While speaking to the Department of the Interior yesterday, President Obama announced that his administration is reviewing the 11th-hour Bush ruling that allowed agencies like the Army Corp of Engineers to act without consulting federal wildlife experts, even if such projects could harm endangered species. In the interim, scientists must be involved in all decisions.
“…Today I’ve signed a memorandum that will help restore the scientific process to its rightful place at the heart of the Endangered Species Act, a process undermined by past administrations,” said Obama. “The work of scientists and experts in my administration - including right here in the Interior Department - will be respected.”
Photo courtesy of U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service.
— HH