Next week, the House of Representatives will be voting on an important update to the Endangered Species Act H.R. 1897 The ESA has been another constant source of OHV closures on our public lands. Congressman Bruce Westerman will be presenting H.R. 1897 for a full House Vote next week, and we would like your support for the bill. Here’s some of the reasons we support this amendment.
First, we strongly support the bill’s emphasis on measurable species recovery outcomes rather than indefinite protection status. While the ESA has played an important role in preventing extinction, its success should ultimately be judged by its ability to recover species to the point where protections are no longer necessary. Refocusing the statute toward recovery aligns incentives, improves accountability, and better serves both wildlife and the public.
Second, we appreciate the inclusion of economic and practical considerations in decision-making. Public lands are managed for multiple uses under statutes like FLPMA, and ESA implementation should recognize real-world impacts on communities, infrastructure, and responsible recreation. A more balanced approach will foster durable conservation solutions that can be successfully implemented and sustained over time.
Third, UPLA strongly supports provisions that ensure state and local input is meaningfully considered. Counties, state agencies, and local stakeholders possess critical on-the-ground knowledge and are often best positioned to implement effective conservation strategies. Incorporating this input will improve both the quality and legitimacy of ESA decisions.
Fourth, we support the establishment of a species ranking and prioritization system. Moving away from a one-size-fits-all framework allows agencies to allocate limited resources more effectively, focusing attention where it is most needed and where recovery is most achievable. This is a practical and results-oriented improvement over the current system.
Finally, we endorse the bill’s broader and more inclusive definition of “best available science.” Recognizing credible state, local, and field-based data alongside traditional sources will strengthen decision-making by incorporating real-world observations and long-term experience from those who actively work on the landscape.
UPLA also supports efforts within the legislation to reduce excessive and repetitive litigation that can delay or undermine effective conservation outcomes. The current system too often incentivizes serial lawsuits and forum shopping, creating uncertainty for land managers, stakeholders, and conservation efforts alike. Establishing clearer standards and reducing unnecessary litigation will help ensure that resources are directed toward on-the-ground recovery actions rather than prolonged legal disputes.
UPLA believes these reforms represent a constructive path forward—one that maintains a commitment to conservation while improving effectiveness, transparency, and collaboration.
Comments are currently closed, but email me your comments and/or voice of support and I will have them inserted into the Congressional record through our lobbyist. Please be sure to include your full name, address, and Club name in the email.
Thank you for your support!
Loren Campbell
President, UPLA
