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U.S. Declines Endangered Status for Lake Sturgeon Despite Conservation Concerns

Federal officials have decided not to list the lake sturgeon under the Endangered Species Act, citing successful conservation efforts, although populations remain below historical levels.

Overview

  • The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service ruled that lake sturgeon do not require Endangered Species Act protection after a comprehensive review initiated by a 2018 petition.
  • Conservation measures such as fish stocking and habitat restoration have helped some sturgeon populations recover, although overall numbers are still low compared to historical figures.
  • The decision allows continued fishing and spearing seasons in states like Wisconsin and Michigan, where sturgeon management programs are in place.
  • Critics, including the Center for Biological Diversity, argue that the species still faces significant threats and that ESA protection would provide necessary recovery plans and funding.
  • The ruling was based on assessments that current conservation actions are sufficient to prevent the species from becoming extinct in the foreseeable future.