From the Office of Utah Congressman Jim Matheson

MATHESON NEWS
Second Congressional District

For Further Information
Alyson Heyrend: (801) 455-5593 (cell)
www.house.gov/matheson

September 29, 2005
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Matheson Calls for ESA Reforms

Washington DC-Congressman Jim Matheson said he supported the passage of legislation that will do a better job of protecting endangered wildlife by providing stronger tools for recovery efforts and at the same time giving more responsibility to private landowners and to state, local and tribal governments. The Threatened and Endangered Species Recovery Act -HR 3824-passed the House of Representatives with bipartisan support on Thursday.

"All sides agree that the Endangered Species Act-which became law more than 30 years ago-needs reform.  TESRA encourages stronger partnerships between federal, state, local and tribal governments and private landowners. I believe wildlife will benefit as a result," said Matheson.

Matheson said an important change involves the critical habitat designation process, which in practice has drained millions of dollars in scarce conservation funds to litigation.  TESRA replaces the critical habitat process with enhanced recovery tools that will still target areas of 'special value' to the conservation of listed species.

The legislation will also create a new partnership with landowners by providing conservation aid and grants to those who voluntarily protect listed species on their property.  Those partnerships are vital, since most threatened or endangered species are found on private land.

"TESRA finds the appropriate balance by both defending endangered wildlife and protecting the property rights of landowners.  This bill encourages greater collaboration between all stakeholders involved to ensure the survival of America's wildlife," said Matheson.

Matheson said he is pleased that members of both parties have come together to improve the country's wildlife protection law.

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Alyson Heyrend
Communications Director
240 East Morris Ave. #235
South Salt Lake, UT 84115
(801) 486-1236 (phone)
(801) 455-5593 (cell)
(801) 486-1417 (fax)