NMFS issue this final rule to designate critical habitat for the Arctic subspecies of the ringed seal (Pusa hispida hispida) under the ESA. The critical habitat designation comprises an area of marine habitat in the Bering, Chukchi, and Beaufort seas. Based on consideration of national security impacts, we have excluded an area north of the Beaufort Sea shelf from the designation. This rule is effective 2 May 2022. POC is Tammy Olson, NMFS Alaska Region, (907) 271-5006.

(Federal Register 1 April 2022 [Rule] Pages 19232-19287).