Property and Environment Research Center (PERC)
Recent News About Property and Environment Research Center (PERC)
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Virtual fencing summit explores new horizons in wildlife conservation
Earlier this month, Bozeman, Montana, hosted a significant virtual fencing workshop. Organized by the Property and Environment Research Center (PERC) in collaboration with the Beyond Yellowstone Program, the event gathered experts from various sectors to explore advancements in virtual fencing technology. The workshop was supported by sponsors including the Greater Yellowstone Coalition, World Wildlife Fund, and the University of Wyoming’s Ruckelshaus Institute of Environment and Natural Resources – MacMillan Private Lands Stewardship Program, with backing from the Alumbra...
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Utah partners with PERC for Great Salt Lake restoration
The Property and Environment Research Center (PERC) has entered into a partnership with the Utah Office of the Great Salt Lake Commissioner to address the declining water levels of the Great Salt Lake. This collaboration comes after the lake reached its lowest recorded level in 2022.
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International visitor surcharges proposed to aid U.S. national park funding
A recent report by the Property and Environment Research Center (PERC) explores how international visitors to U.S. national parks could contribute additional revenue needed for maintenance and care of these sites. The report suggests that a modest surcharge on entry fees for international tourists could significantly boost funding.
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Montana ranch adopts virtual fencing in collaboration with PERC
The Property and Environment Research Center (PERC) has announced a partnership with Montana's McFarland White Ranch to launch a virtual fence project aimed at transforming ranching and wildlife conservation. The initiative will replace 16 miles of the ranch's internal barbed-wire fencing with a virtual network, enabling remote livestock management through signal towers and GPS collars.
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PERC launches innovative program compensating ranchers for providing elk habitat
The Property and Environment Research Center (PERC) has introduced a novel payment-for-presence program aimed at compensating ranchers for providing elk habitat in Montana's Paradise Valley. This initiative, which employs advanced AI-powered camera traps alongside landowners' expertise, marks the first of its kind in the region. Unlike traditional livestock compensation programs that focus on predator losses, PERC's payments are based on elk presence to address elk-livestock conflicts.
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New report offers solutions for improving Endangered Species Act
Ahead of the 50th anniversary of the Endangered Species Act this December, The Property and Environment Research Center (PERC) has released a report exploring ideas to improve conservation outcomes under the act. Since its inception five decades ago, the act has been successful in preventing extinction for most listed species. However, only a small number have recovered enough to be removed from the list.
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PERC launches Conservation Innovation Lab for practical environmental solutions
The Property and Environment Research Center (PERC) has introduced a new Conservation Innovation Lab aimed at transforming its research and policy recommendations into practical conservation efforts. This initiative will focus on developing innovative ideas and solutions to promote sustainable conservation outcomes.
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Environmental and property expert: There is room for cooperation 'to support voluntary stewardship on private lands'
Lawyer Jonathan Wood: Voluntary conservation works best and should be the first option, and administration indicates support for it
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Supreme Court rules in favor of Sackett family in landmark EPA case
The Supreme Court has ruled unanimously in favor of the Sackett family in their long-standing legal conflict with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). This decision, part of the Sackett v. EPA case, dismisses the "significant nexus" test that defined "navigable waters" under the Clean Water Act. The ruling clarifies federal authority, reducing conflicts between landowners, conservationists, and regulators.
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University of Wyoming professor promoted to senior fellow at PERC
The Property and Environment Research Center (PERC) has announced the promotion of Temple Stoellinger to Senior Fellow. PERC, a Montana-based nonprofit research institute, is recognized for its market-based conservation efforts concerning land, water, and wildlife. The Senior Fellowship program involves academics and professionals who align with PERC's conservation goals.
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Bureau of Land Management allows leasing of federal land for conservation
Yesterday, the Bureau of Land Management announced a change to federal land leasing policies. The new rule permits federal land to be leased for voluntary conservation and restoration purposes. This development is seen as a positive step toward advancing conservation leasing efforts.
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New law supports tribal sovereignty and promotes water conservation
The Property and Environment Research Center (PERC) is acknowledging the passage of the Colorado River Indian Tribes Water Resiliency Act, signed into law by President Biden on January 5, 2023. This legislation allows the Colorado River Indian Tribes to lease or exchange a portion of their water rights with other users in the Lower Colorado River Basin. The aim is to promote water conservation, enhance tribal sovereignty, provide new revenue opportunities for tribes, and assist western communities in avoiding expensive water reduction mandates during droughts.
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Dr. Bryan Leonard promoted to senior fellow at PERC
The Property and Environment Research Center (PERC) has announced the promotion of Dr. Bryan Leonard to the position of Senior Fellow. PERC is a nonprofit research institute based in Montana that focuses on market-based conservation efforts related to land, water, and wildlife.