UPDATE
A public meeting on grizzly bear management scheduled to be in Missoula on Tuesday, Jan. 28 has been canceled by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS).
Missoula's was to be the first of four public meetings by the agency to share information and hear public comment on proposed changes to grizzly bear recovery in the lower 48.
Earlier this month, the agency decided to keep grizzlies protected under the Endangered Species Act, proposing what they say is a new, more comprehensive management plan and not turning management over to the states, as Montana and others requested.
The meetings were going to feature informational sessions on the agency's plan.
However, the agency announced Monday that the meetings have been called off, stating "In light of the recent transition and the need for this Administration to review the recent grizzly bear proposed rule, the Service is cancelling all four of the public meetings and hearings that the agency voluntarily scheduled on this proposal."
Public comments on the proposal can be submitted online through March 17, 2025.
(second report: 4:44 p.m. - January 27, 2024)
The following information has been posted on the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service website:
"Public Meeting Update: In light of the recent transition and the need for this Administration to review the recent grizzly bear proposed rule, the Service is cancelling all four of the public meetings and hearings that the agency voluntarily scheduled on this proposal."
(first report: 3:35 p.m. - January 27, 2025)
Do you have thoughts on grizzly bear management in Montana? Tuesday is your chance to weigh in.
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is hosting a public meeting in Missoula on Jan. 28 about proposed changes to grizzly bear recovery in the Lower 48 States.
Watch related coverage: Montana cattle rancher raises concerns about new grizzly bear ruling:
The agency decided to keep grizzlies protected under the Endangered Species Act earlier this month, proposing what they say is a new, more comprehensive management plan and not turning management over to the states, as Montana and others requested.
While public comments can be submitted on the proposal through March 17, 2025, Tuesday will mark the first of 4 meetings featuring a detailed information session on the agency's plan.
Watch related coverage: Reaction to federal decision denying Montana, Wyoming grizzly bear delisting petition
The meeting will kick off at 3 p.m. at the Hilton Garden Inn and run until 8. Public comments can be submitted in person at the meeting or online.
