Environmental groups have officially sued the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service for allowing up to 72 grizzly bears to be killed over ten years. The groups filed an intent to sue earlier this year.

Back in October the Bridger Teton National Forest in conjunction with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service decided to continue livestock grazing in the Upper Green River area. It's a controversial region because its prime grizzly bear habitat. In the decision, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife service said up to 72 grizzly bears can be killed in a ten-year period as a mitigation effort.

Andrea Santarsiere, a senior attorney with the Center for Biological Diversity, said environmental groups, including her own, agree no grizzlies should be killed here.

"Our hope is that the court will toss out the opinion determination of the Fish and Wildlife Service that has authorized the killing of 72 grizzly bears in this area to protect livestock," said Santarsiere.

The FWS have 60 days to respond.

Have a question about this story? Contact the reporter, Kamila Kudelska, at kkudelsk@uwyo.edu.