Say No to Weakened Protections for Eagles
A proposal to gut an important rule that protects eagles will result in more of these iconic birds being killed at wind energy projects throughout the United States.
The federal government allows corporations to obtain permits to avoid prosecution for killing limited numbers of eagles as part of their normal operations – if they also promise to offset this damage. These permits must be renewed every five years, giving the public regular opportunity to assess an industry’s operations.
However, energy lobbyists have pushed the federal government to propose making the permits good for 30 years. That means 30 years will pass without the possibility for public review of the permit. This will lead to more dead eagles, more costly lawsuits, and more Americans who will wonder why private businesses are getting a free pass to kill our nation’s most majestic birds.
Please send a message TODAY to ask the new Secretary of Interior to personally review and reject this terrible proposal.
Dear Secretary Jewell:
I respectfully request you personally review and reject U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s proposal to change the maximum duration of Bald and Golden Eagle take permits to 30 years from the current five.
Eagles need your help. These iconic birds still have historically low populations due to habitat loss and declining prey. The agency proposal to grant 30-year eagle take permits is not supported by science, nor is it in the best interest of conserving these species. The change has rightfully drawn letters of opposition from the National Park Service and more than 120 conservation, animal welfare, tribal, and local interest groups.
[Your comments will be inserted here.]
When the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service first proposed eagle take permits, it stated that permits were limited to five years or less in order to preserve eagles, due to the many factors that may change over time. This important and highly controversial decision should not be made without your full participation. Please take this opportunity to ensure a future for our nation’s most majestic birds.
Thank you for your consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]