The Service is asking for public input on how to improve conservation agreements and incidental take permitting
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is soliciting public input on ways to modify the rules involving the accidental killing or injuring of endangered and threatened species as well as regulations involving measures private landowners take to conserve these imperiled creatures.
Section 10(a) of the U.S. Endangered Species Act (ESA) deals with what happens to federally listed and at-risk species management on private and nonfederal lands. Subsections authorize the Service (USFWS) to issue permits that allow for “take”— the killing, injuring or removal—of listed species under specific circumstances. These include the take of organisms for scientific purposes or to enhance the propagation or survival of an affected species.
Section 10(a) tools play an important role in engaging private landowners in species recovery and proactive conservation. For example, Safe Harbor Agreements—a tool designed to help private landowners work with the USFWS for conservation—have helped landowners plant longleaf pine, conduct prescribed burns to maintain open forest structure in the U.S. Southeast; and install artificial nesting cavities that boost habitat for red-cockaded woodpeckers (Leuconotopicus borealis). These agreements ensure that landowners do not face additional restrictions on management activities if their conservation efforts boost woodpecker populations on their land.
The Service has specifically requested information on barriers preventing applicants from pursuing these methods, aiming to streamline permit implementation processes and the funding and resources to enhance voluntary conservation incentives. They are also interested in Service-user relations and have requested input on ways to enhance communications on 10(a) programs, specifically how to clarify the roles and responsibilities of the Service and applicants during conservation planning and permit issuance.
Interested parties, including wildlife professionals and private land conservation partners, have until July 9 to provide feedback to the USFWS.
