Petroplex News

Congressmen August Pfluger and Tracey Mann have formally requested Secretary of the Interior Doug Burgum to reconsider the endangered species status of the Dunes Sagebrush Lizard and the Lesser Prairie Chicken. They argue that reversing these listings would promote energy development and recognize local conservation successes.

The Biden Administration's decision to list these species as endangered has been controversial. Pfluger and Mann contend that Texas and Kansas conservation efforts have already achieved positive outcomes for the species. They cite these efforts in their communication to Secretary Burgum, emphasizing the need for balance between environmental protection and energy production.

The members' letter states, “Empowering states, landowners, and private partners to continue leading species management ensures we can protect wildlife without sacrificing economic growth, energy production, or the livelihoods of hardworking Americans." It further stresses the importance of "striking this balance" to maintain both environmental stewardship and energy dominance.

Pfluger and Mann have also reintroduced the Limiting Incredulous Zealots Against Restricting Drilling (LIZARD) Act. This legislation aims to revoke the endangered designation of the Dunes Sagebrush Lizard, as they believe it negatively impacts energy production in the Permian Basin.

Rep. Pfluger criticized the former administration for policies that he claims undermined the fossil fuel industry. He stated, “Former President Biden spent four years fulfilling his promise to kill the fossil fuel industry one horrible policy at a time." Mann added that the administration ignored existing local conservation efforts and advocated for returning decision-making to affected communities.

The legislation is supported by various energy groups, including the Independent Petroleum Association of America (IPAA) and the Permian Basin Petroleum Association (PBPA). IPAA President Jeff Eshelman expressed concern over the listing decision, noting it undermined previous conservation achievements. PBPA President Ben Shepperd echoed these sentiments, advocating for state-led conservation efforts over federal regulations.

Recent conservation initiatives in New Mexico have demonstrated the potential for successful, collaborative species management. Large tracts of land have been enrolled in conservation agreements, generating beneficial outcomes for habitat protection while supporting resource development.

The letter to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service emphasized the importance of reversing the species listings to acknowledge these achievements and maintain regulatory equilibrium for rural communities reliant on these lands.