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)

UPDATE:The Federal Environmental Symposium Planning Committee is now accepting presentation abstracts for its 2023 federal environmental conference, to be held in-person and virtually the week of October 23-27, 2023, at the NIH campus in Bethesda, MD. This year's theme for the Symposium is "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, and call for presentation abstracts HAS BEEN EXTENDED (now open until Friday, June 30, 2023), and continuous updates to the event can be found on the Symposium website.

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)

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.

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).

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)

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)

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) .

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).

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)

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).

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)

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)

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)

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)

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)

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)

USFWS propose to designate critical habitat for 12 federally endangered species on the island of Hawai'i under the ESA. In total, approximately 122,277 acres (49,484 hectares) on the island of Hawai'i, in the State of Hawaii, fall within the boundaries of the proposed critical habitat designation. They announce a public informational meeting and public hearing on, and the availability of a draft economic analysis for, this proposed designation. In addition, they announce our determination that designation of critical habitat is not prudent for two federally endangered species on the island of Hawai'i under the Act. They will accept comments received or postmarked on or before 30 May 2023. POC is Earl Campbell, Project Leader, USFWS, Pacific Islands Fish and Wildlife Office, 300 Ala Moana Boulevard Room 3-122, Honolulu, HI 96850; tele 808-792-9400. (Federal Register 29 March 2023 [Proposed Rule] Pages 18756-18821)

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).

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)

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)

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)

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.

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)

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)

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)

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).

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)

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)

USFWS announced three 90-day findings on petitions to delist the grizzly bear in the lower-48 States (Ursus arctos horribilis) under the ESA. One petition requests delisting the grizzly bear in the lower-48 States, and the other two petitions request delisting populations in two specific ecosystems, the Northern Continental Divide Ecosystem (NCDE) and the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem (GYE). With the publication of this document, they announce that they plan to initiate a status review to determine whether the petitioned actions are warranted. To ensure that the status review is comprehensive, they are requesting new scientific and commercial data and other information regarding the grizzly bear in the NCDE and GYE and factors that may affect its status in those ecosystems, including the adequacy of existing regulatory mechanisms to address threats now and in the foreseeable future. Based on the status review, they will issue a 12-month petition finding, which will address whether the petitioned actions are warranted, in accordance with the Act. The findings announced in this document were made on 6 February 2023. POC is Hilary Cooley, Grizzly Bear Recovery Coordinator, Grizzly Bear Recovery Office, telephone: 406-243-4903, email: hilary_cooley@fws.gov. (Federal Register 6 February 2023 [Proposed Rule] Pages 7658-7660)

USFWS announces technical corrections for 62 wildlife and plant species under the ESA. These corrections include changes to scientific names of 11 wildlife species and 14 plant species due to taxonomic reclassification; changes to common names of 21 wildlife species and 13 plant species; and corrections to errors in scientific or common names, listing citations, or taxonomic heading placement for 4 wildlife species and 14 plant species. They are revising the List of Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and the List of Endangered and Threatened Plants ("the Lists") to reflect the current scientifically accepted taxonomy and nomenclature of these species that occur in Idaho and the Pacific islands. This rule is effective 3 May 2023 without further action, unless significant adverse comment is received by 6 March 2023. POC is Marilet Zablan, Program Manager for Restoration and Endangered Species Classification, USFWS, Pacific Regional Office, Ecological Services, 911 NE 11th Avenue, Portland, OR 97232; tele 503-231-6131. (Federal Register 2 February 2023 [Rule] Pages 7134-7177)

USFWS is listing the Sacramento Mountains checkerspot butterfly (Euphydryas anicia cloudcrofti), a butterfly from New Mexico, as an endangered species under the ESA. This rule extends the Act's protections to the Sacramento Mountains checkerspot butterfly. They will propose the designation of critical habitat for the Sacramento Mountains checkerspot butterfly in a future rulemaking. This rule is effective 2 March 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 31 January 2023 [Rule] Pages 6177-6191)

On July 13, 2022, we, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service), proposed to delist the Puerto Rican boa (Chilabothrus inornatus, but listed as Epicrates inornatus), an endemic snake from Puerto Rico. USFWS announced a 60-day public comment period on the proposed rule, ending September 12, 2022. They are reopening the comment period for 30 days to hold a public hearing and to allow all interested parties additional time to comment on our proposal. Comments previously submitted will be fully considered in preparation of the final rule and do not need to be resubmitted. They will accept comments received or postmarked on or before 2 March 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: (787) 405-3641. (Federal Register 31 January 2023 [Proposed Rule] Pages 6220-6222).

USFWS proposes to designate critical habitat for the sickle darter (Percina williamsi) under the ESA. In total, approximately 104 river miles (168 river kilometers) in Bledsoe, Blount, Morgan, and Roane Counties, Tennessee, and Scott, Smyth, and Washington Counties, Virginia, fall within the boundaries of the proposed critical habitat designation. If finalized this 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 sickle darter. They will accept comments received or postmarked on or before 27 March 2023. POC is Daniel Elbert, Field Supervisor, USFWS, Tennessee Ecological Services Field Office, 446 Neal Street, Cookeville, TN 38501; tele 931-528-6481. (Federal Register 24 January 2023 [Proposed Rule] Pages 4128-4150)

USFWS are removing the San Clemente (SC) Bell's sparrow (Artemisiospiza belli clementeae) (formerly known as the SC sage sparrow, Amphispiza belli clementeae), San Clemente Island (SCI) bush-mallow (Malacothamnus clementinus), SCI paintbrush (Castilleja grisea), SCI lotus (Acmispon dendroideus var.traskiae), and SCI larkspur (Delphinium variegatum ssp. kinkiense) from the Federal Lists of Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and Plants (Lists). The bird species and four plant species occur only on SCI, one of the California Channel Islands off the southern coast of California. The delistings are based on our evaluation of the best available scientific and commercial information, which indicates that the status of each species has improved and threats to the species have been eliminated or reduced to the point that the species have recovered and no longer meet the definitions of either endangered or threatened species under the ESA. Accordingly, the protections provided by the Act will no longer apply to these species. This rule is effective 24 February 2023. POC is Scott Sobiech, Field Supervisor, Carlsbad Fish and Wildlife Office, 2177 Salk Avenue, Suite 250, Carlsbad, CA 92008; tele 760-431-9440. (Federal Register 25 January 2023 [Rule] Pages 4761-44792).

A bill to amend the Endangered Species Act of 1973 to further restrict the Secretary of the Interior from designating certain lands used for national defense-related purposes as critical habitats for any species under that Act and to broaden exclusions and exemptions from that Act for such defense-related purposes. (Congressional Record: 9 January 2023 [House] Pages H97-H108)

USFWS are reclassifying Fender's blue butterfly (Icaricia icarioides fenderi) from endangered to threatened under the ESA. Fender's blue butterfly is endemic to the Willamette Valley of Oregon. 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 13 February 2023. POC is Craig Rowland, Acting State Supervisor, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Oregon Fish and Wildlife Office, telephone 503-319-9488. (Federal Register 12 January 2023 [Rule] Pages 2006-2028)

NMFS announce a 90-day finding on a petition to list the Oregon Coast (OC) and Southern Oregon and Northern California Coastal (SONCC) Chinook salmon (Oncorhynchus tshawytscha) Evolutionarily Significant Units (ESUs) as threatened or endangered under the ESA or, alternatively, list only the spring-run Chinook salmon components of the OC ESU and the SONCC ESU as threatened or endangered under the ESA. The Petitioners also requested that NMFS designate critical habitat concurrently with the listing. With respect to the request to list the entire OC and SONCC ESUs, they find that the petition presents substantial scientific and commercial information indicating the petitioned actions may be warranted. For the request to list only the spring-run components of those ESUs, they do not find that the petition presents substantial scientific and commercial information indicating that the petitioned action is warranted. Scientific and commercial information pertinent to the petitioned action must be received by 13 March 2023. POC is Gary Rule, NMFS West Coast Region, at gary.rule@noaa.gov, (503) 230-5424. (Federal Register 11 January 2023 [Proposed Rule] Pages 1548-1555)

New Roadmap to Accelerate Nature-Based Solutions for Climate Progress and Equity The Whitehouse released a Roadmap and over 100 federal informational resources to scale-up nature-based solutions to address climate change, nature loss and inequity. The reports, announced in November during the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change's 27th Conference of the Parties (COP27) in Egypt, respond to a call from President Biden earlier this year to identify opportunities to expand the use of nature-based solutions across the federal government.

The Plant Conservation Alliance (PCA) holds meeting or trainings every other month that are an open forum for anyone interested or working in plant conservation. Each meeting features a speaker from the plant conservation community. In addition, there is a roundtable for attendees to share relevant events, as well as updates from each of the PCA working groups and committees. Regular attendees include representatives from the PCA Federal agencies and from Cooperating organizations; however anyone is welcome to attend this meeting.

WASHINGTON (December 30, 2022) – Today, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the U.S. Department of the Army (the agencies) announced a final rule establishing a durable definition of "waters of the United States" (WOTUS) to reduce uncertainty from changing regulatory definitions, protect people's health, and support economic opportunity. The final rule restores essential water protections that were in place prior to 2015 under the Clean Water Act for traditional navigable waters, the territorial seas, interstate waters, as well as upstream water resources that significantly affect those waters. As a result, this action will strengthen fundamental protections for waters that are sources of drinking water while supporting agriculture, local economies, and downstream communities.

NMFS designated and authorized the release of a nonessential experimental population (NEP or experimental population) of Central Valley (CV) spring-run Chinook salmon (Oncorhynchus tshawytscha) in the upper Yuba River and its tributaries upstream of Englebright Dam, California, and under the ESA, establish a limited set of take exceptions for the experimental population. Successful reintroduction of a population within the species' historical range would contribute to its viability and further its conservation. The issuance of limited protective regulations for the conservation of the species would provide assurances to the people of the upper Yuba River watershed. This document also announces the availability of a final EA that analyzed the environmental impacts of promulgating the experimental population rule and associated take exceptions. The final rule is effective 27 January 2023. POC is Steve Edmonson, NMFS, 650 Capitol Mall, Suite 5-100, Sacramento, CA 95814, 916-930-3600, or Adrienne Lohe, NMFS Office of Protected Resources, 301-427-8442. (Federal Register 28 December 2022 [Rule] Pages 79808-79818)

USFWS designate critical habitat for the Florida bristle fern (Trichomanes punctatum ssp. floridanum) under the ESA. In total, approximately 1,698 hectares (ha) (4,195 acres (ac)) fall within 10 units of critical habitat in Miami-Dade and Sumter Counties, Florida. This rule extends the Act's protections to the Florida bristle fern's designated critical habitat. This rule is effective 23 January 2023. POC is Lourdes Mena, Classification and Recovery Division Manager, USFWS, Florida Ecological Services Field Office, 7915 Baymeadows Way, Suite 200, Jacksonville, FL 32256; by tele 904-731-3134. (Federal Register 22 December 2022 [Rule] pages 78582-78610)

USFWS propose to designate critical habitat for the federally threatened `i`iwi (Drepanis coccinea) under the ESA. In total, approximately 275,647 acres (111,554 hectares) on the islands of Kaua`i, Maui, and Hawai`i, in the State of Hawaii, fall within the boundaries of the proposed critical habitat designation. They also announced a public informational meeting and public hearing and the availability of a draft economic analysis of the proposed critical habitat designation. They will accept comments received or postmarked on or before 27 February 2023. POC is Earl Campbell, Project Leader, USFWS, Pacific Islands Fish and Wildlife Office, 300 Ala Moana Boulevard Room 3-122, Honolulu, HI 96850; tele 808-792-9400. (Federal Register 28 December 2022 [Proposed Rule] Pages 79942-79975)

USFWS announced findings that one species is not warranted for delisting and that seven species are not warranted for listing as endangered or threatened species under the ESA. After a thorough review of the best available scientific and commercial information, they find that it is not warranted at this time to delist Bone Cave harvestman (Texella reyesi; formerly listed as endangered as the Bee Creek Cave harvestman, Texella reddelli). They find that it is not warranted at this time to list Brandegee's buckwheat (Eriogonum brandegeei Rydberg), Chowanoke crayfish (Faxonius virginiensis), Cisco milkvetch (Astragalus sabulosus), stage station milkvetch (A. vehiculus), Isely's milkvetch (A. iselyi), Columbia Oregonian (Cryptomastix hendersoni), and Rye Cove cave isopod (Lirceus culveri). However, they ask the public to submit to them 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 December 2022. For further information see federal register for POC. (Federal Register 29 December 2022).

USFWS determined endangered species status under the ESA for Tiehm's buckwheat (Eriogonum tiehmii), a plant species native to Nevada in the United States. They also designate critical habitat. In total, they designate approximately 910 acres (368 hectares) in one unit in Nevada as critical habitat for Tiehm's buckwheat. This rule adds the species to the List of Endangered and Threatened Plants and extends the Act's protections to the species. This rule is effective 17 January 2023. POC is Justin Barrett, Deputy Field Supervisor, USFWS, Reno Ecological Services Field Office, 1340 Financial Boulevard, Suite 234, Reno, NV 89502; tele 775-861-6300. (Federal Register 16 December 2022 [Rule] Pages 77368-77401)

USFWS determine that whitebark pine (Pinus albicaulis), a high-elevation tree species found across western North America, is a threatened species under the ESA. They also finalized 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 the species. USFWS have determined that designation of critical habitat for the whitebark pine is not prudent at this time. This rule is effective 17 January 2023. POC is Tyler Abbott, Field Supervisor, USFWS, Wyoming Ecological Services Field Office, 334 Parsley Boulevard, Cheyenne, WY 82007; tele: 307-757-3707. (Federal Register 15 December 2022 [Rule] Pages 76882-76917)

USFWS determine endangered status under the ESA for the Dolphin and Union caribou (Rangifer tarandus groenlandicus × peary), a distinct population segment (DPS) of the barren-ground caribou (Rangifer tarandus groenlandicus). After reviewing new survey information received during the public comment period that identified significant decline in the population during a recent 4-year period, they have reevaluated the status of the DPS. Their reassessment concluded that the species is in danger of extinction now. Therefore, they are listing this DPS as endangered under the Act. Listing this DPS as endangered also means that the proposed rule under section 4(d) of the Act will not be finalized or put in place. Rather, the prohibitions under section 9(a)(1) of the Act and our implementing regulations for endangered wildlife will apply to all Dolphin and Union caribou specimens. The Dolphin and Union caribou is native only to Canada. The rule is effective 12 January 2023. POC is Rachel London, Acting Chief, Branch of Delisting and Foreign Species, Ecological Services Program, USFWS, 5275 Leesburg Pike, MS: ES, Falls Church, VA 22041; tele 703-358-2491. (Federal Register 13 December 2022 [Rule] Pages 76112-76125).

USFWS proposes to revise the List of Birds protected by the MBTA by both adding and removing species. 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 conform to accepted use. The net increase of 13 species (16 added and three removed) would bring the total number of species protected by the MBTA to 1,106. They also propose to revise the scientific name of a species subject to specific migratory-bird-permit regulations and to 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. They will accept comments received or postmarked on or before 10 February 2023. POC is Eric L. Kershner, Chief, Division of Bird Conservation, Permits, and Regulations; Migratory Bird Program; USFWS; MS: MB; 5275 Leesburg Pike, Falls Church, VA 22041-3803; (703) 358-2376. (Federal Register 10 December 2022 [Proposed Rule] Pages 75977-76023)

USFWS are listing the Dixie Valley toad (Anaxyrus williamsi), a toad species from Nevada, as an endangered species under the ESA. This rule continues the protections of the Act applied to the Dixie Valley toad under our 7 April 2022, temporary emergency listing rule. This rule is effective 2 December 2022. Justin Barrett, Field Supervisor, USFWS, Reno Fish and Wildlife Office, 1340 Financial Blvd., Suite 234, Reno, NV 89502; tele 775-861-6300. (Federal Register 2 December 2022 [Rule] Pages 73971-73994).

USFWS are reclassifying (downlisting) the plant Eugenia woodburyana (no common name) from an endangered species to a threatened species under the ESA, due to improvements in the species' status since its original listing in 1994. This action is based on a thorough review of the best available scientific and commercial information, which indicates that E. woodburyana is not currently in danger of extinction throughout all or a significant portion of its range, but it is likely to become so within the foreseeable future. They are also finalizing a rule issued under section 4(d) of the Act to provide measures that are necessary and advisable for the conservation of E. woodburyana. This rule is effective 3 January 2023. POC is Edwin Muñiz, Field Supervisor, Caribbean Ecological Services Field Office, USFWS, P.O. Box 491, Boqueron, PR 00622; email caribbean_es@fws.gov; tele: 787-405-3641. (Federal Register 2 December 2022 [Rule] Pages 73994-74013).

USFWS reclassify the northern long-eared bat (Myotis septentrionalis), a bat species found in all or portions of 37 U.S. States, the District of Columbia, and much of Canada, as an endangered species under the ESA. Their review of the best available scientific and commercial information indicates that the northern long-eared bat meets the Act's definition of an endangered species. Because they are reclassifying the northern long-eared bat from a threatened to an endangered species, they are amending this species' listing on the List of Endangered and Threatened Wildlife to reflect its endangered species status and removing its species-specific rule issued under section 4(d) of the Act. This rule is effective 30 January 2023. POC is Shauna Marquardt, Field Supervisor, USFWS, Minnesota Wisconsin Ecological Services Field Office, 4101 American Boulevard East, Bloomington, MN 55425; tele 952-252-0092. (Federal Register 30 November 2022 [Rule] Pages 73488-73504)

USFWS listed the Puerto Rican harlequin butterfly (Atlantea tulita), a species from Puerto Rico, as a threatened species with a rule issued under section 4(d) of the ESA. They also designate critical habitat for this species under the Act. In total, approximately 41,266 acres (16,699.8 hectares) in six units in the municipalities of Isabela, Quebradillas, Camuy, Arecibo, Utuado, Florida, Ciales, Maricao, San Germán, Sabana Grande, and Yauco are within the boundaries of the critical habitat designation. This rule extends the Act's protections to the species and its designated critical habitat. This rule is effective 3 January 2023. POC is Edwin Muñiz, Field Supervisor, Caribbean Ecological Services Field Office, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, P.O. Box 491, Boqueron, PR 00622; email: caribbean_es@fws.gov; tele: 787-405-3641. (Federal Register 1 December 2022 [Proposed Rule] Pages 73655-73682)

The November 2022 edition of The Corps Environment is now available and can be accessed online at: https://www.dvidshub.net/publication/issues/65712. This edition highlights providing environmental and economic benefits, in support of Environmental Operating Principle #3. Content includes commentary from Col. Matthew F. Kelly, commander of U.S. Army Environmental Command (USAEC), sharing his impressions after taking command and his focus on building upon USAEC's legacy. This issue also features initiatives from across the Army environmental community that are providing enduring environmental benefits around the globe.

USFWS are listing two Distinct Population Segments (DPSs) under the ESA for the lesser prairie-chicken (Tympanuchus pallidicinctus), a grassland bird known from southeastern Colorado, western Kansas, eastern New Mexico, western Oklahoma, and the Texas Panhandle. They determine threatened status for the Northern DPS and endangered status for the Southern DPS. This rule adds the DPSs to the List of Endangered and Threatened Wildlife. We 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 the Northern DPS. This rule is effective 24 January 2023. POC is Beth Forbus, Regional ES Program Manager, Southwest Regional Office, 500 Gold Ave SW, Albuquerque, NM 87102; tele 505-318-8972. (Federal Register 25 November 2022 [Rule] Pages 72674-72755).

USFWS are revising their proposed designation of critical habitat for the Florida bonneted bat (Eumops floridanus) under the ESA. In response to new information they received and public comments on their 10 June 2020, proposed rule, they are now proposing to designate approximately 1,174,011 acres (475,105 hectares) in 13 Florida counties as critical habitat for the species. They also announce the availability of a draft economic analysis (DEA) of the revised proposed designation of critical habitat for the Florida bonneted bat. They request comments from all interested parties on this revised proposed rule and the associated DEA. Comments submitted on our 10 June 2020, proposed rule need not be resubmitted as they will be fully considered in the preparation of the final rule. If finalized this rule would extend the Act's protections to this species' critical habitat. They will accept comments on this revised proposed rule and the DEA that are received or postmarked on or before 23 January 2023. POC is Lourdes Mena, Classification and Recovery Division Manager, USFWS, Florida Ecological Services Field Office, 7915 Baymeadows Way, Suite 200, Jacksonville, FL 32256; tele: (904) 731-3134. (Federal Register 22 November 2022 [Proposed Rule] Pages 71466-71501)

USFWS in accordance with the ESA are amending the List of Endangered and Threatened Plants by removing Johnson's seagrass (Halophila johnsonii). They are also amending the List of Endangered and Threatened Wildlife by updating the entries for the Arctic subspecies of the ringed seal (Pusa hispida hispida) and the Beringia distinct population segment (DPS) of the Pacific bearded seal subspecies (Erignathus barbatus nauticus) to reflect the final designation of critical habitat for this subspecies and DPS, respectively. These amendments are based on previously published determinations by the NMFS of the NOAA, Department of Commerce, which has jurisdiction for these species. This rule is effective 15 November 2022. POC is Rachel London, Acting Chief, Branch of Delisting and Foreign Species, USFWS, MS: ES, 5275 Leesburg Pike, Falls Church, VA 22041-3803; tele: 703-358-2491. (Federal Register 15 November 2022 [Rule] Pages 68381-68382)

The Forest Service developed an online tool that shows hazardous fuels reduction projects occurring in support of the Wildfire Crisis Strategy. The strategy, called "Confronting the Wildfire Crisis: A Strategy for Protecting Communities and Improving Resilience in America's Forests," combines a historic investment of congressional funding with years of scientific research and planning into a national effort that will dramatically increase the scale of forest health treatments over the next decade.

NMFS will hold a public hearing related to our proposed rule published 8 September 2022, to list the queen conch (Aliger gigas) as a threatened species under the ESA. They are also reopening the public comment period, which will now close on 15 December 2022. The comment period is reopened from 7 November 2022, to 15 December 2022. Comments must be received by 15 December 2022. Comments received after this date may not be accepted. POC is Calusa Horn, NMFS, Southeast Regional Office at (727) 551-5782 or calusa.horn@noaa.gov. (Federal Register 10 November 2022 [Rule] Pages 67853-67854)

The Department of Defense's Strategic Environmental Research and Development Program (SERDP) is seeking environmental research and development proposals for funding beginning in Fiscal Year (FY) 2024. Projects will be selected through a competitive process.

USFWS determine threatened species status under the ESA for the emperor penguin (Aptenodytes forsteri), a flightless bird species from Antarctica. 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. This rule is effective 25 November 2022. POC is Elizabeth Maclin, Chief, Branch of Delisting and Foreign Species, Ecological Services Program, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, MS: ES, 5275 Leesburg Pike, Falls Church, VA 22041-3803 (tele 703-358-2171). (Federal Register 26 October 2022 [Rule] Pages 64700-64720).

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service), propose to designate critical habitat for Sideroxylon reclinatum ssp. austrofloridense (Everglades bully), Digitaria pauciflora (Florida pineland crabgrass), Chamaesyce deltoidei ssp. pinetorum (pineland sandmat), and Dalea carthagenensis var. floridana (Florida prairie-clover) under the ESA. In total, approximately 179,680 acres (72,714 hectares) for Everglades bully, 177,879 acres (71,985 hectares) for Florida pineland crabgrass, 8,867 acres (3,588 hectares) for pineland sandmat, and 179,300 acres (72,560 hectares) for Florida prairie-clover in Monroe, Collier, and Miami-Dade Counties, Florida, fall within the boundaries of the proposed critical habitat designations. If finalized, this rule as proposed, would extend the Act's protections to the species' critical habitats. They also announced the availability of a draft economic analysis (DEA) of the proposed designations of critical habitat for these four plant species. They will accept comments received or postmarked on or before 13 December 2022. POC is Lourdes Mena, Classification and Recovery Division Manager, USFWS, Florida Ecological Services Field Office, 7915 Baymeadows Way, Suite 200, Jacksonville, FL 32256; by tele 904-731-3134. (Federal Register 14 October 2022 [Proposed Rule] Pages 62564-62611)

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service), propose to list two Florida species, the Key ring-necked snake (Diadophis punctatus acricus) and the rim rock crowned snake (Tantilla oolitica), and propose to designate critical habitat under the ESA. This determination also serves as their 12-month finding on the petition to list the Key ring-necked snake and the rim rock crowned snake. After a review of the best available scientific and commercial information, they find that listing both species is warranted. Accordingly, they propose to list both species as endangered species under the Act. If finalized, this rule as proposed, would add the species to the List of Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and extend the Act's protections to both species. They also propose to designate critical habitat for the Key ring-necked snake and the rim rock crowned snake under the Act. They will accept comments received or postmarked on or before 13 December 2022. POC is Lourdes Mena, Classification and Recovery Division Manager, USFWS, Florida Ecological Services Field Office, 7915 Baymeadows Way, Suite 200, Jacksonville, FL 32256; by tele 904-731-3134. (Federal Register 14 October 2022 [Proposed Rule] Pages 62614-62674)

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service), propose to designate critical habitat for Chamaecrista lineata var. keyensis (Big Pine partridge pea), Chamaesyce deltoidei ssp. serpyllum (wedge spurge), Linum arenicola (sand flax), and Argythamnia blodgettii (Blodgett's silverbush) under the ESA. In total, approximately 1,462 acres (592 hectares) for Big Pine partridge pea and approximately 1,379 acres (558 hectares) for wedge spurge, in Monroe County, Florida, and approximately 5,090 acres (2,060 hectares) for sand flax and 16,635 acres (6,732 hectares) for Blodgett's silverbush in Miami-Dade and Monroe Counties, Florida, fall within the boundaries of the proposed critical habitat designations. If finalized, this rule as proposed, would extend the Act's protections to the species' critical habitat. They also announced the availability of a draft economic analysis of the proposed designation of critical habitat for these four plant species. They will accept comments received or postmarked on or before 13 December 2022. POC is Lourdes Mena, Classification and Recovery Division Manager, USFWS, Florida Ecological Services Field Office, 7915 Baymeadows Way, Suite 200, Jacksonville, FL 32256; by tele 904-731-3134. (Federal Register 14 October 2022 [Proposed Rule] Pages 62502-62562)

USFWS proposes to list the San Francisco Bay-Delta distinct population segment (DPS) of longfin smelt (Spirinchus thaleichthys) (Bay-Delta longfin smelt), a fish species of the Pacific Coast, as an endangered species under the ESA. After a review of the best scientific and commercial information available, they find that listing the DPS is warranted. Accordingly, they propose to list the Bay-Delta longfin smelt DPS as an endangered species under the Act. If finalized this rule as proposed, it would add this DPS to the List of Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and extend the Act's protections to the DPS. They also find that the designation of critical habitat for the Bay-Delta longfin smelt is not determinable at this time. They will accept comments received or postmarked on or before 6 December 2022. POC is Donald Ratcliff, Field Supervisor, USFWS, San Francisco Bay-Delta Fish and Wildlife Office, 650 Capitol Mall Suite 8-300, Sacramento, CA 95814; tel 916-930-5603. (Federal Register 7 October 2022 [Proposed Rule] Pages 60957-60975)

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service), propose to designate critical habitat for the Louisiana pinesnake (Pituophis ruthveni) under the ESA. In total, approximately 209,520 acres (84,790 hectares) in Bienville, Grant, Rapides, and Vernon parishes, Louisiana, and in Newton, Angelina, and Jasper Counties, Texas, 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 Louisiana pinesnake. They will accept comments received or postmarked on or before 5 December 2022. POC is Brigette Firmin, Deputy Field Supervisor, USFWS, Louisiana Ecological Services Field Office, 200 Dulles Drive, Lafayette, LA 70506; Tel 337-291-3100. (Federal Register 6 October 2022 [Rule] Pages 60580-60612)

USFWS proposes to list the Lassics lupine (Lupinus constancei), a plant species native to northern California, 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 Lassics lupine. 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 also propose to designate critical habitat for the Lassics lupine under the Act. In total, approximately 512 acres (ac) (207 hectares (ha)) in Humboldt and Trinity Counties, California, fall within the boundaries of the proposed critical habitat designation. In addition, we announce the availability of a draft economic analysis (DEA) of the proposed designation of critical habitat for the Lassics lupine. They will accept comments received or postmarked on or before 5 December 2022. POC is Tanya Sommer, Field Supervisor, Arcata Fish and Wildlife Office, 1655 Heindon Road, Arcata, CA 95521; Tel 707-822-7201. (Federal Register 6 October 2022 [Rule] Pages 60612-60638)

USFWS is removing the snail darter (Percina tanasi), a small freshwater fish native to the Tennessee River watershed, from the Federal List of Endangered and Threatened Wildlife (List). 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 reduced or eliminated to the point that it has recovered and is no longer in danger of extinction or likely to become in danger of extinction in the foreseeable future. Therefore, the species no longer meets the definition of an endangered or a threatened species under the ESA. This rule is effective 4 November 2022. POC is Daniel Elbert, Field Supervisor, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Tennessee Ecological Services Field Office, 446 Neal Street, Cookeville, TN 38506; tele 931-528-6481. (Federal Register 5 October 2022 [Rule] Pages 60298-60313)

USFWS are reopening the comment period on our 25 October 2021 proposed rule to 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. This action will allow all interested parties an additional opportunity to comment on the 25 October 2021, proposed rule, as well as the opportunity to comment on the additional areas they are considering for exclusion from critical habitat designation, potential changes to Unit 1, and on new habitat modeling efforts for the coastal marten, as explained in this document. Comments previously submitted need not be resubmitted as they are already incorporated into the public record and will be fully considered in the final rule. The comment period on the proposed rule that published 25 October 2021. POC is Tanya Sommer, Field Supervisor, Arcata Fish and Wildlife Office, 1655 Heindon Road, Arcata, CA 95521; telephone 707-822-7201.

USFWS proposes to list the Florida Keys mole skink (Plestiodon egregius egregius), a lizard subspecies from the Florida Keys, Florida, as a threatened species and designate critical habitat under the ESA. This determination also serves as our 12-month finding on a petition to list the Florida Keys mole skink. 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 Florida Keys mole skink as a threatened species with a rule issued under section 4(d) of the Act ("4(d) rule"). If finalized this rule as proposed, it 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 Florida Keys mole skink under the ESA. In total, approximately 7,068 acres (2,860 hectares) within Monroe County in the Florida Keys, Florida , fall within the boundaries of the proposed critical habitat designation.They will accept comments received or postmarked on or before 28 November 2022. POC is Lourdes Mena, Division Manager, Classification and Recovery, Florida Ecological Services Field Office, 7915 Baymeadows Way, Suite 200, Jacksonville, FL 32256-7517; lourdes_mena@fws.gov; Tel 904-731-3134. (Federal Register 27 September 2022 [Proposed Rule] Pages 58648-58703).

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service), propose to list the tricolored bat (Perimyotis subflavus), as an endangered species under the ESA. This determination also serves as their 12-month finding on a petition to list the tricolored bat. After a review of the best available scientific and commercial information, they find that listing the species is warranted. Accordingly, USFWS propose to list the tricolored bat as an endangered species under the Act. If they finalize this rule as proposed, it will add this species to the List of Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and extend the Act's protections to the species. They find that designating critical habitat for this species is not prudent. They also are notifying the public that we have scheduled an informational meeting followed by a public hearing on the proposed rule. USFWS will accept comments received or postmarked on or before 14 November 2022. POC is Sonja Jahrsdoerfer, Field Supervisor, USFWS, Pennsylvania Field Office, 110 Radnor Rd, Suite 101, State College, PA 16801; tele 814-234-4090. (Federal Register 14 September 2022 [Proposed Rule] Pages 56381-56393).

Strombus gigas) as a threatened species under the ESA. They have completed a comprehensive status review for the queen conch. After considering the status review report, and after taking into account efforts being made to protect the species, they have determined that the queen conch is likely to become an endangered species within the foreseeable future throughout its range. Therefore, they propose to list the queen conch as a threatened species under the ESA. Any protective regulations determined to be necessary and advisable for the conservation of the queen conch under ESA would be proposed in a subsequent Federal Register announcement. They solicit information to assist this listing determination, the development of proposed protective regulations, and designation of critical habitat within U.S jurisdiction. Information and comments on this proposed rule must be received by 7 November 2022. POC is Calusa Horn, NMFS Southeast Regional Office, 727-551-5782 or Calusa.Horn@noaa.gov. (Federal Register 8 September 2022 [Proposed Rule] Pages 55200-55239).

These peer-reviewed weed biocontrol publications are for use by land managers and landowners. Subject matter experts have developed a series of factsheets that cover invasive plants and their associated biological control agents in North America. Weed factsheets cover plant identification, history, distribution, ecology, habitat, and comparisons to look-a-like species. Biocontrol agent factsheets provide information on agent identification, life cycle, impact, habitat requirements, history and current status for all biocontrol agents or accidentally introduced species associated with their host plant species.These factsheets are designed to help landowners and weed managers identify and understand weed species and learn about their biocontrol agents. Each factsheet has been peer-reviewed by experts in the field.

The National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF) officially announced the Longleaf Landscape Stewardship Fund (LLSF) would award $7.5 million through 22 grants to restore, enhance, and protect longleaf pine forests in nine southern states. This year's grant slate, the largest in the program's history, will impact more than 400,000 acres of longleaf pine habitat and leverage $9 million in matching contributions to generate a total conservation impact of $16.5 million. For every dollar DoD invests, approximately $11 in matching partner funds will help establish more than 9,000 acres of new longleaf pine, implement prescribed fire on more than 347,000 acres, and enhance an additional 10,000 acres of existing longleaf pine through management treatments. Altogether, 12 military installations in the Southeast will directly benefit from LLSF projects, including Fort Benning and Fort Stewart, Georgia; Camp Blanding, Eglin Air Force Base (AFB), Naval Air Station (NAS) Pensacola, NAS Whiting Field, and Tyndall AFB, Florida; Fort Polk, Louisiana; Camp Lejeune, Fort Bragg, and Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, North Carolina; Camp Shelby, Mississippi. The LLSF is a landmark public-private partnership between NFWF, federal agencies, private industry, and charitable organizations that leverage funding to execute projects to restore forest health and manage key natural resources that benefit military testing and training at installations and ranges across the Southeast.

(Washington, August 31, 2022) Today, the Biden Administration took a major step forward in achieving the goals of President Biden's Federal Sustainability Plan and Executive Order (E.O.) 14057 Catalyzing Clean Energy Industries and Jobs Through Federal Sustainability by issuing E.O. 14057 Implementing Instructions to Federal agencies.

Through President Biden's historic Executive Order 14057 Catalyzing Clean Energy Industries and Jobs Through Federal Sustainability the U.S. Federal Government leads the world by example again – transforming how it builds, buys, and manages to help make America's economy cleaner, more efficient, and more sustainable.

The August 2022 edition of The Corps Environment is now available and can be accessed online at: https://www.dvidshub.net/publication/issues/64976. This edition highlights employing an open and transparent process, in support of Environmental Operating Principle #7. Content within this issue recognizes our U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) environmental and sustainability champions and features initiatives from across the Army environmental community that are providing environmental benefits across the globe.

USFWS are removing the plant Adiantum vivesii (no common name) from the Federal List of Endangered and Threatened Plants (List). This determination is based on a thorough review of the best available scientific and commercial data indicating that Adiantum vivesii is not a distinct species, but rather a sterile hybrid that does not have the capacity to establish a lineage that could be lost to extinction. USFWS have determined that Adiantum vivesii is not a discrete taxonomic entity and does not meet the definition of a species as defined under the Act, and that its original listing was based on data or interpretations of data that were in error; therefore, USFWS are delisting it. This rule is effective 23 September 2022. POC is Edwin Muñiz, Field Supervisor, Caribbean Ecological Services Field Office, P.O. Box 491, Boquerón, PR 00622; Caribbean_es@fws.gov; tel: 787-405-3641. (Federal Register 24 August 2022 [Rule] Pages 51928-51932)

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service), are removing the Braken Bat Cave meshweaver (Cicurina venii), an arachnid, from the Federal List of Endangered and Threatened Wildlife (i.e., "delisting" the species) under the ESA), because of a taxonomic revision. This determination is based on their evaluation of the best available scientific and commercial information, which indicates that the Braken Bat Cave meshweaver is not a discrete taxonomic entity and does not meet the definition of a species as defined under the Act. The reason it does not meet the definition of a species is that the original data for classification of the Braken Bat Cave meshweaver when it was listed was in error. Braken Bat Cave meshweaver has been synonymized with Madla Cave meshweaver (Cicurina madla). Therefore, due to a taxonomic revision, Braken Bat Cave meshweaver is no longer a scientifically accepted species and cannot be listed under the Act. However, because individuals previously identified as Braken Bat Cave meshweaver have been synonymized under Madla Cave meshweaver, their status and protections under the Act remain the same because the Madla Cave meshweaver is listed as endangered under the Act. This rule is effective 23 September 2022. POC is Catherine Yeargan, Acting Field Supervisor, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, 10711 Burnet Road, Suite 200, Austin, TX 78758; by tel at 512-490-0057. Click for more.

USFWS proposes to list magnificent ramshorn (Planorbella magnifica), a freshwater snail species from southeastern North Carolina, as an endangered species and to designate critical habitat for the species under the ESA. In total, approximately 739 acres (299 hectares) of two ponds in Brunswick County, North Carolina, 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 magnificent ramshorn. In addition, this document serves as our 12-month finding on a petition to list magnificent ramshorn. If finalized this rule as proposed, would extend the Act's protections to this species and its designated critical habitat. They will accept comments received or postmarked on or before 17 October 2022. POC is Pete Benjamin, Field Supervisor, USFWS, Raleigh Ecological Services Field Office, P.O. Box 33726, Raleigh, NC 27636-3726; tel 919-856-4520. (Federal Register 18 August 2022 [Proposed Rule] Pages 50804-50824)

USFWS is rescinding the rule titled "Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and Plants; Regulations for Designating Critical Habitat" that published on 18 December 2020, and became effective January 19, 2021. The rule set forth new regulations addressing how we exclude areas of critical habitat under section 4(b)(2) of the Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended, outlining when and how the Service will undertake an exclusion analysis. This action removes the regulations established by that rule. This final rule is effective 22 August 2022. Bridget Fahey, USFWS, Division of Conservation and Classification, 5275 Leesburg Pike, Falls Church, VA 22041-3803, tel 703/358-2171. (Federal Register 21 July 2022 [Rule] Pages 43433-43447)

USFWS proposes to remove the Puerto Rican boa (Chilabothrus inornatus, but listed as Epicrates inornatus), an endemic snake from Puerto Rico, from the Federal List of Endangered and Threatened Wildlife (List). This determination is based on the best available scientific and commercial data, which indicate that the species has recovered and the threats to the species have been eliminated or reduced to the point that the species no longer meets the definition of an endangered species or threatened species under the ESA. If this proposal is finalized, the Puerto Rican boa will be removed from the List and the prohibitions and conservation measures provided by the Act, particularly through sections 7 and 9, would no longer apply to the species. They will accept comments received or postmarked on or before 12 September 2022. 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: (787) 405-3641. (Federal Register 13 July 2022 [Proposed Rule] Pages 41641-41655).

NMFS announced a 90-day finding on a petition to revise the critical habitat designation for the North Pacific right whale (Eubalaena japonica) under the ESA. In April 2008, they issued a final rule designating approximately 3,050 square kilometers (~1,175 square miles) and approximately 91,850 square kilometers (~35,460 square miles) of critical habitat for North Pacific right whales in the Gulf of Alaska and the Southeast Bering Sea, respectively. The petition requests they revise this critical habitat. They find that the petition presents substantial scientific information indicating the petitioned action may be warranted. They are hereby initiating a review of the currently designated critical habitat to determine whether revision is warranted. To ensure a comprehensive review, they are soliciting scientific and commercial information pertaining to this action. Scientific and commercial information pertinent to the petitioned action must be received by 12 September 2022. POC is Jenna Malek, NMFS Alaska Region, jenna.malek@noaa.gov, (907) 271-1332. (Federal Register 12 July 2022 [Proposed Rule] Pages 41271-41273).

USFWS determined that the Canoe Creek clubshell (Pleurobema athearni), a freshwater mussel species endemic to a single watershed in north-central Alabama, is an endangered species under the ESA. They also designate critical habitat for the species under the Act. In total, approximately 58.5 river kilometers (36.3 river miles) in St. Clair and Etowah Counties, Alabama, fall within the boundaries of the critical habitat designation. This rule extends the Act's protections to the species and its designated critical habitat. This rule is effective 5 August 2022. POC is William J. Pearson, Field Supervisor, USFWS, Alabama Ecological Services Field Office, 1208 Main Street, Daphne, AL 36526; tel 251-441-5181. (Federal Register 6 July 2022 [Rule] Pages 40115-40138)

USFWS reclassified the smooth coneflower (Echinacea laevigata) from endangered to threatened ("downlist") under the ESA, due to improvements in the species' overall status since the original listing in 1992. This action is based on a thorough review of the best available scientific and commercial information, which indicates that smooth coneflower 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 smooth coneflower. This rule is effective 5 August 2022. POC is Pete Benjamin, Field Supervisor, USFWS, Raleigh Ecological Services Field Office, 551-F Pylon Drive, Raleigh, NC 27606; tel (919) 856-4520. (Federal Register 6 July 2022 [Rule] Pages 40100-40115)

USFWS revised the regulations for the nonessential experimental population of the Mexican wolf (Canis lupus baileyi) in the Mexican Wolf Experimental Population Area under section 10(j) of the ESA. The regulatory revisions in this rule include a revised population objective, a new genetic objective, and the temporary restriction of three take provisions. This rule also includes an essentiality determination under section 10(j) of the ESA. The experimental population, inclusive of these revisions, will contribute to the long-term conservation and recovery of the Mexican wolf by alleviating demographic and genetic threats in this population consistent with our rangewide recovery strategy and goals for the Mexican wolf. This rule is effective 1 August 2022. POC is Brady McGee, Mexican Wolf Recovery Coordinator, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, New Mexico Ecological Services Field Office, 2105 Osuna Rd. NE, Albuquerque, NM 87113; tel 505-761-4748. (Federal Register 1 July 2022 [Rule] Pages 39348-39373)

USFWS proposes to reclassify Mitracarpus polycladus (a plant, no common name) from endangered to threatened (downlist) under the ESA. The proposed downlisting 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 also propose a rule under section 4(d) of the Act that provides for the conservation of M. polycladus. They will accept comments received or postmarked on or before 22 August 2022. POC is Edwin Muñiz, Field Supervisor, USFWS, Caribbean Ecological Services Field Office, P.O. Box 491, Boquerón, PR 00622; tel: (787) 851-7297. (Federal Register 23 June 2022 [Proposed Rule] Pages 37476-37494).

USFWS proposes to list the Ocmulgee skullcap (Scutellaria ocmulgee), a plant species from Georgia and South Carolina, as a threatened species and designate critical habitat under the ESA. This determination also serves as their 12-month finding on a petition to list the Ocmulgee skullcap. 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 Ocmulgee skullcap as a threatened species with a rule issued under section 4(d) of the Act ("4(d) rule"). They also propose to designate critical habitat for the Ocmulgee skullcap under the Act. In total, approximately 6,577 acres (ac) (2,662 hectares (ha)) in Bibb, Bleckley, Burke, Columbia, Houston, Monroe, Pulaski, Richmond, Screven, and Twiggs counties, Georgia, and Aiken and Edgefield counties, South Carolina, fall within the boundaries of the proposed critical habitat designation. Comments will be accepted if received or postmarked on or before 22 August 2022. POC is Peter Maholland, Acting Field Supervisor, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Georgia Ecological Services Field Office, 355 East Hancock Avenue, Room 320, Athens, Georgia 30601; tel 706-613-6059. (Federal Register 22 June 2022 [Proposed Rule] Pages 37378-37428).

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service), are listing marron bacora (Solanum conocarpum), a plant species from the U.S. and British Virgin Islands, as an endangered species and are designating critical habitat for the species under the ESA. In total, approximately 2,548 acres (1,031 hectares) on St. John, U.S. Virgin Islands, fall within the boundaries of the critical habitat designation. This rule adds this species to the Federal List of Endangered and Threatened Plants and extends the Act's protections to the species and its designated critical habitat. This rule is effective 18 July 2022. POC is Edwin Muñiz, Field Supervisor, USFWS, Caribbean Ecological Services Field Office, P.O. Box 491, Road 301 Km 5.1, Boquerón, PR 00622; telephone 787-244-0081; email caribbean_es@fws.gov. (Federal Register 16 June 2022 [Rule] Pages 36225-36248)

USFWS determined endangered species status under the ESA for the Arizona eryngo (Eryngium sparganophyllum), a plant species native to Arizona and New Mexico in the United States, and to Sonora and Chihuahua in Mexico. They also designate critical habitat for the Arizona eryngo. In total, approximately 12.7 acres (5.1 hectares) in Pima and Cochise Counties, Arizona, 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 11 July 2022. POC is Heather Whitlaw, Arizona Ecological Services Field Office, 9828 North 31st Ave. C3, Phoenix, AZ 85051-2517; tel 602-242-0210. (Federal Register 10 June 2022 [Rule] Pages 35431-35459)

This edition highlights protecting and preserving our environment, in support of Environmental Operating Principle #4. Content includes commentary from U.S. Army Corps of Engineers' Environmental Community of Practice leadership, discussing how our actions are directly connected to the environment and shaping a sustainable future. This issue also features initiatives from across the Army environmental community that are protecting and preserving our environment for current and future generations.
Included in this issue:
– U.S. Army Environmental Command highlights the recipients of the Secretary of the Army and Secretary of Defense environmental awards.
– USACE Honolulu District shares how they removed thousands of unexploded ordnances in Saipan.
– USACE St. Paul District discusses progress being made under the Upper Mississippi River Restoration program.
– USACE Charleston District highlights a day in the life of a USACE regulatory project manager.
– U.S. Army Engineer Research and Development Center shares how they are working to address energy and water resiliency.
– USACE Far East District discusses how their stormwater pollution prevention measures are keeping waterways clean.

USFWS proposes to list a subspecies of butterfly (Speyeria nokomis nokomis), a silverspot butterfly from Colorado, New Mexico, and Utah, as a threatened species under ESA, with a rule issued under section 4(d) of the Act ("4(d) rule"). This document also serves as their 12-month finding on a petition to list the silverspot. After a review of the best available scientific and commercial information, they find that listing the subspecies is warranted. If finalized 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. They determined that designating critical habitat for this subspecies under the Act is not prudent. They will accept comments received or postmarked on or before 5 July 2022. POC is Ann Timberman, Western Colorado Supervisor, USFWS, Western Colorado Ecological Services Field Office, 445 West Gunnison Avenue, Grand Junction, CO 81501; tel 970-628-7181. (Federal Register 4 May 2022 [Proposed Rule] Pages 26319-26337).

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service), in accordance with the Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended (Act), are amending the List of Endangered and Threatened Wildlife (List) by removing the coral Siderastrea glynni. This amendment is based on a previously published determination by the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Department of Commerce, which has jurisdiction for this species. This rule is effective 3 May 2022. POC is Elizabeth Maclin, Chief, Branch of Delisting and Foreign Species, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, MS: ES, 5275 Leesburg Pike, Falls Church, VA 22041-3803; tel: 703-358-2646. (Federal Register: 3 May 2022 [Rule] Pages 26141-26142)

Strengthening the Nation's Forests, Communities, and Local Economies
April 27, 2022
This EO directs federal agencies to pursue science-based, sustainable forest and land management; conserve America's mature and old-growth forests on Federal lands; invest in forest health and restoration; support indigenous traditional ecological knowledge and cultural and subsistence practices; honor Tribal treaty rights; and deploy climate-smart forestry practices and other nature-based solutions to improve the resilience of our lands, waters, wildlife, and communities in the face of increasing disturbances and chronic stress arising from climate impacts.

EPA announced a $542 million investment to reduce pollution and plastic waste in our shared oceans. The significant investment is substantially funded by President Biden's Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. EPA's funding is part of a package totaling $895 million that will address marine pollution through the implementation of 21 commitments undertaken by a number of agencies including EPA, the U.S. Agency for International Development, NOAA, NSF, the Department of State, the DOE and the NIST. EPA's commitments include $350 million in improvements to recycling infrastructure and education, $132 million for the National Estuary Program in infrastructure improvements to reduce pollutant loadings into freshwater ecosystems and the ocean, and an additional $60 million to support Mississippi River states, Ohio and Indiana as they reduce nutrients in our waterways to shrink the size of the dead zone in the Gulf of Mexico.

NMFS issued a final rule to remove Johnson's seagrass (Halophila johnsonii) from the Federal List of Threatened and Endangered Species. To correspond with this action, they are also removing the critical habitat designation for Johnson's seagrass. These actions are based on newly obtained genetic data that demonstrate that Johnson's seagrass is not a unique taxon but rather a clone of an Indo-Pacific species, Halophila ovalis. Therefore, Johnson's seagrass does not meet the statutory definition of a species and does not qualify for listing under the ESA. After considering public comment on the proposed rule, they are implementing this final rule to execute the proposed changes to the listing and critical habitat for Johnson's seagrass. This final rule is effective on 16 May 2022. POC is Adam Brame, NMFS Southeast Regional Office, Adam.Brame@noaa.gov, (727) 209-5958. (Federal Register 14 April 2022 [Rule] Pages 22137-22141)

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service), affirm the listing of the streaked horned lark (Eremophila alpestris strigata), a bird subspecies from Washington and Oregon, as a threatened species under the Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended (Act). We also revise the rule issued under section 4(d) of the Act ("4(d) rule") for this bird. This final rule maintains this species as a threatened species on the List of Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and continues to extend the protections of the Act to the species. This rule is effective May 13, 2022. POC Paul Henson, State Supervisor, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Oregon Fish and Wildlife Office, 2600 SE 98th Avenue, Suite 100, Portland, OR 97266; telephone 503-231-6179. (Federal Register 13 April 2022 [Rule] Pages 21783-21812)

USFWS exercised authority pursuant to the ESA, to emergency list the Dixie Valley toad (Anaxyrus williamsi) as endangered. Due to the imminent development of a geothermal project in Dixie Meadows, Nevada, and the potential resulting effects to the geothermal springs relied upon by the Dixie Valley toad, there is a significant risk to the well-being of the species. They find that emergency listing is necessary in order to provide the protective measures afforded by the Act to the Dixie Valley toad. This emergency action (emergency rule) provides Federal protection pursuant to the Act for a period of 240 days. A proposed rule to list the Dixie Valley toad as endangered is published concurrently with this emergency rule in the Proposed Rules section of this issue of the Federal Register. This temporary rule is effective 7 April 2022, through 2 December 2022. POC is Marc Jackson, Field Supervisor, USFWS, Reno Fish and Wildlife Office, 1340 Financial Blvd., Suite 234, Reno, Nevada 89502; tel 775-861-6300. (Federal Register 7 April 2022 [Rule] Pages 20336-20348).

NMFS issue this final rule to designate critical habitat for the Arctic subspecies of the ringed seal (Pusa hispida hispida) under the ESA. The critical habitat designation comprises an area of marine habitat in the Bering, Chukchi, and Beaufort seas. Based on consideration of national security impacts, we have excluded an area north of the Beaufort Sea shelf from the designation. This rule is effective 2 May 2022. POC is Tammy Olson, NMFS Alaska Region, (907) 271-5006. (Federal Register 1 April 2022 [Rule] Pages 19232-19287).

NMFS issue this final rule to designate critical habitat for the Beringia distinct population segment (DPS) of the Pacific bearded seal subspecies Erignathus barbatus nauticus under the ESA. The critical habitat designation comprises an area of marine habitat in the Bering, Chukchi, and Beaufort seas. This rule is effective 2 May 2022. POC is Tammy Olson, NMFS Alaska Region, (907) 271-5006. (Federal Register 1 April 2022 [Rule] Pages 19180-19230).

USFWS are reclassifying the plant beach layia (Layia carnosa) from an endangered to a threatened species under the ESA, due to substantial improvements in the species' overall status since its original listing as endangered in 1992. This action is based on a thorough review of the best scientific and commercial data available, which indicates that beach layia no longer meets the definition of an endangered species under the Act. Beach layia will remain protected as a threatened species under the Act. They are also finalizing a rule under section 4(d) of the Act that provides for the conservation of beach layia. This rule is effective 2 May 2022. POC is Tanya Sommer, Field Supervisor, Arcata Fish and Wildlife Office, 1655 Heindon Rd., Arcata, CA 95521; tel: 707-822-7201. (Federal Register 31 March 2022 [Rule] Pages 18722-18739)