The Osage Nation of Oklahoma is criticizing a new regulation that allows companies to kill or harm eagles without penalty.

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service announced the rule last week and it was published in the Federal Register on Monday. It was designed to facilitate renewable energy development, specifically wind farms that harm or kill golden and bald eagles.

“Renewable energy development is vitally important to our nation’s future, but it has to be done in the right way,” Interior Secretary Sally Jewell. said in a press release. “The changes in this permitting program will help the renewable energy industry and others develop projects that can operate in the longer term, while ensuring bald and golden eagles continue to thrive for future generations.”

The tribe, however, says eagles should remain protected due to their religious and cultural significance in Indian Country. Permits issued under the new rule could last up to 30 years.

The tribe has been battling a proposed wind farm on land where it owns the mineral estate.

Get the Story:
Oklahoma-based tribe criticizes Obama administration decision to permit some eagle deaths (AP 12/11)

Federal Register Notice:
Eagle Permits; Changes in the Regulations Governing Eagle Permitting (December 10, 2013)

Related Stories:
Column: Osage Nation threatens legal action over wind farm (9/13)