Search Results for agency_names:"Fish and Wildlife Service"

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) is proposing changes to streamline the process for granting rights-of-way on FWS-managed lands. The proposed rule aims to align FWS's processes with other bureaus by requiring a standard application form, allowing electronic submissions, introducing pre-application meetings, and offering flexible methods to determine fair market value. These changes are intended to reduce the time and costs for both applicants and FWS while ensuring compatibility with land management objectives and compliance with applicable laws.

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has finalized a rule specifying the scope of the Migratory Bird Treaty Act (MBTA). The rule clarifies that the MBTA's prohibitions on actions like pursuing, hunting, capturing, or killing migratory birds apply only to deliberate actions directed at these birds, their nests, or their eggs. It explains that the incidental harm or death of birds resulting from activities not aimed at them is not covered under this law. This decision aims to provide legal clarity and reduce regulatory uncertainty for industries and individuals.

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has issued an emergency permit allowing the import of up to 1,875 blood and tissue samples from endangered radiated tortoises (Geochelone radiata) from Madagascar. This permit was granted to the Wildlife Conservation Society due to an urgent situation affecting the health of these tortoises, which are held in captivity after being confiscated. The decision to waive the usual 30-day public notice period was made to help ensure the survival of the species, following conditions outlined in the Endangered Species Act.

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is proposing changes to rules about hunting migratory birds in Alaska, focusing on subsistence harvest regulations. This includes introducing permits for hunters from excluded areas, closing the harvesting of emperor goose eggs statewide due to population concerns, and providing clarity on certain boundaries and regulations to ensure compliance and proper management. The proposals aim to involve Native representatives in managing these rules and ensure the sustainability of bird populations while balancing subsistence needs.

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the National Marine Fisheries Service are proposing to remove the definition of "harm" from the Endangered Species Act regulations. This decision follows a Supreme Court ruling in Loper Bright Enterprises v. Raimondo that requires agency regulations to align with the best reading of the statute. The existing definition, which includes habitat modification, is seen as incompatible with the true meaning of "take" under the Act. Public comments on this proposed change are welcomed until May 19, 2025.

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has received a request for an updated permit to potentially affect endangered and threatened species during the Rooney Ranch Wind Repowering Project in Alameda County, CA. The updated permit will cover additional impacts and species. Public comments are invited on the permit application, conservation plan, and environmental assessment. The project includes measures to minimize and mitigate its impact on species like the California tiger salamander and San Joaquin kit fox.

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is proposing to classify the monarch butterfly as a threatened species under the Endangered Species Act. They aim to designate critical habitat areas, particularly in California, to protect these butterflies. Additionally, they plan to allow certain activities, like habitat restoration and conservation efforts, even if they might unintentionally harm some butterflies. Public comments on the proposal will be accepted until March 12, 2025, and informational meetings are scheduled to discuss the details further.

The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and the Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) announced the availability of the records of decision for a highway right-of-way project and an amended incidental take permit in Washington County, Utah. The project involves the Northern Corridor, which was previously challenged in court due to environmental concerns, including impacts on the Mojave desert tortoise. A settlement was reached, leading to further evaluation and public comment periods. The BLM has decided to terminate the highway right-of-way grant, while the FWS has amended the permit to allow incidental take of the desert tortoise without the highway construction, focusing on conservation of land within the Red Cliffs Desert Reserve.

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has received applications for permits to conduct scientific research on endangered or threatened species. These activities aim to help preserve and support the survival of these species under the Endangered Species Act. The agency is asking government agencies, tribes, and the public to submit comments on these applications by May 12, 2025. Comments received will become part of the public record, and while personal information can be requested to be withheld, it cannot be guaranteed.

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has decided not to list the spinytail crayfish as an endangered or threatened species. The agency reviewed scientific and commercial information and concluded that the species currently has a stable environment and sufficient habitat. Even though the spinytail crayfish is a narrow-range species in southern Mississippi, it faces no immediate threat of extinction, and its populations are resilient to possible future risks like climate change. The service encourages the public to provide any new information about the crayfish's status or habitat.