Search Results for keywords:"endangered species"

The National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) is extending the public comment period for a permit application from SeaWorld to conduct research on a non-releasable beluga whale from the endangered Cook Inlet population. This extension is due to additional information received from SeaWorld, which requires more time for review. The current permit allowing SeaWorld to hold the beluga whale is also proposed to be extended for six months. The new deadline for submitting comments is March 3, 2025.

The National Marine Fisheries Service has issued a permit to the Pacific Islands Fisheries Science Center to conduct research and activities aimed at helping the endangered Hawaiian monk seals. The activities will take place in the Hawaiian Archipelago and Johnston Atoll and will include health checks, tagging, and other conservation efforts to improve the seals' survival rates. The permit is valid until the end of 2029, and researchers will also study threats to the seals, explore solutions, and assess the effectiveness of their efforts. The permit also covers potential impacts on some dolphin species and allows for the collection and analysis of seal parts.

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has proposed to reclassify the rough popcornflower from "endangered" to "threatened" under the Endangered Species Act. This decision is based on scientific information indicating that while the species' condition has improved and it is not in immediate danger of extinction, it is still likely to become endangered in the foreseeable future. The proposal also includes regulations under section 4(d) of the Act aimed at conserving the species. The public can submit comments on this proposed rule by February 10, 2025.

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.

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.

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is seeking public comments on permit applications for activities aimed at recovering and enhancing the survival of endangered species. Under the Endangered Species Act, many activities that could affect endangered species are prohibited unless permitted by the federal government. The public has until February 18, 2021, to submit comments on these permit requests. These permits would allow activities such as capturing or collecting endangered animals or plants for scientific purposes that support their recovery or survival.

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.

NOAA is expanding the Flower Garden Banks National Marine Sanctuary by about 104 square miles, adding 14 new reefs and banks in the Gulf of Mexico. This expansion will bring the total sanctuary area to approximately 160.4 square miles, and existing regulations will apply to these new areas. The expansion aims to protect the unique marine biodiversity, including coral reefs and habitats for endangered species like sea turtles and whale sharks. This decision follows extensive public consultation and scientific research to enhance marine conservation while balancing oil, gas, and fishing interests.

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) is proposing an update to the description of the western North Pacific gray whale population under the Endangered Species Act (ESA) to reflect the latest scientific understanding. This update follows a 5-year review and a distinct population segment analysis, which found that the gray whales in this area should be managed as a single group, including those that migrate between the Western and Eastern North Pacific. The proposed changes update the official description without altering the endangered status of the whales. Public comments on this proposal are invited until January 13, 2025.