Drilling opponents wrong to claim wildlife threats

Almost every week, I’m asked the same question: Why isn’t our country utilizing the domestic energy supplies in our own backyard? While there are number of possible answers, the one that seems to be resonating the most is attacks from so-called “sportsmen’s” groups, acting under the guise of protecting sportsmen. Alarmist and obstructionist groups, such as the Theodore Roosevelt Conservation Partnership, spread misinformation and make it increasingly challenging for our industry to access domestic energy supplies.
As an avid hunter and angler, born and raised in central Montana, and an industry representative, I know it is possible for energy development and wildlife to coexist. Throughout the years, America’s oil and natural gas industry has invested billions of dollars and entered numerous partnerships, underscoring its commitment to developing energy supplies efficiently and responsibly.

These pseudo-environmental groups are wrongfully using the sage grouse, along with mule deer and antelope, as a roadblock to further oil and natural gas development. In an effort to have the sage grouse placed on the endangered-species list, environmentalists have tried petitioning the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. However, after an extensive review, the sage grouse was not listed. Not satisfied with the court’s decision, these organizations have been filing frivolous lawsuits, costing taxpayers millions.

It is time these organizations face facts and stop discrediting hunters and anglers by using “sportsmen’s issues” as an obstacle to energy development. Over the past 30 years, sage grouse populations have declined, yet today the populations are stable and increasing. Wildlife biologists even testified before the Montana Fish Wildlife and Parks Commission, stating that sage grouse populations are strong.

Billings Gazette