:24 PM
·
The Big Beautiful Bill has the potential to keep rural residents living and operating in their home communities.
September 25, 2025 02:59 PM
As input costs continue to rise, diesel prices have held steady in recent weeks, according to energy analysts at GasBuddy.
September 25, 2025 12:02 PM
·
Lamb prices have seen a surprising surge driven by a tight supply and increasing demand in non-traditional markets.
September 23, 2025 12:40 PM
·
RFD-TV Markets Expert Tony St. James breaks down the state of agribusiness and harvest progress across each region of the United States for the week of Monday, September 22, 2025.
September 22, 2025 10:21 AM
·
With the latest detection just across the border, animal health officials on both sides are intensifying efforts to contain the outbreak before it spreads further north.
September 22, 2025 09:51 AM
·
Ethanol producers face a widening opportunity window as aviation and marine fuel markets expand, with the potential to add billions in demand if policy and certification align.
September 19, 2025 02:42 PM
·
Lawmakers and ag industry groups welcomed the confirmations, citing the direct impact of these leaders on western ranchers, water and land management, conservation programs, and regulatory reform.
September 19, 2025 01:21 PM
·
