Contact: John Emmerich (307-777-4501)

CHEYENNE  - The Wyoming Game and Fish Department has released a draft update of the document, "Recommendations for Development of Oil and Gas Resources within Crucial and Important Wildlife Habitat," for public comment.

The draft document summarizes recent findings concerning wildlife impacts from oil and gas development and provides recommendations on mitigation actions for lands administered by state and federal agencies.

"The Game and Fish is updating this document to incorporate new science published since the original document was approved by the Wyoming Game and Fish Commission in 2004," says John Emmerich, Deputy Director for the Game and Fish. "As the science evolves, it is important that we use the most current information to deal with challenges facing wildlife, outdoor recreation and energy development needs in Wyoming."

A group of wildlife and fisheries biologists began working on the initial document in early 2004. The Wyoming Game and Fish Commission endorsed the final document after changes were made to address input provided by federal agencies, the oil and gas industry and conservation organizations. The document addresses landscape planning, impacts, mitigation and reclamation as well as considerations for individual species like mule deer, pronghorn, grouse and songbirds.

"We recognize that energy development is a vital part of Wyoming's economy," says Emmerich.

"These recommendations help address our concerns as a wildlife agency and suggest mitigation and management options companies and resource agencies can use to balance the needs of wildlife and energy development."

The draft revised document is available on the Game and Fish Web site at Draft Oil and Gas Recommendations.  Written comments will be accepted through Jan. 15, 2009.  Comments should be sent to Scott Gamo, Wyoming Game and Fish Dept., 5400 Bishop Blvd, Cheyenne, WY  82006 or electronically to scott.gamo@wgf.state.wy.us.  All comments must be received by the Game and Fish by 5 p.m. on Jan. 15.