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)

USFWS are reclassifying the humpback chub (Gila cypha) from endangered to threatened under the ESA, due to substantial improvements in the species' overall status since its original listing as endangered in 1974. This action is based on a thorough review of the best available scientific and commercial information available, which indicates that the humpback chub no longer meets the definition of an endangered species under the Act. The humpback chub 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 the humpback chub. This rule is effective 17 November 2021. POC is Tom Chart, Director, tele: 303-236-9885. (Federal Register 18 October 2021 [Rule] Pages 57588-57610)

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

USFWS 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)

USFWS proposes to reclassify (downlist) Furbish's lousewort (Pedicularis furbishiae) from an endangered species to a threatened species under the ESA. 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 Act. They request information and comments from the public on this proposal. They will accept comments received or postmarked on or before 16 March 2021. POC is Project Leader, Maine Ecological Services Field Office, 306 Hatchery Road, East Orland, ME 04431; tel: 207-902-1567. (Federal Register: 15 January 2021 [Proposed Rule] Pages 3976-3986).

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)

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

USFWS reclassified the golden conure (Gauruba guarouba) under the ESA, from endangered to threatened on the Federal List of Endangered and Threatened Wildlife. The determination is based on a thorough review of the best available scientific and commercial information, which indicates that the golden conure no longer meets the definition of an endangered species, but is likely to become an endangered species within the foreseeable future throughout all or a significant portion of its range. Additionally, this final rule updates the List to reflect the latest scientifically accepted taxonomy and nomenclature for the species as Guaruba guarouba, golden conure. This rule is effective 26 May 2020. POC is Don Morgan, Chief, Branch of Delisting and Foreign Species, Ecological Services, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, MS: ES, 5275 Leesburg Pike, Falls Church, VA 22041-3803; tel: 703-358-2444. (Federal Register 23 April 2020 [Rule] pages 22653-22663).

USFWS is reopening the public comment periods on two proposed rules to allow all interested parties additional time to comment, and to conduct a public hearing. The two relevant proposed rules are date 30 September 2020, a proposed rule to reclassify the endangered Virgin Islands tree boa (Chilabothrus granti) as a threatened species with a rule issued under section 4(d) of the ESA; and the 21 October 2020, proposed rule to reclassify the endangered plant Eugenia woodburyana (no common name) as a threatened species with a rule issued under section 4(d) of the ESA. Comments previously submitted need not be resubmitted and will be fully considered in preparation of the final rules. The comment periods for the proposed rules published on September 30, 2020, at 85 FR 61700, and October 21, 2020, at 85 FR 66906, are reopened. We will accept comments received or postmarked on or before 26 May 2021. POC is Edwin E. Muñiz, Field Supervisor, USFWS, Caribbean Ecological Services Field Office, at either: Road 301 Km 5.1, Corozo Ward, Boquerón, PR 00622; or P.O. Box 491, Boquerón, PR 00622. Tel: 787-405-3641. (Federal Register: 26 April 2021 [Rule] pages 22005-22006).

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)

Recommendation 30 of EPA's Superfund Task Force Report directed EPA to develop Federal facilities language for placing Federal Facility Agreement (FFA) provisions on hold in instances where a third partywants to do the work. This Recommendation is also part of the Report's Goal 3 of "Encouraging Private Investment." To encourage reuse and redevelopment, either of these two FFA amendments could be used as a starting point for negotiations with the applicableFederal agency. EPA developed these amendments taking into account Federal agency and state comments.

Recommendation 30 of EPA's Superfund Task Force Report directed EPA to develop Federal facilities language for placing Federal Facility Agreement (FFA) provisions on hold in instances where a third partywants to do the work. This Recommendation is also part of the Report's Goal 3 of "Encouraging Private Investment." To encourage reuse and redevelopment, either of these two FFA amendments could be used as a starting point for negotiations with the applicableFederal agency. EPA developed these amendments taking into account Federal agency and state comments.

This report summarizes the EPA research findings on the best practices for building roadside vegetative barriers to improve air quality.

The Recommendations of Specifications, Standards, and Ecolabels ("Recommendations") help federal purchasers identify and procure environmentally preferable products and services. Federal purchasers are directed in Executive Order 14057 on Catalyzing American Clean Energy Industries and Jobs through Federal Sustainability and the Federal Sustainability Plan to procure products and services meeting the Recommendations to meet net-zero emissions and other procurement goals.

This document, dated 5 April 2010, provides recommendations meant to improve Federal agency sustainability performance by promoting more effectively balanced decisions on new facility locations and more effective space utilization in existing locations. This document fulfills the direction of Section 10 in EO 13514 to provide the Council on Environmental Quality (CEQ) Chair with recommendations regarding sustainable location strategies for consideration in agency Sustainability Plans. The document was jointly developed by the following: DOT, HUD, EPA, GSA, DHS, and DOD. Information on submitting comments is included in the document.

Issued by OSWER 13 September 2011, this guidance supplements OSWER's 2001 Comprehensive Five-Year Review Guidance and provides recommendations for conducting five-year reviews for the IC component of remedies in a manner similar to the review of engineering or other remedy components. This document is designed primarily for U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Remedial Project Managers.

Based on the Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA's) reconsideration of the air quality criteria and the national ambient air quality standards (NAAQS) for particulate matter (PM), the EPA is revising the primary annual PM2.5 standard by lowering the level from 12.0 µg/m3 to 9.0 µg/m3. The Agency is retaining the current primary 24-hour PM2.5 standard and the primary 24-hour PM10 standard. The Agency also is not changing the secondary 24-hour PM2.5 standard, secondary annual PM2.5 standard, and secondary 24-hour PM10 standard at this time. The EPA is also finalizing revisions to other key aspects related to the PM NAAQS, including revisions to the Air Quality Index (AQI) and monitoring requirements for the PM NAAQS. This final rule is effective 6 May 2024. POC is Dr. Lars Perlmutt, Health and Environmental Impacts Division, Office of Air Quality Planning and Standards, U.S. EPA, Mail Code C539–04, Research Triangle Park, NC 27711; tele: (919) 541–3037; email: perlmutt.lars@epa.gov. (Federal Register 6 March 2024 [Rule] Pages 16202-16406)

This system contains full-text Records of Decision (RODs), ROD Abstracts, ROD Amendments (AMDs) and Explanations of Significant Differences (ESDs). Using RODS, you can search by state, site name or EPA ID for specific ROD documents, or by keyword (such as a contaminant or remediation type) across all ROD documents. A ROD provides the justification for the remedial action (treatment) chosen at a Superfund site. It also contains site history, site description, site characteristics, community participation, enforcement activities, past and present activities, contaminated media, the contaminants present, scope and role of response action and the remedy selected for cleanup.

EPA's Office of Brownfields and Land Revitalization (OBLR) plans to make available approximately $40 million in Recovery Act funding to supplement Revolving Loan Fund capitalization grants previously awarded competitively under section 104(k)(3) of CERCLA, 42 U.S.C. 9604(k)(3). This action is effective April 10, 2009.

This website provides technical assistance for restoration programs to help them consider where to invest their efforts for greater likelihood of success, based on the traits of their own geographic area's environment and communities. There are three main website components. Step-by-step instructions in recovery potential screening provide watershed managers with a methodology for comparing restorability differences among their waters. The steps in the methodology link to several online tools and resources that are used in recovery potential screening. A library of recovery potential indicators offers technical information on specific recovery-related factors (ecological, stressor, and social), how they influence restorability, and how to measure them.

EPA designated landscaping products such as mulch, hoses, and edging under the Comprehensive Procurement Guideline (CPG) program to promote the use of materials recovered from municipal solid waste (MSW). Recycled-content recommendations for each item are listed on the website.

This center conducts research and outreach on environmental and material properties of recycled materials and catalyzes their wise and appropriate use in the marketplace.

This site is a showcase for recycle-content products. RecycleStore showcases innovative recycled-content products and puts you in touch directly with their manufacturers.

EPA's Headquarters maintains a standardized recycling collection program for its 8,500 employees located in more than 10 buildings in the Washington, DC metropolitan area. EPA's manual covers all of the details involved in maintaining a consistent and comprehensive office recycling program, and can serve as a model for other agencies.

The USFWS recently proposed to change the status of the red-cockaded woodpecker from "endangered" to "threatened." The Service also proposed a "4(d) rule" – new regulations that will govern how landowners can manage their forests when this species is present. In this webinar, the General Counsel & Director of Regulatory Affairs at Forest Landowners Association will provide an overview of the USFWS proposal, an analysis of how it affects forest landowners, a summary of the key issues.

The Source Water Collaborative is hosting a free informational webinar entitled Redefining "Disadvantaged Communities" in a New Water Infrastructure Era. This webinar will share what clean water advocates can do to help states achieve the most equitable process possible for source water protection in their programs and the role public participation requirements had in modifying their definitions of a "disadvantaged community". In addition, the webinar will cover how states have ensured their definitions bring about the most equitable outcome possible and challenges states have had in implementing the funding.

U.S. EPA and the U.S. Botanic Garden 9-minute on-line video, that highlights green techniques such as rain gardens, green roofs and rain barrels to help manage stormwater runoff. The film showcases green techniques that are being used in urban areas to reduce the effects of stormwater runoff on the quality of downstream receiving waters. The goal is to mimic the natural way water moves through an area before development by using design techniques that infiltrate, evaporate, and reuse runoff close to its source.

Developed by The Nature Conservancy's California Program, this report evaluates nine green infrastructure case studies in California and makes a case for conservation as an effective tool to reduce risks of a changing climate. Each case study improves flood or coastal protection, provides habitat and preserves or restores the natural dynamics between water and land. The report reviews the available data on the costs and benefits of each case and, where possible, compares this information with the costs and benefits of a gray alternative at the same site.

Reducing utility costs for your facility doesn't have to involve major retrofits or renovations. Significant water and cost savings can be achieved with small changes to operation and maintenance procedures and changes to user behavior. Learn about no- and low-cost solutions that can be implemented to start saving water in buildings right away, without the need for costly capital improvements.

Recordings of the lower carbon construction materials webinars are now available on the EPA website. The webinars covered topics related to new programs made possible by a $350 million investment from the Inflation Reduction Act such as a new carbon labelling program for construction materials and products, how to improve data on embodied greenhouse gas emissions and new programs to help businesses calculate and report these emissions.

Learn about EPA's PFAS Strategic Roadmap and how EPA's Pollution Prevention program is harnessing the power of EPA Recommended standards and ecolabels to incentivize addressing PFAS in products and procurement. Additionally, hear from state agencies about how they are identifying PFAS in products and alternatives. Pollution Prevention Grantees will also share about their work reducing PFAS in products and manufacturing.

This newly issued report (January 2008) contains 17 case studies from across North America that show the economic viability of LID practices. Using these practices in construction projects can lower costs while improving environmental results. The report highlights examples that, in most cases, reduce project costs while improving environmental performance. Total capital savings ranged from 15 to 80 percent, with a few exceptions in which LID project costs were higher than conventional stormwater management costs. As LID practices become more common, it is likely that they will become cheaper to use.

This EPA website provides waste reduction tips for home, work, travel, in your community, and during holidays and events.

Coral reefs provide the ecological foundation for productive and diverse fish and invertebrate communities. Yet, reefs continue to be threatened by human activities. It is often difficult to predict the indirect consequences and benefits of decisions. There is a need for a decision framework which integrates environmental concerns with social and economic needs. EPA scientists have developed the ReefLink Database utilizing a systems approach to do just that. The database employs the Driver-Pressure-State-Impact-Response (DPSIR) framework as one approach that can assist in the decision making process.

In this final action, the EPA is amending its reformulated gasoline (RFG) regulations to reflect the reclassification of several ozone nonattainment areas as Severe for the 2008 ozone national ambient air quality standard (NAAQS). The subject areas are the Dallas-Fort Worth, TX area (Dallas), the Denver-Boulder-Greeley-Fort Collins-Loveland, CO area (Denver), and the Eastern Kern County, CA area (Eastern Kern). The reclassification of the Dallas and Denver areas as Severe for the 2008 ozone NAAQS was effective on November 7, 2022, and results in the prohibition of the sale of conventional gasoline throughout the entire nonattainment area under the Clean Air Act (CAA) on 7 November 2023. Similarly, the reclassification of the Eastern Kern area was effective on 7 July 2021, and the Federal RFG requirement applied to the area on 7 July 2022. This final rule is effective 13 November 2023. POC is Mark Coryell, Office of Transportation and Air Quality, EPA, 2000 Traverwood, Ann Arbor, MI 48105; email: coryell.mark@epa.gov. (Federal Register 12 October 2023 [Rule] Pages 70602-70605)

EPA requires that persons servicing, disposing, or recycling air-conditioning (other than motor vehicle air conditioning) and refrigeration equipment certify to the appropriate EPA Regional Office that they have acquired (built, bought, or leased) refrigerant recovery or recycling equipment and that they are complying with the applicable requirements of this rule. This certification must be signed by the owner of the equipment or another responsible officer and sent to the appropriate EPA Regional Office. Although owners of recycling and recovery equipment are required to list the number of trucks based at their shops, they do not need to have a piece of recycling or recovery equipment for every truck. Owners do not have to send in a new form each time they add recycling or recovery equipment to their inventory.

A United States Government website produced by the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) and the General Services Administration (GSA). This site provides access to the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR), The Federal Register, the e-CFR (a prototype of a daily updated version of the CFR), the system where you can comment on proposed regulations, and a discussion on how the rulemaking process works

Each April, EPA Region 2 honors individuals and organizations who have significantly improved the environment in New Jersey, New York, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. One of the award categories is Federal, State, Local or Tribal Government or Agency, Nominations are due February 22, 2010.

EPA Region 7 awards program website.

Seminar was held on June 10, 2008 in Region I. The related documents provide the seminar agenda and various presentations.

Within each EPA Region, the Regional Administrator has designated Regional Asbestos Coordinators and National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants (NESHAPs) Asbestos Coordinators to oversee the Asbestos efforts within the Region. EPA is also providing a list of State Asbestos Contacts for the convenience of our users.

REED, a project of Northeast Energy Efficiency Partnerships, allows users to generate reports and download underlying data showing the impacts of ratepayer-funded energy efficiency programs in Connecticut, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New York, Rhode Island, and Vermont. REED will help inform a broad range of policy issues, including energy, economic, and air quality planning, and help demonstrate the long-term, money-saving benefits of energy efficiency investments. The database currently includes 2011 electric and gas energy efficiency program data and will expand this fall to include 2012 data from Delaware and the District of Columbia, as well as the states currently in the database.

This is a mandatory, market-based effort in the United States to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Ten Northeastern and Mid-Atlantic states will cap and then reduce CO2 emissions from the power sector 10% by 2018.

The American Association for the Advancement of Science's Center for Scientific Evidence in Public Issues (AAAS EPI Center), the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Office of Water (EPA OW), and the White House is hosting a webinar in a series that highlights regional examples of green infrastructure and nature-based solutions. In this event, speakers will discuss their work across the Northwest to plan and implement unique green infrastructure and nature-based solutions.

The RSL website is the source of screening levels for all the EPA regions. The RSL tables provide comparison values for residential and commercial/industrial exposures to soil, air, and tapwater (drinking water). Here you will find tables of risk-based screening levels, calculated using the latest toxicity values, default exposure assumptions and physical and chemical properties, and a calculator where default parameters can be changed to reflect site-specific risks.

Join the EPA for a webinar on the Agency's proposal to ban all consumer uses and many industrial and commercial uses of perchloroethylene (PCE), a majority of which would be fully implemented in 24 months after the rule is finalized, except for dry cleaning which would be subject to a 10-year phaseout with compliance dates depending on the type of machine in which PCE is used. For uses in industrial manufacturing, industrial processing, and certain commercial uses important for national security, aviation, and other critical infrastructure that EPA is not proposing to prohibit, EPA is proposing a workplace chemical protection program with strict exposure limits and workplace controls for laboratory use to better protect workers. This webinar will be useful for anyone looking for an overview of the proposed regulatory action or to provide input on the proposed program, including industry groups, nonprofit organizations, Tribes, and other stakeholders. EPA is particularly looking for participation from employers and workers who can give perspective on the feasibility and efficacy of the proposed requirement for worker protections.

Also known as the Battle of the Buildings, this is a national competition among commercial buildings to save energy and water, and fight climate change. Competitors will work off the waste through improvements in energy and water efficiency with help from EPA's ENERGY STAR program. Applications will be accepted through May 16, 2014

On Friday, September 27, 2013, the United Soybean Board will be hosting a Biobased Products Stakeholder's Workshop in New York City. Come, learn, and participate. Join federal, state, local and other government staff, industry, and farmers at the USB-sponsored workshop, "Country & City Connect for Sustainability: Bringing the Benefits of Biobased to the New York Region." There is no charge to attend, but registration is required and space is limited.

Offered by the National Registry of Environmental Professionals (NREP), This workshop is intended to provide professionals with classroom style instruction to prepare for the REM examination. The examination will be administered on the second day of the two (2) day workshop. Attendees must purchase the REM Printed Study Guide at least two weeks prior to the workshop. Attendees are responsible for bringing their guide with them to the workshop location.

Registration is now open for FEMP 50, a special two-day celebration organized by the Federal Energy Management Program (FEMP) to commemorate 50 years of federal energy management. FEMP invite you to join them for a virtual training session on 12 and 13 September 2023. FEMP 50 is an opportunity for all energy and water management enthusiasts to come together, learn, collaborate, and celebrate the remarkable achievements made in the realm of federal energy management over the past five decades. This event will feature engaging training sessions, insightful discussions, and the chance to interact with leaders from the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) and FEMP.

USFWS amended portions of their regulations that implement section 4 of the ESA. The revisions set forth a process for excluding areas of critical habitat under section 4(b)(2) of the Act, which mandates their consideration of the impacts of designating critical habitat and permits exclusions of particular areas following a discretionary exclusion analysis. These regulations outline when and how the Service will undertake an exclusion analysis, including identifying a non-exhaustive list of categories of potential impacts that they will consider. This rule, reflects agency experience, codifies some current agency practices, makes some modifications to current agency practice, and responds to applicable Supreme Court case law. The intended effect of this rule is to provide greater transparency and certainty for the public and stakeholders. This final regulation is effective on 19 January 2021. POC is Gary Frazer, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Department of the Interior, Washington, DC 20240, tel: 202/208-4646. (Federal Register 18 December 2020 [Rule] Pages 82376-82389)

USFWS and NMFS, added a definition of "habitat" to their regulations that implement section 4 of the ESA. This rulemaking responds to Supreme Court case law regarding the designation of critical habitat and provides transparency, clarity, and consistency for stakeholders. This final regulation is effective on 15 January 2021. POCs are Gary Frazer, USFWS, Department of the Interior, Washington, DC 20240, tel: (202) 208-4646; or Samuel D. Rauch, III, NMFS, Office of Protected Resources, 1315 East-West Highway, Silver Spring, MD 20910, tel: (301) 427-8403. (Federal Register 16 December 2020 [Rule] Pages 81411-81421)

UFWS define the scope of the Migratory Bird Treaty Act (MBTA) as it applies to conduct resulting in the injury or death of migratory birds protected by the Act. USFWS determine that the MBTA's prohibitions on pursuing, hunting, taking, capturing, killing, or attempting to do the same, apply only to actions directed at migratory birds, their nests, or their eggs. This rule is effective 8 February 2021. POC is Jerome Ford, Assistant Director, Migratory Birds, tele: 202-208-1050. (Federal Register 1 January 2021 [Rule] Pages 1134-1165)

On 7 January 2021, FWS, published a final rule ("MBTA rule") defining the scope of the MBTA as it applies to conduct resulting in the injury or death of migratory birds protected by the MBTA. FWS are delaying the MBTA rule's effective date until 8 March 2021, in conformity with the Congressional Review Act (CRA). They request public comments to inform our review of this final rule and to determine whether the further extension of the effective date is necessary. As of 5 February 2021, the effective date of the rule that published on 7 January 2021, at 86 FR 1134, is delayed until 8 March 2021. POC is Jerome Ford, Assistant Director, Migratory Birds, at 202-208-1050. (Federal Register: 9 February 2021 [Rule] Pages 8715-8717)

On 7 January 2021, the USFWS, published a final rule (January 7 rule) defining the scope of the Migratory Bird Treaty Act (MBTA) as it applies to conduct resulting in the injury or death of migratory birds protected by the MBTA. They now revoke that rule for the reasons set forth below. The immediate effect of this final rule is to return to implementing the MBTA as prohibiting incidental take and applying enforcement discretion, consistent with judicial precedent and longstanding agency practice prior to 2017. This rule is effective 3 December 2021. POC is Jerome Ford, Assistant Director, Migratory Birds, at 202-208-1050. (Federal Register 4 October 2021 [Rule] Pages 54642-54656)

CEQ issued this final rule to update its regulations for Federal agencies to implement the NEPA. CEQ has not comprehensively updated its regulations since their promulgation in 1978, more than four decades ago. This final rule comprehensively updates, modernizes, and clarifies the regulations to facilitate more efficient, effective, and timely NEPA reviews by Federal agencies in connection with proposals for agency action. The rule will improve interagency coordination in the environmental review process, promote earlier public involvement, increase transparency, and enhance the participation of States, Tribes, and localities. The amendments will advance the original goals of the CEQ regulations to reduce paperwork and delays, and promote better decisions consistent with the national environmental policy set forth in section 101 of NEPA. This is a major rule subject to congressional review. The effective date is 14 September 2020. POC is Viktoria Z. Seale, Chief of Staff and General Counsel, 202-395-5750, NEPA-Update@ceq.eop.gov. (Federal Register: 16 July 2020 [Rule] pages 43304-43376)

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)

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

EPA is proposing to amend the General Provisions for National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants (NESHAP) to address applicability and compliance issues resulting from the addition of a compound to the list of hazardous air pollutants (HAP) under the Clean Air Act (CAA). This action focuses on issues related to newly applicable standards for sources that become major sources solely from the addition of a compound to the CAA HAP list. This action also includes a discussion of the impacts of a newly listed HAP on the federal operating permit program. Comments must be received on or before 13 November 2023. POC is Susan Miller, Mail Drop: D205–02, 109 T.W. Alexander Drive, P.O. Box 12055, RTP, North Carolina 27711; telephone number: (919) 541–2443; email: miller.susan@epa.gov. (Federal Register 13 September 2023 [Proposed Rule] Pages 62711-62725)

FedCenter has added "Ports and Harbors" to its Facility Regulatory Tour, outlining the regulatory requirements that pertain to a variety of activities which take place in and around ports and harbors throughout the United States that impact the environment.

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.

This course focuses on aspects of the RD/RA phase of a Superfund project and the objectives, issues and challenges that Remedial Project Managers (RPM) face during response planning and implementation.

The purpose of this EPA handbook is to provide Remedial Project Managers (RPMs) with an overview of the remedial design (RD) and remedial action (RA) processes. The handbook may be used by the entire range of RPMs from those who have had little experience with RD or RA projects to those who have managed several. It should be most useful for Federal-lead sites where the Superfund Trust Fund is used to finance the RD or RA. The management principles outlined herein, however, apply generally to all lead sites. The RD/RA Handbook focuses on how an RPM can use project management principles to implement effectively a selected remedy in accordance with the Record of Decision (ROD). It is not a conventional engineering manual, but rather a general reference document for issues that arise during the RD/RA process. This is EPA publication EPA 540/R-95/059.

Offered by the Interstate Technology and Regulatory Coucil (ITRC), this guidance presents a recommended process for remediation management at complex sites, termed "adaptive site management." The adaptive site management process is presented in a flow chart and each step is described in detail. This guidance incorporates and refers to best management practices, tools, and technologies described in previous publications by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA), Department of Defense (DOD), ITRC, and others. The guidance also includes numerous case studies that describe real-world applications of remediation and remediation management at complex sites. A team of state and federal environmental regulators, federal agency representatives, industry experts, community stakeholders, and academia developed the guidance document.

The focus of this site is assisting the government remedial project managers (RPMs) in the evaluation process and to enhance technology transfer among Federal agencies. The site allows the RPM to pursue questions based on contamination problems as well as specific technology issues depending on their need.

This factsheet, published by the Federal Remediation Technologies Roundtable (FRTR), identifies and summarizes selected reports prepared by federal and state agencies to assist project managers in selecting and designing remediation technologies. Remediation Technology Assessment Reports are based on practical field experience with either specific technologies (such as permeable reactive barriers) or, in a few instances, specific contaminants (such as arsenic). As of February 2006, the Web site provides access to 70 of these reports.

This web site provides information about remediation technology demonstration projects.

Please join The White House Council on Environmental Quality and George Washington University (GW) for the 2015 GreenGov Symposium on June 10th in GW's Jack Morton Auditorium.

The 2015 GreenGov Symposium will bring together public and private sector leaders in policy, energy management, acquisitions and other areas important to sustainability to discuss strategies for achieving the goals articulated in the new Executive Order, "Planning for Federal Sustainability in the Next Decade," signed by President Obama on March 19, 2015. For those who cannot attend in-person, the symposium will be livestreamed and listeners will have opportunities to submit questions and comments online.

The 2015 GreenGov Symposium is a free, one-day event that will feature innovative thought leaders who will share ideas and strategies for achieving energy efficiency, clean energy targets, waste reduction, sustainable supply chains, greener fleets, and water reduction. Speakers include EPA Administrator Gina McCarthy, White House Council on Environmental Quality Managing Director Christy Goldfuss, and a slew of expert panelists.

CLOSES FRIDAY MAY 3! The Federal sustainability community is cordially invited to attend the 2019 Federal Environmental Symposium, October 30-31, 2019, hosted by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) at the Natcher Center campus in Bethesda, MD. This year's theme is Federal Agencies Leading Environmental Change, for the purpose of sharing best practices, success stories, partnerships, and challenges and achievements of the federal practitioner community. The event schedule, registration dates, call for presentation abstracts (closes Friday, May 3rd), and continuous updates to the event can be found on the conference website.

The date for the 2019 Federal Environmental Symposium has moved to October 30-31, 2019 so that federal employees can attend both the August 20-22, 2019 Energy Exchange and the 2019 Federal Environmental Symposium. Federal employees and sponsored contractors are invited to attend the Symposium, to be held at the Natcher Conference Center, NIH Bethesda Campus on October 30-31, 2019. The theme of the event will be Federal Facilities Leading Environmental Change, and it will bring together federal staff and their contractors to discuss environmental regulations, success and challenges. The event is FREE so mark your calendar and stay tuned to FedCenter for more information in the coming weeks! See attached flyer.

This memo communicates EPA's policy to allow generators, transporters, and receiving facilities to execute electronic signatures through system-to-system communication for their non-registered employees and contractors via registered users who are remotely located from the hazardous waste shipment.

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

USFWS 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)

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)

USFWS are removing Lepanthes eltoroensis (no common name), an orchid species from Puerto Rico, from the Federal List of Endangered and Threatened Plants, due to recovery. This determination 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 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 16 July 2021. POC is Edwin Muñiz, Field Supervisor, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Caribbean Ecological Services Field Office. (Federal Register 16 June 2021 [Rule] Pages 31972-31986)

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

NMFS is issuing a final rule to remove a coral, Siderastrea glynni , from the Federal List of Threatened and Endangered Species. Recently obtained genetic and morphological information demonstrates that S. glynni does not meet the statutory definition of a species, and therefore does not qualify for listing under the ESA. Following public comment and peer review of the proposed rule and supporting scientific information, this final rule implements the changes to the listing for S. glynni. This final rule is effective on 31 January 2022. POC is Adrienne Lohe, NMFS Office of Protected Resources, email: Adrienne.Lohe@noaa.gov, tel: (301) 427-8442. (Federal Register 30 December 2021 [Rule] Pages 74378-74380).

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 proposes to remove the dwarf-flowered heartleaf (Hexastylis naniflora), a plant endemic to the upper Piedmont region of western North Carolina and upstate South Carolina, 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, which indicate 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, and does not meet the definition of an endangered species, under the ESA. They also announce the availability of a draft post-delisting monitoring (PDM) plan for the dwarf-flowered heartleaf. USFWS seek information, data, and comments from the public regarding this proposal to delist this species and on the draft PDM plan. USFWS will accept comments received or postmarked on or before 25 June 2021. POC is Janet Mizzi, Field Supervisor, USFWS, Asheville Ecological Services Field Office, 160 Zillicoa St., Asheville, NC 28801; telephone 828-258-3939. (Federal Register: 26 April 2021 [Rule] pages 21994-22005).

USFWS are removing the inland population of the least tern (Interior least tern) (Sterna (now Sternula) antillarum), 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 indicates that the Interior least tern has recovered and the threats to the Interior least tern have been eliminated or reduced to the point that the species no longer meets the definition of an endangered species or threatened species under ESA. Accordingly, the prohibitions and protections provided by the Act will no longer apply to the Interior least tern. This rule is effective 12 February 2021. Stephen Ricks, Field Supervisor, USFWS, Mississippi Ecological Services Field Office, 6578 Dogwood View Parkway, Jackson, MS 39213; tel (601) 321-1122. (Federal Register: 13 January 2021 [Rule] Pages 2564-2581)

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)

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).

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 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)

EPA is removing the "emergency" affirmative defense provisions from the EPA's title V operating permit program regulations. These provisions established an affirmative defense that sources could have asserted in enforcement cases brought for noncompliance with technology-based emission limitations in operating permits, provided that the exceedances occurred due to qualifying emergency circumstances. These provisions are being removed because they are inconsistent with the EPA's interpretation of the enforcement structure of the CAA in light of prior court decisions from the U.S. Court of Appeals for the D.C. Circuit. Through this document, the EPA is also providing guidance on the implementation process resulting from the removal of the emergency affirmative defense provisions from the EPA's regulations, including the need for some state, local, and tribal permitting authorities to submit program revisions to the EPA to remove similar title V affirmative defense provisions from their EPA-approved title V programs, and to remove similar provisions from individual operating permits. This final rule is effective on 21 August 2023. POC is Corey Sugerik, Office of Air Quality Planning and Standards, Air Quality Policy Division (C504–05), EPA tele (919) 541–3223; email sugerik.corey@epa.gov.(Federal Register 21 July 2023 [Final Rule] Page 47029-47054)

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 are removing Cumberland sandwort (Arenaria cumberlandensis) 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, which indicate that Cumberland sandwort has recovered and no longer meets the definition of an endangered or a threatened species under the ESA. The review shows that threats to the species identified at the time of listing (i.e., timber harvesting, trampling from recreational uses, and digging for archaeological artifacts) have been reduced to the point that they no longer pose a threat to the species, and the known range and abundance of Cumberland sandwort have increased. Their review also indicates that potential effects of projected climate change are not expected to cause the species to become endangered in the foreseeable future. Accordingly, the prohibitions and conservation measures provided by the Act will no longer apply to this species. This rule is effective 15 September 2021. POC is Daniel Elbert, Field Supervisor, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Tennessee Ecological Services Field Office, 446 Neal Street, Cookeville, TN 38501; tele (931) 528-6481. (Federal Register 16 August 2021 [Rule] Pages 45685-45698).

USFWS removed Bradshaw's lomatium (Lomatium bradshawii, also known as Bradshaw's desert parsley), a plant found in western Oregon and southwestern Washington, from the Federal List of Endangered and Threatened Plants. Their review of the best available scientific and commercial data indicates that the threats to Bradshaw's lomatium 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 7 April 2021. Paul Henson, State Supervisor, USFWS, Oregon Fish and Wildlife Office, 2600 SE 98th Avenue, Suite 100, Portland, OR 97266; tel: 503-231-6179. (Federal Register: 8 March 2021 [Rule] pages 13200-13215)

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).

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

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

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

USFWS are removing San Benito evening-primrose (Camissonia benitensis), a plant native to California, from the Federal List of Endangered and Threatened Plants on the basis of 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 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 plant no longer meets the definition of an endangered or threatened species under the ESA. This rule is effective 7 March 2022. POC Stephen P. Henry, Field Supervisor, USFWS, Ventura Fish and Wildlife Office, 2493 Portola Road, Suite B, Ventura, CA 93003; by tele 805-644-1766. (Federal Register 3 February 2022 [Rule] Pages 6046-6063).