Story perspectives

Threatened Sage Grouse Face New Danger from Lithium Mine

1/27/2026

Summary

Story summary

The Greater Sage Grouse populations have declined 80% over the past 60 years due to habitat loss from wildfire, human activity, and invasive species.
In 2015, an agreement aimed to protect the Greater Sage Grouse and prevent listing as endangered.
A proposed lithium mine in Oregon threatens to undermine conservation efforts.
OPB producer Cassandra Profita and journalist Ashley Ahearn contribute to the coverage, with Ahearn's 'Grouse' podcast exploring birds' significance.

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Story summary

The Greater Sage Grouse populations have declined 80% over the past 60 years due to habitat loss from wildfire, human activity, and invasive species.
In 2015, an agreement aimed to protect the Greater Sage Grouse and prevent listing as endangered.
A proposed lithium mine in Oregon threatens to undermine conservation efforts.
OPB producer Cassandra Profita and journalist Ashley Ahearn contribute to the coverage, with Ahearn's 'Grouse' podcast exploring birds' significance.