In an effort to prevent information from coming to light about the potential importance of a highly controversial area along the Rio Grande to the endangered Southwest willow flycatcher, the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation and U.S. Fish and Wildlife have prevented an independent scientist from conducting research on the bird. Five environmental groups, including Forest Guardians, asked Senator Bingaman on 7/21/05 to investigate the denial, claiming the agencies asserted false legal responsibility for the incidental harm that could occur when studying the birds as a pretext for denying the required permits. The groups also asserted their concern that independent, non-politicized research is vital to an understanding of how best to protect the species and restore the Rio Grande.