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The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is proposing changes to its existing information collection process related to special use permits for activities on national wildlife refuges. They plan to introduce a new, simplified application form (Form 3-1383-EZ) to reduce the burden on applicants involved in non-economic activities. In addition, they are updating other forms to include more relevant activity options and improve the wording for clarity. Public comments on these changes are invited until February 18, 2025.

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service announced a request for public comments on permit applications involving activities with endangered foreign species. The Endangered Species Act generally prohibits certain interactions with listed species unless a permit is granted, which is why public input is important before making any decisions. Various institutions and individuals have applied for permits for purposes like scientific research, species propagation, or importing/exporting specimens. The public can view and comment on these applications via the regulations.gov website until January 21, 2025.

The Department of the Interior, through the National Park Service, has officially nominated the Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge to be added to the prestigious World Heritage List. This process involves several steps, including a review of the refuge's unique natural features, such as its diverse ecosystems and rare species, which meet specific criteria for natural properties. The nomination is part of a broader effort to recognize U.S. sites that have significant environmental and cultural value. While being on the list does not impose any legal restrictions, it highlights the site's importance on an international level.

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is starting 5-year status reviews for 14 species, including 4 plant and 10 animal species, under the Endangered Species Act. They are asking for public input by March 4, 2025, to help update the reviews with the latest scientific and commercial information about these species, such as their population trends and habitat conditions. Interested parties can submit their contributions and consult with the specified contacts for more guidance. The process ensures that the conservation measures remain effective and relevant.

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is proposing changes to the boundaries of the John H. Chafee Coastal Barrier Resources System (CBRS) in Florida and South Carolina. This involves revising maps to add and remove certain areas based on their development status and suitability to be coastal barriers. The proposed changes will impact several counties, including the addition of new units and the adjustment of existing boundaries, and the public is invited to review and comment on these proposed modifications. Final recommendations will be submitted to Congress after considering public input and further evaluations.

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers plans to create a draft Environmental Impact Statement (DEIS) to study the effects of extending South Carolina Highway 22. This project aims to reduce traffic congestion, improve hurricane evacuation routes, and provide better access to services in Horry County, South Carolina. The DEIS will explore various alternatives, including taking no action, and assess the potential impact on the environment, wildlife, historical sites, and local communities. Public input is encouraged, and more information is available on the project website, with the DEIS expected to be released in early 2027.

The Susquehanna River Basin Commission held a meeting on December 12, 2024, in Harrisburg, PA, where they approved applications for various water resource projects. These projects include water withdrawals and renewals for companies like Chesapeake Appalachia, L.L.C., and Coterra Energy Inc. Additionally, the Commission adopted a 2025 regulatory program fee schedule and approved a contribution to an abandoned mine drainage project. They also agreed to release a proposed general permit for public comment and reviewed actions on 16 regulatory program projects.

The Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council and the Atlantic States Marine Fisheries Commission are holding five public meetings to gather input on a new amendment focused on recreational fishing. This amendment aims to develop strategies for managing recreational fishing separately, such as through different data collection methods. The meetings will take place from February 25 to March 5, 2025, and will be accessible both online and in-person. Public comments are welcome until March 20, 2025, through various submission methods, including online, email, and mail.

The Department of the Air Force (DAF) intends to prepare an Environmental Assessment (EA) for constructing and operating two landing pads on Johnston Atoll. This is for testing the DAF's Rocket Cargo Vanguard program, aiming to transport materials globally through space quickly. The plan involves up to 10 landings per year for four years, with cooperation from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS). This remote and secure location was selected based on its ability to meet safety and operational requirements, and the assessment will evaluate potential impacts on local wildlife and environment.

The Kikuchi Center at Kaua'i Community College has completed an inventory under the Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act (NAGPRA). They found human remains and associated cultural items belonging to Native Hawaiian individuals, along with 15 funerary objects such as fish hooks and tools. These items are linked to specific Native Hawaiian sites, indicating a cultural connection with local tribes and organizations. Repatriation of these remains and objects can begin on or after January 13, 2025, following requests from recognized tribes or lineal descendants.