Washington, D.C. – Today, the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) released seven memos on its land use plans for the sage grouse, covering 10 Western states. Chairman Rob Bishop (R-UT) issued the following statement:

“The Administration’s decision not to list the sage grouse last year was a cynical ploy all along. These plans, written as if the sage grouse were listed, are proof it was an underhanded, de facto listing scheme that further oppresses western states. Secretary Salazar promised that state plans would be used. The Administration is going back on their commitment, which is why Congress is taking measures to help them keep their word.

“These management plans are not about the sage grouse at all. Once again, the Obama Administration is tying up energy development and seizing state-level conservation efforts. The only sensible way forward is to allow the state and local governments—who have the best knowledge—to manage the land in their own backyards.”