Sagebrush Ecosystem Initiative

How Audubon Helped Protect the Sagebrush’s Most Iconic Resident

In 2015, the Department of the Interior finalized landmark conservation plans to protect the Greater Sage-Grouse while preventing the need for an Endangered Species Act listing. The decision plotted a new, brighter future—not only for the sage-grouse, but for the American West. It was the result of significant levels of collaboration at an unprecedented scale. Audubon, with its sound science-based planning and steadfast work with a wide range of stakeholders, had been a major part of this remarkable achievement. 

Where We Go From Here

More than 350 species depend on the sagebrush ecosystem, as well as people. Reaching 14 states, sagebrush country is vital bird habitat, but only half of it is left and new demands continue to be placed on it. Audubon’s Sagebrush Ecosystem Initiative brings together citizens, industry, government, and NGOs to find pragmatic solutions that balance the needs of people and birds. Join us in conserving this American treasure.

Press Room

New Report Finds Increased Oil and Gas Leasing and Drilling in Priority Sage-Grouse Habitat

Despite a formal directive to keep leasing, drilling outside sage-grouse habitat, federal agencies have pushed to develop in priority habitat.
Greater Sage-Grouse. Evan Barrientos/Audubon Rockies
Press Room

Efforts to Help Greater Sage-Grouse to be Restored by Biden Administration

The Bureau of Land Management will respond to recent court decisions with new effort to reinstate plans to help struggling sage grouse populations.
News

Frustration Abounds Five Years After the Historic Sage-Grouse Agreement

The federal government hasn't kept up its end of the deal, advocates say, putting the bird back on course for an Endangered Species Act listing.

Unprecedented Conservation Efforts Keep Greater Sage-Grouse Off Endangered Species List

After more than a decade of work, the collaborative approach to protecting the bird pays off.

Press Room

New Federal Report Shows 80-Percent Decline in Greater Sage-Grouse Populations

New numbers are another indicator of increasing threats to sagebrush country.
Press Room

Court Strikes Down Trump Administration’s Sage-Grouse Directive, Canceling Hundreds of Oil and Gas Leases

Administration violated federal law by leasing sensitive sage-grouse habitat for drilling
News

Judge Blocks Trump Administration Plans that Lifted Sage-Grouse Protections

The injunction supports conservationists' claims that the industry-friendly plans are illegal, and puts stronger protections back in place for now.
Conservation

What’s Up With the Greater Sage-Grouse?

A definitive guide to the most talked-about bird in the West.

Rethinking the Endangered Species List

Some threatened species may never earn "endangered" status. Here's why that may be a good thing.

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Books

Excerpt: Sage Spirit

In Dave Showalter’s dramatic new photography book, Rick Bass reflects on one of the most vital habitats in the American West.
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Balance of Power

Green energy isn’t necessarily harmless. But new efforts are under way to site renewable energy projects and transmission lines outside unspoiled landscapes and wildlife habitat.