Date: November 17, 2017

Contacts: Interior_Press@ios.doi.gov

WASHINGTON – U.S. Secretary of the Interior Ryan Zinke issued the following statement on the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service's recent decision to allow the import of elephant hunting trophies from two African nations.

"President Trump and I have talked and both believe that conservation and healthy herds are critical. As a result, in a manner compliant with all applicable laws, rules, and regulations, the issuing of permits is being put on hold as the decision is being reviewed."