EmbeddingGemma 2: an open, lightweight multimodal embedding model
deepmind.google·6d ago
AI Engineering
Hacker News·Sep 6·5 min read
Trump signs order to remove endangered species protection for grey wolves
TL;DR
Donald Trump has signed an executive order to remove endangered species protections for grey wolves and Mexican wolves, potentially allowing ranchers to kill them to protect livestock. Conservationists warn this could hinder recovery efforts for these endangered populations.
✦ Why It Matters
Consider advocating for wildlife protection policies to support endangered species recovery efforts.
Key Takeaways
- Understand the implications of wildlife protection laws on local ecosystems.
- Engage with conservation groups to support wildlife recovery efforts.
- Monitor the actions of the US Department of Interior regarding wolf populations.
- Advocate for sustainable ranching practices that coexist with wildlife.
Full Summary
Donald Trump's recent executive order aims to remove endangered species protections for grey wolves and the Mexican wolf, which could enable ranchers to kill these animals to safeguard their livestock. The order emphasizes the importance of ranchers in the food supply chain, citing a 75-year low in US livestock herds despite a 10% increase in beef demand over the past decade.
Currently, there are about 18,000 grey wolves and 319 Mexican wolves in the wild, with the latter having rebounded from just four individuals in 1998. Conservation groups warn that this decision could undermine decades of recovery efforts, as the Mexican grey wolf is not fully recovered despite its population growth.
Critics also highlight that wolf attacks on livestock are rare and that ranchers receive compensation for losses. The order gives the Interior Secretary 90 days to assess the populations before any changes are made.