The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is reviewing an application from BNSF Railway for a permit that would allow incidental harm to the federally threatened grizzly bear during railroad operations in Montana. The application includes a Habitat Conservation Plan proposing methods to reduce risks to grizzly bears and support their recovery, like reducing food sources that attract them near the railway. The Service is seeking public comments on the plan and related documents by February 11, 2021, through various submission methods. They aim to determine if BNSF's proposal will have minimal impact on the grizzly bear and the overall environment.
Simple Explanation
The Fish and Wildlife Service is thinking about letting BNSF Railway run their trains even if it might sometimes bother the grizzly bears in Montana, but they also want to make sure there are plans to keep the bears safe. They are asking people to share their thoughts before making a decision.