For decades, federal officials have controlled wildlife decisions in Wyoming without direct local involvement. This dynamic is shifting as Secretary of the Interior Doug Burgum announced a new rule last week granting Wyoming and nearby states increased authority to manage grizzly bear populations that have flourished in recent years.

The Greater Yellowstone grizzly bear population exemplifies a major conservation success. Listed under the Endangered Species Act (ESA) in 1975, the population was approximately 136 bears. Today, it has grown to an estimated 1,000 bears, surpassing all recovery goals by more than seven times.

Despite this growth, the Biden administration rejected petitions to delist the grizzly bears in 2023. Previously, the species was briefly delisted in 2007 but relisted in 2009 after litigation.

Separately, Glacier National Park authorities reported a recent incident where a hiker sustained injuries consistent with a bear encounter. The individual was found about 50 feet off a trail in a densely wooded area with downed timber.

Additionally, there are about 60 grizzly bears residing in Banff National Park, according to Reuters.

This new rule marks a significant change in wildlife management policy, emphasizing local control over grizzly bear populations in Wyoming and surrounding regions.

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