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Natural Resources


Mar. 26, 2024
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)
Mar. 20, 2024
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)
Mar. 15, 2024
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)
Mar. 13, 2024
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)
Mar. 13, 2024
Module 3: This module will explore different types of selection in breeding programs. This presentation will unpack the concept of genetic gain and how its calculated using linear mixed models. You will also look at different breeding designs and how they are used to advance a population to the next generation.
Mar. 8, 2024
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)
Mar. 5, 2024
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)
Mar. 5, 2024
Join this webinar to look at life history traits, traits used for selection, and types of common gardens. Forest genetics is the study of genetic variation and inheritance in forest trees. It's a crucial field of study as it provides the scientific basis for tree improvement and gene conservation programs.Tree Improvement is the applied use of forest genetics concepts to enhance the quality of trees. It's often synonymous with tree breeding, although the latter may specifically refer to activities like controlled pollination. The ultimate goal of forest genetics and tree improvement is to enhance the productivity and sustainability of forests. However, it's important to note that these improvements are realized over several decades, requiring long-term commitment.
Mar. 4, 2024
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.
Feb. 29, 2024
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)
Feb. 27, 2024
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)
Feb. 21, 2024
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)
Feb. 15, 2024
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)
Feb. 14, 2024
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)
Feb. 13, 2024
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)
Feb. 9, 2024
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)
Jan. 31, 2024
The Society of Outdoor Recreation Professionals and Outdoor Recreation Design Lab will be hosting the Inclusive Spaces Audit Workshop. The Workshop is designed for outdoor recreation providers to formalize, inform, and guide the process to expand welcoming and belonging for users who have traditionally been excluded or underrepresented in outdoor recreation. The workshop is free to participants thanks to a grant from Colorado Parks and Wildlife. Participants are expected to use the resources shared during the workshop to conduct an audit at their home unit and provide feedback.
Jan. 24, 2024
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).
Jan. 2, 2024
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)
Dec. 28, 2023
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)
Dec. 27, 2023
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)
Dec. 19, 2023
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.
Dec. 1, 2023
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)
Nov. 30, 2023
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)
Nov. 8, 2023
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)
Nov. 8, 2023
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)
Nov. 3, 2023
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.
Nov. 1, 2023
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)
Oct. 17, 2023
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)
Oct. 17, 2023
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)
Oct. 17, 2023
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).
Oct. 12, 2023
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)
Oct. 5, 2023
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)
Oct. 5, 2023
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)
Oct. 2, 2023
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)
Sep. 28, 2023
Attention:
Due to the uncertainties of the current Federal government situation, the 2023 Symposium has been postponed until early Spring 2024, at which time the Call for Abstracts will be re-opened and the event will be held virtual-only. We thank you for your understanding.
Note: All current registrations will be honored for the next scheduled event.

Registration to attend the 2023 Federal Environmental Symposium is now open! Federal employees and sponsored contractors are invited to attend the Symposium, a hybrid event to be attended October 23-27, 2023 either virtually or in-person at the NIH campus in Bethesda, MD. This year's theme for the Symposium "Environment: A Mission Asset" focuses on the sharing of best practices, success stories, partnerships, and challenges and achievements of the federal practitioner community as they apply to your Agency's mission. The event is FREE and registration will end Friday, September 29, 2023, so mark your calendar and register now. For more information, please see FedCenter's Symposium website at https://www.fedcenter.gov/fes2023.
Sep. 28, 2023
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)
Sep. 27, 2023
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)
Sep. 27, 2023
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)
Sep. 26, 2023
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)
Sep. 20, 2023
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)
Sep. 20, 2023
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)
Sep. 18, 2023
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)
Sep. 15, 2023
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.
Sep. 14, 2023
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)
Sep. 14, 2023
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.
Sep. 12, 2023
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)
Aug. 31, 2023
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)
Aug. 31, 2023
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)
Aug. 29, 2023
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)
Aug. 23, 2023
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)
Aug. 21, 2023
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)
Aug. 15, 2023
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.
Aug. 11, 2023
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)
Aug. 10, 2023
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)
Aug. 9, 2023
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)
Jul. 31, 2023
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)
Jul. 26, 2023
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)
Jul. 25, 2023
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)
Jul. 25, 2023
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)
Jul. 24, 2023
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)
Jul. 21, 2023
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)
Jul. 11, 2023
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)
Jul. 3, 2023
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) .
Jun. 29, 2023
USFWS are removing the Okaloosa darter (Etheostoma okaloosae) from the Federal List of Endangered and Threatened Wildlife (List) due to recovery. This final rule is based on a thorough review of the best available scientific and commercial information which indicates that the threats to the species have been eliminated or reduced to the point that the species is no longer in danger of extinction or likely to become in danger of extinction within the foreseeable future. Therefore, the species no longer meets the definition of a threatened species, and does not meet the definition of an endangered 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 28 July 2023. POC is Lourdes Mena, Division Manager, Florida Classification and Recovery, USFWS, Florida Ecological Services Field Office, 7915 Baymeadows Way, Jacksonville, FL 32256–7517; tele: 904–731–3134. (Federal Register 28 June 2023 [Rule] Pages 41835-41854)
Jun. 27, 2023
In this candidate notice of review (CNOR), USFWS presented an updated list of species that we regard as candidates for or have proposed for addition to the Lists of Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and Plants under the ESA. This document includes their findings on resubmitted petitions and describes our progress in revising the Lists of Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and Plants (Lists) during the period 1 October 2021, through 30 September 2022. Combined with other decisions for individual species published separately from this CNOR in the past year, current number of species that are candidates for listing is 23 (as of 30 September 2022). Identification of candidate species can assist environmental planning efforts by providing advance notice of potential listings, allowing landowners and other stakeholders to take actions to alleviate threats and thereby possibly remove the need to list species as endangered or threatened. Even if they subsequently list a candidate species, the early notice provided here could result in more options for species management and recovery by prompting earlier candidate conservation measures. They will accept information on any of the species in this document at any time. POC is Caitlin Snyder, Chief, Branch of Domestic Listing, USFWS, MS: ES, 5275 Leesburg Pike, Falls Church, VA 22041–3803 tele: 703–358–2673. (Federal Register 27 June [Proposed Rule] Pages 41560-41585)
Jun. 27, 2023
USFWS determined threatened species status under the ESA for the western fanshell (Cyprogenia aberti), a freshwater mussel species from Arkansas, Kansas, Missouri, and Oklahoma, and the "Ouachita" fanshell (Cyprogenia cf. aberti), a freshwater mussel species from Arkansas and Louisiana. They also designate critical habitat for both species. In total, approximately 261.4 river miles (420.7 kilometers) in Arkansas and Missouri fall within the boundaries of the critical habitat designation for western fanshell. In total, approximately 227.7 river miles (366.5 kilometers) in Arkansas fall within the boundaries of the critical habitat designation for "Ouachita" fanshell. In addition if finalized this rule under the authority of section 4(d) of the Act, provides measures that are necessary and advisable to provide for the conservation of these species. This rule extends the Act's protections to these species and their designated critical habitats. This rule is effective 27 July 2023. POC is John Weber, Field Supervisor, USFWS, Missouri Ecological Services Field Office, 101 Park DeVille Drive, Suite A, Columbia, MO 65203–0057; tele: 573–234–2132. (Federal Register 27 June 2023 [Rule] Pagefs 41724-41771)
Jun. 22, 2023
USFWS and NMFS propose to amend portions of their regulations that implement section 7 of the ESA. The Services are proposing these changes to further clarify and improve the interagency consultation processes, while continuing to provide for the conservation of listed species. They will accept comments from all interested parties until 21 August 2023. Craig Aubrey, Ecological Services, USFWS, 5275 Leesburg Pike, Falls Church, VA 22041–3803, tele 703/358–2442. (Federal Register 22 June 2023 [Proposed Rule] Pages 40753-40764)
Jun. 22, 2023
USFWS and NMFS propose to revise portions of our regulations that implement section 4 of the ESA. The proposed 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 and designating critical habitat. They will accept comments from all interested parties until 21 August 2023. 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 22 June [Proposed Rule] Pages 40764-40774)
Jun. 22, 2023
USFWS propose to revise our regulations concerning protections of endangered species and threatened species under the ESA. They are proposing to 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 rules. They are also proposing to 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 request comments on an additional provision under consideration, but not currently proposed, that would extend to federally recognized Tribes the exceptions to prohibitions for threatened species that the regulations currently provide to employees or agents of the Service, the National Marine Fisheries Service, and State agencies for take associated with conservation-related activities. They will accept comments from all interested parties until 21 August 2023. 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 22 June [Proposed Rule] Pages 40742-40753)
Jun. 21, 2023
USFWS proposes to list the southern elktoe (Alasmidonta triangulata), a freshwater mussel species endemic to the Apalachicola-Chattahoochee-Flint Basin of Alabama, Georgia, and Florida, 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 southern elktoe. 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 southern elktoe as an endangered species under the Act. They also propose to designate critical habitat for the southern elktoe under the Act. They will accept comments received or postmarked on or before 21 August 2023. POC is Lourdes Mena, Florida Classification and Recovery Division Manager, USFWS, Florida Ecological Services Field Office, 7915 Baymeadows Way, Suite 200, Jacksonville, FL 32256–7517; tele: 904–731–3134. (Federal Register 21 June 2023 [Proposed Rule] Pages 40160-40189).
Jun. 16, 2023
USFWS proposes to list Navasota false foxglove (Agalinis navasotensis), a plant species from Grimes and Tyler Counties, Texas, as an endangered species under the ESA. This determination also serves as our 12-month finding on a petition to list Navasota false foxglove. 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 Navasota false foxglove under the Act. In total, approximately 1.9 acres (0.8 hectares) in Grimes and Tyler Counties, Texas, fall within the boundaries of the proposed critical habitat designation. In addition, they announce the availability of a draft economic analysis of the proposed designation of critical habitat for Navasota false foxglove. If finalized this rule as proposed would add this species to the List of Endangered and Threatened Plants and extend the Act's protections to the species and its designated critical habitat. They will accept comments received or postmarked on or before 14 August 2023. POC is Chuck Ardizzone, Project Leader, Texas Coastal Ecological Services Field Office, USFWS, 17629 El Camino Real, Ste. 211, Houston, TX 77058; tele: (281) 286–8282. (Federal Register 13 June 2023 [Proposed Rule] Pages 38455-38477)
Jun. 12, 2023
USFWS proposes to list the swale paintbrush (Castilleja ornata), a flowering plant species from New Mexico within the United States and the states of Chihuahua and Durango in Mexico, as an endangered species under the ESA. This determination also serves as their 12-month finding on a petition to list the swale paintbrush. 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 would add this species to the List of Endangered and Threatened Plants and extend the Act's protections to the species. They find that designating critical habitat for the swale paintbrush is not prudent at this time. Comments will be accepted if received or postmarked on or before 7 August 2023. POC is Shawn Sartorius, Field Supervisor, USFWS, New Mexico Ecological Services Field Office, 2105 Osuna Road NE, Albuquerque, NM 87113; tele 505–346–2525. (Federal Register 8 June 2023 [Proposed Rule] Pages 37490-37504)
May. 26, 2023
A bill to amend the Plant Protection Act for purposes of mitigating the threat of invasive species. (Congressional Record: 10 May 2023 [House] Pages H2243-H2245)
May. 12, 2023
USFWS are reclassifying Furbish's lousewort (Pedicularis furbishiae) from an endangered species to a threatened species under the ESA, and they finalize a rule under section 4(d) of the Act to promote the conservation of Furbish's lousewort. This information is based on a thorough review of the best available scientific and commercial information, which indicates the threats to the species have been reduced to the point that the species no longer meets the definition of an endangered species under the ESA. This rule is effective 9 June 2023. POC is Amanda Cross, Project Leader, Maine Ecological Services Field Office, 306 Hatchery Road, East Orland, ME 04431; tele 207–902–1567. (Federal Register 10 May 2023 [Rule] Pages 30047-30057)
May. 11, 2023
In 2021, EPA's Office of Research and Development initiated the Wildfire Smoke Air Monitoring Response Technology (WSMART) Pilot, loaning air monitoring technologies to state, local, and tribal air organizations to support supplemental air monitoring in areas affected by wildfire smoke and with observational data coverage gaps. During 2023, this pilot technology loan program will continue to provide several technology types – including stationary air sensor systems and a compact vehicle add-on mobile monitoring system (VAMMS) – to state and local air agency monitoring staff and professional tribal air quality staff members upon request. The equipment is not available for general public use.
May. 4, 2023
USFWS finalized the designation of critical habitat for slickspot peppergrass (Lepidium papilliferum) under the ESA. In total, approximately 31,569 hectares (78,009 acres) in Ada, Elmore, Gem, Payette, and Owyhee Counties in Idaho fall within the boundaries of the final critical habitat designation. The effect of this final rule is to designate critical habitat for the slickspot peppergrass, which is a threatened species under the ESA. This rule is effective 5 June 2023. POC is Lisa Ellis, State Supervisor, USFWS, Idaho Fish and Wildlife Office, 1387 S Vinnell Way, Room 368, Boise, ID 83709; tel: 208–378–5243. (Federal Register 4 May 2023 [Rule] Pages 28874-28916).
Apr. 28, 2023
USFWS determine endangered species status under the ESA for the South Llano springs moss (Donrichardsia macroneuron), an aquatic moss species from Edwards County, Texas. They are excluding the single unit of proposed critical habitat, and, therefore, no critical habitat is being designated for the South Llano springs moss. This rule adds the species to the List of Endangered and Threatened Plants and applies the protections of the Act to the species. This rule is effective 30 May 2023. POC is Karen Myers, Field Supervisor, USFWS, Austin Ecological Services Field Office, 1505 Ferguson Lane, Austin, Texas; tele 512–937–7371. (Federal Register 27 April 2023 [Rule] Pages 25543-25557)
Apr. 28, 2023
USFWS determined threatened species status under the ESA for the Big Creek crayfish (Faxonius peruncus) and the St. Francis River crayfish (Faxonius quadruncus), two crayfish species from southern Missouri. They also finalize a rule under the authority of section 4(d) of the Act that provides regulatory measures that are necessary and advisable to provide for the conservation of these species. In addition, they designate critical habitat for the species; in total, approximately 1,069 river miles (1,720 river kilometers) for the Big Creek crayfish and 1,043 river miles (1,679 river kilometers) for the St. Francis River crayfish in Iron, Madison, St. Francois, Washington, and Wayne Counties, Missouri, fall within the boundaries of the critical habitat designations. This rule applies the protections of the Act to these species and their designated critical habitats. This rule is effective 30 May 2023. POC is John Weber, Field Supervisor; USFWS; Missouri Ecological Services Field Office; 101 Park DeVille Drive, Suite A; Columbia, MO 65203–0057; tele: 573–234–2132. (Federal Register 27 April 2023 [Rule] Pages 25512-25542)
Apr. 27, 2023
USFWS determine threatened species status under the ESA for the Wright's marsh thistle (Cirsium wrightii), a thistle species from New Mexico. They also designate critical habitat. In total, approximately 156.8 acres (63.4 hectares) in Chaves, Eddy, Guadalupe, Otero, and Socorro Counties, New Mexico, fall within the boundaries of the critical habitat designation. This rule adds the species to the List of Endangered and Threatened Wildlife. They also finalize 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 species. This rule is effective 25 May 2023. POC is Shawn Sartorius, Field Supervisor, New Mexico Ecological Services Field Office, 2105 Osuna Rd. NE, Albuquerque, NM 87113; tele 505–346–2525. (Federal Register 25 April 2023 [Rule] Pages 25208-25249) .
Apr. 14, 2023
USFWS announced the reopening of the comment period on their 15 July 2021, proposed rule (hereinafter the "2021 proposed rule") to designate critical habitat for the rufa red knot (Calidris canutus rufa) under the ESA. In this document, they present revisions to the critical habitat designation we proposed for the species in the 2021 proposed rule. As a result of the critical habitat revisions, they now propose to designate a total of approximately 683,405 acres (276,564 hectares) as critical habitat for the rufa red knot across 127 units (18 of which are further subdivided into 46 subunits) in Massachusetts, New York, New Jersey, Delaware, Virginia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, Florida, Alabama, Mississippi, Louisiana, and Texas. This revision includes seven new units in Massachusetts, New York, Virginia, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Georgia; revised units in Massachusetts, New Jersey, South Carolina, Georgia, and Texas; and corrections to reported acreages/hectares for four other units and the total acreage in the 2021 proposed rule. USFWS can fully consider comments in their final determination if submitted on or before 30 May 2023. POC is Eric Schrading, Field Supervisor, USFWS, New Jersey Ecological Services Field Office, 4 East Jimmie Leeds Road, Suite 4, Galloway, NJ 08205; tele: 609–382–5272. (Federal Register 13 April 2023 [Proposed Rule] Pages 22530-22693).
Apr. 11, 2023
USFWS propose to remove the Colorado hookless cactus (Sclerocactus glaucus) from the Federal List of Endangered and Threatened Plants (List) due to recovery. Recent taxonomic studies have indicated that the currently listed entity is actually two species: Sclerocactus glaucus and Sclerocactus dawsonii. They find that neither species should be listed as a threatened or endangered species under the ESA. 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 these species no longer meet the definition of a threatened or endangered species under the Act. They request information and comments from the public regarding this proposed rule and the draft post-delisting monitoring (PDM) plan for Colorado hookless cactus (S. glaucus and S. dawsonii). If this proposal is finalized, Colorado hookless cactus will be removed from the List and the prohibitions and conservation measures provided by the Act, particularly through sections 7 and 9, will no longer apply to the species. They will accept comments received or postmarked on or before 12 June 2023. POC is Creed Clayton, Acting Western Colorado Field Supervisor, USFWS, Colorado Ecological Services Office, 445 West Gunnison Ave., Suite 240, Grand Junction, CO 81501; tele 970–628–7187. (Federal Register 11 April 2023 [Proposed Rule] Pages 21582-21600)
Apr. 11, 2023
USFWS determine threatened species status under the ESA for the bracted twistflower (Streptanthus bracteatus), a plant species from Texas. In addition, they designate critical habitat for the bracted twistflower. In total, approximately 1,596 acres (646 hectares) in Uvalde, Medina, Bexar, and Travis Counties, Texas, 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. They also finalize a rule issued under the authority of section 4(d) of the Act (a "4(d) rule") that provides measures that are necessary and advisable to provide for the conservation of this species. This rule is effective 11 May 2023. POC is Karen Myers, Field Supervisor, USFWS, Austin Ecological Services Field Office, 1505 Ferguson Lane, Austin, Texas; tele: 512–927–3500. (Federal Register 11 April 2023 [Rule] Pages 21844-21876).
Apr. 10, 2023
NMFS have completed a comprehensive status review under the ESA for the Atlantic humpback dolphin (Sousa teuszii) in response to a petition from the Animal Welfare Institute, the Center for Biological Diversity, and VIVA Vaquita to list the species. Based on the best scientific and commercial information available, including the draft status review report, and taking into account efforts being made to protect the species, they have determined that the Atlantic humpback dolphin has a high risk of extinction throughout its range and warrants listing as an endangered species. This species occurs only in coastal Atlantic waters of western Africa. They are authorized to designate critical habitat within U.S. jurisdiction only, and they are not aware of any areas within U.S jurisdiction that may meet the definition of critical habitat under the ESA. Therefore, they are not proposing to designate critical habitat. NMFS are soliciting public comments on our draft status review report and proposal to list this species. Comments on this proposed rule must be received by 6 June 2023. POC is Heather Austin, NMFS Office of Protected Resources, 301–427–8422. (Federal Register 7 April 2023 [Proposed Rule] Pages 20829-20846)
Apr. 7, 2023
USFWS designate critical habitat for the pearl darter (Percina aurora) under the ESA. In total, approximately 524 river miles (843 river kilometers) in Clarke, Covington, Forrest, George, Green, Lauderdale, Jackson, Jones, Newton, Perry, Simpson, Stone, and Wayne Counties, Mississippi, fall within the boundaries of the critical habitat designation. The effect of this regulation is to designate critical habitat for the pearl darter under the Act. This rule is effective 8 May 2023. POC is James Austin, Field Supervisor, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Mississippi Ecological Services Field Office, 6578 Dogwood View Parkway, Jackson, MS 39213; tele: 601–321–1129. (Federal Register 6 April 2023 [Rule] Pages 20410-20430)
Apr. 5, 2023
USFWS are releasing (meaning introducing) the Guam kingfisher (Todiramphus cinnamominus), known locally as the sihek, on Palmyra Atoll as an experimental population under the ESA. Currently, sihek exists only in captivity and has been extinct in the wild for more than 30 years. The introduction on Palmyra Atoll is outside sihek's historical range because its primary habitat within its native range on Guam has been indefinitely altered by the accidental introduction of the predatory brown treesnake (Boiga irregularis) in the mid-twentieth century. Tools to manage brown treesnakes at a landscape level are beginning to be deployed, but it will take time before these tools are effective. The introduction of sihek to Palmyra Atoll is not a permanent introduction that would support a self-sustaining population; it is intended to facilitate the gathering of information and analysis to optimize efforts for reestablishment of the species on Guam once brown treesnakes can be sufficiently controlled at a landscape scale. USFWS classify this population as a nonessential experimental population (NEP) under the ESA and provide regulations for the take of sihek within the NEP area. This final rule is effective 4 May 2023. POC is Megan Laut, Pacific Islands Fish and Wildlife Office, USFWS, 300 Ala Moana Blvd., Rm 3–122, Honolulu, HI 96850; tele 808–779–9939. (Federal Register 4 April 2023 [Rule] Pages 19880-19894)
Apr. 3, 2023
USFWS determined threatened status under the ESA for the northern distinct population segment (DPS), of the southern subspecies of scarlet macaw (Ara macao macao). Scarlet macaws are brilliantly colored parrots native to Mexico and Central and South America. This action affirms the 2019 listing of the scarlet macaw under the Act. This determination is effective 30 March 2023. POC is Rachel London, Chief, 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 3 April 2023 [Rule] Pages 19549-19559)
Mar. 31, 2023
A bill to direct the Secretary of the Interior to reissue a final rule relating to removing the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem population of grizzly bears from the Federal list of endangered and threatened wildlife and to issue a new rule removing the Northern Continental Divide Ecosystem population of grizzly bears from such list. (Congressional Record: 3 March 2023 [House] Pages H1112-H1114)
Mar. 31, 2023
A bill to direct the Secretary of the Interior to issue a new rule removing the Northern Continental Divide Ecosystem population of grizzly bears from the Federal list of endangered and threatened wildlife. (Congressional Record: 7 March 2023 [House] Pages H1147-H1150)
Mar. 30, 2023
USFWS are listing the Egyptian tortoise (Testudo kleinmanni; syn. Testudo werneri), a terrestrial tortoise from Libya, Egypt, and Israel, as a threatened species with a rule issued under section 4(d) of the ESA. The rule issued under section 4(d) of the Act provides measures that are necessary and advisable to provide for the conservation of this species. This rule is effective 1 May 2023. POC is Bridget Fahey, Chief, Division of Conservation and Classification, Ecological Services, USFWS, MS: ES, 5275 Leesburg Pike, Falls Church, VA 22041–3803; tele: 703–358–2171. (Federal Register 30 March 2023 [Rule] Pages 19004-19017).
Mar. 28, 2023
A bill to direct the Secretary of the Interior to reissue a final rule relating to removing the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem population of grizzly bears from the Federal list of endangered and threatened wildlife. (Congressional Record: 28 February 2023 [House] Pages H967-H971)
Mar. 21, 2023
USFWS determine endangered status under the ESA for the bog buck moth (Hemileuca maia menyanthevora) (=H. iroquois), a moth that occurs in Oswego County, New York, and Ontario, Canada. This rule adds the bog buck moth to the List of Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and applies the protections of the Act to this species. They have determined that designation of critical habitat for the bog buck moth is not prudent at this time. This rule is effective 14 April 2023. POC is Ian Drew, Acting Field Supervisor, USFWS, New York Field Office, 3817 Luker Road, Cortland, NY 13045; tele 607-753-9334. (Federal Register 15 March 2023 [Rule] Pages 15921-15938)
Mar. 15, 2023
USFWS determined threatened species status under the ESA for the longsolid (Fusconaia subrotunda) and round hickorynut (Obovaria subrotunda), freshwater mussels. They also designate critical habitat for both species. For the longsolid, in total, approximately 1,115 river miles (1,794 river kilometers) fall within 12 units of critical habitat in Pennsylvania, Kentucky, West Virginia, Virginia, Tennessee, and Alabama. For the round hickorynut, in total, approximately 921 river miles (1,482 river kilometers) fall within 14 units of critical habitat in Pennsylvania, Ohio, Indiana, Kentucky, West Virginia, Tennessee, Alabama, and Mississippi. They also finalize a rule under the authority of section 4(d) of the Act for both species that provides measures that are necessary and advisable to provide for the conservation of these species. This rule is effective 10 April 2023. Janet Mizzi, Field Supervisor, USFWS, Asheville Ecological Services Field Office, 160 Zillicoa St., Asheville, NC 28801; telephone 828-258-3939. (Federal Register: 9 March 2023 [Rule] Pages 14794-14869)
Mar. 7, 2023
The Federal sustainability community is cordially invited to attend the 2023 Federal Environmental Symposium, a hybrid event to be attended October 23-27, 2023 either virtually or in-person. This year's theme for the Symposium "Environment: A Mission Asset" focuses on the sharing of best practices, success stories, partnerships, and challenges and achievements of the federal practitioner community as they apply to your Agency's mission. The event schedule, registration instructions, call for presentation abstracts and continuous updates to the event can be found on the Symposium website at https://www.fedcenter.gov/fes2023.
Mar. 2, 2023
A bill to require the Secretary of the Interior to reissue regulations removing the gray wolf from the list of endangered and threatened wildlife under the Endangered Species Act of 1973. (Congressional Record: 2 February 2023 [House] Pages H675-H680)
Mar. 1, 2023
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service), are listing the prostrate milkweed (Asclepias prostrata), a plant species from Texas, as an endangered species and designating critical habitat under the ESA. They are designating approximately 661.0 acres (267.5 hectares) in Starr and Zapata Counties, Texas, as critical habitat for the prostrate milkweed under the Act. This rule adds this species to the List of Endangered and Threatened Plants and extends the Act's protections to the species and its designated critical habitat. This rule is effective 30 March 2023. POC is Chuck Ardizzone, Field Supervisor, Texas Coastal Ecological Services Field Office, 17629 El Camino Real Suite 211, Houston, TX 77058; tel 281-286-8282. (Federal Register 28 February 2023 [Rule] Pages 12572-12602)
Feb. 24, 2023
USFWS proposes to list two distinct population segments (DPSs) of the California spotted owl (Strix occidentalis occidentalis), a bird species from California and Nevada, under the ESA. This determination also serves as their 12-month finding on a petition to list the California spotted owl. After a review of the best available scientific and commercial information, they find that listing the Coastal-Southern California DPS as endangered is warranted, and that listing the Sierra Nevada DPS as threatened is warranted. Accordingly, they propose to list the Coastal-Southern California DPS as an endangered species under the Act and the Sierra Nevada DPS 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 these two DPSs to the List of Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and extend the Act's protections to them. They will accept comments received or postmarked on or before 24 April 2023. POC is Michael Fris, Field Supervisor, Sacramento Fish and Wildlife Office, 2800 Cottage Way, Sacramento, CA 95825; tele 916-414-6700. (Federal Register 23 February 2023 [Rule] pages 11600-11639)
Feb. 17, 2023
USFWS proposes to establish a nonessential experimental population (NEP) of the gray wolf (Canis lupus) in the State of Colorado, under section 10(j) of 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 would provide 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 boundaries of the NEP would include the 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. They are seeking comments on this proposal and on our associated draft environmental impact statement (DEIS), prepared pursuant to the NEPA, which describes the potential alternatives for providing a regulatory framework for the State's reintroduction. Comments on this proposed rule or the DEIS that are received or postmarked on or before 18 April 2023 will be accepted. POC is Nicole Alt, 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 Register 17 February 2023 [Proposed Rule] Pages 10258-10280).
Feb. 17, 2023
USFWS proposes to remove the Southeast U.S. distinct population segment (DPS) of the wood stork (Mycteria americana) from the Federal List of Endangered and Threatened Wildlife due to recovery. This determination is based on a thorough review of the best available scientific and commercial data, which indicate that this wood stork DPS has recovered and the threats to it are being adequately managed such that the DPS no longer meets the definition of an endangered species or threatened species under the ESA). If finalized the prohibitions and conservation measures provided by the ESA, particularly through section 7, and USFWS regulations would no longer apply to the wood stork DPS. They are seeking information and comments from the public regarding this proposed rule. They will accept comments received or postmarked on or before 17 April 2023. POC is Lourdes Mena, Classification and Recovery Division Manager, USFWS, Florida Ecological Services Office, 7915 Baymeadows Way, Suite 200, Jacksonville, FL 32256-7517; tele: 904-731-3134. (Federal Register 15 February 2023 [Proposed Rule] Pages 9830-9850)
Feb. 14, 2023
U.S. Fish Wildlife Service proposes to revise the regulations concerning the issuance of enhancement of survival and incidental take permits under the ESA. The purposes of these revisions are to clarify the appropriate use of enhancement of survival permits and incidental take permits; clarify our authority to issue these permits for non-listed species without also including a listed species; simplify the requirements for enhancement of survival permits by combining safe harbor agreements and candidate conservation agreements with assurances into one agreement type; and include portions of our five-point policies for safe harbor agreements, candidate conservation agreements with assurances, and habitat conservation plans in the regulations to reduce uncertainty. They also propose to make technical and administrative revisions to the regulations. The proposed regulatory changes are intended to reduce costs and time associated with negotiating and developing the required documents to support the applications. They will accept comments from all interested parties until 10 April 2023. POC is Lisa Ellis, Chief, Branch of Recovery and Conservation Planning, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, 5275 Leesburg Pike, Falls Church, VA 22041-3803; tele: 703-358-2307. (Federal Register 9 February 2023 [Proposed Rule] Pages 8380-8396)
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