Wildlife

Trump Administration Sidesteps Key Environmental Protections to Advance Controversial Border Wall in Texas Wildlife Refuge

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STARR COUNTY, Texas — The Trump administration has waived a total of 31 environmental and public health regulations to expedite the construction of a border wall through the Lower Rio Grande Valley National Wildlife Refuge. This decision affects multiple tracts within the refuge, disrupting critical wildlife corridors and habitats vital for various endangered species. The waivers announced today authorize wall construction across 13 refuge tracts, leading to potential damage to the natural ecosystems home to species like the endangered ocelots and aplomado falcons. Critics, including Laiken Jordahl from the Center for Biological Diversity, argue that … Read more

Proposed Texas Legislation Could Reshape Wildlife Management, Alter Game Warden Powers

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Austin, Texas — Sweeping legislative proposals in Texas are aiming to significantly restructure the state’s approach to wildlife management, including a controversial bill that could lead to the dismantling of the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD). Additionally, lawmakers are considering measures to relax regulations on chronic wasting disease (CWD) and restrict game wardens’ access to private property. The proposed changes have sparked a broad spectrum of reactions. Proponents argue that such measures would reduce government overreach and enhance property rights, while opponents are concerned about the potential negative impact on wildlife conservation and the … Read more

Prominent Wildlife Photographer Fined for Traffic Violation While Protecting Grizzly Bears in Grand Teton

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CHEYENNE, Wyo. — Renowned wildlife photographer Tom Mangelsen faced criticism in a Wyoming federal magistrate’s court after being found guilty of a minor traffic offense last month. During a recent court session conducted via Zoom, Federal Magistrate Mark Carman, despite recognizing Mangelsen’s impressive photographic contributions, advised the 78-year-old to collaborate more closely with the National Park Service to avoid future conflicts. Mangelsen, a prominent figure known for his wildlife photography, was cited for obstructing traffic on October 9 after he reportedly drove slowly in front of Grizzly 610—an injured and well-known bear—on a highway in … Read more

Arkansas Wildlife Sanctuary Celebrates Remarkable Success in Conservation Efforts

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COLUMBUS, Ohio – In a landmark decision, the Ohio Supreme Court ruled yesterday that the state’s school funding system is unconstitutional, citing a violation of students’ rights to an adequate education. The court’s decision could have far-reaching implications for how education funding is handled in Ohio and potentially in other states facing similar challenges. The case, brought forth by a coalition of school districts, argued that Ohio’s school funding system was unfairly favoring wealthier districts, leaving disadvantaged students without the resources necessary for a quality education. The court agreed, stating that the current funding formula … Read more