A Message from Congresswoman Diana DeGette

Dear Guy:

Thank you for contacting me to express your concerns regarding gray wolves and weakening the Endangered Species Act. I am pleased to learn your views on the subject and appreciate the opportunity to share mine.

Gray wolves are native to North America. Different subspecies once ranged across the Rocky Mountain region from Mexico through Canada. Beginning in the late 1800s, human activities, especially ranching, sport hunting, and development, nearly eliminated the species until it was protected under the Endangered Species Act of 1976. I believe gray wolves play an important role in creating healthy ecosystems in their natural habitats and are in need of continued protection. However, land managers must also consider impacts to livestock, human welfare, and wildlife resources.

Like you, I do not believe that the Endangered Species Act should be weakened. In fact, I cosponsored H.J. Res. 18 which would preserve scientific review by the Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) or National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) of projects that could harm wildlife. Expert agencies must be part of the process that examines the impact of projects on endangered wildlife. Additionally, oversight is absolutely necessary in this matter to guarantee that qualified scientists are deciding the correct way to protect some of our nation’s most precious wildlife and natural resources.

While I welcome the debate over revisions, I will stand against any attempts to dismantle the Act. I support revisions to the Endangered Species Act that will strengthen, not weaken existing protections, respect private property owners, and most importantly ensure a recovery for protected species based on sound science. I will continue to follow this issue and keep your views in mind should legislation reach the House floor for a vote.

Thank you for taking the time to share your thoughts. Feel free to visit my website at http://www.degette.house.gov. There you can sign up for my e-newsletter to stay up-to-date on current events in Congress. I look forward to our continued communication.

Sincerely,

Diana DeGette
Member of Congress