Fish and Wildlife Service extends effective date from mid-March to the end of April
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is extending the effective date of a final rule that was published on January 15 of this year regarding the habitats of northeastern spotted owls. The rule will exclude “additional areas from the existing critical habitat designation for the northern spotted owl.“ The effective date, originally set for mid-March, has been delayed to the end of April. The areas to be excluded include counties in the states of Oregon, Washington, and California.
“Robust habitat protections are essential to the conservation of the northern spotted owl,” Fish and Wildlife Service Principal Deputy Director Martha Williams said. “We are taking another look at the recent revision to the owl’s critical habitat designation because there were substantial changes made between the proposed and final rules. We are seeking public comment to inform our decision on how to proceed.”
The extension of the effective date addresses concerns raised by the public and members of Congress that enough time had not been given for public notice or input.
As the Lord Leads, Pray with Us…
- For the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service as they steward the wild animals of the nation.
- For the Interior Department as they care for the public lands of the U.S.
Sources: FWS.gov
