Center for Biological Diversity in the news for new legal actions and petitions over endangered species, environmental protections. Founded 1989 by Kieran Suckling. #Biology #Conservation
The Endangered Species Committee, known as the 'God Squad,' voted to exempt oil drilling in the Gulf of Mexico from endangered species protections. The move, justified by national security concerns, follows a request from Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth amid rising energy prices and global tensions. Environmental groups oppose the exemption, citing risks to species like the Rice's whale.
State officials are calling for a court order to stop Sable Offshore from using a pipeline through Gaviota State Park. The pipeline has been idle since 2015 after a major spill, but the Biden administration has invoked the Defense Production Act to restart operations, citing national security and energy needs. Legal battles are intensifying as California authorities oppose the federal move, arguing it oversteps state rights. Sable has already produced over 1 million barrels and plans to increase output with new wells. The case highlights tensions between federal authority and state regulations amid ongoing energy security concerns.
The U.S. Supreme Court has unanimously ruled that Michigan's lawsuit to shut down part of the Line 5 pipeline will stay in state court. Justice Sotomayor has found that Enbridge Energy missed the deadline to move the case to federal court, reinforcing state authority over pipeline regulation amid environmental concerns.
Wyoming’s statewide wolf count has fallen to 253 wolves with 14 breeding pairs, marking the lowest population in two decades. Biologists say canine distemper is the primary driver, with pup survival severely affected in the northwestern trophy-game zone.
The Florida state-run detention center known as Alligator Alcatraz is closing. Officials say detainees will be moved by early June and the facility will be broken down in the coming weeks. The closure follows mounting cost concerns and criticism of conditions, with federal and state officials weighing next steps.