In both ecosystems, the states ….

In both ecosystems, the states have met the delisting requirements and addressed concerns identified by the public or lined out by federal courts that have overturned previous delisting efforts. Those elements include: reaching population recovery, having conflict prevention and response programs in place, continuing with research and monitoring, establishing a regulatory framework for managing grizzly bears once delisted, continuing with education and outreach about grizzly bears, safeguarding genetic health.

According to McDonald, Montana and Wyoming have and will continue to act on their commitment to connectivity, and the agencies will continue to monitor the bears and their genetics to check for population diversity.

“That these bears are exploring their new ecosystem and seem to be doing well is an indication that they’ll thrive in their new environment,” McDonald said. “It also reflects the commitment Montana has to grizzly bear conservation.”