Poll Shows Strong Support for Strengthening Sage-Grouse Habitat Protections

WASHINGTON—A survey of Western voters commissioned by The Pew Charitable Trusts shows overwhelming support for strengthening Bureau of Land Management (BLM) protections for greater sage-grouse habitat. The BLM is amending its sage-grouse plans, originally developed in 2015, to consider new science—including the effects of increasing temperatures and other stressors on the bird—in determining how to best conserve sage-grouse habitat on public lands across 10 Western states.

The survey, conducted through the public opinion and market research firm Ipsos, found robust support for BLM’s planning effort in rural counties where the iconic bird is found. Over 90% of respondents said that protecting sage-grouse habitat is very or somewhat important.

“Support for the current land protection plans is high, but registered voters in the 164 counties surveyed think plans should go further,” said Ipsos Director Emily Sprague. “About 6 in 10 agree that stronger protections not only would help the sage-grouse bird but also would fuel economic development from outdoor recreation, including hunting, wildlife viewing, and camping.”

“It’s clear that voters in these Western counties want to see the greater sage-grouse bird and its habitat conserved,” said Marcia Argust, a director with Pew’s U.S. conservation project. “We hope the BLM is listening to this significant majority as it finalizes plan amendments.”

The current planning effort is informed by updated science, including a March 2021 study by the U.S. Geological Survey—the most comprehensive analysis ever of sage-grouse population trends—that found an 80% decline in the bird’s population since 1965, with half of that drop occurring since 2002.

The BLM released its draft plans in March, and the public comment period ended in June. The next step will be proposed final plans followed by a record of decision.

The sagebrush steppe, which is home to greater sage-grouse as well as mule deer, pronghorn, pygmy rabbits, and more than 350 other species, covers tens of millions of acres and is one of the nation’s most imperiled ecosystems. Sagebrush landscapes continue to shrink rapidly because of a host of growing threats, including wildfire, energy development, and the spread of invasive plant species.

Ipsos conducted the survey June 7-21, 2024, to assess opinions about conserving sage-grouse habitat and tabulated responses from 632 registered voters who were pre-identified as living in one of 164 counties in 10 Western states that contain habitat for the greater sage-grouse. Residents were asked specifically about a BLM planning process that will guide management of the bird’s habitat across public lands.

Founded in 1948, The Pew Charitable Trusts uses data to make a difference. Pew addresses the challenges of a changing world by illuminating issues, creating common ground, and advancing ambitious projects that lead to tangible progress.