The dune sagebrush lizard, a small, spiny reptile, is causing contention between those who believe it should be listed on the federal endangered-species list and those who would be negatively impacted by its listing. Specifically, ranchers who clear oak shrubs and gas companies that drill in dunes are concerned that their activities could be placed in jeopardy. Both the oak shrubs and the dunes are integral pieces of the lizard’s habitat. This issue is not limited to the dune sagebrush lizard; a number of animals that share habitat with oil and gas rigs, cattle, and wind turbines are causing a stir and are considered species with huge economic implications.
While U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service cannot use economics as a determining factor when making a listing decision, they can factor in economic impact for conservation draft plans for listed species. In fiscal year 2011, a record 539 species were listed. Despite the large number, the species do not have the economic implications of those currently causing contention. With a decision by the Obama administration looming, Senator James M. Inhofe notes that “it’s the calm before the storm.”
Source: Washington Post