Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and Plants; Designation of Critical Habitat for Big Sandy Crayfish and Guyandotte River Crayfish, 14662-14719 [2022-04598]

Agencies

• Fish and Wildlife Service
• DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR

[Federal Register Volume 87, Number 50 (Tuesday, March 15, 2022)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 14662-14719]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2022-04598]



[[Page 14661]]

Vol. 87

Tuesday,

No. 50

March 15, 2022

Part III





Department of the Interior





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Fish and Wildlife Service





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50 CFR Part 17





Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and Plants; Designation of Critical 
Habitat for Big Sandy Crayfish and Guyandotte River Crayfish; Final 
Rule

Federal Register / Vol. 87 , No. 50 / Tuesday, March 15, 2022 / Rules 
and Regulations

[[Page 14662]]


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DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR

Fish and Wildlife Service

50 CFR Part 17

[Docket No. FWS-R5-ES-2019-0098; FF09E21000 FXES1111090FEDR 223]
RIN 1018-BE19


Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and Plants; Designation of 
Critical Habitat for Big Sandy Crayfish and Guyandotte River Crayfish

AGENCY: Fish and Wildlife Service, Interior.

ACTION: Final rule.

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SUMMARY: We, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service), designate 
critical habitat for the Big Sandy crayfish (Cambarus callainus) and 
Guyandotte River crayfish (C. veteranus) under the Endangered Species 
Act (Act). In total, approximately 717 stream kilometers (446 stream 
miles) in Kentucky, Virginia, and West Virginia fall within the 
boundaries of the critical habitat designation. The effect of this 
final rule is to designate critical habitat for the Big Sandy crayfish, 
which is a threatened species under the Act, and Guyandotte River 
crayfish, which is an endangered species under the Act.

DATES: This rule is effective April 14, 2022.

ADDRESSES: This final rule is available on the internet at https://www.regulations.gov in Docket No. FWS-R5-ES-2019-0098 or at https://www.fws.gov/northeast/ and at the West Virginia Ecological Services 
Field Office. Comments and materials we received, as well as some 
supporting documentation we used in preparing this rule, are available 
for public inspection in the docket at https://www.regulations.gov.
    The coordinates or plot points or both from which the maps are 
generated are included in the administrative record for this critical 
habitat designation and are available at https://www.regulations.gov at 
Docket No. FWS-R5-ES-2019-0098, at https://www.fws.gov/westvirginiafieldoffice/, and at the West Virginia Ecological 
Services Field Office (see FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT). Any 
additional tools or supporting information that we developed for this 
critical habitat designation will also be available at the U.S. Fish 
and Wildlife Service website and field office set out above, and may 
also be included in the preamble and at https://www.regulations.gov.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Jennifer L. Norris, Field Supervisor, 
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, West Virginia Ecological Services Field 
Office, 6263 Appalachian Highway, Davis, WV 26260; telephone 304-866-
3858; email [email protected]. Individuals in the United States who are 
deaf, deafblind, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability may dial 
711 (TTY, TDD, or TeleBraille) to access telecommunications relay 
services. Individuals outside the United States should use the relay 
services offered within their country to make international calls to 
the point-of-contact in the United States.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:

Executive Summary

    Why we need to publish a rule. This document is a final rule to 
designate critical habitat for the Big Sandy crayfish and Guyandotte 
River crayfish. Under the Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended 
(16 U.S.C. 1531 et seq.) (Act), any species that is determined to be an 
endangered or threatened species requires critical habitat to be 
designated, to the maximum extent prudent and determinable. 
Designations and revisions of critical habitat can be completed only by 
issuing a rule.
    We listed the Big Sandy crayfish as a threatened species and the 
Guyandotte River crayfish as an endangered species on April 7, 2016 (81 
FR 20450). On January 28, 2020, we published in the Federal Register a 
proposed critical habitat designation for the Big Sandy and Guyandotte 
River crayfishes (85 FR 5072).
    What this document does. This document is a final rule that 
designates critical habitat for the Big Sandy crayfish and the 
Guyandotte River crayfish. The critical habitat areas we are 
designating in this rule constitute our current best assessment of the 
areas that meet the definition of critical habitat for Big Sandy and 
Guyandotte River crayfishes. We are designating a total of 
approximately 717 stream kilometers (skm) (446 stream miles (smi)) of 
rivers and streams in Kentucky, Virginia, and West Virginia for the Big 
Sandy and Guyandotte River crayfishes.
    The basis for our action. Section 4(a)(3) of the Act requires the 
Secretary of the Interior (Secretary) to designate critical habitat 
concurrent with listing to the maximum extent prudent and determinable. 
Section 3(5)(A) of the Act defines critical habitat as (i) the specific 
areas within the geographical area occupied by the species, at the time 
it is listed, on which are found those physical or biological features 
(I) essential to the conservation of the species and (II) which may 
require special management considerations or protections; and (ii) 
specific areas outside the geographical area occupied by the species at 
the time it is listed, upon a determination by the Secretary that such 
areas are essential for the conservation of the species. Section 
4(b)(2) of the Act states that the Secretary must make the designation 
on the basis of the best scientific data available and after taking 
into consideration the economic impact, the impact on national 
security, and any other relevant impacts of specifying any particular 
area as critical habitat.
    Peer review and public comment. Our designation is based on the 
best scientific data available in the proposed and final listing rules 
(80 FR 18710, April 7, 2015, and 81 FR 20450, April 7, 2016, 
respectively) and proposed and final critical habitat designations (85 
FR 5072, January 28, 2020, and this rule, respectively). The proposed 
listing rule was peer-reviewed by four scientists with expertise in 
crayfish and their habitats, and we also considered all comments and 
information received from State and Federal resource agencies and the 
public in developing the final listing rule (81 FR 20450, April 7, 
2016). We solicited peer review for the proposed designation of 
critical habitat; however, none of the three species experts responded 
to our request. We considered all comments and information received 
from State and Federal resource agencies and the public during the 
comment period for the proposed designation of critical habitat. 
Information we received from public comment is incorporated in this 
final designation of critical habitat, as appropriate, or addressed 
below in Summary of Comments and Recommendations.

Previous Federal Actions

    We proposed the Big Sandy and Guyandotte River crayfishes for 
listing on April 7, 2015 (80 FR 18710), and finalized the listing on 
April 7, 2016 (81 FR 20450). As such, the Big Sandy crayfish is 
included as a threatened species and the Guyandotte River crayfish is 
included as an endangered species on the List of Endangered and 
Threatened Wildlife in title 50 of the Code of Federal Regulations at 
50 CFR 17.11(h). We also proposed to designate critical habitat for the 
Big Sandy and Guyandotte River crayfishes on January 28, 2020 (85 FR 
5072). For information on any actions prior to these rules, refer to 
the proposed listing rule (80 FR 18710, April 7, 2015).

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Summary of Changes From the Proposed Rule

    We have considered all comments and information received during the 
open comment period for the proposed designation of critical habitat 
for the Big Sandy and Guyandotte River crayfishes. In the Critical 
Habitat section of this document, we provide new or revised information 
and references on crayfish movement (e.g., upstream) and our revised 
screening analysis. Based on further review and an effort to clarify 
our descriptions of the physical and biological features (PBFs), we 
modified the PBF 1 by adding additional descriptive information about 
habitat quality. Critical habitat boundaries remain unchanged from the 
proposed critical habitat designation (85 FR 5072, January 28, 2020).

Summary of Comments and Recommendations

    We requested written comments from the public on the proposed 
designation of critical habitat for Big Sandy and Guyandotte River 
crayfishes (85 FR 5072) during a 60-day comment period that opened on 
January 28, 2020, and closed on March 30, 2020. A newspaper notice 
inviting general public comment was published in USA Today on February 
5, 2020. We did not receive any requests for a public hearing. We also 
contacted appropriate Federal, State, and local agencies; scientific 
organizations; and other interested parties and invited them to comment 
on the proposed rule and draft economic analysis during the comment 
period.
    We sought comments from three independent specialists to ensure 
that our designation was based on scientifically sound data, 
assumptions, and analyses. We received no comments from the peer 
reviewers. During the comment period, we received 45 comment submittals 
from organizations or individuals in response to the proposed critical 
habitat designation. Of these, 35 were nonsubstantive letters or form 
letters (submitted by 3 nongovernmental organizations [one organization 
packaged 3,401 subletters and another packaged 259 subletters]) in 
support of the proposed critical habitat designation. One of these 
letters, representing 23 nongovernmental organizations, summarized 
threats to the species and their habitats, consistent with the 
information provided in the proposed rule. Three letters provided 
detailed information regarding the species or its habitat in favor of 
additional critical habitat designation beyond what was proposed. One 
letter provided detailed water depth/elevation data for the proposed 
habitat. Five letters objected to the proposed designation of critical 
habitat for either or both of the species. All substantive information 
provided during the comment period has either been incorporated 
directly into this final determination or is addressed below.
    In addition, several letters also contained suggestions applicable 
to general recovery issues for the Big Sandy and Guyandotte River 
crayfishes, but not directly related to the critical habitat 
designation (i.e., meaning these comments are outside the scope of this 
critical habitat rule). These general comments included topics such as 
the role of crayfish in aquatic ecosystems and the importance of clean 
water, and the suggestion to seek information on crayfish restoration 
from commercial crayfish farmers. While these comments may not be 
directly incorporated into the critical habitat rule, we have noted the 
suggestions and look forward to working with our partners on these 
topics during recovery planning for the Big Sandy and Guyandotte River 
crayfishes.

Comments From Federal Agencies

    (1) Comment: The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (Corps) provided 
information on its operation of three multipurpose flood control dams 
and how those actions could potentially affect proposed critical 
habitat for the Big Sandy and Guyandotte River crayfishes. The Corps 
also provided a point of contact for more information on the operations 
of Corps reservoirs in the Guyandotte and Big Sandy basins.
    Our response: We look forward to working with the Corps to 
coordinate dam maintenance and operation activities while also 
promoting the conservation of the Guyandotte and Big Sandy crayfishes 
in the identified subunits.

Comments From States

    Section 4(i) of the Act states, ``the Secretary shall submit to the 
State agency a written justification for his failure to adopt 
regulations consistent with the agency's comments or petition.'' The 
Service received supportive comments from the West Virginia Division of 
Natural Resources (WVDNR). WVDNR stated that there is no benefit to 
exclusion of any of the proposed critical habitat areas. Further, WVDNR 
noted that current occupied areas do not provide sufficient resiliency, 
redundancy, or representation necessary to ensure persistence of the 
Guyandotte River crayfish and it supported the inclusion of Huff Creek, 
Indian Creek, and Guyandotte River as unoccupied critical habitat. 
Also, WVDNR recognized the importance of special management actions for 
Indian Creek as this stream is often dewatered (possibly due to 
anthropogenic causes).

Public Comments

    (1) Comment: Two commenters who have researched the Big Sandy and 
Guyandotte River crayfishes expressed support for the proposed critical 
habitat for both species, but they also recommended that we designate 
additional unoccupied critical habitat to support the conservation of 
the Guyandotte River crayfish. The commenters referred to two studies 
completed after we published the proposed critical habitat rule (85 FR 
5072, January 28, 2020). One study reported that individual Guyandotte 
River crayfish may have a tendency to move in an upstream direction and 
one study determined there is a high probability of detecting the 
species in certain headwater areas of the Guyandotte River (Sadecky 
2020, pp. 118-119 and Tidmore 2020, pp. 29-40). Both commenters 
hypothesized that crayfish in the occupied Pinnacle Creek subunit may 
move upstream in the Guyandotte River to occupy or reoccupy currently 
unoccupied streams, and one commenter recommended the addition of four 
specific tributary streams located upstream in the Guyandotte River be 
designated as unoccupied critical habitat: Barkers Creek, Devil's Fork, 
Winding Gulf, and Tommy Creek.
    One commenter stated that unoccupied reaches are needed to allow 
redistribution of the species, because Guyandotte River crayfish are 
present in only two streams of the proposed critical habitat (without 
this protection, delisting/recovery is improbable). The commenter also 
noted they had witnessed several spills in Guyandotte River crayfish 
habitat while conducting field research on the species.
    Our response: These researchers have provided additional 
information on the life history, behavior, habitat requirements, and 
potential stressors (e.g., climate change) affecting the Guyandotte 
River crayfish. Species' expansion into unoccupied streams would 
benefit their conservation. The new information confirms that 
individual crayfish move within stream reaches and that 59 percent of 
crayfish movements were in an upstream direction (Sadecky 2020, p. 
119). This study reported one male crayfish moved 620 m (2,034 ft) 
upstream during a 44-day study period (Sadecky 2020, pp. 118-119). As 
discussed in the proposed critical habitat rule, and affirmed by this

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new information, we considered the potential for crayfish movement by 
designating entire stream reaches between known occurrence locations as 
critical habitat unless available data indicated that these areas 
lacked PBFs. Additionally, the upstream terminus of most critical 
habitat units (typically a stream confluence) is located beyond the 
most upstream occurrence record of the species.
    For the unoccupied Guyandotte River critical habitat subunit (1c), 
which we determined was essential for providing connectivity between 
the occupied Pinnacle Creek and Clear Fork subunits (1a and 1b, 
respectively), the upstream limit is the Guyandotte River-Pinnacle 
Creek confluence (which marks the downstream terminus of subunit 1a). 
Therefore, a continuous reach of critical habitat extends from the 
upstream terminus of the Pinnacle Creek subunit (1a), through the 
Guyandotte River subunit (1c), to the upstream terminus of the Clear 
Fork-Laurel Fork subunit (1b), a distance of approximately 90 skm (56 
smi). Spatially arranging the critical habitat units in this manner 
facilitates crayfish movements consistent with PBF 6, which provides 
for ``an interconnected network of streams and rivers . . . that 
allow(s) for the movement of individual crayfish in response to 
environmental, physiological, or behavioral drivers.''
    We have reviewed information on the four specific streams 
recommended for additional unoccupied critical habitat. One of these 
streams, Barkers Creek, is located approximately 21 skm (13 smi) 
upstream of the Guyandotte River-Pinnacle Creek confluence, and the 
remaining three, Devil's Fork, Winding Gulf, and Tommy Creek (Stone 
Coal Creek), are located approximately 40 to 42 skm (25 to 26 smi) 
upstream of Pinnacle Creek. Of these, historical records of the 
Guyandotte River crayfish are available from only Barkers Creek (1947). 
In 2015, a total of 15 sites in these and other streams above Pinnacle 
Creek were surveyed, but the Guyandotte River crayfish was not detected 
(Loughman 2015b, pp. 4-5). Site assessment data from these surveys 
indicated the extent of suitable habitat in these headwater areas was 
limited and that habitat quality scores were generally lower than in 
streams where the species was present (Loughman 2015b, pp. 12-25). The 
commenter referenced a more recent habitat model (Tidmore 2020, pp. 29-
40), which determined there was a high probability of suitable habitat 
in some portions of these streams; however, 31 validation surveys 
associated with this study failed to locate the species outside of the 
streams already proposed as occupied critical habitat (although the 
report does not indicate how many of these validation surveys occurred 
in the 4 streams recommended as unoccupied critical habitat).
    Under the second prong of the Act's definition of critical habitat, 
we can designate critical habitat in areas outside of the geographical 
area occupied by the species at the time it is listed, upon a 
determination that such areas are essential for the conservation of the 
species. We acknowledge that some segments of these streams contain 
areas of suitable habitat as described in Tidmore (2020, pp. 29-40) and 
contain one or more of the PBFs required by the species, and we 
conclude that the best available information (e.g., aforementioned 
validation surveys) does not indicate that these areas are essential 
for the conservation of the species. While the most downstream stream 
(Barkers Creek) has a historical record of the species, we have no data 
indicating the species was historically present in the more distant 
upstream reaches or tributaries. Areas included in this final 
designation provides sufficient resiliency, redundancy, and 
representation to conserve the species.
    As discussed in the proposed rule, we determined that the two 
occupied critical habitat subunits (1a and 1b) are not sufficient to 
ensure the conservation of the Guyandotte River crayfish; therefore, we 
proposed three subunits (1c, 1d, and 1e) as unoccupied critical 
habitat. Four of the proposed critical habitat subunits (two occupied, 
two unoccupied; totaling approximately 106.6 skm (66.2 smi)) are 
connected to each other, while the fifth unit, Huff Creek (subunit 1e 
totaling 28.0 skm (17.4 smi)), provides for increased representation by 
increasing the species' ability to disperse and colonize new areas 
downstream of R.D. Bailey Dam, which fragments the range of the 
species. As discussed in the proposed rule, four of these subunits have 
records of the species, while the remaining subunit (Guyandotte River 
subunit 1c) provides important connectivity between the currently 
occupied subunits. As described in the proposed rule, successful 
conservation of the Guyandotte River crayfish will require the 
establishment of additional populations within the species' historical 
range; the three unoccupied subunits advance this goal. Each unoccupied 
subunit will contribute to the conservation of the species by 
furthering the preliminary recovery goals identified in the recovery 
outline of increasing the Guyandotte River crayfish's resiliency, 
redundancy, and representation and are essential for its conservation.
    The unoccupied critical habitat will provide increased redundancy 
in case of spills or other stochastic events. We also recognize the 
threat that spills and other stochastic and catastrophic events pose to 
the species and note special management may be needed to address these 
threats.
    After considering all of the above factors, we conclude areas 
included in this final designation provide sufficient resiliency, 
redundancy, and representation to conserve the species, and the four 
additional streams recommended by the commenters are not essential to 
the conservation of the Guyandotte River crayfish and therefore do not 
meet the definition of critical habitat.
    We recognize that habitat is dynamic, and species may move from one 
area to another over time. Therefore, critical habitat designated at a 
particular point in time may not include all of the habitat areas that 
we may later determine are necessary for the recovery of the species. 
For these reasons, a critical habitat designation does not signal that 
habitat outside the designated area is unimportant or may not be needed 
for the recovery of the species. Areas that are important for the 
conservation of the listed species, both inside and outside the 
critical habitat designation, will continue to be subject to: (1) 
Conservation actions implemented under section 7(a)(1) of the Act, (2) 
regulatory protections afforded by the requirement in section 7(a)(2) 
of the Act for Federal agencies to ensure their actions are not likely 
to jeopardize the continued existence of any endangered or threatened 
species, and (3) the prohibitions found in section 9 of the Act. These 
protections and conservation tools will continue to contribute to 
recovery of this species. Similarly, critical habitat designations made 
on the best available information at the time of designation will not 
control the direction and substance of future recovery plans, habitat 
conservation plans (HCPs), or other species conservation planning 
efforts if new information available at the time of these planning 
efforts indicates a different outcome. Therefore, if the species is 
found in the referenced areas during future surveys, they would be 
subject to the conservation measures described above. In addition, we 
may consider these areas during future recovery planning and/or 
conservation assessments.
    (2) Comment: One commenter who has researched the Guyandotte River 
crayfish stated that alterations to

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headwater streams could make them unsuitable for the species and affect 
the water quality of downstream critical habitat units. Therefore, the 
commenter recommended that these upper reaches be considered for 
(unoccupied) critical habitat designation.
    Our response: We acknowledge that degradation to upstream reaches 
may affect downstream aquatic habitat. We will consider effects to 
downstream habitats during recovery planning and in section 7 
consultation processes. We refer the reader to our response to comment 
1 above, which provides a thorough discussion of our rationale for 
designating critical habitat for the Guyandotte River crayfish and the 
regulatory protections afforded by section 7 of the Act.
    (3) Comment: One commenter stated that our proposed critical 
habitat designations were flawed because current survey data were 
insufficient to determine that certain areas were currently occupied; 
however, no specific examples were provided. The commenter concluded 
that the Service should more precisely refine critical habitat units to 
include only ``occupied stream segments.''
    Our response: The regulations for designating critical habitat (50 
CFR 424.02) define the geographical area occupied by the species as 
``An area that may generally be delineated around species' occurrences, 
as determined by the Secretary (i.e., range). Such areas may include 
those areas used throughout all or part of the species' life cycle, 
even if not used on a regular basis (e.g., migratory corridors, 
seasonal habitats, and habitats used periodically, but not solely by 
vagrant individuals).'' As we discussed in the final listing rule for 
the Big Sandy and Guyandotte River crayfishes (81 FR 20450, April 7, 
2016) and the proposed critical habitat rule (85 FR 5072, January 28, 
2020), occupied critical habitat units (and subunits) for these species 
are based on positive survey data collected between 2006 and 2016 (the 
time of listing), the best available information at that time. As we 
acknowledged then, continuous survey data do not exist, and many 
streams with known crayfish occurrences have not been surveyed 
completely. The best available information indicated both species 
occupy, transit through, or otherwise rely upon, stream reaches beyond 
that of any single occurrence location. This conclusion is supported by 
a study of Guyandotte River crayfish movements and habitat use, which 
was completed after we published the proposed critical habitat rule 
(see Sadecky 2020, entire). This study documented that individual 
crayfish routinely engage in substantial movements both upstream and 
downstream and that the species makes use of and moves through a 
variety of interconnected habitat types including riffles, runs, and 
pools (Sadecky 2020, pp. 150; 188-189). These data support our 
determination that stream segments between known capture locations are 
likely to be occupied by the crayfish and are essential to provide for 
the conservation of the species.
    In the final listing rule (81 FR 20450, April 7, 2016), we 
identified habitat fragmentation as a stressor for both species, and in 
our proposed critical habitat rule we identified one of the PBFs 
essential to the conservation of the species as ``An interconnected 
network of streams and rivers . . . that allow(s) for the movement of 
individual crayfish in response to environmental, physiological, or 
behavioral drivers. The scale of the interconnected stream network 
should be sufficient to allow for gene flow within and among 
watersheds.'' Therefore, we determined that critical habitat units 
should be defined in a way that promotes connectivity between 
documented occurrences and between populations, where possible. To this 
end, the upstream limits of occupied critical habitat units occur 
upstream of a known occurrence location. Downstream limits generally 
terminate at stream confluences with the next larger receiving stream 
or river (or in some cases at a reservoir). We designated the entire 
reach between the upstream and downstream termini as critical habitat 
unless available data indicated these areas lacked all of the PBFs 
required by the species.
    (4) Comment: One commenter stated that the draft economic analysis 
underestimates the economic effects of the proposed designation on coal 
mining. The commenter stated that critical habitat designation will 
apply restrictive or protective measures to the entire watershed, and 
the Service failed to correctly identify the scope and reach of the 
potential economic, national security, and social impacts.
    Our response: Our regulations at 50 CFR 424.19 require the Service 
to compare the impacts with and without the critical habitat 
designation when describing the probable economic impact of a 
designation (Industrial Economics, Incorporated (IEc) 2019, pp. 1-2). 
Although the commenter provided some economic information, it lacked 
detail to correlate with the designation of critical habitat. 
Determining the economic impacts of a critical habitat designation 
involves evaluating the ``without critical habitat'' baseline versus 
the ``with critical habitat'' scenario, to identify those effects 
expected to occur solely due to the designation of critical habitat and 
not from the protections that are in place due to the species being 
listed under the Act. Economic effects solely due to the critical 
habitat designation include both: (1) The costs of increased 
administrative efforts that result from the designation; and (2) the 
economic effects of changes in the action to avoid destruction or 
adverse modification of critical habitat. These changes can be thought 
of as ``changes in behavior'' or the ``incremental effect'' that would 
most likely result from the designation if finalized.
    A primary goal of the screening analysis is to provide information 
about the likely incremental costs and benefits of the proposed 
critical habitat designation to determine whether the rule meets the 
threshold for an economically significant rule. As demonstrated, in 
occupied units for both the Big Sandy and Guyandotte River crayfishes, 
the incremental economic costs of the rule are likely to be limited to 
additional administrative effort to consider adverse modification 
during section 7 consultations. In the unoccupied subunits for the 
Guyandotte River crayfish, incremental economic costs may also include 
project modifications to activities with a Federal nexus. For the coal 
mining industry in particular, we have identified that many of the 
project recommendations the industry may provide already are required 
under other rules and regulations (e.g., Clean Water Act, Surface 
Mining Control and Reclamation Act, West Virginia Surface Mining 
Reclamation Rule) (IEc 2020). Our analysis accounted for potential 
Federal actions within the watershed, both inside and outside the 
proposed critical habitat, that may affect the proposed critical 
habitat. We identified two project modifications above and beyond these 
existing baseline requirements that may result in costs to the mining 
industry as well as Federal and State agencies. The final economic 
impact screening analysis presents information on these costs, which 
are substantially below the threshold for an economically significant 
rule (IEc 2020).
    National security and social impacts are not within the scope of 
the economic impact screening analysis. However, section 4(b)(2) of the 
Act allows for particular areas of proposed critical habitat to be 
excluded from the final designation based on considerations of economic 
impact, the impact on national security, and any other relevant impact 
if the benefits of

[[Page 14666]]

such exclusion outweigh the benefits of specifying such area as part of 
the critical habitat, unless the Secretary determines, based on the 
best scientific and commercial data available, that the failure to 
designate such area as critical habitat will result in the extinction 
of the species concerned. However, the commenters did not identify any 
particular areas that should be considered for exclusion, based on 
these factors, nor did the commenter provide any specific substantive 
information that would allow the Service to quantify or weigh the 
incremental effects of these factors in any particular area of proposed 
critical habitat to conduct an exclusion analysis. We did not receive 
any information from Federal agencies responsible for national security 
that the proposed designation would affect these interests, and 
therefore we have not identified any areas for exclusion analysis based 
on this factor.
    (5) Comment: Two comments emphasized the historic importance of 
protection and enhancement plans (PEPs) and related adaptive management 
plans to protect the crayfish that the coal industry has developed with 
the West Virginia Department of Environmental Protection (WDEP). One 
commenter suggested maintaining and expanding the use of PEPs across 
the proposed unoccupied habitat and expressed fears that the PEPs and 
adaptative management plans may be undermined with the designation of 
critical habitat. The comment concludes by suggesting that the 
resources devoted to critical habitat regulations could have more 
benefit for the crayfish if they were used in a coordinated voluntary 
conservation and recovery effort instead.
    Our response: We recognize the cooperative efforts of the WVDEP and 
the WV Coal Association in developing PEPs on projects that may affect 
these two crayfishes and looks forward to similar cooperative efforts 
in the future. We will continue to work with partners to address 
conservation and recovery of the species and its critical habitat 
through PEPs and other adaptive management measures, as appropriate and 
consistent with regulations. We note that current regulations and 
voluntary cooperative efforts have not resulted in the development of 
PEPs for any coal mining projects that would affect any streams that 
are designated for unoccupied critical habitat. Therefore, the 
designation of unoccupied critical habitat should not undermine any 
existing PEPs but rather should facilitate the development of 
additional PEPs and adaptive management efforts within these areas as 
recommended by the commenter.
    (6) Comment: In regard to the draft economic analysis (DEA), one 
commenter stated the Service should not generalize potential economic 
impacts to only one coal mine but should look at effects to the 
watershed holistically, including associated development like railways 
that transport coal. For coal mines higher in the watershed, the 
commenter stated that site-specific conditions such as topography and 
property access might make some conservation measures infeasible.
    Our response: We recognize that effects for these species should be 
considered on a watershed-level (see our response to comment 2 for 
information on how we consider effects to downstream resources), and 
also recognize that different conservation measures may be appropriate 
for different projects. For example, small-scale projects high in the 
watershed may not need the same scope or extent of conservation 
measures compared to a large-scale project occurring directly adjacent 
to a stream designated as critical habitat. In addition, construction 
techniques or conservation measures may not be feasible or applicable 
to all projects. As a result, when working with applicants, we consider 
issues such as topography and access when determining what conservation 
measures are appropriate. In addition, we have taken a watershed-level 
approach when evaluating effects from proposed projects including coal 
mines, as is reflected in the review of consultations and effects 
incorporated in our economics screening analysis. However, our analysis 
must be based on the best available information. For some project 
types, there may be a limited suite of previous project reviews 
available by which to estimate potential effects. We have updated our 
economic screening analysis to incorporate results from recent 
consultations.
    Based on the public comments received on the proposed rule package, 
a final economic impact screening analysis updated the evaluation of 
potential costs associated with project modifications for consultations 
on mining activities that occur in watersheds with unoccupied critical 
habitat. In particular, the analysis relies on more detailed 
information from us regarding the likely project modifications 
recommended to avoid adverse modification of the critical habitat, and 
a more detailed assessment of the incremental costs of these 
modifications. Specifically, the final economic impact screening 
analysis quantifies costs associated with biological assessment 
stations and continuous turbidity loggers based on communication with 
State and Federal regulatory agencies. The analysis additionally 
provides information on the potential for additional costs to mine 
operators of recommendations for more stringent cleanout of sediment 
structures at the mines affecting unoccupied habitat. The final 
economic impact screening analysis describes that project modifications 
may not be requested of all mines given their unique characteristics; 
however, to provide a conservative estimate of costs that is more 
likely to overstate than understate costs, the analysis assumes all 
future mines in watersheds with unoccupied habitat would undertake 
these project modifications due to the critical habitat designation. We 
expect to work with individual mines to assess which project 
modifications are recommended for their site-specific conditions.
    (7) Comment: One commenter believes that the proposed critical 
habitat for the two species is too large and that we included streams 
that ``do not contain these species and also do not contain the 
features and characteristics necessary to potentially support the 
species.''
    Our response: Section 4 of the Act requires that we designate 
critical habitat on the basis of the best scientific data available, 
which we discuss and reference in the final listing rule (81 FR 20450, 
April 7, 2016) and proposed critical habitat rule (85 FR 5072, January 
28, 2020). All units contain the physical and biological features 
needed to support the species. Additionally, in our responses to 
comments 1 and 3 above, we provide a thorough discussion of our 
rationale for designating (or not designating) critical habitat.
    (8) Comment: One commenter stated that, in our analysis of likely 
economic effects, we had incorrectly concluded that the Commonwealth of 
Kentucky ``owns'' the water and that this (presumed) error invalidated 
our entire economic analysis.
    Our response: As we discussed in the proposed critical habitat 
rule, for the purposes of analyzing the potential economic effects of 
critical habitat designation, the critical habitat units/subunits were 
determined to be in either private, Federal, or State ownership based 
on the identification of the adjacent riparian landowner(s) (i.e., 
private, Federal, State). This comports with our original citation 
(Energy & Mineral Law Institute 2011, pp. 414-415), which states that, 
in Kentucky, riparian landowners own the stream bed

[[Page 14667]]

``to the middle of the stream thread.'' It appears the commenter may 
have interpreted this to mean that adjacent landowners also own the 
water in the stream. However, this interpretation is contradicted by 
Kentucky Statute 151.120(1), which states, ``Water occurring in any 
stream, lake, ground water, subterranean water or other body of water 
in the Commonwealth which may be applied to any useful and beneficial 
purpose is hereby declared to be a natural resource and public water of 
the Commonwealth and subject to control or regulation for the public 
welfare. . . .'' Our economic analysis is based upon the best available 
information regarding critical habitat ownership.
    (9) Comment: One coal company commented that costs associated with 
mining are underestimated and sample costs used were from small 
projects with minimal impacts. The commenter stated that costs of 
monitoring/testing could be over $100,000/year; plan modifications 
resulting in additional impacts to jurisdictional waters could increase 
costs by $1 million; and costs associated with relocating fills/co-
locating valley fills could require new trucks at $2 million per truck 
or $300,000 per shift.
    Our response: At the time of the proposed rule, there was a limited 
number of previous mining consultations that addressed these crayfish 
species that could be used to estimate potential costs. Additional 
consultations have been conducted since that time. We have updated the 
analysis based on a review of recommendations made on multiple mining 
consultations conducted throughout the range of these two species. The 
final economic impact screening analysis provides a more detailed 
assessment of the baseline requirements at mine sites within critical 
habitat due to State and Federal regulation of mining even absent 
critical habitat, as well as analysis of how the critical habitat rule 
may result in additional project modification recommendations above and 
beyond these baseline requirements. Specifically, Exhibit A-3 of 
appendix A of the final economic impact screening analysis provides 
information on our evaluation of the potential need for additional 
project modifications at mine sites in unoccupied critical habitat 
specifically to avoid adverse modification that would not already be 
recommended based on existing Federal and State rules and requirements 
in West Virginia. The identified incremental project modifications 
triggered by the critical habitat rule include (1) cleaning out 
sediment structures at 40-percent design capacity instead of the 
currently required 60-percent design capacity and (2) installing 
continuous turbidity loggers and biological assessment station sites to 
statistically monitor sediment and other water quality attributes of 
the streams that may affect the crayfish. The analysis also provides 
cost estimates associated with these project modifications in 
particular. The annualized cost of the turbidity loggers and biological 
assessment stations is expected to be approximately $120,000 at both 3- 
and 7-percent discount rates. These costs are expected to be incurred 
by both the coal mining industry as well as some State entities 
responsible for water quality monitoring. While data are not available 
to quantify the potential costs of the sediment structure cleaning 
recommendation, the screening analysis provides qualitative information 
on this unquantified cost for consideration.
    (10) Comment: One commenter stated coal mining is the only 
consequential activity because high-quality coal is present and 
provides economic benefits to the coal and steel industry. The coal and 
steel industry support national security. Measures that would restrict 
coal production would affect the economy, and the DEA should be revised 
to include the costs of these lost economic resources.
    Our response: No Federal agency responsible for national security 
has requested an exclusion from Big Sandy crayfish or Guyandotte River 
crayfish critical habitat designation.
    We recognize that coal mining is prevalent in the range of these 
two species, and as a result have placed specific emphasis in review of 
coal mining projects in our screening analysis. The screening analysis 
does not identify any incremental impacts of the critical habitat 
designation that would likely restrict coal production in the region. 
In the occupied units for both crayfish, the economic impacts of the 
rule are expected to be limited to additional administrative effort to 
consider adverse modification during section 7 consultations. In the 
unoccupied subunits for the Guyandotte River crayfish, the economic 
costs additionally may include project modification recommendations. We 
have reviewed the best available information including existing rules 
and regulations and recent coal mining consultations. We then 
identified those project modifications that may be incremental and 
attributable to the critical habitat rule, and have updated the 
screening analysis to reflect these incremental effects to the coal 
industry. See our response to comment 9 for additional information.
    (11) Comment: One commenter stated that silvicultural best 
management practices (BMPs) are implemented at high rates in the range 
of the Big Sandy and Guyandotte River crayfishes and that these BMPs 
are effective at protecting water quality, instream habitats, and 
aquatic biota. The commenter supported these assertions by briefly 
summarizing the results of 43 references that summarize the use and 
effectiveness of BMPs in protecting aquatic species. The commenter 
asked that the Service consider these references when making its final 
determination of critical habitat for the Big Sandy and Guyandotte 
River crayfishes. The commenter recommended the Service recognize BMPs 
as routine practices for protecting aquatic habitats and these 
practices should not be considered as ``special management.''
    Our response: The best available information indicates BMP 
implementation rates are relatively high (80 to 90 percent) for 
commercial forestry operations across the ranges of the Big Sandy and 
Guyandotte River crayfishes, and properly implemented BMPs can be 
effective in protecting water quality and instream habitats (81 FR 
20450, p. 20467, April 7, 2016). Commercial timber harvests occur 
throughout the ranges of both crayfishes, and often occur directly 
adjacent to, or on the steep slopes above, streams and rivers inhabited 
by these species. We estimate that across the ranges of both species, 
approximately 12,600 ha (30,745 ac) of forest are harvested annually, 
representing approximately 1.9 percent of the total cover within the 
region (Cooper et al. 2011a, p. 27; Cooper et al. 2011b, pp. 26-27; 
Piva and Cook 2011, p. 46).
    As we discussed in Summary of Factors Affecting the Species in the 
final listing rule (81 FR 20450, April 7, 2016), the species and their 
habitats continue to be at risk due to sedimentation associated with 
improperly managed timber-harvesting activities. Even with high BMP 
implementation rates, which vary from State to State, a significant 
number of acres are logged each year with no BMP implementation (80 FR 
18710, p. 18730, April 7, 2015). Monitoring and enforcement of BMPs in 
areas of timber harvests, as well as ensuring that BMPs are routinely 
updated to incorporate the best available information to reduce 
sedimentation and instream disturbance in crayfish watersheds are 
actions that are important to the conservation of

[[Page 14668]]

these species. Based on these factors, we conclude that features 
essential to the conservation of the Big Sandy and Guyandotte River 
crayfishes may require special management considerations or protections 
from threats associated with timber-harvesting activities. These 
threats may be ameliorated by implementation of BMPs that reduce 
erosion, sedimentation, and stream bank destruction.
    (12) Comment: One coal company commented that the proposed 
designation overstates the stream miles and locations needed for 
species protection and recovery. More specifically, the commenter 
stated that conductivity is not a factor/relevant for designating 
critical habitat (citing the Service's Recovery Outline ``[m]ean values 
for conductivity and sulfates at sites supporting Big Sandy crayfish 
were similar to sites where the species was not detected, suggesting 
that these variables were not as influential in determining presence or 
absence of this species.'' (2018) (p. 3).
    Our response: The best available information as cited in the final 
listing rule and the proposed critical habitat rule confirms that water 
quality is important to the conservation of these crayfishes, and that 
conductivity is one component of water quality that has been shown to 
be correlated with Guyandotte River crayfish absence, as well as 
negative effects to other benthic macroinvertebrates (see the summary 
of information provided in 81 FR 20450, p. 20471, April 7, 2016). 
Therefore, we have included reference to this water quality parameter 
in our PBFs. We acknowledge that additional information is needed to 
determine what thresholds or levels for each water quality parameter 
are sufficient for the normal behavior, growth, reproduction, and 
viability of all life stages of the species, and therefore have not 
cited a specific level within the PBFs for these species. We will 
continue to work with partners to evaluate the effects of various water 
quality parameters on these species.
    (13) Comment: One coal company stated that connectedness is not a 
sufficient basis for ``over-designating'' a large part of the Tug Fork 
River as critical habitat.
    Our response: We have reviewed data regarding the distribution of 
Big Sandy crayfish within the Tug Fork River. We proposed 65.9 smi of 
critical habitat within the Tug Fork extending from the confluence with 
Blackberry Creek upstream to the confluence with Dry Fork. The Big 
Sandy crayfish is documented to occur within both of these tributaries 
as well as throughout this reach of the Tug Fork River. Survey data 
collected after the listing of the species documented Big Sandy 
crayfish in the Tug Fork both upstream and downstream of the proposed 
critical habitat reach (confirming continued occupancy), including near 
the town of Hemphill, West Virginia, which is 28 smi upstream from the 
terminus of the unit (Mountain State Biosurveys, LLC, 2017, p. 8). The 
upper terminus of this unit has not been ``over-designated;'' instead, 
suitable habitat continues to occur farther upstream. Consistent with 
our previous listing determination and information received during the 
public comment period, the best available data indicate that 
interconnected stream segments are necessary to provide for movement of 
individuals and gene flow between populations. Telemetry studies 
conducted on Guyandotte River crayfish document that individuals engage 
in substantial movements, including 819.9 m by a female between July 
and August and 615.8 m by a male within the month of June. The species 
moves through a variety of interconnected habitat types, including 
riffles, runs, and pools (Sadecky 2020, pp. 150; 188-189). These data 
support our determination that stream segments between known capture 
locations are likely to be occupied by the crayfish and are essential 
to provide for the conservation of the species.
    (14) Comment: One coal company stated that small headwater streams 
are not suitable habitat (cites 80 FR 18710, April 7, 2015).
    Our response: We have reviewed the best available information 
including new information provided during the public comment period 
such as Tidmore (2020, pp. 36-37; 84), which found that stream 
accumulation (a measure of the size of the watershed draining into a 
stream reach) rather than stream order is a more accurate predictor of 
habitat quality for these species. Other public commenters (Sadecky; 
Loughman) noted that the Guyandotte River crayfish frequently moves 
upstream. This information confirms that the two species need moderate 
to large sized streams but that they are not restricted to occurring in 
only third-order or larger streams and may occur in smaller order 
streams when there is sufficient accumulation of water from upstream 
reaches. We have reviewed the areas proposed for critical habitat 
designation, and determined that no areas of proposed critical habitat 
should be deleted as a result of unsuitable stream size or elevation.
    (15) Comment: One coal company stated that the Service 
significantly understates the economic impacts of its critical habitat 
rule on people living and operating in the affected watersheds.
    Our response: The commenter did not provide information or specific 
examples of economic impacts on people living in the affected 
watershed. The screening analysis provides an assessment of the likely 
costs and benefits of the proposed critical habitat designation using 
the best available information.
    (16) Comment: One commenter supports the designation of critical 
habitat for the two species but commented that the designation of 
unoccupied critical habitat for the Guyandotte River crayfish and 
reintroduction of the species would have adverse effects on the 
ecosystems present in those areas.
    Our response: The commenter did not provide specific detail about 
these potential adverse effects. As we discussed in the proposed rule, 
all three of the unoccupied critical habitat units for the Guyandotte 
River crayfish are located within the species' historical range. Both 
Indian Creek and Huff Creek (subunits 1d and 1e, respectively) have 
historical records of the species, and the Guyandotte River (subunit 
1c) connects (or connected) all known populations of the species. 
Therefore, the historical distribution of the species demonstrates that 
it is a naturally occurring component of the Upper Guyandotte River 
ecosystem, and reintroduction of the species should not cause ``adverse 
effects'' to the aquatic community in these areas.
    (17) Comment: One commenter believes the proposed areas are too 
large, the proposal includes areas where the species do not occur, and 
the areas do not contain the features and characteristics necessary to 
support the species. The commenter felt that three unoccupied units 
(Indian Creek, Huff Creek, and Guyandotte River in Subunit 1c) should 
not be included because the analysis is insufficient to explain why 
these units were chosen and more information is needed to: (1) Evaluate 
feasibility of all historically occupied reaches, (2) evaluate the cost 
of restoring and maintaining stream health in these reaches, (3) 
evaluate the additive value of these reaches to the species' overall 
viability, and (4) determine the economic impact of designating each 
reach as potential critical habitat.
    Our response: We refer the reader to our responses to comments 1 
and 3, above, which provide a thorough discussion of our rationale for 
designating critical habitat for the Guyandotte River crayfish. The 
revised screening analysis provides more details

[[Page 14669]]

on the likely economic costs associated with designating unoccupied 
subunits for the Guyandotte River crayfish. In particular, it provides 
a more detailed assessment of the project modification recommendations 
that would be attributed to the proposed rule. In doing so, the final 
economic impact screening analysis provides more detail on the 
quantified costs associated with these incremental project 
modifications, which total approximately $350,000 on an annualized 
basis for the first 10 years. These costs are expected to be incurred 
by both the mining industry as well as State agencies that monitor 
water quality. Additionally, the final economic impact screening 
analysis identifies potential unquantified costs associated with 
recommendations for more stringent cleanout of sediment structures 
(i.e., cleanout at 40 percent as opposed to 60 percent of design 
capacity) in the unoccupied critical habitat areas.
    (18) Comment: One commenter commented that the economic analysis 
underestimates the economic costs of the proposed action because: (A) 
The Service underestimated costs by using one mining project as an 
example of conservation measures; (B) the baseline is incorrect, 
because all areas are not occupied; (C) full economic effects are 
missed (information is missing on compliance costs, construction costs, 
lost resource revenue, and socioeconomic benefits, including lost tax 
revenue, royalties to landowners, and wages/benefits to employees); (D) 
outdated data are used (relies on 2002 data); (E) there is an erroneous 
assumption that no project modification would be recommended; (F) there 
is no consideration of State/local requirements (surface water 
standards); (G) the analysis of property value impacts is flawed; and 
(H) the assumption that all proposed areas are occupied is incorrect.
    Our response: The screening analysis provides information on the 
likely costs and benefits of the proposed critical habitat rule using 
the best available data. In general, the screening analysis provides 
conservative estimates where possible and is more likely to overstate 
costs than understate costs, to determine if the rule could meet the 
threshold for an economically significant rule. Following are responses 
to the specific points of this comment:
    (A) The revised screening analysis provides updated cost estimates 
and more detail on the project modification recommendations likely to 
be requested of the surface coal mining industry in the unoccupied 
units for the Guyandotte River crayfish. In particular, it provides a 
more thorough assessment of the project modifications we may request 
that go above and beyond existing rules and requirements in West 
Virginia based on a review of recent consultations on the species. We 
identify two specific recommendations we may request that would be 
incremental to the proposed rule and provide an updated assessment of 
the costs associated with these recommendations.
    (B) The screening analysis distinguishes between costs associated 
with occupied and unoccupied subunits for the crayfish. The costs of 
critical habitat designation for occupied habitat, as noted by the 
commenter, are generally lower because the listing status of the 
species provides baseline protection in these areas. That is, project 
modifications undertaken as part of section 7 consultations to avoid 
jeopardy to the species in these areas most likely also result in the 
projects avoiding adverse modification of critical habitat. Thus, we 
would not likely recommend more or different project modifications due 
to the designation of critical habitat in these areas. It is for this 
reason that the screening analysis separately considers the costs of 
the proposed critical habitat designation in occupied and unoccupied 
units. In particular, the incremental section 7 consultation costs 
(i.e., above and beyond baseline costs) are separately assessed for 
occupied and unoccupied units (IEc 2020, pp. 13, 15, 16 (Exhibits 5, 6, 
and 7)). While the screening analysis identifies only limited 
administrative costs resulting from the designation of the occupied 
units, it estimates greater administrative costs, as well as the costs 
of project modifications from the designation of the unoccupied units. 
Specifically, the screening analysis identifies costs associated with 
the designation of three unoccupied habitat subunits for the Guyandotte 
River crayfish, where project modifications to future mining projects 
are likely and could range from $119,933 to $120,682 in a single year.
    (C) The commenter did not provide specific cost detail (in United 
States dollars) on compliance costs, construction costs, lost resource 
revenue, socioeconomic benefits, lost tax revenue, royalties to 
landowners, or wages/benefits to employees. The screening analysis 
finds that the incremental costs of the rule are likely to include 
additional administrative costs to consider adverse modification during 
section 7 consultations in all units, as well as costs of project 
modification recommendations in the unoccupied subunits for the 
Guyandotte River crayfish. The revised screening analysis provides a 
more detailed assessment of costs that may arise from these project 
modification recommendations. Given the limited incremental costs 
associated with the proposed critical habitat designation, the 
screening analysis does not anticipate reductions in coal production, 
lost wages, or lost tax revenue resulting from the rule.
    (D) The commenter is correct that the screening analysis relies on 
a range of incremental costs derived from an analysis effort performed 
in 2002. However, while the time required to complete the consultations 
remains fixed at the levels assumed in 2002, the screening analysis 
relies on updated salary and benefit information reflected in the 2019 
Federal Government Schedule Rules. The administrative costs of 
consultation consider not only the level of effort required of us and 
other Federal agencies, but also of third parties to consultation, 
including private industry. Exhibit 6 of the screening analysis 
provides more details on the breakdown of costs by party.
    (E) As described in (B) above, the screening analysis 
differentiates between occupied and unoccupied subunits. In occupied 
units, incremental costs due to project modifications are not 
anticipated. As described in section 3 of the screening analysis, this 
is because project modifications requested to avoid adverse 
modification of critical habitat are expected to be identical to 
project modifications requested to avoid jeopardy of the species where 
they currently reside. In other words, while project modifications may 
be requested in these occupied units, these same project modifications 
would be requested due to the listing of the species, and therefore 
critical habitat would not likely generate additional project 
modification recommendations. In unoccupied subunits, project 
modifications are not undertaken due to the presence of the crayfish 
and thus there is greater potential for incremental costs of project 
modifications. We identify that critical habitat designation may affect 
mine projects in unoccupied habitat in West Virginia due to two project 
modifications; the revised screening analysis provides more detail 
about these recommendations as well as the costs associated with 
implementing them.
    (F) Section 4 of the screening analysis considers the potential for 
State or other local laws to be triggered by the critical habitat 
designation, resulting in an incremental impact of the rule. As 
described in the screening analysis as well as the Incremental Effects

[[Page 14670]]

Memorandum, a range of State and local laws have been triggered by the 
listing of the species under the Endangered Species Act (Act). However, 
we expect that no new State or local rules will apply as a result of 
the critical habitat. In other words, the cost of complying with State 
and local laws that were triggered by the listing of the species are 
baseline conditions and cannot be attributed to the critical habitat 
designation specifically.
    (G) As a riverine species, the crayfish do not occur on land, and 
the literature has not evaluated effects of riverine critical habitat 
on property values. While the economics screening memorandum 
acknowledges the potential exists for the critical habitat designation 
to affect private property values, it does not conclude that these 
effects are ``likely,'' as implied in this comment. The economics 
literature evaluating the potential land value effects of critical 
habitat is limited and is specific to particular species and geographic 
areas. The memorandum therefore highlights this issue as an uncertainty 
associated with the screening analysis. Please also see comment and 
response 8, above, regarding land ownership in the Commonwealth of 
Kentucky.
    (H) As described in (B) above, the screening analysis 
differentiates costs incurred in occupied and unoccupied subunits. The 
best available information supports our determination of which subunits 
are occupied and unoccupied.
    (19) Comment: One commenter suggests that our economic analysis 
consider the economic benefits of critical habitat designation.
    Our response: Section 6 of the screening analysis considers the 
potential benefits of the critical habitat designation. Incremental 
benefits of the critical habitat designation are most likely to occur 
in the unoccupied subunits for the Guyandotte River crayfish, where 
consultation to avoid adverse modification of critical habitat may 
alter the management of projects, resulting in incremental conservation 
efforts. Various economic benefits may result from these incremental 
conservation efforts, including improved water quality and improved 
ecosystem health for other coexisting species, which, in turn, may 
reduce the effort necessary for water treatment and ecosystem 
management.

Critical Habitat

Background

    Refer to our January 28, 2020, proposed critical habitat rule (85 
FR 5072) for a summary of species information available to the Service 
at the time that the proposed rule was published.
    Critical habitat is defined in section 3 of the Act as:
    (1) The specific areas within the geographical area occupied by the 
species, at the time it is listed in accordance with the Act, on which 
are found those physical or biological features:
    (a) Essential to the conservation of the species, and
    (b) Which may require special management considerations or 
protection; and
    (2) Specific areas outside the geographical area occupied by the 
species at the time it is listed, upon a determination that such areas 
are essential for the conservation of the species.
    Our regulations at 50 CFR 424.02 define the geographical area 
occupied by the species as an area that may generally be delineated 
around species' occurrences, as determined by the Secretary (i.e., 
range). Such areas may include those areas used throughout all or part 
of the species' life cycle, even if not used on a regular basis (e.g., 
migratory corridors, seasonal habitats, and habitats used periodically, 
but not solely by vagrant individuals).
    Conservation, as defined under section 3 of the Act, means to use 
and the use of all methods and procedures that are necessary to bring 
an endangered species or threatened species to the point at which the 
measures provided pursuant to the Act are no longer necessary. Such 
methods and procedures include, but are not limited to, all activities 
associated with scientific resources management such as research, 
census, law enforcement, habitat acquisition and maintenance, 
propagation, live trapping, and transplantation, and, in the 
extraordinary case where population pressures within a given ecosystem 
cannot be otherwise relieved, may include regulated taking.
    Critical habitat receives protection under section 7 of the Act 
through the requirement that Federal agencies ensure, in consultation 
with the Service, that any action they authorize, fund, or carry out is 
not likely to result in the destruction or adverse modification of 
critical habitat. The designation of critical habitat does not affect 
land ownership or establish a refuge, wilderness, reserve, preserve, or 
other conservation area. Such designation does not allow the government 
or public to access private lands. Such designation does not require 
implementation of restoration, recovery, or enhancement measures by 
non-Federal landowners. Where a landowner requests Federal agency 
funding or authorization for an action that may affect a listed species 
or critical habitat, the Federal agency would be required to consult 
with the Service under section 7(a)(2) of the Act. However, even if the 
Service were to conclude that the proposed activity would result in 
destruction or adverse modification of the critical habitat, the 
Federal action agency and the landowner are not required to abandon the 
proposed activity, or to restore or recover the species; instead, they 
must implement reasonable and prudent alternatives to avoid destruction 
or adverse modification of critical habitat.
    Under the first prong of the Act's definition of critical habitat, 
areas within the geographical area occupied by the species at the time 
it was listed are included in a critical habitat designation if they 
contain physical or biological features: (1) Which are essential to the 
conservation of the species, and (2) which may require special 
management considerations or protection. For these areas, critical 
habitat designations identify, to the extent known using the best 
scientific and commercial data available, those physical or biological 
features that are essential to the conservation of the species (such as 
space, food, cover, and protected habitat). In identifying those 
physical or biological features that occur in specific occupied areas, 
we focus on the specific features that are essential to support the 
life-history needs of the species, including, but not limited to, water 
characteristics, soil type, geological features, prey, vegetation, 
symbiotic species, or other features. A feature may be a single habitat 
characteristic or a more complex combination of habitat 
characteristics. Features may include habitat characteristics that 
support ephemeral or dynamic habitat conditions. Features may also be 
expressed in terms relating to principles of conservation biology, such 
as patch size, distribution distances, and connectivity.
    Under the second prong of the Act's definition of critical habitat, 
we can designate critical habitat in areas outside of the geographical 
area occupied by the species at the time it is listed, upon a 
determination that such areas are essential for the conservation of the 
species. When designating critical habitat, the Secretary will first 
evaluate areas occupied by the species. The Secretary will only 
consider unoccupied areas to be essential where a critical habitat 
designation limited to geographical areas occupied by the

[[Page 14671]]

species would be inadequate to ensure the conservation of the species. 
In addition, for an unoccupied area to be considered essential, the 
Secretary must determine that there is a reasonable certainty both that 
the area will contribute to the conservation of the species and that 
the area contains one or more of those physical or biological features 
essential to the conservation of the species.
    Section 4 of the Act requires that we designate critical habitat on 
the basis of the best scientific data available. Further, our Policy on 
Information Standards Under the Endangered Species Act (published in 
the Federal Register on July 1, 1994 (59 FR 34271)), the Information 
Quality Act (section 515 of the Treasury and General Government 
Appropriations Act for Fiscal Year 2001 (Pub. L. 106-554; H.R. 5658)), 
and our associated Information Quality Guidelines provide criteria, 
establish procedures, and provide guidance to ensure that our decisions 
are based on the best scientific data available. They require our 
biologists, to the extent consistent with the Act and with the use of 
the best scientific data available, to use primary and original sources 
of information as the basis for recommendations to designate critical 
habitat.
    When we are determining which areas should be designated as 
critical habitat, our primary source of information is generally the 
information developed during the listing process for the species. 
Additional information sources may include any generalized conservation 
strategy, criteria, or outline that may have been developed for the 
species, the recovery plan for the species, articles in peer-reviewed 
journals, conservation plans developed by States and counties, 
scientific status surveys and studies, biological assessments, other 
unpublished materials, or experts' opinions or personal knowledge.
    Habitat is dynamic, and species may move from one area to another 
over time. We recognize that critical habitat designated at a 
particular point in time may not include all of the habitat areas that 
we may later determine are necessary for the recovery of the species. 
For these reasons, a critical habitat designation does not signal that 
habitat outside the designated area is unimportant or may not be needed 
for recovery of the species. Areas that are important to the 
conservation of the species, both inside and outside the critical 
habitat designation, will continue to be subject to: (1) Conservation 
actions implemented under section 7(a)(1) of the Act, (2) regulatory 
protections afforded by the requirement in section 7(a)(2) of the Act 
for Federal agencies to ensure their actions are not likely to 
jeopardize the continued existence of any endangered or threatened 
species, and (3) the prohibitions found in section 9 of the Act. 
Federally funded or permitted projects affecting listed species outside 
their designated critical habitat areas may still result in jeopardy 
findings in some cases. These protections and conservation tools will 
continue to contribute to the recovery of this species. Similarly, 
critical habitat designations made on the basis of the best available 
information at the time of designation will not control the direction 
and substance of future recovery plans, HCPs, or other species 
conservation planning efforts if new information available at the time 
of these planning efforts calls for a different outcome.

Physical or Biological Features Essential to the Conservation of the 
Species

    In accordance with section 3(5)(A)(i) of the Act and regulations at 
50 CFR 424.12(b), in determining which areas we will designate as 
critical habitat from within the geographical area occupied by the 
species at the time of listing, we consider the PBFs that are essential 
to the conservation of the species and which may require special 
management considerations or protection. The regulations at 50 CFR 
424.02 define ``physical or biological features essential to the 
conservation of the species'' as the features that occur in specific 
areas and that are essential to support the life-history needs of the 
species, including, but not limited to, water characteristics, soil 
type, geological features, sites, prey, vegetation, symbiotic species, 
or other features. A feature may be a single habitat characteristic or 
a more complex combination of habitat characteristics. Features may 
include habitat characteristics that support ephemeral or dynamic 
habitat conditions. Features may also be expressed in terms relating to 
principles of conservation biology, such as patch size, distribution 
distances, and connectivity. For example, physical features essential 
to the conservation of the species might include gravel of a particular 
size required for spawning, alkaline soil for seed germination, 
protective cover for migration, or susceptibility to flooding or fire 
that maintains necessary early-successional habitat characteristics. 
Biological features might include prey species, forage grasses, 
specific kinds or ages of trees for roosting or nesting, symbiotic 
fungi, or a particular level of nonnative species consistent with 
conservation needs of the listed species. The features may also be 
combinations of habitat characteristics and may encompass the 
relationship between characteristics or the necessary amount of a 
characteristic essential to support the life history of the species.
    In considering whether features are essential to the conservation 
of the species, the Service may consider an appropriate quality, 
quantity, and spatial and temporal arrangement of habitat 
characteristics in the context of the life-history needs, condition, 
and status of the species. These characteristics include, but are not 
limited to, space for individual and population growth and for normal 
behavior; food, water, air, light, minerals, or other nutritional or 
physiological requirements; cover or shelter; sites for breeding, 
reproduction, or rearing (or development) of offspring; and habitats 
that are protected from disturbance.

Summary of Essential Physical or Biological Features

    We derived the specific PBFs required for the Big Sandy crayfish 
and the Guyandotte River crayfish from studies and observations of 
these species' habitat, ecology, and life history, which are discussed 
in full in the proposed critical habitat designation (85 FR 5072, 
January 28, 2020), the species' proposed and final listing rules (80 FR 
18710, April 7, 2015; 81 FR 20450, April 7, 2016, respectively), and 
information summarized here. While data are sparse with which to 
quantitatively define the optimal or range of suitable conditions for a 
specific biological or physical feature needed by these species (e.g., 
degree of sedimentation, water quality thresholds, extent of habitat 
connectedness), the available species-specific information, in 
combination with information from other similar crayfish species, 
provides sufficient information to qualitatively discuss the physical 
and biological features needed to support these species. As discussed 
in the proposed (80 FR 18710, April 7, 2015) and final (81 FR 20450, 
April 7, 2016) listing rules, these species are classified as 
``tertiary'' (stream) burrowing crayfish, meaning that they do not 
exhibit complex burrowing behavior; instead of digging holes, they 
shelter in shallow excavations under loose cobbles and boulders on the 
stream bottom (Loughman 2013, p. 1). These species feed on plant and/or 
animal material, depending on the season (Thoma 2009, p. 13; Loughman 
2014, p. 21). The general life cycle pattern of these species is 2 to 3 
years

[[Page 14672]]

of growth, maturation in the third year, and first mating in midsummer 
of the third or fourth year (Thoma 2009, entire; Thoma 2010, entire). 
Following midsummer mating, the annual cycle involves egg laying in 
late summer or fall, spring release of young, and late spring/early 
summer molting (Thoma 2009, entire; Thoma 2010, entire). The Big Sandy 
and Guyandotte River crayfishes' likely lifespan is 5 to 7 years, with 
the possibility of some individuals reaching 10 years of age (Thoma 
2009, entire; Thoma 2010, entire; Loughman 2014, p. 20).
    Suitable habitat for both the Big Sandy crayfish and the Guyandotte 
River crayfishes appears to be limited to higher elevation, clean, 
medium-sized streams and rivers in the upper reaches of the Big Sandy 
and Guyandotte river basins, respectively (Jezerinac et al.1995, p. 
171; Channell 2004, pp. 21-23; Taylor and Shuster 2004, p. 124; Thoma 
2009, p. 7; Thoma 2010, pp. 3-4, 6; Loughman 2013, p. 1; Loughman 2014, 
pp. 22-23). These streams are generally third-order streams or larger; 
however, the species may also occur in smaller order streams, as stream 
accumulation rather than stream order has been found to be a better 
predicter of habitat quality for these species (Tidmore 2020, pp. 36-
37; 84). Both species are associated with the faster moving water of 
riffles and runs or pools with current (Jezerinac et al. 1995, p. 170). 
An important habitat feature for both species is large, unembedded slab 
boulders on a sand, cobble, or bedrock stream bottom (Loughman 2013, p. 
2; Loughman 2014, pp. 9-11). Excessive sedimentation leading to 
substrate embeddedness can smother these habitats, creating unsuitable 
habitat conditions for these species (Jezerinac et al. 1995, p. 171; 
Channell 2004, pp. 22-23; Thoma 2009, p. 7; Thoma 2010, pp. 3-4; 
Loughman 2013, p. 6). As such, we have determined that the following 
PBFs are essential for the conservation of the Big Sandy and Guyandotte 
River crayfishes:
    (1) Fast-flowing stream reaches with unembedded slab boulders, 
cobbles, or isolated boulder clusters within an unobstructed stream 
continuum (i.e., riffle, run, pool complexes) of permanent, moderate- 
to large-sized (generally third order and larger) streams and rivers 
(up to the ordinary high-water mark as defined at 33 CFR 329.11).
    (2) Streams and rivers with natural variations in flow and seasonal 
flooding sufficient to effectively transport sediment and prevent 
substrate embeddedness.
    (3) Water quality characterized by seasonally moderated 
temperatures and physical and chemical parameters (e.g., pH, 
conductivity, dissolved oxygen) sufficient for the normal behavior, 
growth, reproduction, and viability of all life stages of the species.
    (4) An adequate food base, indicated by a healthy aquatic community 
structure including native benthic macroinvertebrates, fishes, and 
plant matter (e.g., leaf litter, algae, detritus).
    (5) Aquatic habitats protected from riparian and instream 
activities that degrade the PBFs described in (1) through (4), above, 
or cause physical (e.g., crushing) injury or death to individual Big 
Sandy or Guyandotte River crayfish.
    (6) An interconnected network of streams and rivers that have the 
PBFs described in (1) through (4), above, that allow for the movement 
of individual crayfish in response to environmental, physiological, or 
behavioral drivers. The scale of the interconnected stream network 
should be sufficient to allow for gene flow within and among 
watersheds.

Special Management Considerations or Protections

    When designating critical habitat, we assess whether the specific 
areas within the geographical area occupied by the species at the time 
of listing contain features which are essential to the conservation of 
the species and which may require special management considerations or 
protection. The features essential to the conservation of the Big Sandy 
and Guyandotte River crayfishes may require special management 
considerations or protections to reduce the following threats: (1) 
Resource extraction (coal mining, timber harvesting, and oil and gas 
development); (2) road construction and maintenance (including unpaved 
roads and trails); (3) instream dredging or construction projects; (4) 
off-road vehicle (ORV) use; (5) activities that may modify water 
quantity or quality; and (6) other sources of point and non-point 
source pollution, including spills. These activities are discussed in 
more detail under Summary of Factors Affecting the Species in the final 
listing rule (81 FR 20450; April 7, 2016). These threats are in 
addition to potential adverse effects of drought, floods, or other 
natural phenomena.
    Management activities that could ameliorate these threats include, 
but are not limited to: Use of best management practices (BMPs) 
designed to reduce erosion, sedimentation, and stream bank destruction; 
development of alternatives that avoid and minimize stream bed 
disturbances; regulation of ORV use in or near streams; reduction of 
other watershed and floodplain disturbances that contribute excess 
sediments or pollutants into the water; and development and 
implementation of spill prevention and response plans.

Criteria Used To Identify Critical Habitat

    As required by section 4(b)(2) of the Act, we use the best 
scientific data available to designate critical habitat. In accordance 
with the Act and our implementing regulations at 50 CFR 424.12(b), we 
review available information pertaining to the habitat requirements of 
the species and identify specific areas within the geographical area 
occupied by the species at the time of listing and any specific areas 
outside the geographical area occupied by the species to be considered 
for designation as critical habitat. We are designating critical 
habitat in areas within the geographical area occupied by the Big Sandy 
crayfish and Guyandotte River crayfish at the time of listing in 2016. 
For the Guyandotte River crayfish, we also are designating areas in 
three specific streams outside the geographical area occupied by the 
species at the time of listing because we have determined that a 
designation limited to occupied areas would be inadequate to ensure the 
conservation of the species. These currently unoccupied streams are 
within the larger occupied watershed of the Guyandotte River crayfish's 
range and adjacent to currently occupied streams. The critical habitat 
designation includes the water and stream channel up to the ordinary 
high water mark as defined at 33 CFR 329.11. Refer to the Big Sandy and 
Guyandotte River crayfish proposed critical habitat designation for a 
full description of criteria used to identify critical habitat (85 FR 
5072, January 28, 2020).
    On December 16, 2020, we published a final rule in the Federal 
Register (85 FR 81411) adding a definition of ``habitat'' to our 
regulations for purposes of critical habitat designations under the 
Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended (Act). This rule became 
effective on January 15, 2021 and only applies to critical habitat 
rules for which a proposed rule was published after January 15, 2021. 
Consequently, this new regulation does not apply to this final rule.
    The current distribution of both the Big Sandy and the Guyandotte 
River crayfishes is fragmented and much reduced from its historical 
distribution. As specified in the Service's recovery outline for these 
species (Service 2018,

[[Page 14673]]

entire), we anticipate that recovery will require protection of 
existing populations and habitat for both species, and in the case of 
the Guyandotte River crayfish, reestablishing populations in some 
historically occupied streams where the species is presumed extirpated. 
These additional populations will increase the species' resiliency, 
representation, and redundancy, thereby increasing the likelihood that 
it will sustain populations over time.
    Sources of data for this critical habitat designation include 
crayfish survey and habitat assessment reports (Jezerinac et al. 1995, 
entire; Channell 2004, entire; Taylor and Schuster 2004, entire; Thoma 
2009a, entire; Thoma 2009b, entire; Thoma 2010, entire; Loughman 2013, 
entire; Loughman 2014, entire; Loughman 2015a, entire; Loughman 2015b, 
entire) and project-specific reports submitted to the Service 
(Appalachian Technical Services, Inc. (ATS) 2009, entire; ATS 2010, 
entire; Vanasse Hangen Brustlin, Inc. (VHB) 2011, entire; ATS 2012a, 
entire; ATS 2012b, entire; Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) 
2014a, entire; VDOT 2014b, entire; VDOT 2015, entire; ATS 2017, entire; 
Red Wing 2017, entire; Third Rock 2017, entire; Red Wing 2018, entire).

Areas Occupied at the Time of Listing

    As described in the final listing rule for the Big Sandy and 
Guyandotte River crayfishes (81 FR 20450, April 7, 2016), the best 
available data (stream surveys conducted between 2006 and 2016) 
indicate that at the time of listing, the Big Sandy crayfish occupied 
26 streams and rivers (generally third order and larger) in the Russell 
Fork, Upper Levisa Fork, Lower Levisa Fork, and Tug Fork watersheds in 
the upper Big Sandy River basin of Kentucky, Virginia, and West 
Virginia. The Guyandotte River crayfish occupied two similarly sized 
streams in the Upper Guyandotte River basin of West Virginia.
    We are designating a total of 4 occupied units, including a total 
of 19 occupied subunits, as critical habitat for the Big Sandy crayfish 
in the aforementioned watersheds. In addition, we are designating one 
unit, including two occupied subunits, as critical habitat for the 
Guyandotte River crayfish in the Upper Guyandotte River watershed in 
West Virginia. For the Guyandotte River crayfish, we have determined 
that a designation limited to the two occupied subunits would be 
inadequate to ensure the conservation of the species. The Guyandotte 
River crayfish is historically known from six connected stream systems 
within the Upper Guyandotte River basin (its geographical range); 
however, at the time of listing, the species was limited to two 
isolated subunits in Pinnacle Creek and Clear Fork. In our review, we 
determined that these two subunits would not provide sufficient 
redundancy or resiliency necessary for the conservation of the species. 
The Pinnacle Creek population is known from a 5.2-skm (3.3-smi) stream 
reach, but survey data collected between 2009 and 2015 indicate that 
this reach has low crayfish numbers. This small, isolated population is 
at risk of extirpation from demographic and environmental 
stochasticity, or a catastrophic event. The Clear Fork population 
occurs along a 33-km (22-mi) stream reach, and surveys from 2015 
indicate Guyandotte River crayfish was the most prevalent crayfish 
species collected at sites maintaining the species (Loughman 2015b, pp. 
9-11). The primary risk to this population is extirpation from a 
catastrophic event; however, because it is an isolated population, 
demographic or stochastic declines present some risk.

Areas Outside of the Geographic Range at the Time of Listing

    Because we have determined occupied areas alone are not adequate 
for the conservation of the Guyandotte River crayfish, we have 
evaluated whether any unoccupied areas are essential for the 
conservation of the species. We considered the life-history, status, 
and conservation needs of both species. Our decision was further 
informed by observations of species-habitat relationship, habitat 
suitability models derived from these observations, and the locations 
of historical records to identify which features and specific areas are 
essential for the conservation of the species and, as a result, the 
development of the critical habitat designation.
    We are designating as critical habitat three currently unoccupied 
subunits within the Upper Guyandotte basin unit. We have determined 
that each is essential for the conservation of the species. Two of the 
currently unoccupied subunits, Guyandotte River and Indian Creek, 
provide for an increase in the species' redundancy and, by providing 
connectivity between the subunits, increase the resiliency of the 
extant populations in Pinnacle Creek and Clear Fork. One of the 
unoccupied subunits, Huff Creek, is isolated from the other subunits by 
the R.D. Bailey dam, which fragments the range of the species and 
limits the species' ability to disperse and colonize new areas. 
Therefore, this unit will increase the species' overall redundancy and 
add representation in this area of its historical range. As discussed 
in the recovery outline for the species (Service 2018, entire), 
successful conservation of the Guyandotte River crayfish will require 
the establishment of additional populations within the species' 
historical range; the three unoccupied subunits advance this goal. All 
three subunits have at least one of the PBFs essential to the 
conservation of the species, as described below.
    To reduce threats to the species and its habitat, the Service is 
working cooperatively with the West Virginia Department of 
Environmental Protection and the coal industry to develop protection 
and enhancement plans for coal mining permits that may affect crayfish 
streams. The Service and WVDEP are also working with the Hatfield McCoy 
Trail system and the Federal Highway Administration to avoid and 
minimize effects from ORV use in and around Pinnacle Creek and other 
trail systems adjacent to crayfish streams. Local watershed groups 
along with State and Federal partners have been conducting stream 
restoration and enhancement projects in Huff Creek. In addition, the 
Service, West Virginia Department of Natural Resources, Virginia 
Department of Wildlife Resources, and West Liberty University are 
working together to conduct additional research on both the Guyandotte 
River and Big Sandy crayfishes, including research on habitat use, 
activity patterns, and captive holding and propagation. We are 
reasonably certain that each unoccupied subunit will contribute to the 
conservation of the species by furthering preliminary recovery goals 
identified in the recovery outline. Establishing populations in the 
three unoccupied subunits will increase the Guyandotte River crayfish's 
resiliency, redundancy, and representation, thereby bolstering the 
species' viability and reducing the species' risk of extinction.

General Information on the Maps of the Critical Habitat Designation

    The critical habitat designation is defined by the map or maps, as 
modified by any accompanying regulatory text, presented at the end of 
this document under Regulation Promulgation. We include more detailed 
information on the boundaries of the critical habitat designation in 
the discussion of individual units and subunits, provided below. We 
will make the coordinates or plot points or both on which each map is 
based available to the public on https://www.regulations.gov under 
Docket No.

[[Page 14674]]

FWS-R5-ES-2019-0098, and at the West Virginia Ecological Services Field 
Office (see FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT, above). When determining 
critical habitat boundaries, we made every effort to avoid including 
developed areas such as lands covered by pavement, buildings, and other 
structures because such lands lack PBFs necessary for the Big Sandy and 
Guyandotte River crayfishes. The scale of the maps we prepared under 
the parameters for publication within the Code of Federal Regulations 
may not reflect the exclusion of such developed lands. Any such lands 
inadvertently left inside critical habitat boundaries shown on the maps 
of this final rule have been excluded by text in the rule and are not 
designated as critical habitat. Therefore, a Federal action involving 
these lands would not trigger section 7 consultation under the Act with 
respect to critical habitat and the requirement of no adverse 
modification unless the specific action would affect the PBFs in the 
adjacent critical habitat.
    In making its determination on the appropriate scale for 
designating critical habitat, the Service may consider, among other 
things, the life history of the species, the scales at which data are 
available, and biological or geophysical boundaries (such as 
watersheds). For the Big Sandy and the Guyandotte River crayfishes, 
streams or stream segments (as opposed to individual occurrence 
locations) are the appropriate units for designating critical habitat. 
We base this on the following factors:
    (1) The regional geology and stream morphology in the upper Big 
Sandy and Upper Guyandotte River basins lead to a general abundance of 
slab boulders and/or cobble in most streams, although in some areas 
this habitat is sparse or occurs as isolated boulder clusters. 
Furthermore, while continuous crayfish survey data do not exist (i.e., 
not every reach of every stream has been surveyed), more intensive 
crayfish surveys in portions of the Russell Fork watershed and in Clear 
Fork and Pinnacle Creek in the Upper Guyandotte basin indicate that the 
Big Sandy and Guyandotte River crayfishes may occur throughout stream 
reaches where the required PBFs (e.g., riffles and runs with unembedded 
slab boulders or unembedded boulder clusters, adequate water quality, 
and connectivity) are present.
    (2) Streams are dynamic, linear systems, and local water quality 
parameters (e.g., dissolved oxygen, temperature, pH) can vary 
temporally and are largely reliant on upstream conditions (barring 
known point or non-point source discharges or other factors that affect 
water quality more locally). Likewise, the various stream microhabitats 
(e.g., riffles, runs, pools) with attendant fauna do not generally 
occur in isolation, but form a continuous gradient along the stream 
continuum. Because the known occupied Big Sandy and Guyandotte River 
crayfish sites possess the required PBFs, at least to some minimal 
degree, for these species to survive, and because these PBFs are likely 
representative of stream conditions beyond any single survey location, 
we conclude that Big Sandy and Guyandotte River crayfish likely occupy, 
or otherwise rely upon, stream areas beyond any single occurrence 
location.
    (3) Studies of other crayfish species suggest that adult and larger 
juvenile Big Sandy and Guyandotte River crayfish move both upstream and 
downstream in response to changes in environmental conditions or local 
crayfish demographics, or for other behavioral or physiological reasons 
(Momot 1966, pp. 158-159; Kerby et al. 2005, p. 407; Sadecky 2020, 
entire). The evidence also indicates that some individuals, especially 
newly independent juveniles, may be passively dispersed to downstream 
locations by swiftly flowing water (Loughman 2019, pers. comm.).
    Therefore, within the greater geographical ranges of the Big Sandy 
crayfish and Guyandotte River crayfish (i.e., the upper Big Sandy River 
basin and the Upper Guyandotte River basin, respectively), the general 
morphology and connectedness of the streams and the life history of 
these species lead us to reasonably conclude that both species likely 
occupy, transit through, or otherwise rely upon stream reaches beyond 
any known occurrence location. We acknowledge that some areas along a 
stream segment designated as critical habitat may not contain all of 
the PBFs required by either species, either naturally or as a result of 
habitat modification, but based on the considerations discussed above, 
we conclude that streams or stream segments are appropriate units of 
scale for describing critical habitat for these species.
    In summary, we designate as critical habitat streams and stream 
segments up to the ordinary high water mark that were occupied at the 
time of listing and contain one or more of the PBFs that are essential 
to support the life-history processes of the Big Sandy crayfish and the 
Guyandotte River crayfish. Additionally, for the Guyandotte River 
crayfish, we designate three subunits outside the geographical range of 
that species occupied at the time of listing; however, these subunits 
are within the larger occupied watershed. Two of these subunits have 
historical records of the species, and one subunit, while not having a 
record of the species, is within its historical range and provides 
connectivity between occupied and unoccupied subunits. These unoccupied 
subunits provide for increased redundancy, resiliency, and 
representation of the Guyandotte River crayfish. We designate specific 
critical habitat unit/subunit boundaries based on the following general 
criteria:

    (1) We delineated areas within the historical range of each 
species that had positive survey data between 2006 and 2016 (Big 
Sandy and Guyandotte River crayfishes were listed in 2016). For the 
Guyandotte River crayfish, we also delineated three stream segments 
as unoccupied critical habitat.
    (2) Upstream termini of critical habitat units/subunits are 
located at the confluence of the primary stream and a smaller named 
tributary stream (usually a second-order stream). These termini are 
generally within about 5 skm (3.1 smi) upstream of a known crayfish 
occurrence record. The downstream termini are usually located at the 
confluence of the primary stream and the next larger receiving 
stream or river. In some instances, dams or reservoirs are used to 
demark critical habitat units/subunits.
    (3) We included intervening stream segments between occurrence 
locations unless available occurrence data suggested the PBFs 
required by the species were absent from the intervening segment.
    (4) We describe the designated critical habitat units/subunits 
by their upstream and downstream coordinates (i.e., latitude and 
longitude) and geographic landmarks (e.g., confluence of named 
streams and/or a town or population center).

    Within these stream segments, designated critical habitat includes 
the stream channel within the ordinary high water mark. As defined at 
33 CFR 329.11, the ``ordinary high water mark'' on nontidal rivers is 
the line on the shore established by the fluctuations of water and 
indicated by physical characteristics such as a clear, natural line 
impressed on the bank; shelving changes in the character of soil; 
destruction of terrestrial vegetation; the presence of the litter and 
debris; or other appropriate means that consider the characteristics of 
the surrounding areas.
    For the purposes of analyzing the potential economic effects of 
critical habitat designation for the Big Sandy and Guyandotte River 
crayfishes, the critical habitat units/subunits are determined to be in 
either private, Federal, or State ownership. We describe ownership of 
designated critical habitat units/subunits based on the identification 
of the adjacent

[[Page 14675]]

riparian landowner(s) (i.e., private, Federal, or State entity). In 
Kentucky, Virginia, and West Virginia, jurisdiction over the water 
itself is maintained by the State or Commonwealth; however, ownership 
of the stream bottom may vary depending on specific State law or legal 
interpretation (Energy & Mineral Law Institute 2011, pp. 409-427; 
Virginia Code at section 62.1-44.3; West Virginia Department of 
Environmental Protection 2013, section C). For example, the bed of a 
navigable stream in West Virginia may be owned by the state, whereas 
the bed of a non-navigable stream may be privately owned (Energy & 
Mineral Law Institute 2011, p. 427).

Final Critical Habitat Designation

    For the Big Sandy crayfish, we designate approximately 582 skm (362 
smi) in 4 units (including 19 subunits) in Kentucky, Virginia, and West 
Virginia as critical habitat (see table 1, below). These streams or 
stream segments were considered occupied at the time of listing and 
contain all known extant populations. Based on our review, we conclude 
that the units occupied by the Big Sandy crayfish at the time of 
listing (described below) are representative of the species' historical 
range and include core population areas in the Russell Fork watershed 
in Virginia and the upper Tug Fork watershed (e.g., Dry Fork) in West 
Virginia, as well as other peripheral populations in Kentucky, 
Virginia, and West Virginia. We determined that there is sufficient 
area for the conservation of the Big Sandy crayfish within these 
occupied units, and we therefore do not designate any unoccupied 
critical habitat for the species. The designated units constitute our 
best assessment of areas that meet the definition of critical habitat 
for the Big Sandy crayfish.
BILLING CODE 4333-15-P

[[Page 14676]]

[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TR15MR22.038

    Table 2 identifies the ownership of lands adjacent to the entirely 
aquatic Big Sandy crayfish designated critical habitat.

[[Page 14677]]

[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TR15MR22.006

    For the Guyandotte River crayfish, we designate approximately 135 
skm (84 smi) in one unit, consisting of five subunits, in West Virginia 
as critical habitat. Approximately 67 skm (42 smi) in two subunits are 
considered occupied by the species at the time of listing and represent 
all known extant populations (see table 3, below). However, we 
determined that these two subunits do not provide sufficient 
resiliency, representation, or redundancy to ensure the conservation of 
the species. Therefore, we are designating approximately 68 skm (42 
smi) in three subunits as unoccupied critical habitat (see table 3, 
below). The designated subunits constitute our best assessment of areas 
that meet the definition of critical habitat for the Guyandotte River 
crayfish.
[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TR15MR22.007

    Table 4 identifies the ownership of lands adjacent to the entirely 
aquatic Guyandotte River crayfish designated critical habitat.
[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TR15MR22.008

BILLING CODE 4333-15-C
    Below, we present brief descriptions of all units/subunits and 
reasons why they meet the definition of critical habitat for the Big 
Sandy and Guyandotte River crayfishes. Each unit/subunit of Big Sandy 
crayfish critical habitat contains all six PBFs identified above (see 
Summary of Essential Physical or Biological Features) that are 
essential to the conservation of the species. Each unit/subunit of 
Guyandotte River crayfish critical habitat contains one or more of the 
six PBFs.

Big Sandy Crayfish

Unit 1: Upper Levisa Fork--Dismal Creek, Buchanan County, Virginia
    This occupied unit includes a single subunit of approximately 29.2 
stream kilometers (skm) (18.1 smi) of Dismal Creek in the Upper Levisa 
Fork

[[Page 14678]]

watershed. The upstream boundary of this unit is the confluence of 
Dismal Creek and Laurel Fork, and the downstream limit is the 
confluence of Dismal Creek and Levisa Fork. This unit is located almost 
entirely on private land, except for any small amount that is publicly 
owned in the form of bridge crossings or road easements.
    Recent surveys of Dismal Creek indicated an abundance of unembedded 
slab boulders and boulder clusters, and live Big Sandy crayfish have 
been collected in relatively high numbers from several locations within 
this unit (Thoma 2009b, p. 10; Loughman 2015a, p. 26). The Dismal Creek 
watershed is mostly forested; however, U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) 
topographic maps and aerial imagery (ESRI) provide evidence of legacy 
and ongoing surface coal mining throughout the watershed. This unit may 
need special management considerations due to resource extraction (coal 
mining, timber harvesting, and oil and gas development), road 
construction and maintenance (including unpaved roads and trails), 
instream dredging or construction projects, and other sources of non-
point source pollution. The narrow stream valley contains scattered 
residences and small communities, commercial facilities, occasional gas 
wells, and transportation infrastructure (i.e., roads and rail lines). 
There is a large coal coke plant straddling Dismal Creek at the 
confluence of Dismal Creek and Levisa Fork. The Dismal Creek population 
of Big Sandy crayfish represents the species' only representation in 
the upper Levisa Fork watershed, which is physically isolated from the 
rest of the Big Sandy basin by Fishtrap Dam and Reservoir. The Dismal 
Creek population appears to be relatively robust and contributes to the 
representation and redundancy of the species.
Unit 2: Russell Fork
    Unit 2 consists of the 10 subunits described below. The PBFs within 
this entire unit may need special management considerations from 
resource extraction (coal mining, timber harvesting, and oil and gas 
development), road construction and maintenance (including unpaved 
roads and trails), instream dredging or construction projects, and 
other sources of non-point source pollution.
Subunit 2a: Russell Fork, Buchanan and Dickenson Counties, Virginia, 
and Pike County, Kentucky
    Subunit 2a includes approximately 83.8 skm (52.1 smi) of the 
Russell Fork mainstem from the confluence of Russell Fork and Ball 
Creek at Council, Virginia, downstream to the confluence of Russell 
Fork and Levisa Fork at Levisa Junction, Kentucky. Recent surveys of 
the Russell Fork indicated an abundance of unembedded slab boulders, 
boulder clusters, isolated boulders, and large cobbles, and live Big 
Sandy crayfish have been captured at numerous locations within this 
subunit (Thoma 2009b, p. 10; Loughman 2015a, p. 23). The Russell Fork 
watershed is mostly forested; however, USGS topographic maps and aerial 
imagery (ESRI) provide evidence of legacy and ongoing coal mining 
throughout the watershed. In the upper portion of the watershed, the 
narrow stream valley contains scattered residences and roads, but human 
development increases farther downstream in the form of small 
communities and towns, commercial facilities, and transportation 
infrastructure (i.e., roads and rail lines). Approximately 12 skm (7.4 
smi) of Subunit 2a is within the Jefferson National Forest and Breaks 
Interstate Park. The remainder of the subunit is located almost 
entirely on private land, except for any small amount that is publicly 
owned in the form of bridge crossings or road easements. The Big Sandy 
crayfish population in Subunit 2a appears to be relatively robust and 
provides important connectivity between crayfish populations in several 
tributary streams and rivers, contributing to their resiliency. 
Additionally, some Big Sandy crayfish from Subunit 2a likely disperse 
to areas downstream in the Levisa Fork watershed, contributing to the 
species' representation and redundancy.
Subunit 2b: Hurricane Creek, Buchanan County, Virginia
    Subunit 2b includes approximately 5.9 skm (3.7 smi) of Hurricane 
Creek, a tributary to Russell Fork. This occupied subunit extends from 
the confluence of Hurricane Creek and Gilbert Fork downstream to the 
confluence of Hurricane Creek and Russell Fork at Davenport, Virginia. 
Recent surveys of Hurricane Creek indicate an abundance of unembedded 
slab boulders, boulders, and cobbles, and live Big Sandy crayfish have 
been collected from two locations in lower Hurricane Creek (ATS 2009, 
entire; VDOT 2014, entire). Based on our review of USGS topographic 
maps and aerial imagery (ESRI) the Hurricane Creek watershed is 
composed of relatively intact forest, with the exception of ongoing oil 
or gas development on the ridges to the north and south of the creek 
and scattered residences, small agricultural fields, and roads in the 
narrow valley. This subunit is located almost entirely on private land, 
except for any small amount that is publicly owned in the form of 
bridge crossings or road easements. This subunit contributes to the 
redundancy of the species.
Subunit 2c: Indian Creek, Buchanan and Dickenson Counties, Virginia
    This occupied subunit includes approximately 7.4 skm (4.6 smi) of 
Indian Creek, a tributary to Russell Fork. Subunit 2c extends from the 
confluence of Indian Creek and Three Forks upstream of Duty, Virginia, 
to the confluence of Indian Creek and Russell Fork below Davenport, 
Virginia. Recent surveys of Indian Creek indicate an abundance of slab 
boulders and boulders with low to moderate embeddedness, and live Big 
Sandy crayfish have been collected from several locations (ATS 2009, 
entire; ATS 2010, entire; Loughman 2015a, pp. 24-25). The USGS 
topographic maps and aerial imagery (ESRI) indicate the lower portion 
of the Indian Creek watershed is mostly forested, with the exception of 
oil or gas development on a ridgeline to the west of the creek. The 
upper portion of the watershed is dominated by a large surface coal 
mine. The narrow creek valley contains scattered residences, small 
agricultural fields, and roads. This subunit is located almost entirely 
on private land, except for any small amount that is publicly owned in 
the form of bridge crossings or road easements. This subunit 
contributes to the redundancy of the species.
Subunit 2d: Fryingpan Creek, Dickenson County, Virginia
    Subunit 2d includes approximately 4.6 skm (2.9 smi) of Fryingpan 
Creek, a tributary to Russell Fork. This occupied subunit extends from 
the confluence of Fryingpan Creek and Priest Fork downstream to the 
confluence of Fryingpan Creek and Russell Fork. Recent surveys of 
Fryingpan Creek indicate an abundance of isolated slab boulders and 
boulder clusters with low embeddedness, and live Big Sandy crayfish 
have been collected from the lower reach of Fryingpan Creek (Loughman 
2015a, pp. 24-25). The USGS topographic maps and aerial imagery (ESRI) 
indicate the watershed is mostly intact forest, with the exception of 
oil or gas development on some adjacent ridgelines and legacy coal 
mining in the upper portion of the watershed. The narrow creek valley 
contains scattered residences, small agricultural fields, and roads. 
This subunit is located almost entirely on private land, except for any 
small amount that is publicly owned in the

[[Page 14679]]

form of bridge crossings or road easements. This subunit contributes to 
the redundancy of the species.
Subunit 2e: Lick Creek, Dickenson County, Virginia
    Subunit 2e includes approximately 16.2 skm (10.1 smi) of Lick 
Creek, a tributary of Russell Fork. This occupied subunit extends from 
the confluence of Lick Creek and Cabin Fork near Aily, Virginia, 
downstream to the confluence of Lick Creek and Russell Fork at 
Birchfield, Virginia. Recent surveys of Lick Creek indicate an 
abundance of unembedded slab boulders and cobbles, with live Big Sandy 
crayfish collected at several locations (ATS 2012a, entire; ATS 2012b, 
entire). The USGS topographic maps and aerial imagery (ESRI) indicate 
the watershed is mostly forested, with the exception of oil or gas 
development on some adjacent ridgelines and legacy coal mining and 
timber harvesting sites at various locations within the watershed. The 
narrow creek valley contains scattered residences, small agricultural 
fields, and roads. This subunit is located almost entirely on private 
land, except for any small amount that is publicly owned in the form of 
bridge crossings or road easements. This subunit contributes to the 
redundancy of the species.
Subunit 2f: Russell Prater Creek, Dickenson County, Virginia
    This occupied subunit includes approximately 8.4 skm (5.2 smi) of 
Russell Prater Creek, a tributary to Russell Fork. This subunit extends 
from the confluence of Russell Prater Creek and Greenbrier Creek 
downstream to the confluence of Russell Prater Creek and Russell Fork 
at Haysi, Virginia. Recent surveys of Russell Prater Creek indicate 
abundant unembedded slab boulders, boulders, and cobbles, with live Big 
Sandy crayfish collected from two sites in the lower portion of the 
creek (Thoma 2009b, p. 10; Loughman 2015a, pp. 22-23). The USGS 
topographic maps and aerial imagery (ESRI) indicate the Russell Prater 
watershed is mostly forested; however, legacy coal mines and valley 
fills occur throughout the watershed. The narrow creek valley contains 
scattered residences, commercial facilities, small agricultural fields, 
and roads. This subunit is located almost entirely on private land, 
except for any small amount that is publicly owned in the form of 
bridge crossings or road easements. This subunit contributes to the 
redundancy of the species.
Subunit 2g: McClure River and McClure Creek and Open Fork, Dickenson 
County, Virginia
    Subunit 2g includes approximately 35.6 skm (22.1 smi) of the 
McClure River and Creek, a major tributary to Russell Fork, and its 
tributary stream, Open Fork (4.9 skm (3.0 smi)); this subunit is 
occupied. The McClure River and McClure Creek section extends from the 
confluence of McClure Creek and Honey Branch downstream to the 
confluence of McClure River and Russell Fork. Recent surveys of the 
McClure River indicated a generally sandy bottom with unembedded, 
isolated slab boulders and boulder clusters, with live Big Sandy 
crayfish collected at several locations (Thoma 2009b, p. 18; Loughman 
2015a, p. 22). The McClure River valley contains scattered residences, 
small communities, commercial mining-related facilities, small 
agricultural fields, roads, railroads, and other infrastructure. The 
riparian zone along much of the river is relatively intact.
    The Open Fork section of Subunit 2g extends from the confluence of 
Middle Fork Open Fork and Coon Branch downstream to the confluence of 
Open Fork and McClure Creek at Nora, Virginia. Recent surveys of Open 
Fork indicated unembedded, isolated slab boulders and boulder clusters, 
with live Big Sandy crayfish collected at one location (Loughman 2015a, 
p. 22). The narrow valley contains scattered residences, some small 
agricultural fields, roads, and railroads.
    The USGS topographic maps and aerial imagery (ESRI) indicate the 
McClure River watershed is mostly forested; however, legacy and active 
coal mining occurs in the middle and upper portions of the watershed. 
Natural gas development is also apparent on many of the adjacent 
ridges, and recent or ongoing logging operations continue at several 
locations in the watershed. This subunit is located almost entirely on 
private land, except for any small amount that is publicly owned in the 
form of bridge crossings or road easements. This subunit contributes to 
the redundancy of the species.
Subunit 2h: Elkhorn Creek, Pike County, Kentucky
    Subunit 2h includes approximately 8.5 skm (5.3 smi) of Elkhorn 
Creek, a tributary to Russell Fork. This occupied subunit extends from 
the confluence of Elkhorn Creek and Mountain Branch downstream to the 
confluence of Elkhorn Creek and Russell Fork at Elkhorn City, Kentucky. 
Recent surveys indicated unembedded slab boulders and boulders in 
Elkhorn Creek with ``extensive bedrock glides'' in the lower reaches of 
the creek. Live Big Sandy crayfish have been collected from under slab 
boulders in lower Elkhorn Creek (Loughman 2015a, pp. 18-19). The USGS 
topographic maps and aerial imagery (ESRI) indicate the watershed is 
mostly forested; however, significant legacy and active coal mining and 
other mining and quarrying occurs in the watershed. Human development, 
in the form of small communities, residences, small agricultural 
fields, and commercial and industrial facilities, as well as roads, 
railroads, and other infrastructure, occurs almost continually in the 
riparian zone along Elkhorn Creek. The watershed to the south of 
Elkhorn Creek is a unit of the Jefferson National Forest; however, 
Subunit 2h is located almost entirely on private land, except for any 
small amount that is publicly owned in the form of bridge crossings or 
road easements. This subunit contributes to the redundancy of the 
species.
Subunit 2i: Cranes Nest River and Birchfield Creek, Dickenson and Wise 
Counties, Virginia
    This occupied subunit includes approximately 24.6 skm (15.3 smi) of 
Cranes Nest River, a major tributary to Russell Fork, and approximately 
6.9 skm (4.3 smi) of Birchfield Creek, a tributary to Cranes Nest 
River. The Cranes Nest River section of Subunit 2i extends from the 
confluence of Cranes Nest River and Birchfield Creek downstream to the 
confluence of Cranes Nest River and Lick Branch. Recent surveys of the 
Cranes Nest River indicated abundant, unembedded slab boulders, boulder 
clusters, isolated boulders, and coarse woody debris, and live Big 
Sandy crayfish have been collected at multiple sites (Thoma 2009b, p. 
10; VDOT 2014b, entire; VDOT 2015, entire; Loughman 2015a, pp. 21-22). 
The riparian zone of this section is largely intact; however, human 
development, in the form of residences, small communities, small 
agricultural fields, roads, railroads, and other infrastructure, occurs 
along some segments of Cranes Nest River.
    The Birchfield Creek section of this subunit extends from the 
confluence of Birchfield Creek and Dotson Creek downstream to the 
confluence of Birchfield Creek and Cranes Nest River. Recent surveys 
resulted in observations of live Big Sandy crayfish from a site in the 
lower portion of Birchfield Creek. Human development, in the form of 
residences, roads, and other

[[Page 14680]]

infrastructure, occurs in the riparian zone along Birchfield Creek.
    The USGS topographic maps and aerial imagery (ESRI) indicate the 
Cranes Nest River watershed is mostly forested; however, significant 
legacy and active coal mining is evident throughout the watershed. 
Natural gas development is ongoing on some of the ridges adjacent to 
the Cranes Nest River. Approximately 10.3 skm (6.4 smi) of Subunit 2i 
is within the John W. Flannagan Recreation Area. The remainder of the 
subunit is located almost entirely on private land, except for any 
small amount that is publicly owned in the form of bridge crossings or 
road easements. Since 1964, this subunit has been physically isolated 
from the Russell Fork by the John W. Flannagan Dam and Reservoir. The 
Big Sandy crayfish population in Subunit 2i appears to be relatively 
robust and contributes to the redundancy of the species.
Subunit 2j: Pound River, Dickenson and Wise Counties, Virginia
    Subunit 2j includes approximately 28.5 skm (17.7 smi) of the Pound 
River, a major tributary to Russell Fork that has been physically 
isolated from that river since 1964 by the John W. Flannagan Dam and 
Reservoir. This occupied subunit extends from the confluence of Pound 
River and Bad Creek downstream to the confluence of Pound River and 
Jerry Branch. Recent surveys indicate abundant, unembedded slab 
boulders, boulders, and boulder clusters in the riffle and run 
sections, and live Big Sandy crayfish have been collected from multiple 
locations (Thoma 2009b, entire; VHB, Inc. 2011, entire; Loughman 2015a, 
p. 21). The USGS topographic maps and aerial imagery (ESRI) indicate 
the Pound River watershed is mostly forested; however, significant 
legacy and recent coal mining is evident, especially to the south of 
the river. Aerial imagery also indicates recent or ongoing logging 
operations at several locations in the watershed. Much of the immediate 
riparian zone is intact forest, with occasional human development in 
the form of small communities, residences, small agricultural fields, 
commercial development, and roads and other infrastructure adjacent to 
the river. Approximately 11.4 skm (7.1 smi) of Subunit 2j is within the 
John W. Flannagan Recreation Area. The remainder of the subunit is 
located almost entirely on private land, except for any small amount 
that is publicly owned in the form of bridge crossings or road 
easements. The Big Sandy crayfish population in Subunit 2j appears to 
be relatively robust and contributes to the redundancy of the species.
Unit 3: Lower Levisa Fork
    Unit 3 consists of the two subunits described below. The unit may 
need special management consideration due to resource extraction (coal 
mining, timber harvesting, and oil and gas development); road 
construction and maintenance (including unpaved roads and trails); 
instream dredging or construction projects; and other sources of non-
point source pollution.
Subunit 3a: Levisa Fork, Pike, Floyd, and Johnson Counties, Kentucky
    Subunit 3a includes approximately 33.4 skm (20.8 smi) of the 
mainstem Levisa Fork in two disjunct segments. The occupied upstream 
segment includes approximately 15.9 skm (9.9 smi) of the Levisa Fork 
from its confluence with the Russell Fork at Levisa Junction, Kentucky, 
downstream to the confluence of Levisa Fork and Island Creek at 
Pikeville, Kentucky. Surveys indicate that suitable, unembedded, 
boulder habitat is present in the Levisa Fork, and live Big Sandy 
crayfish have been recently collected both upstream of Subunit 3a in 
the Russell Fork and at one location near Pikeville, Kentucky (Thoma 
2010, pp. 5-6; Loughman 2015a, pp. 5-10).
    The occupied downstream segment of Subunit 3a includes 
approximately 17.5 skm (10.9 smi) of the Levisa Fork near Auxier, 
Kentucky, from the confluence of Levisa Fork and Abbott Creek 
downstream to the confluence of Levisa Fork and Miller Creek. Recent 
surveys indicate isolated boulder clusters in this segment, with live 
Big Sandy crayfish collected from two locations (Thoma 2009b, entire; 
Loughman 2014, pp. 12-13).
    The USGS topographic maps and aerial imagery (ESRI) indicate the 
Subunit 3a watershed is mostly forested; however, legacy and ongoing 
coal mining is evident in several locations. Human development, in the 
form of towns, small communities, residences, small agricultural 
fields, commercial and industrial development, roads, railroads, and 
other infrastructure, occurs nearly continuously in the riparian zone 
of these segments of the Levisa Fork. Subunit 3a is located almost 
entirely on private land, except for any small amount that is publicly 
owned in the form of bridge crossings or road easements. The upper 
segment of the subunit provides connectivity between the Russell Fork 
and Shelby Creek populations (discussed below), and the lower segment 
supports the most downstream population of Big Sandy crayfish in the 
Levisa Fork watershed. Because the natural habitat characteristics 
(e.g., size, gradient, bottom substrate) in the Levisa Fork differ from 
those in the upper tributaries, this subunit increases Big Sandy 
crayfish representation as well as the species' redundancy.
Subunit 3b: Shelby Creek and Long Fork, Pike County, Kentucky
    This occupied subunit includes approximately 32.2 skm (20.0 smi) of 
Shelby Creek, a tributary to Levisa Fork, and approximately 12.9 skm 
(8.0 smi) of Long Fork, a tributary to Shelby Creek. The Shelby Creek 
portion of this subunit extends from the confluence of Shelby Creek and 
Burk Branch downstream to the confluence of Shelby Creek and Levisa 
Fork at Shelbiana, Kentucky. The Long Fork portion of Subunit 3b 
extends from the confluence of Right Fork Long Fork and Left Fork Long 
Fork downstream to the confluence of Long Fork and Shelby Creek at 
Virgie, Kentucky. Recent surveys of this subunit indicated an abundance 
of unembedded slab boulders, boulder clusters, and anthropogenic 
structures such as concrete slabs and blocks in Shelby Creek and Long 
Fork. Live Big Sandy crayfish have been collected at multiple locations 
within this subunit (Thoma 2010, pp. 5-6; Loughman 2015a, p. 18). The 
USGS topographic maps and aerial imagery (ESRI) indicate the Shelby 
Creek watershed is mostly forested; however, several large surface coal 
mines are evident west of the stream. The Long Fork watershed is also 
mostly forested; however, legacy and active coal mining is evident in 
the upper portion of this watershed. Human development, in the form of 
towns, small communities, residences, small agricultural fields, 
commercial and industrial development, roads, railroads, and other 
infrastructure, occurs nearly continuously in the riparian zone of 
Shelby Creek. In the riparian zone of Long Fork, residences, small 
agricultural fields, roads, and other infrastructure occur nearly 
continuously. Subunit 3b is located almost entirely on private land, 
except for any small amount that is publicly owned in the form of 
bridge crossings or road easements. This subunit maintains the most 
robust population of Big Sandy crayfish in the lower Levisa Fork (as 
indicated by recent survey capture rates) and increases the 
representation and redundancy of the species.
Unit 4: Tug Fork
    Unit 4 consists of the seven subunits described below. The threats 
within this

[[Page 14681]]

entire unit that may need special management consideration include 
resource extraction (coal mining, timber harvesting, and oil and gas 
development); road construction and maintenance (including unpaved 
roads and trails); instream dredging or construction projects; and 
other sources of nonpoint source pollution.
Subunit 4a: Tug Fork, McDowell, Mingo, and Wayne Counties, West 
Virginia; Buchanan County, Virginia; and Pike and Martin Counties, 
Kentucky
    Subunit 4a includes approximately 117.8 skm (73.2 smi) of the Tug 
Fork mainstem in two disjunct, occupied segments. The upstream segment 
includes approximately 106.1 skm (65.9 smi) of the Tug Fork from the 
confluence of Tug Fork and Elkhorn Creek at Welch, West Virginia, 
downstream to the confluence of Tug Fork and Blackberry Creek in Pike 
County, Kentucky. Surveys indicate that suitable unembedded boulder 
habitat is sparse and discontinuous in this segment of the Tug Fork; 
however, live Big Sandy crayfish have been collected at four locations 
within this subunit (Loughman 2015a, p. 16). The downstream segment 
includes approximately 11.7 skm (7.3 smi) of the Tug Fork near Crum, 
West Virginia, from the confluence of Tug Fork and Little Elk Creek 
downstream to the confluence of Tug Fork and Bull Creek.
    The USGS topographic maps and aerial imagery (ESRI) indicate the 
Subunit 4a watershed is mostly forested; however, there is evidence of 
legacy and ongoing coal mining throughout the subunit. The riparian 
zone in the upper segment of Subunit 4a is relatively intact, with 
human development consisting primarily of road and railroad corridors. 
In the lower segment of the subunit, towns, small communities, 
residences, small agricultural fields, commercial and industrial 
development, roads, railroads, and other infrastructure become 
prevalent. Subunit 4a is located almost entirely on private land, 
except for any small amount that is publicly owned in the form of 
bridge crossings or road easements. Because of the diversity of natural 
habitat characteristics (e.g., size, gradient, bottom substrate) in 
this subunit, it contributes to Big Sandy crayfish representation and 
redundancy. This subunit provides habitat for the Big Sandy crayfish, 
as well as providing potential connectivity between the Dry Fork, 
Panther Creek, Knox Creek, Peter Creek, Blackberry Creek, and Pigeon 
Creek populations (discussed below).
Subunit 4b: Dry Fork and Bradshaw Creek, McDowell County, West Virginia
    This occupied subunit includes approximately 45.2 skm (28.1 smi) of 
Dry Fork, a large tributary to the Tug Fork, and approximately 4.6 skm 
(2.9 smi) of Bradshaw Creek, a tributary to Dry Fork. The Dry Fork 
portion of Subunit 4b extends from the confluence of Dry Fork and 
Jacobs Fork downstream to the confluence of Dry Fork and Tug Fork at 
Iaeger, West Virginia. The Bradshaw Creek portion extends from the 
confluence of Bradshaw Creek and Hite Fork at Jolo, West Virginia, 
downstream to the confluence of Bradshaw Creek and Dry Fork at 
Bradshaw, West Virginia. Recent surveys indicate abundant unembedded 
slab boulders, boulders, boulder clusters, and large cobbles, with live 
Big Sandy crayfish collected at numerous locations within this subunit 
(Loughman 2013, pp. 7-8; Loughman 2014, pp. 10-11; Loughman 2015a, pp. 
14-15). The USGS topographic maps and aerial imagery (ESRI) indicate 
the Subunit 4b watershed is mostly forested; however, legacy coal 
mining is evident throughout, and natural gas development is apparent 
in the upper portions of the watershed. The riparian zone in the upper 
portion of Dry Fork is relatively intact, with human development 
consisting primarily of road and railroad corridors. In the middle and 
lower portions of Dry Fork, small communities, residences, small 
agricultural fields, commercial and industrial development, roads, 
railroads, and other infrastructure become prevalent. The Bradshaw 
Creek riparian zone is dominated by residences, small agricultural 
fields, roads, and other infrastructure. The middle portion of Dry Fork 
passes through the Berwind Lake State Wildlife Management Area; 
otherwise, Subunit 4b is located almost entirely on private land, 
except for any small amount that is publicly owned in the form of 
bridge crossings or road easements. This subunit appears to maintain a 
relatively robust population of the Big Sandy crayfish and likely 
serves as a source population for areas downstream in the Tug Fork 
basin. This subunit contributes to the redundancy of the species.
Subunit 4c: Panther Creek, McDowell County, West Virginia
    This occupied subunit includes approximately 10.7 skm (6.6 smi) of 
Panther Creek, a tributary to Tug Fork. Subunit 4c extends from the 
confluence of Panther Creek and George Branch downstream to the 
confluence of Panther Creek and Tug Fork at Panther, West Virginia. Big 
Sandy crayfish have been collected at one site in the lower portion of 
this subunit. The USGS topographic maps and aerial imagery (ESRI) 
indicate the majority of the Panther Creek watershed is intact forest 
with evidence of only limited legacy coal mining. The riparian zone of 
this narrow valley is largely intact, containing a road and occasional 
residences (mostly in the lower portion of the subunit). Approximately 
6.1 skm (3.8 smi) of Subunit 4c is located within the Panther State 
Forest, and the remainder is located on private land, except for any 
small amount that is publicly owned in the form of bridge crossings or 
road easements. This subunit contributes to the redundancy of the 
species.
Subunit 4d: Knox Creek, Buchanan County, Virginia, and Pike County, 
Kentucky
    Subunit 4d includes approximately 16.6 skm (10.3 smi) of Knox 
Creek, a tributary to Tug Fork. This occupied subunit extends from the 
confluence of Knox Creek and Cedar Branch downstream to the confluence 
of Knox Creek and Tug Fork in Pike County, Kentucky. Recent surveys 
indicated abundant unembedded slab boulders, boulders, and boulder 
clusters, with live Big Sandy crayfish collected at four sites in the 
Kentucky portion of the creek (Thoma 2010, p. 5; Loughman 2015a, p. 
12). The USGS topographic maps and aerial imagery (ESRI) indicate the 
Knox Creek watershed is mostly forested, with evidence of significant 
legacy, recent, and ongoing coal mining in the watershed. In the upper 
portion of this subunit, human development in the form of small 
communities, residences, roads, railroads, and other infrastructure is 
common. In the middle and lower sections, the riparian zone is 
relatively intact, except for scattered residences and a road and 
railroad line. Subunit 4d is located almost entirely on private land, 
except for any small amount that is publicly owned in the form of 
bridge crossings or road easements. This subunit contributes to the 
redundancy of the species.
Subunit 4e: Peter Creek, Pike County, Kentucky
    Subunit 4e includes approximately 10.1 skm (6.3 smi) of Peter 
Creek, a tributary to Tug Fork. This occupied subunit extends from the 
confluence of Left Fork Peter Creek and Right Fork Peter Creek at 
Phelps, Kentucky, downstream to the confluence of Peter Creek and Tug 
Fork at Freeburn, Kentucky. Recent surveys indicate

[[Page 14682]]

moderate sedimentation in Peter Creek, but some unembedded bottom 
substrates continue to be present (Loughman 2015a, p. 12). Big Sandy 
crayfish have been collected at two sites in the lower portion of this 
subunit. The USGS topographic maps and aerial imagery (ESRI) indicate 
the Peter Creek watershed is mostly forested, with evidence of 
significant legacy, recent, and ongoing coal mining throughout the 
watershed. The riparian zone in Subunit 4e is dominated by human 
development in the form of small communities, residences, roads, 
railroads, and other infrastructure. This subunit is located almost 
entirely on private land, except for any small amount that is publicly 
owned in the form of bridge crossings or road easements. Subunit 4e 
contributes to the redundancy of the species.
Subunit 4f: Blackberry Creek, Pike County, Kentucky
    Subunit 4f includes approximately 9.1 skm (5.7 smi) of Blackberry 
Creek, a tributary to Tug Fork. This occupied subunit extends from the 
confluence of Blackberry Creek and Bluespring Branch downstream to the 
confluence of Blackberry Creek and Tug Fork. Recent surveys indicate 
moderate sedimentation in Blackberry Creek, but some unembedded bottom 
substrates continue to be present (Loughman 2015a, p. 12). Big Sandy 
crayfish have been collected at two sites in the lower portion of this 
subunit. The USGS topographic maps and aerial imagery (ESRI) indicate 
the Blackberry Creek watershed is mostly forested, with evidence of 
significant legacy, recent, and ongoing coal mining throughout the 
watershed. The narrow riparian zone in Subunit 4f is dominated by human 
development in the form of small communities, residences, roads, and 
other infrastructure. This subunit is located almost entirely on 
private land, except for any small amount that is publicly owned in the 
form of bridge crossings or road easements. Subunit 4f contributes to 
the redundancy of the species.
Subunit 4g: Pigeon Creek and Laurel Creek, Mingo County, West Virginia
    Subunit 4g includes approximately 14.0 skm (8.7 smi) of Pigeon 
Creek, a tributary to Tug Fork, and approximately 11.1 skm (6.9 smi) of 
Laurel Fork, a tributary to Pigeon Creek; this subunit is occupied. The 
Pigeon Creek portion of this subunit extends from the confluence of 
Pigeon Creek and Trace Fork downstream to the confluence of Pigeon 
Creek and Tug Fork. The Laurel Creek portion extends from the 
confluence of Laurel Fork and Lick Branch 0.6 skm (0.4 smi) downstream 
of the Laurel Lake dam to the confluence of Laurel Fork and Pigeon 
Creek at Lenore, West Virginia.
    Recent surveys indicate the bottom substrates in Pigeon Creek 
consist of fine sediments, sand, and occasional boulders, with Big 
Sandy crayfish collected at a single site (Loughman 2015a, p. 11). 
Laurel Fork maintains a bottom substrate of sand, gravel, cobble, and 
occasional slab boulders, with Big Sandy crayfish collected at two 
sites (Loughman 2015a, pp. 10-11). The USGS topographic maps and aerial 
imagery (ESRI) indicate the Pigeon Creek watershed is mostly forested, 
with evidence of significant legacy, recent, and ongoing coal mining 
and valley fills in the upper portion of the watershed. The Pigeon 
Creek riparian zone is dominated by human development in the form of 
small communities, residences, roads, railroads, and other 
infrastructure. The majority of the Laurel Creek watershed is located 
within the Laurel Creek State Wildlife Management Area and is mostly 
intact forest; however, the narrow riparian zone is dominated by human 
development in the form of residences, roads, and other infrastructure. 
Subunit 4g is located almost entirely on private land, except for any 
small amount that is publicly owned in the form of bridge crossings or 
road easements. With the exception of the Big Sandy crayfish occurrence 
in the Tug Fork mainstem near Crum, West Virginia, Subunit 4g supports 
the most downstream Big Sandy crayfish population in the Tug Fork 
watershed. Therefore, this subunit contributes to the representation 
and redundancy of the species.
Guyandotte River Crayfish
    Below we present brief descriptions of all units/subunits and 
reasons why they meet the definition of critical habitat for the 
Guyandotte River crayfish. Each unit/subunit contains one or more of 
the PBFs identified above (see Summary of Essential Physical or 
Biological Features) that are essential to the conservation of the 
species.
Unit 1: Upper Guyandotte
    We propose to designate a single critical habitat unit (Unit 1), 
consisting of five subunits, for the Guyandotte River crayfish. This 
unit may require special management considerations or protection to 
address threats from resource extraction (coal mining, timber 
harvesting, and oil and gas development), road construction and 
maintenance (including unpaved roads and trails), instream dredging or 
construction projects, and other sources of point and non-point source 
pollution including spills. In addition, subunits 1a and 1e may need 
special management considerations to address threats from ORV use. The 
subunits are described below.
Subunit 1a: Pinnacle Creek, Wyoming County, West Virginia
    This occupied subunit includes approximately 28.6 skm (17.8 smi) of 
Pinnacle Creek, a tributary to the Guyandotte River. Subunit 1a extends 
from the confluence of Pinnacle Creek and Beartown Fork downstream to 
the confluence of Pinnacle Creek and the Guyandotte River at Pineville, 
West Virginia. The USGS topographic maps and aerial imagery (ESRI) 
indicate the Pinnacle Creek watershed is mostly forested; however, 
legacy, recent, and ongoing coal mining is evident in the watershed. 
The riparian zone in this subunit is mostly intact, with human 
development consisting of unimproved roads or trails. In the lower 
portion of the subunit, some commercial and coal-related facilities are 
adjacent to the stream. This subunit is located almost entirely on 
private land, except for any small amount that is publicly owned in the 
form of bridge crossings or road easements.
    Recent surveys of Pinnacle Creek confirmed the presence of the 
Guyandotte River crayfish in at least five sites in the upper portion 
of the stream. The subunit contains bottom substrate consisting of 
gravel with unembedded cobbles, small boulders, and isolated slab 
boulders (PBF 1). Substrate embeddedness was reported to increase 
markedly in downstream reaches (Loughman 2015b, p. 11). As one of only 
two known Guyandotte River crayfish populations, this subunit provides 
critical representation and redundancy for the species.
Subunit 1b: Clear Fork and Laurel Fork, Wyoming County, West Virginia
    Subunit 1b includes approximately 38.0 skm (23.6 smi) of Clear Fork 
and its primary tributary Laurel Fork. This occupied subunit extends 
from the confluence of Laurel Creek and Acord Branch downstream to the 
confluence of Clear Fork and the Guyandotte River. The USGS topographic 
maps and aerial imagery (ESRI) indicate the Subunit 1b watershed is 
mostly forested; however, coal mining activity occurs throughout the 
subunit. Human development is prevalent in the riparian zone in this 
subunit and consists of communities, residences, commercial facilities, 
agricultural fields, roads, railroads, and other infrastructure. 
Approximately 6.2 skm (3.9 smi) of Subunit 1b is within

[[Page 14683]]

the R.D. Bailey Lake State Wildlife Management Area, and the remainder 
is located almost entirely on private land, except for any small amount 
that is publicly owned in the form of bridge crossings or road 
easements.
    Surveys confirmed the Guyandotte River crayfish at six sites within 
this subunit, with the stream bottom substrate generally characterized 
as sand with abundant unembedded slab boulders, boulders, or boulder 
clusters (Loughman 2015b, pp. 9-10). Of the two remaining Guyandotte 
River crayfish populations, Subunit 1b contains the most robust 
population and provides critical representation and redundancy for the 
species.
Subunit 1c: Guyandotte River, Wyoming County, West Virginia
    Subunit 1c includes approximately 35.8 skm (22.2 smi) of the 
Guyandotte River from its confluence with Pinnacle Creek at Pineville, 
West Virginia, downstream to its confluence with Clear Fork. The USGS 
topographic maps and aerial imagery (ESRI) indicate the Subunit 1c 
watershed is mostly forested; however, some legacy and ongoing coal 
mining is evident along with natural gas development on adjacent 
ridges. In the lower portion of the subunit, the riparian zone is 
largely intact, with the exception of road and railroad rights-of-way. 
In the middle and upper portions of this subunit, human development in 
the riparian zone increases and consists of communities, residences, 
commercial facilities, agricultural fields, roads, railroads, and other 
infrastructure. Approximately 15.0 skm (9.3 smi) of Subunit 1c is 
located within the R.D. Bailey Lake State Wildlife Management Area, and 
the remainder is located almost entirely on private land, except for 
any small amount that is publicly owned in the form of bridge crossings 
or road easements.
    Although it is considered unoccupied, this subunit contains at 
least two of the PBFs essential to the conservation of the Guyandotte 
River crayfish, and we are reasonably certain that it will contribute 
to the conservation of the species. This subunit maintains ``optimal'' 
Guyandotte River crayfish habitat, including abundant unembedded slab 
boulders, boulders, boulder clusters, and cobble (PBF 1) (Loughman 
2015b, pp. 22-24). Along with providing suitable habitat for the 
Guyandotte River crayfish and thereby providing the potential to 
increase its redundancy, this subunit provides connectivity (PBF 6) 
between the extant Pinnacle Creek and Clear Fork populations and 
provides connectivity between these two populations and the unoccupied 
critical habitat subunit at Indian Creek (Subunit 1d, described below).
Subunit 1d: Indian Creek, Wyoming County, West Virginia
    Subunit 1d includes approximately 4.2 skm (2.6 smi) of Indian 
Creek, a tributary to the Guyandotte River. This subunit extends from 
the confluence of Indian Creek and Brier Creek at Fanrock, West 
Virginia, downstream to the confluence of Indian Creek and the 
Guyandotte River. The USGS topographic maps and aerial imagery (ESRI) 
indicate the Subunit 1d watershed is mostly intact forest, with 
evidence of legacy coal mining and natural gas drilling on the adjacent 
slopes. Residences, roads, and other infrastructure occur in the narrow 
riparian zone. Approximately 1.3 skm (0.8 smi) of Subunit 1d is located 
within the R.D. Bailey Lake State Wildlife Management Area, and the 
remainder is located almost entirely on private land, except for any 
small amount that is publicly owned in the form of bridge crossings or 
road easements.
    Although it is considered unoccupied, this subunit contains at 
least two of the PBFs essential to the conservation of the Guyandotte 
River crayfish, and we are reasonably certain that it will contribute 
to the conservation of the species. This subunit represents the type 
location for the Guyandotte River crayfish, with specimens last 
collected in 1947. The best available survey data (Loughman 2015b, p. 
14) indicate this subunit maintains unembedded slab boulders and 
boulders in the faster moving stream sections, with some sedimentation 
observed in slow or slack water sections (PBF 1). This subunit is 
located approximately midway between the extant Pinnacle Creek and 
Clear Fork populations and, if recolonized, would increase the 
redundancy of the Guyandotte River crayfish and contribute to 
population connectedness within the species' range (PBF 6).
Subunit 1e: Huff Creek, Wyoming and Logan Counties, West Virginia
    Subunit 1e includes approximately 28.0 skm (17.4 smi) of Huff 
Creek, a tributary of the Guyandotte River. This subunit extends from 
the confluence of Huff Creek and Straight Fork downstream to the 
confluence of Huff Creek and the Guyandotte River at Huff, West 
Virginia. The USGS topographic maps and aerial imagery (ESRI) indicate 
the Subunit 1e watershed is mostly intact forest, with evidence of 
legacy and ongoing coal mining and legacy natural gas drilling on the 
adjacent slopes. Human development, in the form of residences, roads, 
and other infrastructure, occurs in the narrow riparian zone throughout 
this subunit. Subunit 1e is located almost entirely on private land, 
except for any small amount that is publicly owned in the form of 
bridge crossings or road easements.
    Although it is considered unoccupied, this subunit contains at 
least one of the PBFs essential to the conservation of the Guyandotte 
River crayfish, and we are reasonably certain that it will contribute 
to the conservation of the species. The best available survey data 
(Loughman 2015b, pp. 14-15) indicate this subunit maintains unembedded 
slab boulders and boulder clusters with only minimal sedimentation (PBF 
1). Guyandotte River crayfish were last collected from this subunit in 
1989. The R.D. Bailey Dam, constructed in 1980, prevents connectivity 
between this subunit and the extant Guyandotte River crayfish 
populations upstream. Successful reintroduction of the species to this 
subunit would contribute to the species' redundancy and increase the 
ability of the species to disperse and colonize areas of its historical 
range that are isolated from existing populations by R.D. Bailey Dam.

Effects of Critical Habitat Designation

Section 7 Consultation

    Section 7(a)(2) of the Act requires Federal agencies, including the 
Service, to ensure that any action they fund, authorize, or carry out 
is not likely to jeopardize the continued existence of any endangered 
species or threatened species or result in the destruction or adverse 
modification of designated critical habitat of such species.
    We published a final rule revising the definition of destruction or 
adverse modification on August 27, 2019 (84 FR 44976). Destruction or 
adverse modification means a direct or indirect alteration that 
appreciably diminishes the value of critical habitat as a whole for the 
conservation of a listed species. Such alterations may include, but are 
not limited to, those that alter the physical or biological features 
essential to the conservation of a species or that preclude or 
significantly delay development of such features.
    If a Federal action may affect a listed species or its critical 
habitat, the responsible Federal agency (action agency) must enter into 
consultation with us. Examples of actions that are subject to the 
section 7 consultation process are actions on State, Tribal, local, or 
private lands that require a Federal permit (such as a permit from the 
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers under section 404 of the Clean Water Act 
(33

[[Page 14684]]

U.S.C. 1251 et seq.) or a permit from the Service under section 10 of 
the Act) or that involve some other Federal action (such as funding 
from the Federal Highway Administration, Federal Aviation 
Administration, or the Federal Emergency Management Agency). Federal 
actions not affecting listed species or critical habitat--and actions 
on State, Tribal, local, or private lands that are not federally funded 
or authorized, or carried out by a Federal agency--do not require 
section 7 consultation.
    As a result of section 7 consultation, we document compliance with 
the requirements of section 7(a)(2) through our issuance of:
    (1) A concurrence letter for Federal actions that may affect, but 
are not likely to adversely affect, listed species or critical habitat; 
or
    (2) A biological opinion for Federal actions that may affect, and 
are likely to adversely affect, listed species or critical habitat.
    When we issue a biological opinion concluding that a project is 
likely to jeopardize the continued existence of a listed species and/or 
destroy or adversely modify critical habitat, we provide reasonable and 
prudent alternatives to the project, if any are identifiable, that 
would avoid the likelihood of jeopardy and/or destruction or adverse 
modification of critical habitat. We define ``reasonable and prudent 
alternatives'' (at 50 CFR 402.02) as alternative actions identified 
during consultation that:
    (1) Can be implemented in a manner consistent with the intended 
purpose of the action,
    (2) Can be implemented consistent with the scope of the Federal 
agency's legal authority and jurisdiction,
    (3) Are economically and technologically feasible, and
    (4) Would, in the Service Director's opinion, avoid the likelihood 
of jeopardizing the continued existence of the listed species and/or 
avoid the likelihood of destroying or adversely modifying critical 
habitat.
    Reasonable and prudent alternatives can vary from slight project 
modifications to extensive redesign or relocation of the project. Costs 
associated with implementing a reasonable and prudent alternative are 
similarly variable.
    Regulations at 50 CFR 402.16 require Federal agencies to reinitiate 
consultation on previously reviewed actions. These requirements apply 
when the Federal agency has retained discretionary involvement or 
control over the action (or the agency's discretionary involvement or 
control is authorized by law), and, subsequent to the previous 
consultation, we have listed a new species or designated critical 
habitat that may be affected by the Federal action, or the action has 
been modified in a manner that affects the species or critical habitat 
in a way not considered in the previous consultation. In such 
situations, Federal agencies sometimes may need to request reinitiation 
of consultation with us, but the regulations also specify some 
exceptions to the requirement to reinitiate consultation on specific 
land management plans after subsequently listing a new species or 
designating new critical habitat. See the regulations for a description 
of those exceptions.

Application of the ``Destruction or Adverse Modification'' Standard

    The key factor related to the adverse modification determination is 
whether implementation of the proposed Federal action directly or 
indirectly alters the designated critical habitat in a way that 
appreciably diminishes the value of critical habitat as a whole for the 
conservation of the listed species. As discussed above, the role of 
critical habitat is to support physical and biological features 
essential to the conservation of a listed species and provide for the 
conservation of the species.
    Section 4(b)(8) of the Act requires us to briefly evaluate and 
describe, in any proposed or final regulation that designates critical 
habitat, activities involving a Federal action that may violate section 
7(a)(2) of the Act by destroying or adversely modifying such habitat, 
or that may be affected by such designation.
    Activities that the Service may, during a consultation under 
section 7(a)(2) of the Act, find are likely to destroy or adversely 
modify critical habitat include, but are not limited to:

    (1) Actions that would significantly increase sediment 
deposition within the stream channel. Such activities could include, 
but are not limited to, excessive erosion and sedimentation from 
coal mining or abandoned mine lands, oil or natural gas development, 
timber harvests, unpaved forest roads, road construction, channel 
alteration, off-road vehicle use, and other land-disturbing 
activities in the watershed and floodplain. Sedimentation from these 
activities could lead to stream bottom embeddedness that eliminates 
or reduces the sheltering habitat necessary for the conservation of 
these crayfish species.
    (2) Actions that would significantly alter channel morphology or 
geometry. Such activities could include, but are not limited to, 
channelization, dredging, impoundment, road and bridge construction, 
pipeline construction, and destruction of riparian vegetation. These 
activities may cause changes in water flows or channel stability and 
lead to increased sedimentation and stream bottom embeddedness that 
eliminates or reduces the sheltering habitat necessary for the 
conservation of these crayfish species.
    (3) Actions that would significantly alter water chemistry or 
temperature. Such activities could include, but are not limited to, 
the release of chemicals, fill, biological pollutants, or heated 
effluents into the surface water or connected groundwater at a point 
source or by dispersed release (non-point source). These activities 
could alter water conditions to levels that are beyond the 
tolerances of the Big Sandy or Guyandotte River crayfish and result 
in direct or cumulative adverse effects to individual crayfish.

Exemptions

Application of Section 4(a)(3) of the Act

    Section 4(a)(3)(B)(i) of the Act (16 U.S.C. 1533(a)(3)(B)(i)) 
provides that: ``The Secretary shall not designate as critical habitat 
any lands or other geographic areas owned or controlled by the 
Department of Defense, or designated for its use, that are subject to 
an integrated natural resources management plan [INRMP] prepared under 
section 101 of the Sikes Act (16 U.S.C. 670a), if the Secretary 
determines in writing that such plan provides a benefit to the species 
for which critical habitat is proposed for designation.'' There are no 
Department of Defense lands with a completed INRMP within the final 
critical habitat designation.

Consideration of Impacts Under Section 4(b)(2) of the Act

    Section 4(b)(2) of the Act states that the Secretary shall 
designate and make revisions to critical habitat on the basis of the 
best available scientific data after taking into consideration the 
economic impact, national security impact, and any other relevant 
impact of specifying any particular area as critical habitat. The 
Secretary may exclude an area from critical habitat if she determines 
that the benefits of such exclusion outweigh the benefits of specifying 
such area as part of the critical habitat, unless she determines, based 
on the best scientific data available, that the failure to designate 
such area as critical habitat will result in the extinction of the 
species. In making that determination, the statute on its face, as well 
as the legislative history are clear that the Secretary has broad 
discretion regarding which factor(s) to use and how much weight to give 
to any factor. On December 18, 2020, we published a final rule in the 
Federal Register (85 FR 82376) revising portions of our regulations 
pertaining to exclusions of critical habitat. These final regulations

[[Page 14685]]

became effective on January 19, 2021, and apply to critical habitat 
rules for which a proposed rule was published after January 19, 2021. 
Consequently, these new regulations do not apply to this final rule.
    We describe below the process that we undertook for taking into 
consideration each category of impacts and our analyses of the relevant 
impacts.

Consideration of Economic Impacts

    Section 4(b)(2) of the Act and its implementing regulations require 
that we consider the economic impact that may result from a designation 
of critical habitat. To assess the probable economic impacts of a 
designation, we must first evaluate specific land uses or activities 
and projects that may occur in the area of the critical habitat. We 
then must evaluate the impacts that a specific critical habitat 
designation may have on restricting or modifying specific land uses or 
activities for the benefit of the species and its habitat within the 
areas proposed. We then identify which conservation efforts may be the 
result of the species being listed under the Act versus those 
attributed solely to the designation of critical habitat for this 
particular species. The probable economic impact of a proposed critical 
habitat designation is analyzed by comparing scenarios both ``with 
critical habitat'' and ``without critical habitat.''
    The ``without critical habitat'' scenario represents the baseline 
for the analysis, which includes the existing regulatory and 
socioeconomic burden imposed on landowners, managers, or other resource 
users potentially affected by the designation of critical habitat 
(e.g., under the Federal listing as well as other Federal, State, and 
local regulations). The baseline, therefore, represents the costs of 
all efforts attributable to the listing of the species under the Act 
(i.e., conservation of the species and its habitat incurred regardless 
of whether critical habitat is designated). The ``with critical 
habitat'' scenario describes the incremental impacts associated 
specifically with the designation of critical habitat for the species. 
The incremental conservation efforts and associated impacts would not 
be expected without the designation of critical habitat for the 
species. In other words, the incremental costs are those attributable 
solely to the designation of critical habitat, above and beyond the 
baseline costs. These are the costs we use when evaluating the benefits 
of inclusion and exclusion of particular areas from the final 
designation of critical habitat should we choose to conduct a 
discretionary 4(b)(2) exclusion analysis.
    For this particular designation, we developed an incremental 
effects memorandum (IEM) considering the probable incremental economic 
impacts that may result from this designation of critical habitat. The 
information contained in our IEM was then used to develop a screening 
analysis of the probable effects of the designation of critical habitat 
for the Big Sandy and Guyandotte River crayfishes (IEc 2019, entire). 
We began by conducting a screening analysis of the proposed designation 
of critical habitat in order to focus our analysis on the key factors 
that are likely to result in incremental economic impacts.
    The purpose of the screening analysis is to filter out particular 
geographic areas of critical habitat that are already subject to such 
protections and are, therefore, unlikely to incur incremental economic 
impacts. In particular, the screening analysis considers baseline costs 
(i.e., absent critical habitat designation) and includes probable 
economic impacts where land and water use may be subject to 
conservation plans, land management plans, best management practices, 
or regulations that protect the habitat area as a result of the Federal 
listing status of the species. Ultimately, the screening analysis 
allows us to focus on evaluating the specific areas or sectors that may 
incur probable incremental economic impacts as a result of the 
designation. If there are any unoccupied units in the proposed critical 
habitat designation, the screening analysis assesses whether any 
additional management or conservation efforts may incur incremental 
economic impacts.
    This screening analysis combined with the information contained in 
our IEM are what we consider our draft economic analysis (DEA) of the 
proposed critical habitat designation for the Big Sandy and Guyandotte 
River crayfishes and are summarized in the narrative below. The IEM 
dated August 14, 2019, and the draft screening analysis, dated October 
7, 2019, was made available for public review from January 28, 2020, 
through March 30, 2020 (85 FR 5072). We received public comments on the 
DEA. A copy of the DEA may be obtained by contacting the West Virginia 
Field Office (see ADDRESSES) or by downloading from the internet at 
https://www.regulations.gov.
    Executive Orders (E.O.s) 12866 and 13563 direct Federal agencies to 
assess the costs and benefits of available regulatory alternatives in 
quantitative (to the extent feasible) and qualitative terms. Consistent 
with the E.O. regulatory analysis requirements, our effects analysis 
under the Act may take into consideration impacts to both directly and 
indirectly affected entities, where practicable and reasonable. If 
sufficient data are available, we assess to the extent practicable the 
probable impacts to both directly and indirectly affected entities.
    As part of our screening analysis, we considered the types of 
economic activities that are likely to occur within the areas likely 
affected by the critical habitat designation. In our evaluation of the 
probable incremental economic impacts that may result from the 
designation of critical habitat for the Big Sandy and Guyandotte River 
crayfishes, first we identified, in the IEM dated August 14, 2019 
(Service 2019, entire), probable incremental economic impacts 
associated with the following categories of activities: (1) Watershed 
and stream restoration activities; (2) construction of recreation 
improvements and management of recreation activities; (3) energy 
extraction (coal, oil, and gas) and maintenance/management of 
facilities (e.g., abandoned mine lands, active mines, pipelines); (4) 
road and bridge maintenance; (5) pesticide use; (6) timber harvest; (7) 
agriculture; and (8) instream emergency response activities.
    We considered each industry or category individually. Additionally, 
we considered whether their activities have any Federal involvement. 
Critical habitat designation generally will not affect activities that 
do not have any Federal involvement; under the Act, designation of 
critical habitat only affects activities conducted, funded, permitted, 
or authorized by Federal agencies. In areas where the Big Sandy and 
Guyandotte River crayfishes are present, Federal agencies already are 
required to consult with the Service under section 7 of the Act on 
activities they fund, permit, or implement that may affect the species. 
When this final critical habitat designation rule becomes effective, 
consultations to avoid the destruction or adverse modification of 
critical habitat would be incorporated into the existing consultation 
process.
    In our IEM, we attempted to clarify the distinction between the 
effects that will result from the species being listed and those 
attributable to the critical habitat designation (i.e., difference 
between the jeopardy and adverse modification standards) for the Big 
Sandy or Guyandotte River crayfishes' critical habitat. Because all of 
the units/subunits we are designating as critical habitat for the Big 
Sandy crayfish are occupied, we do not expect that the critical habitat 
designation will result in any additional consultations. The

[[Page 14686]]

conservation recommendations provided to address impacts to the 
occupied critical habitat will be the same as those recommended to 
address impacts to the species because the habitat tolerances of the 
Big Sandy crayfish are inextricably linked to the health, growth, and 
reproduction of the crayfish, which are present year-round in their 
occupied streams. Furthermore, because the critical habitat and the Big 
Sandy crayfish's known range are identical, the results of consultation 
under adverse modification are not likely to differ from the results of 
consultation under jeopardy. In the event of an adverse modification 
determination, we expect that reasonable and prudent alternatives to 
avoid jeopardy to the species would also avoid adverse modification of 
the critical habitat. The only incremental costs of critical habitat 
designation that we anticipate are the small administrative costs 
required during section 7 consultation to document effects on the 
physical and biological features of the critical habitat and whether 
the action appreciably diminishes the value of critical habitat as a 
whole for the conservation of the listed species.
    The above conclusion is also accurate for the occupied Guyandotte 
River crayfish subunits (1a and 1b). For the unoccupied Guyandotte 
River crayfish subunits (1c, 1d, and 1e), we anticipate project 
modifications may result in the future from consultations on one 
planned surface mining project as well as one existing surface mining 
project. Examples of project modifications may include, but are not 
limited to, sediment monitoring, chemical testing, macroinvertebrate 
monitoring, installing box culverts at all stream crossings, 
collocating valley fills or constructing regarded backstacks, and 
maintaining a spill response plan (IEc 2019, p. 15). Informed by 
discussions with a mining company operating in Guyandotte River 
crayfish occupied habitat, the cost estimates associated with such 
project modifications were projected to be relatively minor, ranging 
from $30,000 to $60,000 in the year of implementation.
    We received several comments during the public comment period 
stating that we underestimated the economic impact of the proposed 
designation, so we revised the screening analysis (IEc 2020, p. 2). We 
worked with IEc and Federal and State agencies to better understand the 
likely effects of critical habitat designation. The final screening 
analysis examines potential project modifications for consultations in 
unoccupied critical habitat in more detail (i.e., cleaning out sediment 
structures [e.g., ponds] at 40% of design capacity instead of the 60% 
of design capacity that is required under existing regulations and 
installing continuous turbidity loggers, isolating mine discharge with 
upstream and downstream Biological Assessment Station [BAS] sites, 
statistically monitoring sediment within crayfish streams and receiving 
streams, sediment transport modeling) (IEc 2020, p. 16). Insufficient 
information is available to quantify the costs of sediment cleanout; 
therefore, annualized project modification costs were qualitatively 
discussed and total costs were estimated to be on the order of $350,000 
(IEc 2020, p. 21). The administrative costs are discussed below. The 
final screening analysis states that critical habitat designation for 
the Big Sandy and Guyandotte River crayfish is unlikely to generate 
costs exceeding $100 million in a single year and, therefore, would not 
be significant as defined by Executive Order 13211 (below).
    The critical habitat designation for the Big Sandy crayfish totals 
approximately 582 skm (362 smi), all of which is currently occupied by 
the species. The critical habitat designation for the Guyandotte River 
crayfish totals approximately 135 skm (84 smi), of which approximately 
49% is currently occupied by the species.
    As stated in the final screening analysis (IEc 2020, p. 24), 
critical habitat designation for the Big Sandy and Guyandotte River 
crayfish would be unlikely to generate costs exceeding $100 million in 
a single year, and therefore would not be significant. The direct 
section 7 costs would most likely be limited to additional 
administrative effort to consider adverse modification, as well as the 
project modifications discussed above, in unoccupied habitat for the 
Guyandotte River crayfish. All of the critical habitat units/subunits 
for the Big Sandy crayfish and two subunits of critical habitat for the 
Guyandotte River crayfish are occupied year-round by these species. 
Within occupied habitat, regardless of whether critical habitat is 
designated, all projects with a Federal nexus are already subject to 
section 7 requirements due to the listing of the species. The 
administrative time required to address critical habitat in these 
consultations is minor. The results of consultation for adverse 
modification are not likely to differ from the results of consultation 
for jeopardy. Three subunits of critical habitat for the Guyandotte 
River crayfish are currently unoccupied by the species. Section 7 
consultations for all projects with a Federal nexus in this unoccupied 
habitat would be fully attributable to the critical habitat 
designation. We anticipate incremental project modifications resulting 
from these consultations, including for existing and planned surface 
mines.
    Based on the rate of historical consultations in occupied units/
subunits, these two species are likely to generate a total of 
approximately 285 consultations and technical assistances in a given 
year; this includes multiple project types including roads and 
transportation projects, pipeline and utility crossings, and other 
project types as described in the IEM. The total additional 
administrative cost of addressing adverse modification in these new and 
existing consultations is not expected to exceed $870,000, depending on 
the range of cost estimates for unoccupied critical habitat (see 
below), in a given year. This value likely overestimates the cost 
because technical assistance consultations, which cost substantially 
less, cannot be separated from informal consultations in the 
consultation information provided to the economists. The cost of 
project modifications resulting from currently identified existing and 
future activities in unoccupied habitat for the Guyandotte River 
crayfish is expected to be about $350,000 in a given year.
    Further, the designation of critical habitat is not expected to 
trigger additional requirements under State or local regulations. 
Additionally, because the critical habitat is located in stretches of 
river, rather than on land, impacts on property values resulting from 
the perception of additional regulation are unlikely. Project 
modifications in unoccupied habitat for the Guyandotte River crayfish 
have the potential to increase conservation in these areas, resulting 
in an incremental benefit. Data limitations preclude IEc's ability to 
monetize these benefits; however, these benefits are unlikely to exceed 
$100 million in a given year.
    The units with the highest potential costs resulting from the 
designation of critical habitat are Unit 2 for the Big Sandy crayfish 
and the unoccupied subunits of Unit 1 for the Guyandotte River 
crayfish. Because Unit 1 for the Guyandotte River crayfish (in West 
Virginia) includes unoccupied stream miles, requests for project 
modifications would be likely for existing and planned projects in this 
area. Unit 2 for the Big Sandy crayfish (Russell Fork, spanning both 
Kentucky and Virginia) contains the most stream miles with adjacent 
Federal land ownership and, therefore, a higher probability of 
intersecting with projects or activities with a Federal nexus that 
require consultation.

[[Page 14687]]

    We have considered additional economic impact information we 
received during the public comment period, and determined that no areas 
may be excluded from the final critical habitat designation under 
section 4(b)(2) of the Act and our implementing regulations at 50 CFR 
424.19.

Exclusions

Exclusions Based on Economic Impacts

    The first sentence of section 4(b)(2) of the Act requires the 
Service to consider the economic impacts (as well as the impacts on 
national security and any other relevant impacts) of designating 
critical habitat. In addition, economic impacts may, for some 
particular areas, play an important role in the discretionary section 
4(b)(2) exclusion analysis under the second sentence of section 
4(b)(2). In both contexts, the Service has considered the probable 
incremental economic impacts of the designation. When the Service 
undertakes a discretionary section 4(b)(2) exclusion analysis with 
respect to a particular area, we weigh the economic benefits of 
exclusion (and any other benefits of exclusion) against any benefits of 
inclusion (primarily the conservation value of designating the area). 
The conservation value may be influenced by the level of effort needed 
to manage degraded habitat to the point where it could support the 
listed species.
    The Service uses its discretion in determining how to weigh 
probable incremental economic impacts against conservation value. The 
nature of the probable incremental economic impacts, and not 
necessarily a particular threshold level, triggers considerations of 
exclusions based on probable incremental economic impacts. For example, 
if an economic analysis indicates high probable incremental impacts of 
designating a particular critical habitat unit of lower conservation 
value (relative to the remainder of the designation), the Service may 
consider exclusion of that particular unit.
    As discussed above, the Service considered the economic impacts of 
the critical habitat designation and the Secretary is not exercising 
her discretion to exclude any areas from this designation of critical 
habitat for the Big Sandy and Guyandotte River crayfishes based on 
economic impacts.

Exclusions Based on Impacts on National Security and Homeland Security

    Under section 4(b)(2) of the Act, we consider whether there are 
lands owned or managed by the Department of Defense where a national 
security impact might exist. We have determined that the lands within 
the final designation of critical habitat for the Big Sandy and 
Guyandotte River crayfishes are not owned or managed by the Department 
of Defense or Department of Homeland Security, and, therefore, we 
anticipate no impact on national security. We did not receive any 
requests from Federal agencies responsible for national security or 
homeland security requesting exclusions from Big Sandy crayfish or 
Guyandotte River crayfish critical habitat designation. Consequently, 
the Secretary is not exercising her discretion to exclude any areas 
from the final designation based on impacts on national security.

Exclusions Based on Other Relevant Impacts

    Under section 4(b)(2) of the Act, the Service considers any other 
relevant impacts of the critical habitat designation, in addition to 
economic impacts and impacts on national security as discussed above. 
The Service considers a number of factors including whether there are 
permitted conservation plans covering the species in the area such as 
HCPs, safe harbor agreements, or candidate conservation agreements with 
assurances, or whether there are nonpermitted conservation agreements 
and partnerships that would be encouraged by designation of, or 
exclusion from, critical habitat. In addition, we look at the existence 
of Tribal conservation plans and partnerships and consider the 
government-to-government relationship of the United States with Tribal 
entities. We also consider any social impacts that might occur because 
of the designation.
    In preparing this designation, we have determined that there are 
currently no HCPs or other management plans for the Big Sandy or 
Guyandotte River crayfishes, and the designation does not include any 
Tribal lands or trust resources. We anticipate no impact on Tribal 
lands, partnerships, or HCPs from this critical habitat designation.
    As explained above, there are no Department of Defense or national 
security impacts or Tribal trust impacts associated with the 
designation. Therefore, the Secretary is not exercising her discretion 
to exclude any areas from this final designation based on other 
relevant impacts.

Required Determinations

Regulatory Planning and Review (Executive Orders 12866 and 13563)

    Executive Order 12866 provides that the Office of Information and 
Regulatory Affairs in the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) will 
review all significant rules. The Office of Information and Regulatory 
Affairs has determined that this rule is not significant.
    Executive Order 13563 reaffirms the principles of E.O. 12866 while 
calling for improvements in the nation's regulatory system to promote 
predictability, to reduce uncertainty, and to use the best, most 
innovative, and least burdensome tools for achieving regulatory ends. 
The Executive order directs agencies to consider regulatory approaches 
that reduce burdens and maintain flexibility and freedom of choice for 
the public where these approaches are relevant, feasible, and 
consistent with regulatory objectives. E.O. 13563 emphasizes further 
that regulations must be based on the best available science and that 
the rulemaking process must allow for public participation and an open 
exchange of ideas. We have developed this rule in a manner consistent 
with these requirements.

Regulatory Flexibility Act (5 U.S.C. 601 et seq.)

    Under the Regulatory Flexibility Act (RFA; 5 U.S.C. 601 et seq.), 
as amended by the Small Business Regulatory Enforcement Fairness Act of 
1996 (SBREFA; 5 U.S.C. 801 et seq.), whenever an agency is required to 
publish a notice of rulemaking for any proposed or final rule, it must 
prepare and make available for public comment a regulatory flexibility 
analysis that describes the effects of the rule on small entities 
(i.e., small businesses, small organizations, and small government 
jurisdictions). However, no regulatory flexibility analysis is required 
if the head of the agency certifies the rule will not have a 
significant economic impact on a substantial number of small entities. 
The SBREFA amended the RFA to require Federal agencies to provide a 
certification statement of the factual basis for certifying that the 
rule will not have a significant economic impact on a substantial 
number of small entities.
    According to the Small Business Administration, small entities 
include small organizations such as independent nonprofit 
organizations; small governmental jurisdictions, including school 
boards and city and town governments that serve fewer than 50,000 
residents; and small businesses (13 CFR 121.201). Small businesses

[[Page 14688]]

include manufacturing and mining concerns with fewer than 500 
employees, wholesale trade entities with fewer than 100 employees, 
retail and service businesses with less than $5 million in annual 
sales, general and heavy construction businesses with less than $27.5 
million in annual business, special trade contractors doing less than 
$11.5 million in annual business, and agricultural businesses with 
annual sales less than $750,000 (13 CFR 121.201). To determine whether 
potential economic impacts to these small entities are significant, we 
considered the types of activities that might trigger regulatory 
impacts under this designation as well as types of project 
modifications that may result. In general, the term ``significant 
economic impact'' is meant to apply to a typical small business firm's 
business operations.
    Under the RFA, as amended, and as understood in light of recent 
court decisions, Federal agencies are required to evaluate the 
potential incremental impacts of rulemaking on those entities directly 
regulated by the rulemaking itself; in other words, the RFA does not 
require agencies to evaluate the potential impacts to indirectly 
regulated entities. The regulatory mechanism through which critical 
habitat protections are realized is section 7 of the Act, which 
requires Federal agencies, in consultation with the Service, to ensure 
that any action authorized, funded, or carried out by the Agency is not 
likely to destroy or adversely modify critical habitat. Therefore, 
under section 7, only Federal action agencies are directly subject to 
the specific regulatory requirement (avoiding destruction and adverse 
modification) imposed by critical habitat designation. Consequently, it 
is our position that only Federal action agencies will be directly 
regulated by this designation. There is no requirement under RFA to 
evaluate the potential impacts to entities not directly regulated. 
Moreover, Federal agencies are not small entities. Therefore, because 
no small entities are directly regulated by this rulemaking, the 
Service certifies that the final critical habitat designation will not 
have a significant economic impact on a substantial number of small 
entities.
    During the development of this final rule we reviewed and evaluated 
all information submitted during the comment period that may pertain to 
our consideration of the probable incremental economic impacts of this 
critical habitat designation. Based on this information, we affirm our 
certification that this final critical habitat designation will not 
have a significant economic impact on a substantial number of small 
entities, and a regulatory flexibility analysis is not required.

Energy Supply, Distribution, or Use--Executive Order 13211

    Executive Order 13211 (Actions Concerning Regulations That 
Significantly Affect Energy Supply, Distribution, or Use) requires 
agencies to prepare Statements of Energy Effects when undertaking 
certain actions. Coal mining, pipeline and utility crossings, and oil 
and gas exploration activities regularly occur within the range of the 
Big Sandy and Guyandotte River crayfishes and their critical habitat 
units/subunits (Service 2019, pp. 7-8). These are routine activities 
that the Service consults on with the Office of Surface Mining, the 
Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, and the U.S. Army Corps of 
Engineers under section 7 of the Act. In our screening analysis, we do 
not find that the designation of this critical habitat would 
significantly affect energy supplies, distribution, or use. As 
discussed in the revised screening analysis, the costs associated with 
consultations related to occupied critical habitat would be largely 
administrative in nature and the costs associated with projects in 
unoccupied critical habitat are estimated not to exceed $350,000 per 
year (IEc 2020, p. 21). The full cost of the entire designation is not 
expected to exceed $1,000,000 per year, which does not reach the 
significant threshold of $100 million per year. Therefore, this action 
is not a significant energy action, and no Statement of Energy Effects 
is required.

Unfunded Mandates Reform Act (2 U.S.C. 1501 et seq.)

    In accordance with the Unfunded Mandates Reform Act (2 U.S.C. 1501 
et seq.), we make the following findings:
    (1) This rule will not produce a Federal mandate. In general, a 
Federal mandate is a provision in legislation, statute, or regulation 
that would impose an enforceable duty upon State, local, or Tribal 
governments, or the private sector, and includes both ``Federal 
intergovernmental mandates'' and ``Federal private sector mandates.'' 
These terms are defined in 2 U.S.C. 658(5)-(7). ``Federal 
intergovernmental mandate'' includes a regulation that ``would impose 
an enforceable duty upon State, local, or Tribal governments'' with two 
exceptions. It excludes ``a condition of Federal assistance.'' It also 
excludes ``a duty arising from participation in a voluntary Federal 
program,'' unless the regulation ``relates to a then-existing Federal 
program under which $500,000,000 or more is provided annually to State, 
local, and Tribal governments under entitlement authority,'' if the 
provision would ``increase the stringency of conditions of assistance'' 
or ``place caps upon, or otherwise decrease, the Federal Government's 
responsibility to provide funding,'' and the State, local, or Tribal 
governments ``lack authority'' to adjust accordingly. At the time of 
enactment, these entitlement programs were: Medicaid; Aid to Families 
with Dependent Children work programs; Child Nutrition; Food Stamps; 
Social Services Block Grants; Vocational Rehabilitation State Grants; 
Foster Care, Adoption Assistance, and Independent Living; Family 
Support Welfare Services; and Child Support Enforcement. ``Federal 
private sector mandate'' includes a regulation that ``would impose an 
enforceable duty upon the private sector, except (i) a condition of 
Federal assistance or (ii) a duty arising from participation in a 
voluntary Federal program.''
    The designation of critical habitat does not impose a legally 
binding duty on non-Federal Government entities or private parties. 
Under the Act, the only regulatory effect is that Federal agencies must 
ensure that their actions do not destroy or adversely modify critical 
habitat under section 7. While non-Federal entities that receive 
Federal funding, assistance, or permits, or that otherwise require 
approval or authorization from a Federal agency for an action, may be 
indirectly impacted by the designation of critical habitat, the legally 
binding duty to avoid destruction or adverse modification of critical 
habitat rests squarely on the Federal agency. Furthermore, to the 
extent that non-Federal entities are indirectly impacted because they 
receive Federal assistance or participate in a voluntary Federal aid 
program, the Unfunded Mandates Reform Act would not apply, nor would 
critical habitat shift the costs of the large entitlement programs 
listed above onto State governments.
    (2) We do not believe that this rule would significantly or 
uniquely affect small governments because the waters being designated 
for critical habitat are owned by the States of Kentucky, Virginia, and 
West Virginia. These government entities do not fit the definition of 
``small government jurisdiction.'' Therefore, a Small Government Agency 
Plan is not required.

[[Page 14689]]

Takings--Executive Order 12630

    In accordance with E.O. 12630 (Government Actions and Interference 
with Constitutionally Protected Private Property Rights), we have 
analyzed the potential takings implications of designating critical 
habitat for the Big Sandy and Guyandotte River crayfishes in a takings 
implications assessment. The Act does not authorize the Service to 
regulate private actions on private lands or confiscate private 
property as a result of critical habitat designation. Designation of 
critical habitat does not affect land ownership, or establish any 
closures, or restrictions on use of or access to the designated areas. 
Furthermore, the designation of critical habitat does not affect 
landowner actions that do not require Federal funding or permits, nor 
does it preclude development of habitat conservation programs or 
issuance of incidental take permits to permit actions that do require 
Federal funding or permits to go forward. However, Federal agencies are 
prohibited from carrying out, funding, or authorizing actions that 
would destroy or adversely modify critical habitat. A takings 
implications assessment has been completed and concludes that this 
designation of critical habitat for the Big Sandy and Guyandotte River 
crayfishes does not pose significant takings implications for lands 
within or affected by the designation.

Federalism--Executive Order 13132

    In accordance with E.O. 13132 (Federalism), this rule does not have 
significant Federalism effects. A federalism summary impact statement 
is not required. In keeping with Department of the Interior and 
Department of Commerce policy, we requested information from, and 
coordinated development of this critical habitat designation with, 
appropriate State resource agencies in Kentucky, Virginia, and West 
Virginia. We received comments from the West Virginia DNR and have 
addressed them in the Summary of Comments and Recommendations section 
of the preamble. From a federalism perspective, the designation of 
critical habitat directly affects only the responsibilities of Federal 
agencies. The Act imposes no other duties with respect to critical 
habitat, either for States and local governments, or for anyone else. 
As a result, the rule does not have substantial direct effects either 
on the States, or on the relationship between the national government 
and the States, or on the distribution of powers and responsibilities 
among the various levels of government. The designation may have some 
benefit to these governments because the areas that contain the 
features essential to the conservation of the species are more clearly 
defined, and the physical and biological features of the habitat 
necessary to the conservation of the species are specifically 
identified. This information does not alter where and what federally 
sponsored activities may occur. However, it may assist these local 
governments in long-range planning because these local governments no 
longer have to wait for case-by-case section 7 consultations to occur.
    Where State and local governments require approval or authorization 
from a Federal agency for actions that may affect critical habitat, 
consultation under section 7(a)(2) would be required. While non-Federal 
entities that receive Federal funding, assistance, or permits, or that 
otherwise require approval or authorization from a Federal agency for 
an action, may be indirectly impacted by the designation of critical 
habitat, the legally binding duty to avoid destruction or adverse 
modification of critical habitat rests squarely on the Federal agency.

Civil Justice Reform--Executive Order 12988

    In accordance with Executive Order 12988 (Civil Justice Reform), 
the Office of the Solicitor has determined that the rule does not 
unduly burden the judicial system and that it meets the requirements of 
sections 3(a) and 3(b)(2) of the Order. We are designating critical 
habitat in accordance with the provisions of the Act. To assist the 
public in understanding the habitat needs of the species, the rule 
identifies the elements of physical or biological features essential to 
the conservation of the Big Sandy and Guyandotte River crayfishes. The 
designated areas of critical habitat are presented on maps, and the 
rule provides several options for the interested public to obtain more 
detailed location information, if desired.

Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995 (44 U.S.C. 3501 et seq.)

    This rule does not contain information collection requirements, and 
a submission to the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) under the 
Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995 (44 U.S.C. 3501 et seq.) is not 
required. We may not conduct or sponsor and you are not required to 
respond to a collection of information unless it displays a currently 
valid OMB control number.

National Environmental Policy Act (42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq.)

    It is our position that, outside the jurisdiction of the U.S. Court 
of Appeals for the Tenth Circuit, we do not need to prepare 
environmental analyses pursuant to the National Environmental Policy 
Act (NEPA; 42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq.) in connection with designating 
critical habitat under the Act. We published a notice outlining our 
reasons for this determination in the Federal Register on October 25, 
1983 (48 FR 49244). This position was upheld by the U.S. Court of 
Appeals for the Ninth Circuit (Douglas County v. Babbitt, 48 F.3d 1495 
(9th Cir. 1995), cert. denied 516 U.S. 1042 (1996)).

Government-to-Government Relationship With Tribes

    In accordance with the President's memorandum of April 29, 1994 
(Government-to-Government Relations with Native American Tribal 
Governments; 59 FR 22951), Executive Order 13175 (Consultation and 
Coordination With Indian Tribal Governments), and the Department of the 
Interior's manual at 512 DM 2, we readily acknowledge our 
responsibility to communicate meaningfully with recognized Federal 
Tribes on a government-to-government basis. In accordance with 
Secretarial Order 3206 of June 5, 1997 (American Indian Tribal Rights, 
Federal-Tribal Trust Responsibilities, and the Endangered Species Act), 
we readily acknowledge our responsibilities to work directly with 
Tribes in developing programs for healthy ecosystems, to acknowledge 
that Tribal lands are not subject to the same controls as Federal 
public lands, to remain sensitive to Indian culture, and to make 
information available to Tribes. We determined that there are no Tribal 
lands that were occupied by the Big Sandy or Guyandotte River 
crayfishes at the time of listing that contain the features essential 
for conservation of the species, and no Tribal lands unoccupied by the 
Big Sandy or Guyandotte River crayfishes that are essential for the 
conservation of the species. Therefore, we are not designating critical 
habitat for the Big Sandy or Guyandotte River crayfishes on Tribal 
lands.

References Cited

    A complete list of all references cited in this rulemaking is 
available on the internet at https://www.regulations.gov and upon 
request from the West Virginia Ecological Services Field Office (see 
For Further Information Contact).

[[Page 14690]]

Authors

    The primary authors of this rulemaking are the staff members of the 
North Atlantic--Appalachian Regional Office, Kentucky Ecological 
Services Field Office, Southwestern Virginia Field Office, and the West 
Virginia Field Office.

List of Subjects in 50 CFR Part 17

    Endangered and threatened species, Exports, Imports, Reporting and 
recordkeeping requirements, Transportation.

Regulation Promulgation

    Accordingly, we amend part 17, subchapter B of chapter I, title 50 
of the Code of Federal Regulations, as set forth below:

PART 17--ENDANGERED AND THREATENED WILDLIFE AND PLANTS

0
1. The authority citation for part 17 continues to read as follows:

    Authority:  16 U.S.C. 1361-1407; 1531-1544; and 4201-4245; 
unless otherwise noted.

0
2. Amend Sec.  17.11(h) by revising the entries for ``Crayfish, Big 
Sandy'' and ``Crayfish, Guyandotte River'' under ``Crustaceans'' in the 
List of Endangered and Threatened Wildlife to read as follows:


Sec.  17.11   Endangered and threatened wildlife.

* * * * *
    (h) * * *

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                              Listing citations
           Common name               Scientific name        Where listed         Status         and applicable
                                                                                                    rules
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
                                                  * * * * * * *
           Crustaceans
 
                                                  * * * * * * *
Crayfish, Big Sandy..............  Cambarus callainus.  Wherever found.....  T               81 FR 20450, 4/7/
                                                                                              2016; 50 CFR
                                                                                              17.95(h).\CH\
 
                                                  * * * * * * *
Crayfish, Guyandotte River.......  Cambarus veteranus.  Wherever found.....  E               81 FR 20450, 4/7/
                                                                                              2016;
                                                                                             50 CFR
                                                                                              17.95(h).\CH\
 
                                                  * * * * * * *
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


0
3. Amend Sec.  17.95(h) by adding entries for ``Big Sandy Crayfish 
(Cambarus callainus)'' and `` Guyandotte River Crayfish (Cambarus 
veteranus)'' after the entry for `` Pecos amphipod (Gammarus pecos)'' 
to read as follows:


Sec.  17.95   Critical habitat--fish and wildlife.

* * * * *
    (h) Crustaceans.
* * * * *

Big Sandy Crayfish (Cambarus callainus)

    (1) Critical habitat units are depicted for Martin, Pike, Johnson, 
and Floyd Counties, Kentucky; Buchanan, Dickenson, and Wise Counties, 
Virginia; and McDowell, Mingo, and Wayne Counties, West Virginia, on 
the maps in this entry.
    (2) Within these areas, the physical or biological features 
essential to the conservation of the Big Sandy crayfish consist of the 
following components:
    (i) Fast-flowing stream reaches with unembedded slab boulders, 
cobbles, or isolated boulder clusters within an unobstructed stream 
continuum (i.e., riffle, run, pool complexes) of permanent, moderate- 
to large-sized (generally third order and larger) streams and rivers 
(up to the ordinary high water mark as defined at 33 CFR 329.11).
    (ii) Streams and rivers with natural variations in flow and 
seasonal flooding sufficient to effectively transport sediment and 
prevent substrate embeddedness.
    (iii) Water quality characterized by seasonally moderated 
temperatures and physical and chemical parameters (e.g., pH, 
conductivity, dissolved oxygen) sufficient for the normal behavior, 
growth, reproduction, and viability of all life stages of the species.
    (iv) An adequate food base, indicated by a healthy aquatic 
community structure including native benthic macroinvertebrates and 
fishes, and plant matter (e.g., leaf litter, algae, detritus).
    (v) Aquatic habitats protected from riparian and instream 
activities that degrade the physical and biological features described 
in paragraphs (2)(i) through (iv) of this entry or cause physical 
(e.g., crushing) injury or death to individual Big Sandy crayfish.
    (vi) An interconnected network of streams and rivers that have the 
physical and biological features described in paragraphs (2)(i) through 
(iv) of this entry and that allow for the movement of individual 
crayfish in response to environmental, physiological, or behavioral 
drivers. The scale of the interconnected stream network should be 
sufficient to allow for gene flow within and among watersheds.
    (3) Critical habitat does not include manmade structures (such as 
buildings, aqueducts, runways, roads, and other paved areas) and the 
land on which they are located existing within the legal boundaries on 
April 14, 2022.
    (4) Data layers defining map units were created on a base of U.S. 
Geological Survey digital ortho-photo quarter-quadrangles, and critical 
habitat units were then mapped using Universal Transverse Mercator 
(UTM) Zone 15N coordinates. ESRI's ArcGIS 10.0 software was used to 
determine latitude and longitude coordinates using decimal degrees. The 
USA Topo ESRI online basemap service was referenced to identify 
features (like roads and streams) used to delineate the upstream and 
downstream extents of critical habitat units. The maps in this entry, 
as modified by any accompanying regulatory text, establish the 
boundaries of the critical habitat designation. The coordinates or plot 
points or both on which each map is based are available to the public 
at the Service's internet site at https://www.fws.gov/westvirginiafieldoffice/, at https://www.regulations.gov at Docket No. 
FWS-R5-ES-2019-0098, and at the field office responsible for this 
designation. You may obtain field office location information by 
contacting one of the Service regional offices, the addresses of which 
are listed at 50 CFR 2.2.
    (5) Index map of critical habitat Units 1 and 2 for the Big Sandy 
crayfish follows:
BILLING CODE 4333-15-P

[[Page 14691]]

[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TR15MR22.009

    (6) Unit 1: Upper Levisa Fork--Dismal Creek, Buchanan County, 
Virginia.
    (i) Unit 1 includes approximately 29.2 stream kilometers (skm) 
(18.1 smi) of Dismal Creek from its confluence with Laurel Fork 
downstream to its confluence with Levisa Fork in Buchanan County, 
Virginia.
    (ii) Map of Unit 1 follows:

[[Page 14692]]

[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TR15MR22.010

    (7) Unit 2: Russell Fork--Buchanan, Dickenson, and Wise Counties, 
Virginia, and Pike County, Kentucky.
    (i) Subunit 2a: Russell Fork, Buchanan and Dickenson Counties, 
Virginia, and Pike County, Kentucky.
    (A) Subunit 2a consists of approximately 83.8 skm (52.1 smi) of 
Russell Fork from its confluence with Ball Creek at Council, Virginia, 
downstream to its confluence with Levisa Fork at Levisa Junction, 
Kentucky.
    (B) Map of Subunit 2a follows:

[[Page 14693]]

[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TR15MR22.011

    (ii) Subunit 2b: Hurricane Creek, Buchanan County, Virginia.
    (A) Subunit 2b consists of approximately 5.9 skm (3.7 smi) of 
Hurricane Creek from its confluence with Gilbert Fork downstream to its 
confluence with Russell Fork at Davenport, Virginia.
    (B) Map of Subunit 2b follows:

[[Page 14694]]

[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TR15MR22.012

    (iii) Subunit 2c: Indian Creek, Buchanan and Dickenson Counties, 
Virginia.
    (A) Subunit 2c consists of approximately 7.4 skm (4.6 smi) of 
Indian Creek from its confluence with Three Forks in Buchanan County, 
Virginia, downstream to its confluence with Russell Fork in Buchanan 
and Dickenson Counties, Virginia.
    (B) Map of Subunit 2c follows:

[[Page 14695]]

[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TR15MR22.013

    (iv) Subunit 2d: Fryingpan Creek, Dickenson County, Virginia.
    (A) Subunit 2d consists of approximately 4.6 skm (2.9 smi) of 
Fryingpan Creek from its confluence with Priest Fork downstream to its 
confluence with Russell Fork.
    (B) Map of Subunit 2d follows:

[[Page 14696]]

[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TR15MR22.014

    (v) Subunit 2e: Lick Creek, Dickenson County, Virginia.
    (A) Subunit 2e consists of approximately 16.2 skm (10.1 smi) of 
Lick Creek from its confluence with Cabin Fork near Aily, Virginia, 
downstream to its confluence with Russell Fork at Birchfield, Virginia.
    (B) Map of Subunit 2e follows:

[[Page 14697]]

[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TR15MR22.015

    (vi) Subunit 2f: Russell Prater Creek, Dickenson County, Virginia.
    (A) Subunit 2f consists of approximately 8.4 skm (5.2 smi) of 
Russell Prater Creek from its confluence with Greenbrier Creek 
downstream to its confluence with Russell Fork at Haysi, Virginia.
    (B) Map of Subunit 2f follows:

[[Page 14698]]

[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TR15MR22.016

    (vii) Subunit 2g: McClure River, Open Fork and McClure Creek, 
Dickenson County, Virginia.
    (A) Subunit 2g consists of approximately 35.6 skm (22.1 smi) of the 
McClure River and McClure Creek from the confluence of McClure Creek 
and Honey Branch downstream to the confluence of McClure River and 
Russell Fork; and approximately 4.9 km (3.0 mi) of Open Fork from the 
confluence of Middle Fork Open Fork and Coon Branch downstream to the 
confluence of Open Fork and McClure Creek at Nora, Virginia.
    (B) Map of Subunit 2g follows:

[[Page 14699]]

[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TR15MR22.017

    (viii) Subunit 2h: Elkhorn Creek, Pike County, Kentucky.
    (A) Subunit 2h consists of approximately 8.5 skm (5.3 smi) of 
Elkhorn Creek from its confluence with Mountain Branch downstream to 
its confluence with Russell Fork at Elkhorn City, Kentucky.
    (B) Map of Subunit 2h follows:

[[Page 14700]]

[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TR15MR22.018

    (ix) Subunit 2i: Cranes Nest River and Birchfield Creek, Dickenson 
and Wise Counties, Virginia.
    (A) Subunit 2i consists of approximately 24.6 skm (19.0 smi) of the 
Cranes Nest River from its confluence with Birchfield Creek downstream 
to its confluence with Lick Branch and approximately 6.9 skm (4.3 smi) 
of Birchfield Creek from its confluence with Dotson Creek downstream to 
its confluence with Cranes Nest River.
    (B) Map of Subunit 2i follows:

[[Page 14701]]

[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TR15MR22.019

    (x) Subunit 2j: Pound River, Dickenson and Wise Counties, Virginia.
    (A) Subunit 2j consists of approximately 28.5 skm (17.7 smi) of the 
Pound River from its confluence with Bad Creek downstream to the 
confluence of the Pound River and Jerry Branch.
    (B) Map of Subunit 2j follows:

[[Page 14702]]

[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TR15MR22.020

    (8) Index map of critical habitat Unit 3 for the Big Sandy crayfish 
follows:

[[Page 14703]]

[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TR15MR22.021

    (9) Unit 3: Lower Levisa Fork--Floyd, Johnson, and Pike Counties, 
Kentucky.
    (i) Subunit 3a: Levisa Fork, Floyd, Johnson, and Pike Counties, 
Kentucky.
    (A) Subunit 3a consists of approximately 15.9 km (9.9 mi) of Levisa 
Fork from its confluence with Russell Fork at Levisa Junction, 
Kentucky, downstream to its confluence with Island Creek at Pikeville, 
Kentucky; and 17.5 skm (10.9 smi) of Levisa Fork from its confluence 
with Abbott Creek downstream to its confluence with Miller Creek at 
Auxier, Kentucky.
    (B) Map of Subunit 3a follows:

[[Page 14704]]

[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TR15MR22.022

    (ii) Subunit 3b: Shelby Creek and Long Fork, Pike County, Kentucky.
    (A) Subunit 3b consists of approximately 32.2 skm (20.0 smi) of 
Shelby Creek from its confluence with Burk Branch downstream to its 
confluence with Levisa Fork at Shelbiana, Kentucky; and approximately 
12.9 skm (8.0 smi) of Long Fork from the confluence of Right Fork Long 
Fork and Left Fork Long Fork downstream to the confluence of Long Fork 
and Shelby Creek at Virgie, Kentucky.
    (B) Map of Subunit 3b follows:

[[Page 14705]]

[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TR15MR22.023

    (10) Index map of critical habitat Unit 4 for the Big Sandy 
crayfish follows:

[[Page 14706]]

[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TR15MR22.024

    (11) Unit 4: Tug Fork--McDowell, Mingo, and Wayne Counties, West 
Virginia; Buchanan County, Virginia; and Pike and Martin Counties, 
Kentucky.
    (i) Subunit 4a: Tug Fork, McDowell, Mingo, and Wayne Counties, West 
Virginia; Buchanan County, Virginia; and Pike and Martin Counties, 
Kentucky.
    (A) Subunit 4a consists of approximately 106.1 skm (65.9 smi) of 
the Tug Fork from its confluence with Elkhorn Creek at Welch, West 
Virginia, downstream to its confluence with Blackberry Creek in Pike 
County, Kentucky; and 11.7 skm (7.3 smi) of the Tug Fork from its 
confluence with Little Elk Creek downstream to its confluence with Bull 
Creek at Crum, West Virginia.
    (B) Map of Subunit 4a follows:

[[Page 14707]]

[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TR15MR22.025

    (ii) Subunit 4b: Dry Fork and Bradshaw Creek, McDowell County, West 
Virginia.
    (A) Subunit 4b consists of approximately 45.2 skm (28.1 smi) of Dry 
Fork from its confluence with Jacobs Fork downstream to its confluence 
with Tug Fork at Iaeger, West Virginia; and approximately 4.6 skm (2.9 
smi) of Bradshaw Creek from its confluence with Hite Fork at Jolo, West 
Virginia, downstream to its confluence with Dry Fork at Bradshaw, West 
Virginia.
    (B) Map of Subunit 4b follows:

[[Page 14708]]

[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TR15MR22.026

    (iii) Subunit 4c: Panther Creek, McDowell County, West Virginia.
    (A) Subunit 4c consists of approximately 10.7 skm (6.6 smi) of 
Panther Creek from its confluence with George Branch downstream to its 
confluence with Tug Fork at Panther, West Virginia.
    (B) Map of Subunit 4c follows:

[[Page 14709]]

[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TR15MR22.027

    (iv) Subunit 4d: Knox Creek, Buchanan County, Virginia, and Pike 
County, Kentucky.
    (A) Subunit 4d consists of approximately 16.6 skm (10.3 smi) of 
Knox Creek from its confluence with Cedar Branch downstream to its 
confluence with Tug Fork in Pike County, Kentucky.
    (B) Map of Subunit 4d follows:

[[Page 14710]]

[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TR15MR22.028

    (v) Subunit 4e: Peter Creek, Pike County, Kentucky.
    (A) Subunit 4e consists of approximately 10.1 skm (6.3 smi) of 
Peter Creek from the confluence of Left Fork Peter Creek and Right Fork 
Peter Creek at Phelps, Kentucky, downstream to the confluence of Peter 
Creek and Tug Fork at Freeburn, Kentucky.
    (B) Map of Subunit 4e follows:

[[Page 14711]]

[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TR15MR22.029

    (vi) Subunit 4f: Blackberry Creek, Pike County, Kentucky.
    (A) Subunit 4f consists of approximately 9.1 skm (5.7 smi) of 
Blackberry Creek its confluence with Bluespring Branch downstream to 
the confluence of Blackberry Creek and Tug Fork.
    (B) Map of Subunit 4f follows:

[[Page 14712]]

[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TR15MR22.030

    (vii) Subunit 4g: Pigeon Creek and Laurel Fork, Mingo County, West 
Virginia.
    (A) Subunit 4g consists of approximately 14.0 skm (8.7 smi) of 
Pigeon Creek from its confluence with Trace Fork downstream to its 
confluence with Tug Fork; and approximately 11.1 skm (6.9 smi) of 
Laurel Fork from its confluence with Lick Branch downstream to its 
confluence with Pigeon Creek at Lenore, West Virginia.
    (B) Map of Subunit 4g follows:

[[Page 14713]]

[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TR15MR22.031

Guyandotte River Crayfish (Cambarus veteranus)

    (1) Critical habitat units are depicted for Logan and Wyoming 
Counties, West Virginia, on the maps in this entry.
    (2) Within these areas, the physical or biological features 
essential to the conservation of the Guyandotte River crayfish consist 
of the following components:
    (i) Fast-flowing stream reaches with unembedded slab boulders, 
cobbles, or isolated boulder clusters within an unobstructed stream 
continuum (i.e.. riffle, run, pool complexes) of permanent, moderate- 
to large-sized (generally third order and larger) streams and rivers 
(up to the ordinary high water mark as defined at 33 CFR 329.11).
    (ii) Streams and rivers with natural variations in flow and 
seasonal flooding sufficient to effectively transport sediment and 
prevent substrate embeddedness.
    (iii) Water quality characterized by seasonally moderated 
temperatures and physical and chemical parameters (e.g., pH, 
conductivity, dissolved oxygen) sufficient for the normal behavior, 
growth, reproduction, and viability of all life stages of the species.
    (iv) An adequate food base, indicated by a healthy aquatic 
community structure including native benthic macroinvertebrates, 
fishes, and plant matter (e.g., leaf litter, algae, detritus).
    (v) Aquatic habitats protected from riparian and instream 
activities that degrade the physical and biological features described 
in paragraphs (2)(i) through (iv) of this entry or cause physical 
(e.g., crushing) injury or death to individual Guyandotte River 
crayfish.
    (vi) An interconnected network of streams and rivers that have the 
physical and biological features described in paragraphs (2)(i) through 
(iv) of this entry and that allow for the movement of individual 
crayfish in response to environmental, physiological, or behavioral 
drivers. The scale of the interconnected stream network should be 
sufficient to allow for gene flow within and among watersheds.
    (3) Critical habitat does not include manmade structures (such as 
buildings, aqueducts, runways, roads, and other paved areas) and the 
land on which they are located existing within the legal boundaries on 
April 14, 2022.
    (4) Data layers defining map units were created on a base of U.S. 
Geological Survey digital ortho-photo quarter-quadrangles, and critical 
habitat units were then mapped using Universal Transverse Mercator 
(UTM) Zone 15N coordinates. ESRI's ArcGIS 10.0 software was used to 
determine latitude and longitude coordinates using decimal degrees. The 
USA Topo ESRI online basemap service was referenced to identify 
features (like roads and streams) used to delineate the upstream and 
downstream extents of critical habitat units. The maps in this entry, 
as modified by any accompanying regulatory text, establish the 
boundaries

[[Page 14714]]

of the critical habitat designation. The coordinates or plot points or 
both on which each map is based are available to the public at the 
Service's internet site at https://www.fws.gov/westvirginiafieldoffice/
, at https://www.regulations.gov at Docket No. FWS-R5-ES-2019-0098, and 
at the North Atlantic-Appalachian Regional Office. You may obtain field 
office location information by contacting one of the Service regional 
offices, the addresses of which are listed at 50 CFR 2.2.
    (5) Index map of critical habitat for the Guyandotte River crayfish 
follows:
[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TR15MR22.032

    (6) Unit 1: Upper Guyandotte--Logan and Wyoming Counties, West 
Virginia.
    (i) Subunit 1a: Pinnacle Creek, Wyoming County, West Virginia.
    (A) Subunit 1a consists of approximately 28.6 skm (17.8 smi) of 
Pinnacle Creek from its confluence with Beartown Fork downstream to its 
confluence with the Guyandotte River at Pineville, West Virginia.
    (B) Map of Subunit 1a follows:

[[Page 14715]]

[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TR15MR22.033

    (ii) Subunit 1b: Clear Fork and Laurel Fork, Wyoming County, West 
Virginia.
    (A) Subunit 1b consists of approximately 38.0 skm (23.6 smi) of 
Clear Fork and its primary tributary Laurel Fork from the confluence of 
Laurel Creek and Acord Branch downstream to the confluence of Clear 
Fork and the Guyandotte River.
    (B) Map of Subunit 1b follows:

[[Page 14716]]

[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TR15MR22.034

    (iii) Subunit 1c: Guyandotte River, Wyoming County, West Virginia.
    (A) Subunit 1c consists of approximately 35.8 skm (22.2 smi) of the 
Guyandotte River from its confluence with Pinnacle Creek at Pineville, 
West Virginia, downstream to its confluence with Clear Fork.
    (B) Map of Subunit 1c follows:

[[Page 14717]]

[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TR15MR22.035

    (iv) Subunit 1d: Indian Creek, Wyoming County, West Virginia.
    (A) Subunit 1d consists of approximately 4.2 skm (2.6 smi) of 
Indian Creek from the confluence of Indian Creek and Brier Creek at 
Fanrock, West Virginia, to the confluence of Indian Creek and the 
Guyandotte River.
    (B) Map of Subunit 1d follows:

[[Page 14718]]

[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TR15MR22.036

    (v) Subunit 1e: Huff Creek, Wyoming and Logan Counties, West 
Virginia.
    (A) Subunit 1e consists of approximately 28.0 skm (17.4 smi) of 
Huff Creek from its confluence with Straight Fork downstream to its 
confluence with the Guyandotte River at Huff, West Virginia.
    (B) Map of Subunit 1e follows:

[[Page 14719]]

[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TR15MR22.037

* * * * *

Martha Williams,
Principal Deputy Director, Exercising the Delegated Authority of the 
Director, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.
[FR Doc. 2022-04598 Filed 3-14-22; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4333-15-C