The Fish and Wildlife Service listed the Canada lynx (Lynx Canadensis) as a Threatened species in the lower 48 United States in 2000.  Under the Endangered Species Act, the Service is supposed to develop and adopt a Recovery plan for every listed species, but very often it does not.  In the case of the lynx, the Service has completed a “recovery outline” for the lynx, but this document does not have the force of law.  Over seven years after its designation as a Threatened species, the lynx remains without adequate protection in that no overarching plan exists to coordinate recovery efforts and prioritize actions of state and federal agencies responsible for lynx and lynx habitat management.  WELC is representing and working in coordination with several groups seeking to compel the Service to adopt a Recovery Plan for the lynx which includes clear recovery goals, adequately delineates recovery needs, and will serve to coordinate conservation actions among the agencies involved in lynx management.

Attorney:  Geoff Hickcox