As the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service prepares for a hearing by the U.S. House Committee on Natural Resources Subcommittee on Water, Wildlife and Fisheries, Defenders of Wildlife has expressed its support for the proposed rule governing the maintenance of the National Wildlife Refuge System’s Biological Integrity, Diversity and Environmental Health (BIDEH). Desiree Sorenson-Groves, vice president of land and habitat conservation for Defenders of Wildlife, emphasized the importance of the National Wildlife Refuge System in protecting imperiled species and providing enjoyment for millions of Americans each year. She stated that in response to the biodiversity and climate crises, it is essential to protect and enhance the system by following the best available science, which the proposed rule would require.
The proposed BIDEH rule and updated policy would give the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service the ability to develop and implement climate change adaptation strategies on refuges that are already experiencing devastating impacts. As Defenders of Wildlife celebrates 75 years of protecting all native animals and plants in their natural habitats, they continue to advocate for innovative solutions to safeguard wildlife heritage for future generations. With a nationwide network of nearly 2.2 million members and activists, Defenders of Wildlife remains a leading voice in wildlife conservation efforts. For more information, visit defenders.org/newsroom and follow them on Twitter @Defenders.
