WASHINGTON (July 15, 2026) – Yesterday, the Department of the Interior and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) released a revised 4(d) rule for grizzly bear management that would return management authority to states. The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA) and the Public Lands Council (PLC) previously urged the Trump administration to reject the Biden-era proposal finalized in early 2025 and are encouraged to see a renewed focus on ensuring the Endangered Species Act (ESA) works as intended—supporting species’ recovery, recognizing conservation successes, and working collaboratively with state partners.
“This proposed rule acknowledges that grizzly bears have met recovery goals and the best management outcomes will happen at the state level,” said NCBA President-Elect and Idaho rancher Kim Brackett. “Management is most effective when policy reflects on-the-ground realities and provides the flexibility needed to address conflicts between grizzly bears, livestock producers and rural communities. By removing non-scientific barriers to successful species management, the Trump administration is restoring a key function of the ESA which gives local stakeholders the tools they need to manage recovered grizzly bear populations. NCBA thanks the Interior Department and USFWS for bringing common sense to the recovery process and supporting rural communities.”
The revised management rule reflects years of scientific data and successful cooperative management that has resulted in recovered grizzly bear populations. Ranchers and other stakeholders have consistently called for greater management flexibility as predator populations have grown and conflicts with livestock and rural communities have increased.
“The science has been clear for years: grizzly bears are recovered, and it’s time to empower states to manage the wildlife and community dynamics for a stable future,” said PLC President and Colorado rancher Tim Canterbury. “As apex predator populations have grown, producers have faced increasing livestock losses, significant financial impact and growing public safety concerns under a federal recovery regime. This updated rule makes the successful transition from recovery to management by working with state agencies, local stakeholders, and ranchers to effectively manage recovered grizzly bear populations. PLC thanks the Trump administration for following established science and standing with America’s ranchers.”
These proposed actions will be published in the Federal Register on July 17, 2026. The public comment will be open through Aug. 17, 2026. No final rules have been published.
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