Z-AP-WYOMING

Environmentalists disappointed by gopher decision

Posted: Apr 14, 2010 4:27 PM
Updated: Apr 14, 2010 4:27 PM

CHEYENNE, Wyo. (AP) Environmentalists say they're disappointed the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has decided the Wyoming pocket gopher shouldn't be protected under the Endangered Species Act.

The government says there's no clear evidence that gas drilling, wind energy development, climate change and other factors are harming the rodent with fur-lined cheek pouches.

Oil companies helped fund a study of the mammal after conservationists launched a petition to get it listed in 2007. The Petroleum Association of Wyoming says the data was what prevented the animal from being granted federal protection.

Environmentalists questioned the basis for the decision, saying too much about the animal remains unknown.

Wyoming Outdoor Council biologist Sophie Osborn says a species shouldn't become extinct because of lack of knowledge.

Topics: Pocket Gopher (Tops)