CARSON CITY, Nev. (AP) — Conservationists across the state are questioning Nevada’s commitment to a plan to protect sage grouse and stave off a possible listing under the Endangered Species Act after Gov. Brian Sandoval asked the state’s wildlife director to resign this week.

Many conservationists fear the forced resignation of Department of Wildlife Director Ken Mayer represents a change in scientific wildlife management by the state — a deviation that may bring disastrous consequences, said Kyle Davis, the Nevada Conservation League political and policy director.