Thanks to voluntary conservation agreements now in place, the dunes sagebrush lizard will not be listed under the Endangered Species Act (“ESA”).  Scientists at the Fish and Wildlife Service (“FWS”) determined that state-led Candidate Conservation Agreements, or CCAs, across much of the lizard’s habitat in New Mexico and Texas will adequately ensure the rare reptile’s long-term protection and recovery. CCAs are formal, voluntary agreements between the FWS and one or more parties to address the conservation needs of plant and animal species that are candidates for listing under the ESA.  CCAs give new hope to landowners who would like to… Read more