Senator Cynthia Lummis introduced the Local Data for Better Conservation Act on Mar. 19, which would amend the Endangered Species Act of 1973 to require federal officials to use data collected by state wildlife agencies when making decisions about listing or delisting endangered and threatened species.
The legislation aims to ensure that all available scientific information is considered in federal conservation decisions. Supporters say this could improve the accuracy and integrity of how species are listed or removed from protection under the law.
“Smart conservation means using the best data available,” said Senator Cynthia Lummis. “State agencies are on the ground every day, generating critical, real-time data on the species they manage. This bill ensures that information is fully considered in Endangered Species Act decisions, improving the accuracy and scientific integrity of species listings decisions.”
Angi Bruce, Director of Wyoming Game and Fish Department, said, “Wildlife will benefit if all of the best available data are used to make decisions. However, decisions about endangered species sometimes exclude the wealth of relevant data that states collect. We appreciate that this bill recognizes states as essential partners and on-the-ground experts for species conservation.” Paul Johansen, Chief of Wildlife Resources Section at West Virginia Division of Natural Resources and President of the Association, added: “State fish and wildlife agencies are on the front lines of stewarding our nation’s wildlife and are often the first to detect changes in species populations on the ground. This legislation ensures that the most up-to-date, field-based data informs ESA decisions, leading to better informed listings and timely delisting decisions. By formally incorporating state-collected science, we can strengthen outcomes for species while reinforcing the cooperative framework that is foundational to conservation.”
Currently, federal listing decisions may overlook significant amounts of data gathered by state agencies. The proposed bill would require that such information be accepted and integrated into any determination regarding a species’ status under federal law.
Senators John Barrasso (R-WY), Pete Ricketts (R-NE), Steve Daines (R-MT) and Tim Sheehy (R-MT) have joined as cosponsors.
Lummis has a background rooted in agriculture; she grew up on a cattle ranch in Laramie County and operated family ranches with her siblings according to her official website. She earned degrees in animal science, biology and law from the University of Wyoming according to her official website. Her public service includes years in both chambers of Wyoming’s legislature as well as serving as state treasurer according to her official website. Lummis also served Wyoming in the U.S. House of Representatives according to her official website.
She currently serves on various committees where she champions responsible federal budgeting and public land stewardship according to her official website. In addition to legislative work focused on energy resources and multiple-use public lands according to her official website, Lummis has raised a daughter and enjoys time with three grandsons according to her official website.
