Search Results for keywords:"endangered species"

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service announced preparations for the 20th Conference of the Parties to the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES), set for November 2025 in Uzbekistan. They plan to propose amendments to the CITES Appendices, which list species needing protection, and are considering resolutions and agenda items based on public feedback. The notice invites public comments on potential proposals and explains how organizations can participate as observers. The Service is also considering various animal and plant species for protection, with a focus on ensuring trade practices do not threaten their survival.

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is asking for public comments on permit applications to conduct scientific research aimed at conserving endangered species. Under the Endangered Species Act, certain activities affecting endangered species are restricted unless a federal permit is granted. These permits may allow activities like capturing and collecting endangered species to help with their recovery and survival. The public can submit comments until February 12, 2025, and should refer to the permit application number when doing so.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (part of the Commerce Department) issued a correction for a notice about the critical habitat for the Beringia Distinct Population Segment of the bearded seal. In the original document published on January 8, 2021, they noted a date error. Specifically, on page 1433, the date "March 9, 2020," should be corrected to "March 9, 2021." This proposed rule appeared in the Federal Register under citation 86 FR 7242.

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has announced they have received applications for permits related to activities that help endangered or threatened species under the Endangered Species Act. They are asking for comments from the public and various agencies on these applications by February 22, 2021. These permits would allow certain activities for the scientific purpose of enhancing the propagation or survival of these species. All public comments, including those with personal information, may be made available publicly, so commenters should be aware of this when submitting feedback.

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has proposed a new rule to list the bleached sandhill skipper, an insect subspecies from Humboldt County, Nevada, as an endangered species under the Endangered Species Act. The listing is due to threats from climate change and groundwater pumping affecting its habitat. The agency invites public comments until March 10, 2025, and will conduct a public hearing if requested. The rule would extend protections to the species, although a critical habitat designation is not yet determined.

Puget Sound Energy, Inc. has proposed improvements for the Upper Baker Dam that involve reinforcing the spillway and removing debris to prevent flooding and enhance power generation. The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) plans to prepare an Environmental Assessment (EA) for this project while collaborating with environmental agencies like the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the National Marine Fisheries Service. A key environmental consideration addressed in these consultations is the impact of the project on endangered species and their habitats, as well as essential fish habitats, particularly for Pacific coast salmon. The EA is expected to be issued by March 2025, and FERC is encouraging public participation and providing resources for those interested in engaging with the process.

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service issued a 12-month finding regarding a petition to classify and remove the Northern Continental Divide Ecosystem (NCDE) grizzly bear population as a separate group from the endangered species list. After reviewing scientific data, they concluded that the NCDE grizzly bears do not qualify as a distinct population segment under the Endangered Species Act, which means they are not eligible for separate classification or delisting. The decision was based on the fact that the grizzly bear population in the area is growing and expanding its range, with bears moving beyond the proposed boundaries. Therefore, the action to establish and remove the NCDE group from protection is not warranted at this time.

SeaWorld LLC has applied for a permit to conduct research on a non-releasable beluga whale named Tyonek, from the endangered Cook Inlet population. The permit, under review by the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS), would allow studying the whale's behavior and providing care at SeaWorld of Texas. Tyonek, stranded as a baby and deemed non-releasable, will be part of educational programs to inform the public about the beluga’s endangered status. The permit request includes potential transport of Tyonek for socialization or care needs and is intended for a five-year period.

The National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS), part of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), has issued permits, amendments, and modifications under the Marine Mammal Protection Act and the Endangered Species Act. These permits cover activities that comply with existing environmental policies and do not harm endangered species. Further details about these permits can be accessed via email or by reviewing relevant Federal Register notices. The decisions were made based on environmental assessments and align with the legal requirements for protecting marine mammals and endangered species.

The document announces that final decisions have been made regarding the US 380 highway project in Texas by the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) and Federal agencies. These decisions include the issuance of licenses, permits, and approvals necessary for the project, which involves constructing a new 8- to 10-lane freeway with additional features. Any legal claims against these decisions must be made by June 12, 2025. The project has been evaluated under various federal environmental laws, ensuring compliance with regulations related to air quality, endangered species, water resources, and cultural sites.