Interior Department Shifts Grizzly Bear Management to State Agencies

The United States Department of the Interior announced a plan on July 17, 2026, to shift management authority for grizzly bears in the contiguous United States to state and tribal wildlife agencies. This move aims to increase flexibility in areas where bear populations have met or exceeded federal recovery benchmarks, such as the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem. On July 18, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service published the proposed rule in the federal register, requiring authorized agencies to develop conservation strategies and management plans to secure exceptions from federal oversight.

Secretary of the Interior Doug Burgum described the shift as a return of management to the West. While the rule expands the authority of state managers to relocate or kill bears under specific exceptions, it does not delist grizzly bears from the Endangered Species Act, and hunting remains prohibited. Montana Governor Greg Gianforte emphasized that the transition focuses on stewardship rather than hunting seasons.

Environmental groups, including Earthjustice and Defenders of Wildlife, criticized the proposal as politically motivated and risky. They cited record grizzly mortalities in 2025 and argued the plan lacks scientific detail. Conversely, sportsmen advocacy organizations like the Boone and Crockett Club praised the potential for increased state control. Public comment on the rule is open through August 17.