Department of the Interior February 14, 2005 – Federal Register Recent Federal Regulation Documents

We, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service), announce the availability of a draft economic analysis for the proposed designation of critical habitat for the arroyo toad (Bufo californicus) under the Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended (Act). We also announce that we have revised the methods for determining proposed essential and critical habitat areas for the arroyo toad. Additionally, we propose to exclude areas from the proposed designation from Units 1, 6, and 22 in Monterey, Los Angeles, and San Bernardino counties, under authority of section 4(b)(2) of the Act. Comments previously submitted on the proposed rule need not be resubmitted as they have been incorporated into the public record as a part of this reopening of the comment period, and will be fully considered in preparation of the final rule. Copies of the draft economic analysis and the proposed rule for critical habitat designation are available on the Internet at https:// ventura.fws.gov or from the Ventura Fish and Wildlife Office at the address and contact numbers below.

The MMS proposes to modify its regulations at 30 CFR 250.175, which govern SOO's for oil and gas leases on the OCS. The proposed revision will allow MMS to grant SOO's to lessees or operators who plan to drill ultra-deep wells. MMS proposes this revision because of the added complexity and costs associated with planning and drilling an ultra-deep well. MMS expects that this revision will lead to increased drilling of ultra-deep wells and increased domestic production.

Notice is hereby given that 2235 acres of public land is closed to the discharge of firearms for public safety concerns. The closed property is within the Glendive Short Pine OHV Management Area, which is located six and a half miles south of the town of Glendive, Montana by way of highway 335, commonly known as the Marsh Road. The specific land identified for closure includes: