A bill to reform the process for listing a species as threatened or endangered under the Endangered Species Act of 1973 (Congressional Record: 1 August 2024 [Senate] Pages S5773-S5775)

USFWS proposes to list the Kentucky creekshell (Leaunio ortmanni [=Villosa ortmanni]), a freshwater mussel species from Kentucky and Tennessee, as an endangered species and designate critical habitat under the ESA. This determination also serves as their 12-month finding on a petition to list the Kentucky creekshell. After a review of the best available scientific and commercial information, they find that listing the species is warranted. Accordingly, they propose to list the Kentucky creekshell as an endangered species under the ESA. Finalizing this rule as proposed would add this species to the List of Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and extend the Act's protections to the species. They also propose to designate critical habitat for the Kentucky creekshell under the Act. In total, approximately 545 river miles (877 river kilometers) in Kentucky and Tennessee fall within the boundaries of the proposed critical habitat designation. They also announce the availability of an economic analysis of the proposed designation of critical habitat for the Kentucky creekshell. They will accept comments received or postmarked on or before 18 November 2024. POC is Lee Andrews, Field Supervisor, USFWS, Ecological Services Kentucky Field Office, 330 West Broadway, Room 265, Frankfort, KY 40601; tele 502-653-0571. (Federal Register 17 September 2024 [Proposed Rule] Pages 76196-76233)

USFWS proposes to list the Black Creek crayfish (Procambarus pictus), a crayfish species from Florida, as an endangered species under ESA. They also propose to designate critical habitat for the Black Creek crayfish under the Act. In total, approximately 1,056 kilometers (656 miles) of streams in Clay, Duval, Putnam, and St. Johns Counties, Florida, fall within the boundaries of the proposed critical habitat designation. If finalized this rule would extend the Act's protections to this species and its designated critical habitat. They also announce the availability of an economic analysis of the proposed critical habitat designation for the Black Creek crayfish. They will accept comments received or postmarked on or before 12 November 2024. POC is Gian Basili, Deputy State Supervisor, Florida Ecological Services Office, 7915 Baymeadows Way, Suite 200, Jacksonville, FL 32256-7517; tele 904-731-3079. (Federal Register 10 August 2024 [Proposed Rule] Pages 73512-73554)

USFWS proposes to list the Alabama hickorynut (Obovaria unicolor) as an endangered species and the undescribed Obovaria cf. unicolor as a threatened species under the ESA. Both species are freshwater mussels. This document also serves as their 12-month finding on a petition to list the Alabama hickorynut. For Obovaria cf. unicolor, they also propose a rule issued under section 4(d) of the Act to provide for the conservation of the species. If this rule as proposed is finalized it would apply the protections of the Act to these species. They find that designation of critical habitat for both the Alabama hickorynut and Obovaria cf. unicolor is prudent but not determinable at this time. They will accept comments received or postmarked on or before 12 November 2024. Bill Pearson, Field Supervisor, USFWS, Alabama Ecological Services Field Office, 1208 Main Street, Daphne, AL 36526; tele 251-441-5870. (Federal Register 10 September 2024 [Proposed Rule] Pages 73330-73349).

Along the southeastern US coast, it is becoming more and more common to see large patches of dead or dying trees where healthy forests used to be. These areas are called ghost forests, and they have been recorded since at least the 1920's. Ghost forests can be found on the Atlantic coast from New Jersey to Texas and as climate change persists, ghost forests are expected to become a more prevalent sight. But what causes this mass death of once healthy forests? What are the ecosystem impacts and can anything be done to save the trees? This webinar will answer all these questions and more as it will explains ghost forests and what causes them.

USFWS are removing the Apache trout (Oncorhynchus apache), a fish native to Arizona, from the Federal List of Endangered and Threatened Wildlife. Their review indicates that the threats to the Apache trout have been eliminated or reduced to the point that the species no longer meets the definition of an endangered or threatened species under the ESA. Accordingly, the prohibitions and conservation measures provided by the Act, particularly through section 4 and 7, will no longer apply to the Apache trout. This rule is effective 7 October 2024. POC is Heather Whitlaw, Field Supervisor, Arizona Ecological Services Office, USFWS, 9828 North 31st Ave #C3, Phoenix AZ 85051-2517; tele: 602-242-0210. (Federal Register 6 September 2024 [Rule] Pages 72739-72757).

USFWS are reopening the public comment period on their 20 December 2023, proposed rule to list the West Virginia spring salamander (Gyrinophilus subterraneus), an amphibian species from Greenbrier County, West Virginia, as an endangered species and to designate critical habitat under the Act. They are taking this action to allow all interested parties an additional opportunity to comment on the proposed listing of the species and the proposed critical habitat. The comment period on the proposed rule that published 20 December 2023, at 88 FR 88012, is reopened. They will accept comments received or postmarked on or before 20 September 2024. (Federal Register 5 September 2024 [Proposed Rule] Pages 72362-72363)

This webinar will review the influence of site characteristics on species composition. Understanding which trees grow best in each area on the property is the first step in deciding how to harvest and regenerate a forest. This webinar will highlight examples from North Carolina from the coastal plain to the mountains, focused on commonly managed commercial species. The presenter will identify sites that work across the state for managing different species for forestry use.

To meet landowners' interest and objectives, new strategies are needed to either naturally or artificially regenerate commercially valuable timber. Picking the right management strategy before a harvest can save you money and provide an optimal future income for you and your heirs. This webinar will highlight examples from North Carolina from the coastal plain to the mountains, focused on commonly managed commercial species. The presenter will summarize the primary ways that different timber types in North Carolina are regenerated following a harvest. This webinar is part 2 of a 2-part series.

USFWS proposes to list the Santa Ana speckled dace (Rhinichthys gabrielino), a fish species native to California, as a threatened species under the ESA. This determination also serves as their 12-month finding on a petition to list the Santa Ana speckled dace. After a review of the best available scientific and commercial information, they find that listing the species is warranted. Accordingly, they propose to list the Santa Ana speckled dace as a threatened species with protective regulations issued under section 4(d) of the Act ("4(d) rule"). If finalized, this rule as proposed would add this species to the List of Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and extend the Act's protections to the species. Due to the current lack of data sufficient to perform required analyses, they conclude that the designation of critical habitat for the species is not determinable at this time. We will accept comments received or postmarked on or before 15 October 2024. POC is Scott Sobiech, Field Supervisor, Carlsbad Fish and Wildlife Office, USFWS, 2177 Salk Avenue, Carlsbad CA 92008; tele 760-431-9440. (Federal Register 13 August 2024 [Proposed Rule] Pages 65816-65835)

USFWS proposes to list the Cedar Key mole skink (Plestiodon egregius insularis), a lizard subspecies from the Cedar Keys, Florida, as an endangered species under the ESA. After a review of the best available scientific and commercial information, they find that listing this subspecies is warranted. They also propose to designate critical habitat for the Cedar Key mole skink under the Act. In total, approximately 2,713 acres (1,098 hectares) in Levy County, Cedar Keys, Florida, fall within the boundaries of the proposed critical habitat designation. In addition, they announce the availability of an economic analysis of the proposed designation of critical habitat for the Cedar Key mole skink. If finalized, this rule as proposed would extend the Act's protections to this subspecies and its designated critical habitat. They will accept comments received or postmarked on or before 7 October 2024. POC is Lourdes Mena, email: lourdes_mena@fws.gov; tele: 352-749-2462. (Federal Register 8 August 2024 [Proposed Rule] Pages 65124-65160)

USFWS proposes to list the Long Valley speckled dace (Rhinichthys nevadensis caldera), a fish native to California, as an endangered species under the ESA. This determination also serves as our 12-month finding on a petition to list the Long Valley speckled dace. After a review of the best available scientific and commercial information, they find that listing the subspecies is warranted. Accordingly, they propose to list the Long Valley speckled dace as an endangered species under the Act. If finalize, this rule as proposed would add this subspecies to the List of Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and extend the Act's protections to the subspecies. Designation of critical habitat for the Long Valley speckled dace is not determinable at this time. They will accept comments received or postmarked on or before 7 October 2024. POC is Justin Barrett, Deputy Field Supervisor, Reno Fish and Wildlife Office, USFWS, 1340 Financial Boulevard, Suite 234, Reno, NV 89502; tele 775-861-6338. (Federal Register 8 August 2024 [Proposed Rule] Pages 64852-64865)

USFWS proposes to list the eastern regal fritillary (Argynnis idalia idalia) as an endangered species and to list the western regal fritillary (A. i. occidentalis) as a threatened species under the ESA. This determination also serves as their 12-month finding on a petition to list the regal fritillary, as these two subspecies make up the entire species. After a review of the best available scientific and commercial information, they find that listing both subspecies is warranted. Accordingly, they propose to list the eastern subspecies as endangered and the western subspecies as threatened with protective regulations issued under section 4(d) of the Act (a "4(d) rule"). They find that designation of critical habitat for both subspecies is not determinable at this time. They will accept comments received or postmarked on or before 7 October 2024. POC is listed in the Federal Register. (Federal Register 6 August 2024 [Proposed Rule] Pages 63888-63909)

USFWS proposes to remove the northeastern bulrush (Scirpus ancistrochaetus) from the Federal List of Endangered and Threatened Plants. After a review of the best available scientific and commercial information, they find that delisting the species is warranted. Their review indicates that the threats to the northeastern bulrush have been eliminated or reduced to the point that the species no longer meets the definition of an endangered or threatened species under ESA. Accordingly, they propose to delist the northeastern bulrush. If finalized, the prohibitions and conservation measures provided by the Act, particularly through Sections 7 and 9 would no longer apply to the northeastern bulrush. They will accept comments received or postmarked on or before 30 September 2024. POC is Audrey Mayer, Field Supervisor, New England Ecological Services Field Office, 70 Commercial Street, Suite 300, Concord, NH 03301; tele 603-223-2541. (Federal Register 31 July 2024 [Proposed Rule] Pages 61387-61396)

USFWS determine endangered species status under the Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended (Act), for the San Francisco Bay-Delta distinct population segment (DPS) of longfin smelt (Spirinchus thaleichthys), a fish species of the Pacific Coast. This rule extends the protections of the Act to this DPS and adds it to the List of Endangered and Threatened Wildlife. This rule is effective 29 August 2024. POC is Donald Ratcliff, Field Supervisor, USFWS, San Francisco Bay-Delta Fish and Wildlife Office, 650 Capitol Mall, Suite 8-300, Sacramento, CA 95814; tele 916-930-5603. (Federal Register 30 July 2024 [Rule] Pages 61029-61049)

The American beech (Fagus grandifolia) plays a significant role in many forest ecosystems across the eastern US. It is an economically important, slow growing and shade tolerant tree which adds structural diversity to many forest types, and its nut production makes it a valuable food source for wildlife. In 2012, a substantial threat to the American beech tree was detected in Ohio and has since spread to several other states. Beech leaf disease (BLD) is caused by a nematode and can result in host tree mortality within two to seven years. Symptoms include banded leaves, premature leaf drop, and aborted bud development in Fagus spp. This emerging threat continues to spread across the US, but what can be done to save the American beech? This webinar will discuss BLD biology, impact, and potential management strategies.

USFWS determine endangered species status under the ESA for the Sira curassow (Pauxi koepckeae) and southern helmeted curassow (Pauxi unicornis), two bird species from South America. This rule extends the protections of the Act to these species. This rule is effective 26 August 2024. POC is Rachel London, Manager, Branch of Delisting and Foreign Species, Ecological Services Program, USFWS, MS: ES, 5275 Leesburg Pike, Falls Church, VA 22041-3803; tele 703-358-2491. (Federal Register 25 July 2024 [Rule] Pages 60319-60328)

Asian longhorned beetle (Anoplophora glabripennis) is an invasive, wood-boring pest originating from Asia. It was first detected in the US in 1992 and has since spread to several states with its most recent detection near Charleston, SC in 2020. Asian longhorned beetle poses a significant economic and ecological impact to infested communities and due to the extensive damage it causes in host trees, eradication is the primary focus for management. The low lying, swampy land of the South Carolina infestation poses challenges to traditional eradication methods and research is being completed testing new strategies to successfully eradicate ALB. What methods are being tested and are any of them working? This webinar will discuss ALB's impact and give us an update on ALB South Carolina research.

NMFS, have completed a comprehensive status review of seven species of giant clams (Hippopus hippopus, H. porcellanus, Tridacna derasa, T. gigas, T. mbalavuana, T. squamosa, and T. squamosina) in response to a petition to list these species as threatened or endangered under ESA. Based on the best scientific and commercial data available, including the Status Review Report, and after taking into account efforts being made to protect these species, they have determined that H. porcellanus, T. mbalavuana, and T. squamosina are in danger of extinction throughout the entirety of their respective ranges, T. derasa and T. gigas are in danger of extinction in a significant portion of their respective ranges, and H. hippopus is likely to become an endangered species within the foreseeable future throughout a significant portion of its range. Therefore, they propose to list H. porcellanus, T. mbalavuana, T. squamosina, T. derasa, and T. gigas as endangered species and H. hippopus as a threatened species under the ESA. They have determined that the fluted clam, T. squamosa, does not meet the definition of a threatened or an endangered species under section 4(a) of the ESA. Comments must be received by 23 October 2024. POC is John Rippe, NMFS Office of Protected Resources john.rippe@noaa.gov. (Federal Register 25 July 2024 [Rule] Pages 60498-60547)

This SERDP and ESTCP webinar focuses on DoD-funded research efforts to understand the effects of multiple stressors on marine mammals and terrestrial species. Specifically, investigators will discuss advancing the understanding of the cumulative risk of multiple stressors on marine mammals, and exploring the nature, drivers, and impacts of interactions among multiple stressors affecting at-risk species.

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service), list the Pearl River map turtle (Graptemys pearlensis), a freshwater turtle species from the Pearl River drainage in Mississippi and Louisiana as a threatened species with 4(d) protective regulations under the ESA. Due to similarity of appearance, we also list the Alabama map turtle (Graptemys pulchra), Barbour's map turtle (Graptemys barbouri), Escambia map turtle (Graptemys ernsti), and Pascagoula map turtle (Graptemys gibbonsi) as threatened species with 4(d) protective regulations under the Act. This rule adds these species to the List of Endangered and Threatened Wildlife. This rule is effective 12 August 2024. POC is James Austin, Field Supervisor, USFWS, Mississippi Ecological Services Field Office, 6578 Dogwood View Parkway, Suite A, Jackson, MS 39213; tele 601-321-1129. (Federal Register 12 July 2024 [Rule] Pages 57206-57236)

USFWS proposes to designate critical habitat for the Barrens topminnow (Fundulus julisia) under the ESA. In total, approximately 1.5 acres (0.6 hectares) of spring pool and 11.4 miles (18.3 kilometers) of spring run in Cannon, Coffee, Dekalb, Franklin, Grundy, and Warren Counties, Tennessee, fall within the boundaries of the proposed critical habitat designation. They also announce the availability of an economic analysis of the proposed designation of critical habitat for the Barrens topminnow. They will accept comments received or postmarked on or before 9 September 2024. Daniel Elbert, Field Supervisor, USFWS, Tennessee Ecological Services Office, 446 Neal Street, Cookeville, TN 38501; tele 931-528-6481. (Federal Register 9 July 2024 [Proposed Rule] Pages 56253-56275)

USFWS proposes to remove the white sedge (Carex albida) from the Federal List of Endangered and Threatened Plants (i.e., "delist" the species). Their review of the best available scientific and commercial data indicate that the white sedge is not a discrete taxonomic entity and does not meet the definition of a species as defined by the ESA. White sedge has been synonymized with Lemmon's sedge (Carex lemmonii). This taxonomic revision means that the white sedge is no longer a scientifically accepted species. If finalized, this rule as proposed, would remove the prohibitions and conservation measures provided by the Act, particularly through sections 7 and 9, for the white sedge. They will accept comments received or postmarked on or before 3 September 2024. POC is Michael Fris, Field Supervisor, USFWS, Sacramento Fish and Wildlife Office, 2800 Cottage Way, Sacramento, CA 95825; tele 916-414-6700. (Federal Register 2 July 2024 [Proposed Rule] Pages 54758-54761)

USFW determine threatened species status under the ESA for the Suwannee alligator snapping turtle (Macrochelids suwanniensis), a large, freshwater turtle species from the Suwannee River basin in Florida and Georgia. This rule adds the species to the List of Endangered and Threatened Wildlife. They also finalize a rule issued under the authority of section 4(d) of the Act that provides measures that are necessary and advisable to provide for the conservation of this species. They have determined that designating critical habitat for the Suwannee alligator snapping turtle is not prudent. This rule is effective 29 July 2024. POC is Lourdes Mena, Classification and Recovery Division Manager, Florida Ecological Services Field Office, 7915 Baymeadows Way, Suite 200, Jacksonville, FL 32256-7517; email: Lourdes_Mena@fws.gov; tele: 352-749-2462. (Federal Register 27 June 2024 [Rule] Pages 53507-53528)

Endangered species status for the Guadalupe fatmucket (Lampsilis bergmanni), Texas fatmucket (Lampsilis bracteata), Guadalupe orb (Cyclonaias necki), Texas pimpleback (Cyclonaias (= Quadrula) petrina), Balcones spike (Fusconaia (= Quincuncina) iheringi), and false spike (Fusconaia (= Quincuncina) mitchelli), and threatened species status for the Texas fawnsfoot (Truncilla macrodon), seven species of freshwater mussels from central Texas. They also issue a rule under section 4(d) of the Act for the Texas fawnsfoot that provides measures that are necessary and advisable to provide for the conservation of the Texas fawnsfoot. In total, approximately 1,577.5 river miles (2,538.7 river kilometers) in Blanco, Brown, Caldwell, Coleman, Comal, Concho, DeWitt, Gillespie, Gonzales, Guadalupe, Hays, Kendall, Kerr, Kimble, Lampasas, Llano, Mason, McCulloch, Menard, Mills, Palo Pinto, Parker, Runnels, San Saba, Shackelford, Stephens, Sutton, Throckmorton, Tom Green, Travis, and Victoria Counties, Texas, fall within the boundaries of the critical habitat designation. This rule applies the protections of the Act to these species and their designated critical habitats. Effective 5 July 2024. POC is Karen Myers, Field Supervisor, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Austin Ecological Services Field Office, 1505 Ferguson Lane, Austin, TX 78754; tele (512) 937-7371. (Federal Register 4 June 2024 [Rule] Pages 48034-48130)

USFWS designate critical habitat for the coastal distinct population segment of Pacific marten (coastal marten) (Martes caurina), a mammal species from coastal California and Oregon, under the ESA. In total, approximately 1,213,752 acres (491,188 hectares) in northwestern California and southwestern Oregon fall within the boundaries of the critical habitat designation. This rule extends the Act's protections to this entity's designated critical habitat. This rule is effective 28 June 2024. POC is Vicky Ryan, Acting Field Supervisor, USFWS, Arcata Fish and Wildlife Office, 1655 Heindon Road, Arcata, CA 95521; tele 707-822-7201. (Federal Register 29 May 2024 [Rule] Pages 46576-46616)

USFWS proposes to designate critical habitat for the Dixie Valley toad (Anaxyrus williamsi) under the ESA. In total, approximately 930 acres (376 hectares) in Churchill County, Nevada, fall within the boundaries of the proposed critical habitat designation. If finalize this rule would extend the Act's protections to this species' critical habitat. They also announce the availability of a draft economic analysis of the proposed designation of critical habitat for the Dixie Valley toad. They will accept comments received or postmarked on or before 29 July 2024. POC is Jodie Mamuscia, Field Supervisor, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Reno Fish and Wildlife Office, 1340 Financial Blvd., Suite 234, Reno, NV 89502; tele 775-861-6300. (Federal Register 30 May 2024 [Proposed Rule] Pages 46838-46852)

USFWS determine endangered species status under the ESA, as amended, for the dunes sagebrush lizard (Sceloporus arenicolus), a lizard species found only in southeastern New Mexico and west Texas. This rule extends the protections of the Act to this species. Because they have concluded that the designation of critical habitat for the dunes sagebrush lizard is prudent but not determinable at this time, they will consider critical habitat for the species in a separate, future rulemaking. This rule is effective 20 June 2024. POC is Shawn Sartorius, Field Supervisor, USFWS, New Mexico Ecological Services Field Office, 2105 Osuna NE, Albuquerque, NM 87113; tele: 505-346-2525. (Federal Register 20 May 2024 [Rule] Pages 43748-43769)

NMFS, are proposing to issue protective regulations under section 4(d) of the ESA for the conservation of the threatened oceanic whitetip shark (Carcharhinus longimanus). The proposed regulations would apply all of the prohibitions listed under ESA sections 9(a)(1)(A) through 9(a)(1)(G) for the species, with limited exceptions for scientific research and law enforcement activities that contribute to the conservation of the species. In addition, they are announcing the availability of a draft environmental assessment (EA) that analyzes the environmental impacts of promulgating these regulations. Finally, they solicit comments from the public and all interested parties regarding this proposed rule and the draft EA. Comments on this proposed rule must be received by 15 July 2024. POC is Adrienne Lohe, NMFS Office of Protected Resources, 301-427-8442. (Federal Register 14 May 2024 [Rule] Pages 41917-41924)

A bill to require the Secretary of the Interior to finalize a proposed rule to remove the Apache trout from the Federal List of Endangered and Threatened Wildlife. (Congressional Record: 9 April 2024 [House] Pages H2250-H2251)

A bill to amend the Neotropical Migratory Bird Conservation Act to make improvements to that Act. (Congressional Record 21 March 2024 [Senate] Pages S2514-S2515)

A bill to amend the Endangered Species Act of 1973 to exclude certain populations of the lake sturgeon from the authority of such Act. (Congressional Record: 26 March 2024 [House] Pages H2119-H2120)

A bill to amend the Endangered Species Act of 1973 to prohibit the taking for a trophy of any endangered or threatened species of fish or wildlife in the United States and the importation of endangered and threatened species trophies into the United States. (Congressional Record 29 March 2024 [House] Pages H2128-H2129)

A bill to amend the Endangered Species Act of 1973 to prohibit the taking for a trophy of any endangered or threatened species of fish or wildlife in the United States and the importation of endangered and threatened species trophies into the United States. (Congressional Record 22 March 2024 [House] Pages H1497-H1498)

(WASHINGTON, April 22, 2024) The Department of Defense (DoD) announced the nine winners of the 2024 Secretary of Defense Environmental Awards. The awards have honored installations, teams, and individuals each year since 1962 for outstanding achievements in DoD environmental programs. These accomplishments include outstanding conservation activities, innovative environmental practices, and partnerships that improve quality of life and promote efficiencies without compromising DoD's mission success.

A bill to clarify that noncommercial species found entirely within the borders of a single State are not in interstate commerce or subject to regulation under the Endangered Species Act of 1973 or any other provision of law enacted as an exercise of the power of Congress to regulate interstate commerce. (Congressional Record Volume 14 March 2024 [Senate] Pages S2400-S2401)

USFWS and the NMFS finalize revisions to portions of our regulations that implement section 4 of the ESA. The revisions to the regulations clarify, interpret, and implement portions of the Act concerning the procedures and criteria used for listing, reclassifying, and delisting species on the Lists of Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and Plants (Lists) and designating critical habitat. This final rule is effective 6 May 2024. POC is Carey Galst, USFWS, Division of Ecological Services, Branch of Listing Policy and Support Chief, 5275 Leesburg Pike, Falls Church, VA 22041-3803, tele 703-358-1954. (Federal Register 5 April 2024 [Rule] Pages 24300-24335)

USFWS revise their regulations concerning protections of endangered species and threatened species under the ESA. They reinstate the general application of the "blanket rule" option for protecting newly listed threatened species pursuant to section 4(d) of the Act, with the continued option to promulgate species-specific section 4(d) rules. They also extend to federally recognized Tribes the exceptions to prohibitions for threatened species that the regulations currently provide to the employees or agents of the Service and other Federal and State agencies to aid, salvage, or dispose of threatened species. They also make minor changes to clarify or correct the existing regulations for endangered species and threatened species; these minor changes do not alter the substance or scope of the regulations. This final rule is effective 6 May 2024. POC is Carey Galst, USFWS, Division of Ecological Services, Branch of Listing Policy and Support Chief, 5275 Leesburg Pike, Falls Church, VA 22041-3803, tele 703-358-1954. (Federal Register 5 April 2024 [Rule] Pages 23919-23941)

USFWS proposes to remove the Roanoke logperch (Percina rex) from the Federal List of Endangered and Threatened Wildlife due to recovery. The species is currently listed as endangered. Their review of the best available scientific and commercial data indicates that the threats to the Roanoke logperch have been eliminated or reduced to the point that the species no longer meets the definition of an endangered or a threatened species under the ESA. Populations of Roanoke logperch are shown to be stable or expanding and reproducing (as evidenced by sustained recruitment) since the time of listing in each of the following river systems: Upper Roanoke River, Pigg River, Smith River, and Nottoway River. The number of streams where the Roanoke logperch has been observed has increased from 14 streams from the time of listing in 1989 to 31 streams in 2019. Accordingly, they propose to delist the Roanoke logperch throughout all of its range, which is in Virginia and North Carolina. If finalized this rule as proposed, the prohibitions and conservation measures provided by the Act, would no longer apply to the Roanoke logperch. We will accept comments received or postmarked on or before 3 June 2024. POC is Cindy Schulz, Field Supervisor, USFWS, Virginia Ecological Services Field Office, 6669 Short Lane, Gloucester, VA 23061; tele 804-654-1842. (Federal Register 2 April 2024 [Proposed Rule] Pages 22649-22662)

USFWS are revising the rule for the African elephant (Loxodonta africana) promulgated under section 4(d) of the ESA. The purposes are threefold: To increase protection for African elephants in light of the recent rise in international trade of live African elephants by establishing ESA enhancement permit requirements for international trade in live elephants and specific enhancement requirements for the import of wild-sourced elephants, as well as requirements to ensure that all proposed recipients of live African elephants are suitably equipped to house and care for them; to clarify the existing enhancement requirement during our evaluation of an application for a permit to import African elephant sport-hunted trophies; and to incorporate a Party's designation under the CITES National Legislation Project into the decision-making process for the import of live African elephants, African elephant sport-hunted trophies, and African elephant parts and products other than ivory and sport-hunted trophies. Amendments to the section 4(d) regulations in 2016 prohibited the import and export of African elephant ivory with limited exceptions. This rule is effective 1 May 2024. POC is Mary Cogliano, Division of Management Authority; USFWS; 5275 Leesburg Pike, MS: IA; Falls Church, VA 22041 (telephone (703) 358-2104). (Federal Register 1 April 2024 [Rule] Pages 22522-22555)

USFWS propose to list the pygmy three-toed sloth (Bradypus pygmaeus; hereafter "pygmy sloth"), an arboreal mammal species from Panama, as a threatened species under the ESA. This determination also serves as their 12-month finding on a petition to list the pygmy sloth. After a review of the best available scientific and commercial information, they find that listing the species is warranted. Accordingly, they propose to list the pygmy sloth as a threatened species with a rule issued under section 4(d) of the Act ("4(d) rule"). If finalized, this rule as proposed, will add this species to the List of Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and extend the Act's protections to the species. They will accept comments received or postmarked on or before 28 May 2024. POC is Rachel London, Manager, Branch of Delisting and Foreign Species, Ecological Services Program, USFWS, MS: ES, 5275 Leesburg Pike, Falls Church, VA 22041–3803; tele 703–358–2171. (Federal Register 26 March 2024 [Proposed Rule] Pages 20928-20939)

USFWS propose to list the bushy whitlow-wort (Paronychia congesta), a perennial herbaceous plant species from northwestern Jim Hogg County in south Texas, as an endangered species under the ESA. This determination also serves as their 12-month finding on a petition to list the bushy whitlow-wort. After a review of the best available scientific and commercial information, they find that listing the species is warranted. They also propose to designate critical habitat for the bushy whitlow-wort under the Act. In total, approximately 41.96 acres (16.98 hectares) in Jim Hogg County, Texas, fall within the boundaries of the proposed critical habitat designation. They announce the availability of a draft economic analysis (DEA) of the proposed designation of critical habitat for bushy whitlow-wort. If they finalize this rule as proposed, it would extend the Act's protections to the species and its designated critical habitat. They will accept comments received or postmarked on or before 20 May 2024. POC is Chuck Ardizzone, Field Supervisor, Texas Coastal Ecological Services Field Office, 17629 El Camino Real, Suite 211, Houston, TX 77058; tele 281–286–8282. (Federal Register 19 March 2024 [Proposed Rule] Pages 19526-19546)

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) is designating critical habitat for 12 federally endangered species on the island of Hawai`i under the Endangered Species Act of 1973 (Act), as amended. In total, approximately 119,326 acres (48,289 hectares) on the island of Hawai`i, in the State of Hawaii, fall within the boundaries of the critical habitat designation. This rule extends the Act's protections to these species' designated critical habitats. The rule is effective 11 April 2024. POC is Earl Campbell, Project Leader, USFWS, Pacific Islands Fish and Wildlife Office, 300 Ala Moana Boulevard Room 3-122 Honolulu, HI; tele: 808-792-9400. (Federal Register 12 March [Rule] Pages 17902-17981)

USFWS designate critical habitat for the Florida bonneted bat (Eumops floridanus) under the ESA. In total, approximately 1,160,625 acres (469,688 hectares) in 13 Florida counties fall within the boundaries of the critical habitat designation. This rule extends the Act's protections to this species' critical habitat. This rule is effective 8 April 2024. POC is Lourdes Mena, Classification and Recovery Division Manager, USFWS, Florida Ecological Services Field Office, 7915 Baymeadows Way, Suite 200, Jacksonville, FL 32256; tele (352) 749–2462. (Federal Register 7 March 2023 [Rule] Pages 16624-16681)

A bill to require the Secretary of the Interior, acting through the Director of the United States Fish and Wildlife Service, to promulgate regulations prohibiting the use of lead ammunition on all land and water under the jurisdiction and control of the United States Fish and Wildlife Service. (Congressional Record 29 February 2024 [Senate] Pages S1076-S1077)

USFWS is removing the Florida golden aster (Chrysopsis floridana), a short-lived perennial, from the Federal List of Endangered and Threatened Plants (List) due to recovery. Their review indicates that the threats to the species have been eliminated or reduced to the point that the species has recovered and no longer meets the definition of an endangered or threatened species under the ESA. Accordingly, the prohibitions and conservation measures provided by the Act will no longer apply to this species. This rule is effective 4 April 2024.POC is Lourdes Mena, Division Manager, Florida Classification and Recovery, USFWS, Florida Ecological Services Field Office, 7915 Baymeadows Way, Jacksonville, FL 32256; tele 904–731–3336. (Federal Register 5 March 2024 [Rule] Pages 15763-15779)

The Department of Defense's National Defense Center for Energy and Environment (NDCEE) is excited to announce the opening of proposals for demonstrations of environmental, safety, occupational health, and energy technologies from March 1st to April 1st. They welcome submissions from all DoD Services, inviting innovative technologies, processes, and strategies that enhance energy security, Warfighter protection, military operations efficiency, or reduce environmental impacts. NDCEE wants your help shaping the future of defense through initiatives that bolster national security, safeguard our planet, and contribute to a more robust, greener, and secure tomorrow.

A bill to amend the Marine Mammal Protection Act of 1972 and the Animal Welfare Act to prohibit the taking, importation, exportation, and breeding of certain cetaceans for public display. (Congressional Record 30 January 2024 [House] Pages H314-H316)

A bill to include water supply and water conservation as a primary mission of the Corps of Engineers in planning, designing, constructing, modifying, operating, and maintaining water resources development projects (Congressional Record: 22 January 2024 [House] Pages H245-H246)

NMFS is issuing a final rule to list the Atlantic humpback dolphin (Sousa teuszii) as endangered under ESA, in response to a petition from the Animal Welfare Institute, the Center for Biological Diversity, and VIVA Vaquita. They have reviewed the status of the Atlantic humpback dolphin, including efforts being made to protect the species, and considered public comments submitted on the proposed listing rule as well as new information received since publication of the proposed rule. Based on all of this information, they have determined that the Atlantic humpback dolphin warrants listing as an endangered species. They will not designate critical habitat for this species, because the geographical areas occupied by this species are entirely outside U.S. jurisdiction. This final rule is effective 22 March 2024. POC is Heather Austin, NMFS Office of Protected Resources, Heather.Austin@noaa.gov, 301–427–8422. (Federal Register 21 February 2024 [Rule] Pages 12980-12986)

USFWS determine threatened species status under the ESA, for a subspecies of butterfly (Speyeria nokomis nokomis), a silverspot butterfly from Colorado, New Mexico, and Utah. They also finalized a rule issued under the authority of section 4(d) of the Act that provides measures that are necessary and advisable to provide for the conservation of this subspecies. They have determined that the designation of critical habitat is not prudent. This rule is effective 18 March 2024. POC is Nathan Darnall, Western Colorado Supervisor, USFWS, Colorado Ecological Services Field Office, 445 West Gunnison Avenue, Grand Junction, CO 81501; tele 970–628–7181. (Federal Register 15 February 2024 [Rule] Pages 11750-11772)

NMFS are listing the queen conch (Aliger gigas, formerly known as Strombus gigas) as a threatened species under the ESA. They have completed a review of the status of queen conch, including efforts being made to protect the species, and considered public comments submitted on the proposed listing rule as well as new information received since the publication of the proposed rule. Based on all of this information, they determined that the queen conch is not currently in danger of extinction throughout all or a significant portion of its range, but is likely to become so within the foreseeable future. Thus, they are listing the queen conch as a threatened species under the ESA. At this time, they conclude that critical habitat is not yet determinable because data sufficient to perform the required analysis are lacking; any critical habitat designation would be proposed in a separate, future rulemaking. This final rule is effective on 15 March 2024. Orian Tzadik, NMFS Southeast Regional Office, (813) 906–0353–C; or Orian.Tzadik@noaa.gov. (Federal Register 14 February 2024 [Rule] Pages 11208-11226)

A bill to amend the Endangered Species Act of 1973 to exclude certain populations of the lake sturgeon from the authority of such Act. (Congressional Record 18 January 2024 [House] Pages H239-H240)

USFWS announced a finding on the gray wolf (Canis lupus) in the Northern Rocky Mountains (NRM) and in the Western United States. After a thorough review of the best available scientific and commercial data, they find that gray wolves within the NRM area do not, on their own, represent a valid listable entity; therefore, the NRM is not warranted for listing under the ESA. They find that the gray wolf in the Western United States is a valid listable entity; however, the gray wolf in the Western United States does not meet the definition of an endangered species or a threatened species. Thus, they find that listing the gray wolf in the Western United States is not warranted at this time. The finding in this document was made on 7 February 2024. POC is Marjorie Nelson, Acting Assistant Regional Director, Ecological Services Mountain-Prairie Region, 720–582–3524, marjorie_nelson@fws.gov. (Federal Register 7 February 2024 [Proposed Rule] Pages 8391-8395)

A bill to amend the Endangered Species Act of 1973 to provide for protective regulations when a species is listed as an endangered species (Congressional Record 14 December 2023 [House] Pages H6983-H6986).

NMFS, designate critical habitat for the threatened Nassau grouper (Epinephelus striatus) pursuant to section 4 of the ESA. Specific areas designated as critical habitat contain approximately 2,384.67 sq. kilometers (km) (920.73 sq. miles) of aquatic habitat located in waters off the coasts of southeastern Florida, Puerto Rico, Navassa, and the United States Virgin Islands (USVI). They have considered positive and negative economic, national security, and other relevant impacts of the critical habitat designation, as well as all public comments that were received. This rule becomes effective 1 February 2024. POC is Orian Tzadik, NMFS Southeast Region, Orian.Tzadik@noaa.gov, 813–906–0353. (Federal Register 2 January 2024 [Final] pages 126-176)

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) determines endangered species status under the Endangered Species Act of 1973 (Act), as amended, for the black-capped petrel ( Pterodroma hasitata), a pelagic seabird species that nests on the island of Hispaniola and spends the rest of its life at sea. The species forages in high concentration off the coast of North Carolina; however, the marine range extends across much of the western Atlantic (Nova Scotia to Venezuela) and into the Caribbean Sea and northern Gulf of Mexico. This rule extends the protections of the Act to the black-capped petrel. This rule is effective 29 January 2024. POC is Jose Cruz-Burgos, Fish and Wildlife Biologist, USFWS, Caribbean Ecological Services Field Office, tele: 786-244-0081 email: Caribbean_es@fws.gov. (Federal Register 28 December 2023 [Rule] Pages 89611-89626)

A bill to amend the Endangered Species Act of 1973 to allow certain activities to be carried out with regard to certain fish held in captivity or a controlled environment. (Congressional Record 1 December 2023 [House] Pages H6079-H6080)

The Office of the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Energy, Installations and Environment announces the release of Boots on the Ground: Saving Species, Supporting the Mission--a video that showcases the Department of Defense's (DoD) success in maintaining its national defense and security mission, while conserving military lands and the species that call them home. Filmed at Vandenberg Space Force Base in California this seven-minute video tells a story of the unique balance between the vital military testing, training and operational mission and the extraordinary work, commitment, and dedication of the DoD to the conservation of at-risk species.

USFWS determine threatened species status under the ESA, for the distinct population segment (DPS) of the North American wolverine (Gulo gulo luscus) occurring in the contiguous United States. This rule adds the contiguous U.S. DPS of the North American wolverine to the Federal List of Endangered and Threatened Wildlife. They are also issuing an interim rule under the authority of section 4(d) of the Act (an "interim 4(d) rule") that provides the prohibitions, and exceptions to those prohibitions, necessary and advisable for the conservation of the contiguous U.S. DPS of the North American wolverine. This rule is effective 2 January 2024. POC is Jodi Bush, USFWS, Pacific Region, 911 NE 11th Ave., Portland, OR 97232; tele: (503) 231–6131. (Federal Register 30 November 2023 [Rule] Pages 83726-83772)

USFWS announce findings that seven species are not warranted for listing as endangered or threatened species under the Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended (Act). After a thorough review of the best available scientific and commercial information, we find that it is not warranted at this time to list Edison's ascyrum (Hypericum edisonianum), Florida (lowland) loosestrife (Lythrum flagellare), Florida pinesnake (Pituophis melanoleucus mugitu), mimic cavesnail (Phreatodrobia imitata), northern cavefish (Amblyopsis spelaea), smallscale darter (Etheostoma microlepidum), and Texas troglobitic water slater (Lirceolus smithii). However, we ask the public to submit to us at any time any new information relevant to the status of any of the species mentioned above or their habitats. The findings in this document were made on 29 November 2023. See Federal Register for listed species POCs. (Federal Register 29 November 2023 [Proposed Rule] Pages 83368-83377)

USFWS establish a nonessential experimental population (NEP) of the gray wolf (Canis lupus) in the State of Colorado, under the ESA. The State of Colorado (Colorado Parks and Wildlife or CPW) requested that the Service establish an NEP in conjunction with their State-led gray wolf reintroduction effort. Establishment of this NEP provides for allowable, legal, purposeful, and incidental taking of the gray wolf within a defined NEP area while concurrently providing for the conservation of the species. The geographic boundary of the NEP is the entire State of Colorado. The best available data indicate that reintroduction of the gray wolf into Colorado is biologically feasible and will promote the conservation of the species. This rule is effective 8 December 2023. POC is Liisa Niva, Acting Field Supervisor, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Colorado Ecological Services Field Office, 134 Union Boulevard, Suite 670, Lakewood, CO 80228; tele 303–236–4773. (Federal Registration 8 November 2023 [Rule] Pages 77014-77039)

USFWS are removing the plants island bedstraw (Galium buxifolium) and Santa Cruz Island dudleya (Dudleya nesiotica) from the Federal List of Endangered and Threatened Plants on the basis of recovery. Both of these native plant species occur in the Channel Islands National Park off the coast of California. This final rule is based on their review of the best available scientific and commercial data, which indicates that the threats to island bedstraw and Santa Cruz Island dudleya have been eliminated or reduced to the point that these species have recovered and no longer meet the definition of an endangered or threatened species under the ESA. This rule is effective 7 December 2023. POC is Stephen P. Henry, Field Supervisor, USFWS, Ventura Fish and Wildlife Office, 2493 Portola Road, Suite B, Ventura, CA 93003; tele 805–644–1766. (Federal Register 7 November 2023 [Rule] Pages 76679-76696)

USFWS are issuing this final rule to comply with a district court order that vacated their 3 November 2020, rule removing the gray wolf (Canis lupus) from the ESA. As a result of the court's order, the regulatory protections under the ESA, apply to the gray wolf in all or portions of the 45 U.S. States and Mexico where the species was listed at the time they issued the delisting rule. The court order went into effect on 10 February 2022. Thus, this final rule implements the court's order by correcting the CFR and officially reinstating threatened status for gray wolf in Minnesota; endangered status for gray wolf in all or portions of the remaining 44 U.S. States and Mexico where the species was listed prior to our November 2020 delisting rule; critical habitat for gray wolf in Minnesota and Michigan; and the rule promulgated under section 4(d) of the Act for gray wolf in Minnesota. Gray wolves in Montana, Idaho, Wyoming, the eastern third of Washington and Oregon, and north-central Utah (collectively, the Northern Rocky Mountains) retain their delisted status and are not affected by this final rule. This rule does not have any effect on the separate listing of the Mexican wolf subspecies (Canis lupus baileyi) as endangered under the Act. This action is effective 3 November 2023. POC is Rachel London , USFWS, Headquarters Office, MS:ES, 5275, Leesburg Pike, Falls Church, VA 22041–3803; tele (703) 358–2491.

USFWS are reclassifying Mitracarpus polycladus (a plant, no common name) from endangered to threatened (downlist) under the ESA. This action is based on our evaluation of the best available scientific and commercial information, which indicates that the species' status has improved such that it is not currently in danger of extinction throughout all or a significant portion of its range, but that it is still likely to become so in the foreseeable future. They are also finalizing a rule issued under section 4(d) of the Act that provides for the conservation of the species. This rule is effective 1 December 2023. POC is Edwin Muñiz, Field Supervisor, USFWS, Caribbean Ecological Services Field Office, P.O. Box 491, Boquerón, PR 00622; email: Caribbean_es@fws.gov; tele: (786) 244–0081. (Federal Register 1 November 2023 [Rule] Pages 74890-74907)

USFWS removing 21 species from the Federal List of Endangered and Threatened Wildlife due to extinction. This action is based on a review of the best available scientific and commercial information, which indicates that these species are no longer extant and, as such, no longer meet the definition of an endangered species or a threatened species under the ESA. Check the federal register for list of delisted species and associated POCs. This rule is effective 16 November 2023. (Federal Register 17 October 2023 [Rule] Pages 71644-71682)

USFWS are removing Nelson's checker-mallow (Sidalcea nelsoniana) from the Federal List of Endangered and Threatened Plants. Our review of the best available scientific and commercial data indicates that the threats to Nelson's checker-mallow have been eliminated or reduced to the point that the species no longer meets the definition of an endangered or threatened species under the ESA. This rule is effective 16 November 2023. POC is Kessina Lee, Project Leader, USFWS, Oregon Fish and Wildlife Office, 2600 SE 98th Ave., Suite 100, Portland, OR 97266; tele: 503–231–6179. (Federal Register 17 October 2023 [Rule] Pages 71491-71504)

USFWS withdraw the proposal to remove Phyllostegia glabra var. lanaiensis from the Federal List of Endangered and Threatened Plants (List). This withdrawal is based on new surveys conducted over the past 3 years since completing the 5-year review for the species; these surveys have identified new suitable habitats comprised of native vegetation within the former range of P. glabra var. lanaiensis. Therefore, they determined that additional information is needed before concluding that the species is extinct. With this withdrawal of the proposal, P. glabra var. lanaiensis will remain on the List as endangered. Elsewhere in this issue of the Federal Register, they publish a final rule removing 21 species that were part of their 30 September 2021, proposed rule. The proposal to remove P. glabra var. lanaiensis from the Federal List of Endangered and Threatened Plants, which published on September 30, 2021 (86 FR 54298), is withdrawn on 17 October 2023. POC is Earl Campbell, Field Supervisor, Pacific Islands Fish and Wildlife Office tele 808–792–9400. (Federal Register 17 October 2023 [Proposed Rule] Pages 71520-71523).

USFWS announced two 90-day findings on petitions to reclassify the West Indian manatee (Trichechus manatus), or populations thereof, under the ESA. Two valid subspecies of the West Indian manatee, the Florida manatee (Trichechus manatus latirostris) and Antillean manatee (Trichechus manatus manatus), are currently protected under the Act as part of the threatened West Indian manatee species-level listing. One petition requests the Puerto Rico population of the Antillean manatee be listed as an endangered distinct population segment (DPS) and critical habitat be designated for this entity under the Act. The second petition requests to reclassify the West Indian manatee, including its subspecies the Antillean manatee and Florida manatee, as endangered species under the Act. They find that the petitions present substantial scientific or commercial information indicating that the petitioned actions may be warranted. Therefore, with the publication of this document, they announce that they plan to initiate a status review to determine whether the petitioned actions are warranted. The findings announced in this document were made on 12 October 2023. POC is Nicole Rankin, Division of Conservation and Classification Manager, telephone: 404–679–7089, email: Nicole_Rankin@fws.gov. (Federal Register 12 October 2023 [Proposed Rule] Pages 70634-70637)

USFWS determine endangered species status under the ESA for the Lassics lupine (Lupinus constancei), a plant species native to northern California. They also designated critical habitat for the species. In total, approximately 512 acres (207 hectares) in Humboldt and Trinity Counties, California, fall within the boundaries of the critical habitat designation. This rule extends the protections of the Act to this species and its designated critical habitat. This rule is effective 6 November 2023. POC is Tanya Sommer, Field Supervisor, Arcata Fish and Wildlife Office, 1655 Heindon Road, Arcata, CA 95521; telephone 707–822–7201. (Federal Register 5 October 2023 [Rule] Pages 69074-69098)

USFWS are revising the regulations for the nonessential experimental population of the black-footed ferret (Mustela nigripes; ferret) in Arizona. They established the Aubrey Valley Experimental Population Area (AVEPA) in 1996 in accordance with section 10(j) of the ESA. This rule allows the introduction of ferrets across a larger landscape as part of a nonessential experimental population and includes the AVEPA within a larger "Southwest Experimental Population Area" (SWEPA), which includes parts of Arizona and identified contiguous Tribal lands in New Mexico and Utah. This revision provides a framework for establishing and managing reintroduced populations of ferrets that will allow greater management flexibility and increased landowner and manager cooperation. The best available data indicate that additional reintroductions of the ferret into more widely distributed habitat in the SWEPA is feasible and will promote the conservation of the species. This rule is effective 6 November 2023. POC is Heather Whitlaw, Field Supervisor, Phone: 602–242–0210. Direct all questions or requests for additional information to: BLACK-FOOTED FERRET QUESTIONS, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Arizona Ecological Services Office, 9828 North 31st Avenue, Suite C3, Phoenix, AZ 85051. (Federal Register 5 October 2023 [Rule] Pages 69045-69073)

A bill to amend the Endangered Species Act of 1973 to allow certain activities to be conducted with respect to sturgeon held in captivity or in a controlled environment in the United States. (Congressional Record 20 September 2023 [Senate] Page S4630)

A bill to provide for determination of the grizzly bear species consistent with the Endangered Species Act of 1973, and for other purposes. (Congressional Record 27 July 2023 [Senate] Pages S3754)

USFWS reclassify the relict darter (Etheostoma chienense) from endangered to threatened under the ESA. The relict darter is a fish species that occupies the Bayou de Chien stream system in western Kentucky. This action is based on a thorough review of the best available scientific and commercial information, which indicates that relict darter is not currently in danger of extinction throughout all or a significant portion of its range, but it is still likely to become so in the foreseeable future. They are also finalizing a rule under section 4(d) of the Act that provides for the conservation of the relict darter. This rule is effective 27 October 2023. POC is Lee Andrews, Field Supervisor, USFWS, Kentucky Ecological Services Field Office, 330 West Broadway, Suite 265, Frankfort, KY 40601; tele 502–695–0468. (Federal Register 27 September 2023 [Rule] Pages 66280-66296)

USFWS withdraw the proposed rule to reclassify the Virgin Islands tree boa (listed as Epicrates monensis granti) from endangered to threatened under the ESA. This withdrawal is based on new information we received during the proposed rule's public comment periods, specifically new survey results that indicate that the Virgin Islands tree boa is likely extirpated from Cayo Ratones. They also realized an error in calculations that reduced the resiliency of the Cayo Diablo population. After evaluating the status of the species following these changes, they find that the species still meets the Act's definition of an endangered species. They have, therefore, determined that reclassification of this species is not appropriate at this time. Accordingly, they also withdraw the proposed 4(d) rule for the Virgin Islands tree boa. The proposed rule that published on 30 September 2020 (85 FR 61700), to reclassify the Virgin Islands tree boa as threatened with a rule issued under section 4(d) of the Act is withdrawn on 27 September 2023. POC is Edwin E. Muñiz, Field Supervisor, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Caribbean Ecological Services Field Office, P.O. Box 491, Boquerón, PR 00622; telephone 787–405–3641; email: Caribbean_es@fws.gov. (Federal Register 27 September 2023 [Proposed Rule] Pages 66351-66360)

NMFS, announce a 12-month determination on a petition to revise the critical habitat designation for the North Pacific right whale (Eubalaena japonica) under the ESA. Based on their review of the best available information on North Pacific right whale habitat use, they intend to revise the critical habitat. This finding describes how they intend to proceed, particularly regarding analysis and review of the relevant data and information that have become available since North Pacific right whale critical habitat was designated in 2008. The finding announced in this document was made on 26 September 2023. POC is Jenna Malek, NMFS Alaska Region, jenna.malek@noaa.gov or (907) 271–1332. (Federal Register 26 September 2023 [Proposed Rule] Pages 65940-65944)

warranted for listing as endangered or threatened species under ESA. After a thorough review of the best available scientific and commercial information, we find that it is not warranted at this time to delist the southern sea otter (Enhydra lutris nereis). We also find that is not warranted at this time to list the Cascades frog (Rana cascadae), plains spotted skunk (Spilogale interrupta, formerly recognized as one of three subspecies of eastern spotted skunk (Spilogale putorius interrupta)), sicklefin chub (Macrhybopsis meeki), sturgeon chub (Macrhybopsis gelida), Tennessee cave salamander (Gyrinophilus palleucus), and Yazoo crayfish (Faxonius hartfieldi, formerly Orconectes hartfieldi). However, they ask the public to submit to us at any time any new information relevant to the status of any of the species mentioned above or their habitats. The findings in this document were made on 20 September 2023. Please submit any new information, materials, comments, or questions concerning this finding to the appropriate person listed in the Federal Register. (Federal Register 19 September 2023 [Proposed Rule] Pages 64870-64880)

USFWS propose to list the Miami cave crayfish (Procambarus milleri), a crayfish species from Miami-Dade County, Florida, as a threatened species under ESA. This determination also serves as their 12-month finding on a petition to list the Miami cave crayfish. After a review of the best available scientific and commercial information, they find that listing the species is warranted. Accordingly, they propose to list the Miami cave crayfish as a threatened species with a rule issued under section 4(d) of the Act ("4(d) rule"). If finalized this proposed rule would add this species to the List of Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and extend the Act's protections to the species. They will accept comments received or postmarked on or before 20 November 2023. POC is Lourdes Mena, Division Manager, Florida Classification and Recovery, USFWS, Florida Ecological Services Field Office, 7915 Baymeadows Way, Suite 200, Jacksonville, FL 32256–7517; tele 904–731–3134. (Federal Register 19 September 2023 [Proposed Rule] Pages 64870-64880)

A bill to require the Secretary of the Interior to prohibit the use of lead ammunition on United States Fish and Wildlife Service lands.(Congressional Record: 25 August 2023 [House] Pages H4203-H4205)

DOE announced more than $6.3 million for six research and development projects to improve fish passage and protection technologies and reduce the environmental impacts of hydropower on species and ecosystems. Fish passage and protection technologies provide a way for fish to navigate barriers such as dams and impoundments and provide river connectivity by enabling fish movement and migrations. These selections support an increasingly important role for hydropower in providing grid reliability as the United States transitions to a clean energy system with more variable resources like wind and solar. These projects were selected as part of the Water Power Technologies Office's Advancing Fish Passage and Protection Technologies funding opportunity. Learn more about this and other water power funding opportunities.

USFWS proposes to list the Quitobaquito tryonia (Tryonia quitobaquitae), a springsnail species from Arizona, as an endangered species under the ESA. This determination also serves as their 12-month finding on a petition to list the Quitobaquito tryonia. After a review of the best available scientific and commercial information, they find that listing the species is warranted. We also propose to designate critical habitat for the Quitobaquito tryonia under the Act. In total, approximately 6,095 square feet (566 square meters) across 2 subunits in Pima County, Arizona, fall within the boundaries of the proposed critical habitat designation. They also announce the availability of a draft economic analysis (DEA) of the proposed designation of critical habitat for Quitobaquito tryonia. If finalize this rule would extend the Act's protections to this species and its designated critical habitat. They will accept comments received or postmarked on or before 13 November 2023. POC is Heather Whitlaw, Field Supervisor, USFWS, Arizona Ecological Services Field Office, 9828 North 31st Ave #C3, Phoenix, AZ 85051–2517; tele 602–242–0210. (Federal Register 13 September 2023 [Proposed Rule] Pages 62725-62747)

EPA resolved longstanding litigation covering over 1,000 pesticide products, allowing EPA to fulfill its obligations to protect endangered species while conducting reviews and approvals of pesticides in a safe and protective manner. This agreement and the prior partial settlement include obligations for EPA, many of which are also described in the ESA Workplan. Those actions include: 1) Development of mitigation measures for listed species that are particularly vulnerable to exposures from pesticides and determine how to apply these mitigations to future pesticide actions, as well as whether this Vulnerable Species Pilot should be expanded to more species. 2) Development and implementation of an Herbicide Strategy, a Rodenticide Strategy, Insecticide Strategy, and Fungicide strategy which will identify mitigation measures for entire classes of pesticides to address their potential impacts to hundreds of ESA-listed species. 3) Completion of the ESA work for eight organophosphates and four rodenticides. 4) Host a workshop for stakeholders to explore how to offset pesticide impacts on ESA-listed species in situations where eliminating or modifying pesticide use may not be feasible.

NMFS have rescheduled a public hearing related to the proposed rule to designate critical habitat for the Rice's whale under the Endangered Species Act (ESA). They are also extending the public comment period for this proposed rule to 6 October 2023. A virtual public hearing on the proposed rule will be held online on 28 September 2023, from 3:00 -5:00 PM (Eastern). The proposed rule to designate critical habitat for the Rice's whale under the ESA was published on 24 July 2023 (88 FR 47453), and provided for a public comment period to 22 September 2023. The comment period is now extended to 6 October 2023. Comments must be received by 6 October 2023. POC is Grant Baysinger, NMFS Southeast Region, (727) 551–5790. (Federal Register 12 September 2023 [Proposed Rule] Pages 62522-62523)

NMFS, designate and authorize the release of nonessential experimental populations (NEPs or experimental populations) of Sacramento River (SR) winter-run Chinook salmon (Oncorhynchus tshawytscha) and Central Valley (CV) spring-run Chinook salmon (O. tshawytscha) in the McCloud and Upper Sacramento Rivers upstream of Shasta Dam (the NEP Area), California, and, under the ESA, establish a limited set of take exceptions for the experimental populations. Successful reintroduction of populations within the species' historical ranges will contribute to viability and further conservation of these species. The issuance of limited protective regulations for the conservation of these species will provide assurances regarding the regulatory provisions of the ESA as they apply to SR winter-run and CV spring-run Chinook salmon to the people in the Upper Sacramento River and McCloud River watersheds. This final rule also announces the availability of a final environmental assessment (EA) that analyzed the environmental impacts of promulgating the experimental population rule and associated take exceptions. The final rule is effective 27 September 2023. POC is Steve Edmondson, steve.edmondson@noaa.gov or by phone at (916) 930–3600, or by mail at National Marine Fisheries Service, 650 Capitol Mall, Suite 5–100, Sacramento, CA 95814. (Federal Register 28 August 2023 [Rule] Pages 58511-58521)

USFWS determine endangered status for two distinct population segments (DPSs) and threatened status for two DPSs of the foothill yellow-legged frog (Rana boylii), a stream-dwelling amphibian from Oregon and California. After review of the best scientific and commercial information available, they have determined endangered status for the South Sierra and South Coast DPSs and threatened status for the North Feather and Central Coast DPSs of the foothill yellow-legged frog under the ESA. This rule adds the four DPSs to the List of Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and extends the Act's protections to these DPSs. They also finalize rules under the authority of section 4(d) of the Act for the North Feather and Central Coast DPSs that provide measures that are necessary and advisable to provide for the conservation of these two DPSs. They have determined that designation of critical habitat for the four DPSs is not determinable at this time. This rule is effective 28 September 2023. POC is Michael Fris, Field Supervisor, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Sacramento Fish and Wildlife Office, 2800 Cottage Way, Sacramento, CA 95825; tele: 916–414–6700. (Federal Register 29 August 2023 [Rule] Pages 59698-59727)

USFWS list the sand dune phacelia (Phacelia argentea), a plant species from coastal southern Oregon and northern California, as a threatened species with a rule issued under section 4(d) of the ESA. They also designate critical habitat for the species under the Act. In total, approximately 180.8 acres (73.2 hectares) within 13 units in Coos and Curry Counties in Oregon, and Del Norte County in California, fall within the boundaries of the critical habitat designation. This rule extends the protections of the Act to this species and its designated critical habitat. This rule is effective 21 September 2023. POC is Kessina Lee, State Supervisor, Oregon Fish and Wildlife Office, 2600 SE 98th Avenue, Suite 100, Portland, OR 97266; tele (503) 231–6988. (Federal Register 22 August 2023 [Rule] Pages 57180-57222)

A bill to amend title 18, United States Code, to enhance protections against the importation, and transport between States, of injurious species, and for other purposes. (Congressional Record 26 July 2023 [House] Pages H4029)

USFWS determine endangered species status under the ESA, for the magnificent ramshorn (Planorbella magnifica), a freshwater snail species from southeastern North Carolina. They also designate critical habitat for the species. In total, approximately 739 acres (299 hectares) in two ponds in Brunswick County, North Carolina, fall within the boundaries of the critical habitat designation. This rule applies the protections of the Act to this species and its designated critical habitat. This rule is effective 18 September 2023. POC is Pete Benjamin, Field Supervisor, USFWS, Raleigh Ecological Services Field Office, P.O. Box 33726, Raleigh, NC 27636–3726; tele: 919–856–4520. (Federal Register 18 August 2023 [Rule] Pages 56471-56489)

The NOAA Fisheries Pacific Islands Regional Office (PIRO) developed the Coral Species Identification Training Program to increase capacity of coral reef monitoring efforts in the U.S. Pacific Islands and various other Pacific Island nations. The program provides free training and resources for identifying Indo-Pacific reef-building corals including 15 species that are listed as threatened under the Endangered Species Act. This includes the listed and unlisted corals found in each archipelago covered by the program. This training can be requested online or in person.

USFWS propose to remove the Apache trout (Oncorhynchus apache), a fish native to Arizona, from the Federal List of Endangered and Threatened Wildlife due to recovery. Their review of the best available scientific and commercial data indicates that the threats to the species have been eliminated or reduced to the point that the species no longer meets the definition of a threatened species or an endangered species under the ESA. If finalized the prohibitions and conservation measures provided by the Act, particularly through section 7 and the regulations would no longer apply to the Apache trout. They request information and comments from the public regarding this proposed rule for the Apache trout. They will accept comments received or postmarked on or before 10 October 2023. POC is Jess Newton, Project Leader, Arizona Fish and Wildlife Conservation Office, USFWS, 2500 S Pine Knoll Drive, Flagstaff, AZ 86001; tele: 928–556–2140. (Federal Register 11 August 2023 [Proposed Rule] Pages 54548-54564)

USFWS proposes to designate critical habitat for the Sacramento Mountains checkerspot butterfly (Euphydryas anicia cloudcrofti), a butterfly from New Mexico, under the ESA. In total, approximately 1,636.9 acres (662.4 hectares) in Otero County, New Mexico, fall within the boundaries of the proposed critical habitat designation. They also announced the availability of a draft economic analysis of the proposed designation of critical habitat for the Sacramento Mountains checkerspot butterfly. They will accept comments received or postmarked on or before 10 October 2023. POC is Shawn Sartorius, Field Supervisor, USFWS, New Mexico Ecological Services Field Office, 2105 Osuna NE, Albuquerque, NM 87113; tele: 505–346–2525. (Federal Register 10 August 2023 [Proposed Rule] Pages 54263-54288)

NMFS designated critical habitat for five threatened Caribbean coral species, Orbicella annularis, O. faveolata, O. franksi, Dendrogyra cylindrus, and Mycetophyllia ferox, pursuant to section 4 of the ESA. Twenty-eight mostly overlapping specific occupied areas containing physical features essential to the conservation of these coral species are designated as critical habitat. These areas contain approximately 16,830 square kilometers (km2; 6,500 square miles (mi2)) of marine habitat. They have considered economic, national security, and other relevant impacts of designating these areas as critical habitat, and we exclude one area from the designations due to anticipated impacts on national security. This rule becomes effective 8 September 2023. POC is Jennifer Moore, NMFS, SERO, 727–824–5312, Jennifer.Moore@noaa.gov. (Federal Register 9 August 2023 [Rule] Pages 54026-54083)

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service), revise the List of Birds protected by the Migratory Bird Treaty Act (MBTA) by both adding and removing species and changing names to conform to accepted use by the scientific community. Reasons for the changes to the list include adding species based on new taxonomy and new evidence of natural occurrence in the United States or U.S. territories, removing species no longer known to occur within the United States or U.S. territories, and changing names to reflect currently accepted taxonomy and nomenclature. The net increase of 13 species (16 added and 3 removed) brings the total number of species protected by the MBTA to 1,106. They also revise the scientific name of a species subject to specific migratory-bird-permit regulations and revise corresponding entries for several migratory bird species that are also listed on the List of Endangered and Threatened Wildlife under the Endangered Species Act to reflect currently accepted taxonomy and nomenclature. This rule is effective 30 August 2023. POC is Eric Kershner, tele 703-358-2376 or Elizabeth Maclin, tele 703-358-2646. (Federal Register 31 July 2023 [Final Rules] Pages 49310-49355)

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service), proposes to list the green floater ( Lasmigona subviridis), a mussel species from as many as 10 States in the eastern United States and the District of Columbia, as a threatened species with a rule issued under section 4(d) of the Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended (Act). This document also serves as their 12-month finding on a petition to list the green floater. They also propose to designate critical habitat for the green floater. In total, approximately 2,553 kilometers (1,586 miles) of streams in Maryland, New York, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, Virginia, and West Virginia fall within the boundaries of the proposed critical habitat designation. They also announce the availability of a draft economic analysis of the proposed designation of critical habitat for the green floater. If finalized as proposed, this rule would add this species to the List of Endangered and Threatened Wildlife. The Service will accept comments received or postmarked on or before 25 September 2023. POC is Ian Drew, tele 607-753-9334. citation(Federal Register 26 July 2023 [Proposed Rule] Pages 48294-48349)

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service), announce findings that two species are not warranted for listing as endangered or threatened species under the Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended (Act). After a thorough review of the best available scientific and commercial information, they find that it is not warranted at this time to list the Illinois chorus frog ( Pseudacris illinoensis) and Venus flytrap ( Dionaea muscipula). However, they ask the public to submit to us at any time any new information relevant to the status of any of the species mentioned above or their habitats. The findings in this document were made on July 25, 2023. POC for the Illinois chorus frog is Kraig McPeak, tele 309-757-5800 email kraig_mcpeek@fws.gov; POC for the Venus flytrap is Dale Suiter, tele 919-856-4520, email dale_suiter@fws.gov. (Federal Registers 25 July 2023 [Proposed Rule] Pages 47839-47843)

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service), propose to list two mussel species, the Salina mucket ( Potamilus metnecktayi) and Mexican fawnsfoot ( Truncilla cognata) (collectively referred to as the Rio Grande mussels), as endangered species. This determination also serves as their 12-month findings on petitions to list the Salina mucket and Mexican fawnsfoot. Critical habitat is also proposed for the Salina mucket and Mexican fawnsfoot under the ESA. For Salina mucket, approximately 200 river miles (rmi) (321 river kilometers (rkm)) in Brewster, Terrell, and Val Verde Counties, Texas, fall within the boundaries of the proposed critical habitat designation. For Mexican fawnsfoot, approximately 185 rmi (299 rkm) in Maverick, Webb, and Zapata Counties, Texas, fall within the boundaries of the proposed critical habitat designation. A draft economic analysis of the proposed designation of critical habitat for the Salina mucket and Mexican fawnsfoot is available. If finalized, as proposed proposed, this rule would add these species to the List of Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and extend the Act's protections to the species and their designated critical habitats. Comments must be postmarked on or before 25 September 2023. POC is Karen Myers, tele 512-937-7371. (Federal Register 25 July 2023 [Proposed Rule] Pages 47952-47988)

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service), are revising their proposed rule that would streamline our process for permitting of rights-of-way across National Wildlife Refuge System lands and other Service-administered lands. By aligning Service processes more closely with those of other Department of the Interior (DOI) bureaus, to the extent practicable and consistent with applicable law, they will reduce the amount of time the Service requires to process applications for rights-of-way across Service-managed lands. We originally proposed revisions that included requiring a preapplication meeting and use of a standard application, allowing electronic submission of applications, and providing the Service with additional flexibility, as appropriate, to determine the fair market value or fair market rental value of rights-of-way across Service-managed lands. They now further propose new permit terms and conditions and other regulatory changes. The Service seeks comments on this revised proposed rule. The public comment period on the proposed rule that published on 19 January 2021, at 86 FR 5120, is reopened. We will accept comments until 23 August 2023. POC is Ken Fowler, tele (703) 358–1876. (Federal Register 24 July 2023 [Proposed Rule] Pages 47442-47453)

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) determined threatened species status under the Endangered Species Act of 1973 (Act), as amended, for the cactus ferruginous pygmy-owl ( Glaucidium brasilianum cactorum), a bird subspecies found in Mexico, southern Arizona, and southern Texas. This rule adds the subspecies to the List of Endangered and Threatened Wildlife. The Service also finalizes a rule under the authority of section 4(d) of the Act that provides measures that are necessary and advisable to provide for the conservation of this subspecies. They concluded that designation of critical habitat is prudent and determinable at this time. Critical habitat will be proposed in a separate rule-making. This rule is effective August 21, 2023. POC is Heather Whitlaw, USFWS, 9828 N 31st Ave., Phoenix, AZ 85051; tele 602–242–0210. (Federal Register 20 July 2023 [Final Rule] Pages 46910-46950)

A bill to require the Director of the United States Fish and Wildlife Service to reissue a final rule removing the gray wolf from the list of endangered and threatened wildlife under the Endangered Species Act of 1973. (Congressional Record: 8 June 2023 [Senate] Pages S2028-S2029)

USFWS proposes to list the dunes sagebrush lizard (Sceloporus arenicolus), a species found only in southeastern New Mexico and west Texas, as an endangered species under the ESA. This determination also serves as their 12-month finding on a petition to list the dunes sagebrush lizard. After a review of the best available scientific and commercial information, they find that listing the species is warranted. If finalized this rule as proposed will add this species to the List of Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and extend the Act's protections to the species. They find the designation of critical habitat to be prudent but not determinable at this time. They will accept comments received or postmarked on or before 1 September 2023. Shawn Sartorius, Field Supervisor, USFWS, New Mexico Ecological Services Field Office, 2105 Osuna NE, Albuquerque, NM 87113; tele: 505–346–2525. (Federal Register 3 July 2023 [Proposed Rule] Pages 42661-42677) .