Grizzly Bear Reintroduction in Washington:

The National Park Service and U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service are seeking public input on a draft Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) that evaluates options for restoring grizzly bears to the North Cascades Ecosystem in Washington, where the animals once roamed. The U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service is also inviting public comment on a proposed rule under section 10(j) of the Endangered Species Act that would provide local communities more flexibility to manage the grizzly bear population with additional wildlife management tools. 

Points to consider: 

Natural Migration is Already Happening: Grizzly bears are already making their way into Washington. Just last week, a grizzly bear was captured and removed from Stevens County. If they're meant to be in Washington, they'll come on their own.

Safety Concerns for Recreational Users: Hikers, hunters, and outdoor enthusiasts already have to be cautious of black and grizzly bears. Introducing more grizzlies could lead to increased risks, as seen in states like Montana, Idaho, and Wyoming.

Strain on Wildlife Management: The WDFW Commission has not maximized recreational opportunities for sportsmen as directed in their mandate. With recent decisions on black bear and potential changes to mountain lion hunting, many conservationists fear the commission is failing to manage its wildlife properly. Introducing more grizzlies would exacerbate this issue.  To be clear, reintroduction would not mean a grizzly bear hunting season.  The point here is that the state is already under strain from mismanagement of its large population of existing predators beside grizzly bear.

Predator Balance is Essential: Washington is already home to a variety of predators including wolves, cougars, black bears, and coyotes. Washinton's ungulate populations, such as elk, deer, moose, mountain goats, and the endangered woodland caribou, are under strain. Introducing more apex predators would further imbalance its delicate ecosystem.  Again, much of this is a consequence of decisions made within the state to properly manage existing species.

Does Historical Presence Justify Reintroduction: While grizzlies once roamed areas like downtown San Francisco (before it was San Francisco), it doesn't mean they should be reintroduced there, or in Washington for example.  There is a responsible way to do things.  Is it responsible for humans to bring grizzly bear into Washington state when so much mismanagement of wildlife is taking place? 

Your Voice Matters!

Share your concerns and make a difference. Submit your comments on the EIS and 10j proposals below.