Fish and Wildlife Service 2005 – Federal Register Recent Federal Regulation Documents

The Fish and Wildlife Service, Southeast Region, intends to gather information necessary to prepare a comprehensive conservation plan and environmental assessment pursuant to the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 and its implementing regulations. The National Wildlife Refuge System Administration Act of 1966, as amended by the National Wildlife Refuge System Improvement Act of 1997, requires the Service to develop a comprehensive conservation plan for each national wildlife refuge. The purpose in developing a comprehensive conservation plan is to provide refuge managers with a 15-year strategy for achieving refuge purposes and contributing toward the mission of the National Wildlife Refuge System, consistent with sound principles of fish and wildlife management, conservation, legal mandates, and Service policies. In addition to outlining broad management direction on conserving wildlife and their habitats, plans identify wildlife- dependent recreational opportunities available to the public, including opportunities for hunting, fishing, wildlife observation, wildlife photography, and environmental education and interpretation. The purpose of this notice is to achieve the following: (1) Advise other agencies and the public of our intentions, and (2) Obtain suggestions and information on the scope of issue to include in the environmental document.

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) announces that a Draft Comprehensive Conservation Plan and Environmental Assessment (Draft CCP/EA) for the Maxwell National Wildlife Refuge is available for review and comment. This Draft CCP/EA was prepared pursuant to the National Wildlife Refuge System Administration Act of 1966, as amended by the National Wildlife Refuge System Improvement Act of 1997 (16 U.S.C. 668dd-668ee et seq), and the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (42 U.S.C. 4321-4370d). It describes how the Service intends to manage the refuge over the next 15 years. Compatibility determinations for several existing uses (farming, sport fishing, wildlife observation, photography, environmental education and interpretation) were re-evaluated, and are included in the draft plan. In addition, draft compatibility determinations for two new proposed uses (grazing and hunting) are also available for review and comment in the Draft CCP/EA.

We, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service), announce a correction to the proposed rule to revise critical habitat for the endangered Perdido Key beach mouse (Peromyscus polionotus trissyllepsis) and Choctawhatchee beach mouse (Peromyscus polionotus allophrys), and designate critical habitat for the endangered St. Andrew beach mouse (Peromyscus polionotus peninsularis) published in the Federal Register on December 15, 2005. The proposed rule was published with an incorrect electronic mail address for submission of comments.

This proposed rule would establish regulations for fishing seasons, harvest limits, methods, and means related to taking of fish and shellfish for subsistence uses during the 2007-08 regulatory year. The rulemaking is necessary because Subpart D is subject to an annual public review cycle. When final, this rulemaking would replace the fish and shellfish taking regulations included in the ``Subsistence Management Regulations for Public Lands in Alaska, Subpart D-2006-07 Subsistence Taking of Fish and Wildlife Regulations,'' which expire on March 31, 2007. This rule would also amend the Customary and Traditional Use Determinations of the Federal Subsistence Board and the General Regulations related to the taking of fish and shellfish.

The National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) and the United States Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS)(collectively, the Services) announce the availability of the final recovery plan for the Gulf of Maine (GOM) distinct population segment (DPS) of Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar).

The public is invited to comment on the following applications to conduct certain activities with endangered species and/or marine mammals.

The Fish and Wildlife Service announces that a Final Comprehensive Conservation Plan for Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge is available for distribution. The plan was prepared pursuant to the National Wildlife Refuge System Improvement Act of 1997, and in accordance with the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969, and describes how the refuge will be managed for the next 15 years. The compatibility determinations for wildlife observation, photography, and hiking; swimming and beach use; recreational fishing; environmental education and interpretation; and scientific research are also available within the plan.

On February 26, 1999, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) issued a section 10(a)(1)(B) permit, pursuant to Section 10(a) of the Endangered Species Act (Act), for incidental take of the golden-cheeked warbler (GCW) (Dendroica chrysoparia) to Mark and Brenda Hogan. This permit was subsequently transferred to Ralph Lake, Jr. on January 12, 2001. The permit (TE-005497) was for a period of five years and expired on February 26, 2004. The requested permit renewal by Ralph Lake will extend the permit expiration by five years from the date the permit is reissued.

San Gabriel Harvard Limited Partnership (Applicant) has applied to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) for an incidental take permit pursuant to section 10(a) of the Endangered Species Act (Act). The requested permit, which is for a period of 30 years, would authorize incidental take of the endangered golden-cheeked warbler (Dendroica chrysoparia), Bone Cave harvestman (Texella reyesi), and Coffin Cave mold beetle (Batrisodes texanus). The proposed take would occur as a result of the construction and operation of a residential development on 307.85 acres (124.6 hectares) of the Shadow Canyon property, Williamson County, Texas.

The public is invited to comment on the following applications to conduct certain activities with endangered species and/or marine mammals.

We, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service), announce a 12-month finding on a petition to list a karst meshweaver (spider), Cicurina cueva (no common name), under the Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended. Since receiving the petition, both a genetic assessment and a re-assessment of morphological characters have failed to support the distinctness of C. cueva from two other named Cicurina, C. bandida and C. reyesi. After reviewing all available scientific and commercial information, we find that current information available to us does not support the taxonomic standing of C. cueva as a species, and therefore it is not a listable entity and listing is therefore not warranted.

We, the Fish and Wildlife Service (Service), are listing the alligator snapping turtle (Macroclemys [=Macrochelys] temminckii) and all species of map turtle (Graptemys spp.) in Appendix III of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (Convention, or CITES). Appendix III of CITES includes species that a CITES Party identifies as being subject to regulation within its jurisdiction for the purpose of preventing or restricting exploitation, and as needing the cooperation of other Parties in the control of trade. International trade in alligator snapping turtles is largely focused on pet markets and meat for human consumption. Map turtles are popular in the pet trade and may also be sold for human consumption. Map and alligator snapping turtles are protected to varying degrees by State laws within the United States. Listing these native turtles in Appendix III is necessary to allow us to adequately monitor international trade in the taxa; to determine whether exports are occurring legally, with respect to State law; and to determine whether further measures under CITES or other laws are required to conserve these species. Appendix-III listings will lend additional support to State wildlife agencies in their efforts to regulate and manage these species, improve data gathering to increase our knowledge of trade in these species, and strengthen State and Federal wildlife enforcement activities to prevent poaching and illegal trade. Furthermore, listing alligator snapping turtles and all species of map turtles in Appendix III enlists the assistance of other Parties in our efforts to monitor and control trade in these species.

We, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service), propose to revise critical habitat for the endangered Perdido Key beach mouse (Peromyscus polionotus trissyllepsis) and Choctawhatchee beach mouse (Peromyscus polionotus allophrys), and designate critical habitat for the endangered St. Andrew beach mouse (Peromyscus polionotus peninsularis) pursuant to the Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended (Act). We are proposing 5 units of critical habitat totaling approximately 1,264 acres (ac) (511 hectares (ha)) for the Perdido Key beach mouse, 5 units totaling approximately 2,334 ac (944 ha) for the Choctawhatchee beach mouse, and 3 units totaling approximately 2,610 ac (1,056 ha) for the St. Andrew beach mouse. In total, approximately 6,208 ac (2,511 ha) fall within the boundaries of the proposed critical habitat designation. The proposed critical habitat is located in Baldwin County, Alabama, and Escambia, Okaloosa, Walton, Bay, and Gulf Counties, Florida.

We, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service), designate and exclude approximately 17,418 acres (ac) (7,049 hectares (ha)) of critical habitat for the Sonoma County distinct population segment of the California tiger salamander (Ambystoma californiense) pursuant to the Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended (Act). We are excluding all critical habitat based on interim conservation strategies and measures being implemented by those local governing agencies with land use authority over the area and also as a result of economic exclusions authorized under section 4(b)(2) of the Act. Therefore, no critical habitat is being designated for the Sonoma County distinct population segment of the California tiger salamander in Sonoma County, California.

We, the Fish and Wildlife Service (Service), are designating critical habitat for the federally threatened Brodiaea filifolia (thread-leaved brodiaea) pursuant to the Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended (Act). In total, approximately 597 acres (ac) (242 hectares (ha)) fall within the boundaries of the critical habitat designation. The critical habitat is located in Los Angeles and San Diego counties, California. Lands in Orange, Riverside, and San Diego counties that are covered by approved and draft habitat conservation plans are excluded under section 4(b)(2). Lands owned or controlled by the Department of Defense that are covered by an Integrated Natural Resource Management Plan (INRMP) that provides a benefit to the species are exempt from critical habitat under section 4(a)(3) of the Act. As a result of revisions based on peer and public comments and a re- evaluation of methodology and mapping, approximately 4,093 ac (1,656 ha) in Los Angeles, San Bernardino, Orange, and San Diego counties proposed as critical habitat were removed or excluded from this final designation. Lands designated as critical habitat are under Federal and private ownership. No Tribal lands are included in this critical habitat designation.

The following applicants have applied for a scientific research permit to conduct certain activities with endangered species pursuant to section 10(a)(1)(A) of the Endangered Species Act (16 U.S.C. 1531 et seq.). The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (we) solicits review and comment from local, State, and Federal agencies, and the public on the following permit requests.

We, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, announce a 90-day finding on a petition to delist the gray wolf (Canis lupus) in Nevada. We find that the petition and the available literature cited in the petition do not present substantial scientific or commercial information indicating that delisting may be warranted. We will not be initiating a further status review in response to this petition. We ask the public to submit to us any new information that becomes available concerning the status of or threats to the gray wolf. This information will help us monitor and encourage the conservation of this species.

We, the Fish and Wildlife Service (Service), announce our revised 12-month finding for a petition to list the greater Adams Cave beetle (Pseudanophthalmus pholeter) and the lesser Adams Cave beetle (Pseudanophthalmus cataryctos) under the Endangered Species Act (Act). After a review of the best available scientific and commercial information, we conclude that these species are not likely to become endangered species within the foreseeable future throughout all or a significant portion of their range. Therefore, we find that proposing a rule to list these species is not warranted, and we no longer consider them to be candidate species for listing. The Service will continue to seek new information on the taxonomy, biology, and ecology of these species, as well as potential threats to their continued existence.

The public is invited to comment on the following applications to conduct certain activities with endangered species and marine mammals.

The public is invited to comment on the following applications to conduct certain activities with endangered species.

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service, we, our) announces that the draft Comprehensive Conservation Plan (CCP) and Environmental Assessment (EA) for the Shawangunk Grasslands National Wildlife Refuge (NWR) is available for review. The Service prepared this CCP/EA in compliance with the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969, and the National Wildlife Refuge System Administration Act of 1966, as amended by the National Wildlife Refuge System Improvement Act of 1997 (16 U.S.C. 668dd, et seq.).

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) is publishing in the Federal Register the priority list of wildlife and sport fish conservation projects submitted by the International Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies (IAFWA) for funding under the Multistate Conservation Grant Program. This notice is required by the Wildlife and Sport Fish Restoration Programs Improvement Act of 2000 (Pub. L. 106- 408). FY 2006 grants may be awarded from this priority list.

The public is invited to comment on the following applications to conduct certain activities with endangered species and/or marine mammals.

We (Fish and Wildlife Service, Service) have sent a request to OMB to renew approval for our information collection associated with the Neotropical Migratory Bird Conservation Act (NMBCA) grants program. The current OMB control number for this information collection is 1018- 0113, which expires November 30, 2005. We have requested that OMB renew approval of this information collection for a 3-year term.

We, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, announce the availability of the Draft Post-delisting Monitoring Plan for the Douglas County Distinct Population Segment of the Columbian White- tailed Deer (Odocoileus virginianus leucurus) (Monitoring Plan). The status of the Douglas County distinct population segment of the Columbian white-tailed deer will be monitored over a 5-year period through spring and fall population trend monitoring surveys, regular disease outbreak monitoring, and an annual habitat status review. We solicit review and comment on this Monitoring Plan from local, State and Federal agencies, and the public.

Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks (FWP) has applied to the Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) for an Enhancement of Survival Permit for the fluvial Arctic grayling (Thymallus arcticus) pursuant to section 10(a)(1)(A) of the Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended (ESA). The permit application includes a proposed Umbrella Candidate Conservation Agreement with Assurances (Agreement) between the FWP and the Service. The USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) and Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC) also are signatories for the proposed Agreement. The Agreement, the permit application, and the Environmental Assessment are made available for public comment by this notice. The purpose of the Agreement is for private landowners and the FWP, NRCS, DNRC, and the Service to implement conservation measures for the fluvial Arctic grayling in the upper Big Hole River in southwestern Montana. The effort is in support of the FWP's ongoing efforts to enhance the abundance and distribution of the fluvial Arctic grayling throughout its historic range in the upper Missouri River basin. The conservation measures would be implemented by FWP, NRCS, DNRC, the Service, and by participating landowners. A technical working group comprised of FWP, NRCS, DNRC, and the Service developed the conservation measures for the proposed Agreement. Consistent with the Service's Candidate Conservation Agreement with Assurances Final Policy (CCAA Policy) (64 FR 32726, June 17, 1999), the Agreement is intended to facilitate the conservation of fluvial Arctic grayling by giving the State of Montana and cooperating private landowners incentives to implement conservation measures. Participating Landowners would receive regulatory certainty concerning land and water use restrictions that might otherwise apply should the fluvial Arctic grayling become listed under the ESA. Participating Landowners with eligible property in the upper Big Hole River watershed in southwestern Montana could sign up under the Agreement and the associated permit through site-specific plans for their property and a Certificate of Inclusion. The proposed term of the Agreement and the permit is 20 years. The Service and FWP have prepared a joint Environmental Assessment for execution of the Agreement and issuance of the permit pursuant to the National Environmental Policy Act (for the Service) and implementation of the Agreement pursuant to the Montana Environmental Policy Act (for FWP). The environmental assessment considers the biological, environmental, and socioeconomic effects of the proposed Agreement and permit. The assessment also evaluates two alternatives to the Agreement and permit, and their potential impacts on the environment. We request comments from the public on the permit application, draft Agreement, and draft Environmental Assessment. All comments we receive, including names and addresses, will become part of the administrative record and may be released to the public.

The Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) announces the availability for public review of the draft document Reassessing Methods to Estimate Population Size and Sustainable Mortality Limits for the Yellowstone Grizzly Bear. Once comments are received, analyzed, and addressed, the final revised population methodology will be appended to the Grizzly Bear Recovery Plan and the Final Conservation Strategy for the Grizzly Bear in the Greater Yellowstone Area. The Service solicits review and comment from the public on this draft information prior to appending it to the Grizzly Bear Recovery Plan.

The public is invited to comment on the following applications to conduct certain activities with endangered species.

On September 24, 1999, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) issued a section 10(a)(1)(B) permit, pursuant to Section 10(a) of the Endangered Species Act (Act), for incidental take of the golden-cheeked warbler (GCW) (Dendroica chrysoparia) to John and Christine Caster (Applicants). The permit (TE-012423) was for a period of five years and expired on September 24, 2004. The requested permit renewal will extend the permit expiration by five years from the date the permit is reissued.

This notice is to announce the availability of a Final Environmental Impact Statement (FEIS) on resident Canada goose management. We published the Draft Environmental Impact Statement (DEIS) in March 2002. We considered over 2,700 public comments in revising the document.

We, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, announce the reopening of the comment period on the proposed designation of critical habitat for the Sonoma County population of the California tiger salamander. We are reopening the comment period to allow all interested parties an opportunity to comment simultaneously on the proposed rule and an alternative we are considering in our approach to this designation. We are considering a final designation of 21,298 ac (8,519 ha) or less due to an alternative methodology for designating critical habitat (see discussion below). The final critical habitat rule is due to the Federal Register on December 1, 2005. Comments previously submitted need not be resubmitted as they will be incorporated into the public record as part of this comment period, and will be considered in preparation of the final rule.

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and National Marine Fisheries Service (Services) advise interested parties of their intent to conduct public scoping under the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), to gather information to prepare an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS). The Services anticipate receiving permit applications from Gardena Farms Irrigation District (GFID), Hudson Bay District Improvement Company (HBDIC), and the Walla Walla River Irrigation District (WWRID). Other surface water diverters in the Walla Walla Basin, such as independent irrigators, ditch companies, and other local governments, may also apply. The permit applications would be submitted under the Endangered Species Act (ESA) for the incidental take of listed species through actions associated with the Bi-State Habitat Conservation Plan (HCP) for the Walla Walla River Basin. Given the present list of likely permit applicants, the geographic scope of the permit would be that portion of the mainstem Walla Walla River downstream from the Walla Walla River Irrigation District's diversion. If other surface water diverters apply for permits, the geographic scope would be expanded accordingly to include those stream reaches within the Walla Walla Basin that are potentially affected by those diversions. The proposed actions to be covered by the permit would be those activities undertaken by the applicants that are associated with the diversion and delivery of surface water.

WL Homes, LLC, doing business as John Laing Homes (Applicant), has applied to the Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) for an incidental take permit pursuant to section 10(a)(1)(B) of the Endangered Species Act (Act) of 1973, as amended. The requested permit amendment would authorize the incidental take of the federally threatened Preble's meadow jumping mouse, Zapus hudsonius preblei (Preble's), through loss and modification of its habitat associated with the expansion and amendment of the Struthers Ranch Property Environmental Assessment/Habitat Conservation Plan (EA/HCP) in El Paso County, Colorado. The EA/HCP is available for public review and comment. It fully describes the proposed project and the measures the Applicant would undertake to minimize and mitigate project impacts to the Preble's. The Service requests comments on the EA/HCP and associated documents for the proposed issuance of the incidental take permit. All comments on the EA and permit amendment application will become part of the administrative record and will be available to the public.

This notice informs the public that the Southeast Alaska Federal Subsistence Regional Advisory Council will hold a public meeting on December 1, 2005. The public is invited to participate and to provide oral testimony.

We, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service), propose to designate critical habitat for the endangered Monardella linoides ssp. viminea (willowy monardella) under the Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended (Act). We have determined that approximately 2,539 acres (ac) (1,028 hectares (ha)) of land within San Diego County, California, contain the physical and biological features essential to the conservation of M. l. ssp. viminea. Of that, we are proposing to designate as critical habitat approximately 115 acres (47 ha) of private lands and the Padre Dam Municipal Water District lands within the City of Santee. We do not include Tribal lands in this proposed designation. We are exempting or considering whether to exclude from critical habitat designation the other lands that contain the features essential to the conservation of M. l. ssp. viminea. We fully discuss the exemption and exclusions under consideration in the preamble of this proposed rule. We are soliciting data and comments from the public on all aspects of this proposal, including the exemption and exclusions under consideration.

Pursuant to section 10(a)(2) of the Federal Advisory Committee Act (5 U.S.C. App.), this notice announces a meeting of the Trinity Adaptive Management Working Group (TAMWG). The TAMWG affords stakeholders the opportunity to give policy, management, and technical input concerning Trinity River restoration efforts to the Trinity Management Council. Primary objectives of the meeting will include: Technical team/subgroup organization; Budget process and FY07 budget; Science Framework and draft monitoring plan; Trinity River Restoration Program attention to (non-fish) wildlife; 50% vs 90% ``exceedence criteria'' in water-year- type forecasting; 2005 fish returns; and TAMWG member presentations. Completion of the agenda is dependent on the amount of time each item takes. The meeting could end early if the agenda has been completed. The meeting is open to the public.

We, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, announce an extension of the comment period for the 5-year reviews of 31 listed species in Table 1 below, under section 4(c)(2)(A) of the Endangered Species Act (Act). The first request for information closed September 6, 2005. The purpose of a 5-year review is to ensure that the classification of a species as threatened or endangered on the List of Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and Plants is accurate and based on the best scientific and commercial data available at the time of the review. We are requesting submission of any such information that has become available since the original listing of each of these 31 species. Based on the results of these 5-year reviews, we will make the requisite findings under section 4(c)(2)(B) of the Act.

This notice announces that a Draft Comprehensive conservation Plan and environmental Assessment for St. Catherine Creek National Wildlife Refuge is available for review and comment. The National Wildlife Refuge System Administration Act of 1966, as amended by the National Wildlife Refuge System Improvement Act of 1997, requires the Service to develop a comprehensive conservation plan for each national wildlife refuge. The purpose in developing a comprehensive conservation plan is to provide refuge managers with a 15-year strategy for achieving refuge purposes and contributing toward the mission of the National Wildlife Refuge System consistent with sound principles of fish and wildlife management, conservation, legal mandates, and Service policies. In addition to outlining broad management direction on conserving wildlife and their habitats, the plan identifies wildlife- dependent recreational opportunities available to the public, including opportunities for hunting, fishing, wildlife observation, wildlife photography, and environmental education and interpretation.

Sundown Development and Realty (Applicant) is requesting an incidental take permit (ITP) for a period of five years, pursuant to section 10(a)(1)(B) of the Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended (Act) (16 U.S.C. 1531 et seq.). The Applicant anticipates take of three federally threatened Florida scrub-jays (Aphelocoma coerulescens) (scrub-jay) incidental to clearing approximately 0.70 acre of scrub-jay foraging and roosting habitat in preparation for construction of a combination of office space and three-story townhomes on a 5.25-acre parcel (project). The anticipated take would occur in section 30, Township 40 South, Range 43 East, Village of Tequesta, Palm Beach County, Florida. The Applicant's Habitat Conservation Plan (HCP) describes the mitigation and minimization measures proposed to address the effects of the project on the scrub-jay. These measures are also outlined in the SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION section below. The Service announces the availability of the Applicant's ITP application, HCP and Environmental Assessment (EA). Copies of the application, HCP and EA may be obtained by making a request to the Southeast Regional Office (see ADDRESSES). Requests must be in writing to be processed. This notice is provided pursuant to section 10 of the Act and National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) regulations (40 CFR 1506.6).

In accordance with the Federal Advisory Committee Act, the Fish and Wildlife Service announces a meeting designed to foster partnerships to enhance public awareness of the importance of aquatic resources and the social and economic benefits of recreational fishing and boating in the United States. This meeting, sponsored by the Sport Fishing and Boating Partnership Council (Council), is open to the public, and interested persons may make oral statements to the Council or may file written statements for consideration.

We, the Fish and Wildlife Service (Service), are soliciting project proposals for Federal assistance under the Tribal Landowner Incentive Program (TLIP). The Department of the Interior and Related Agencies Appropriations Act for Fiscal Year (FY) 2006 allocated $23,886,000 (subject to potential rescission to meet other important national priorities) from the Land and Water Conservation Fund for conservation grants to States, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, Guam, the United States Virgin Islands, the Northern Mariana Islands, American Samoa, and Tribes under a Landowner Incentive Program. The Service has targeted $2,388,600 for TLIP.

We, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service), propose to designate critical habitat for the Fender's blue butterfly (Icaricia icarioides fenderi), and two plants, Lupinus sulphureus ssp. kincaidii (Kincaid's lupine), and Erigeron decumbens var. decumbens (Willamette daisy) pursuant to the Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended (Act). We are proposing to designate 3,089 acres (ac) (1,250 hectares (ha) as critical habitat for Fender's blue butterfly, 724 ac (293 ha) as critical habitat for L. sulphureus ssp. kincaidii, and 718 ac (291 ha) as critical habitat for E. decumbens var. decumbens. The proposed critical habitat is located in Polk, Benton, Yamhill, Lane, Marion, Linn, and Douglas Counties, Oregon, and Lewis County, Washington.

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is preparing a Comprehensive Conservation Plan (CCP) and Environmental Assessment (EA) for the Rappahannock River Valley National Wildlife Refuge (NWR). This notice advises the public that the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) intends to gather information necessary for preparing the CCP and EA pursuant to the National Wildlife Refuge System Administration Act of 1966, as amended by the National Wildlife Refuge System Improvement Act of 1997, and the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969. The Service is furnishing this notice in compliance with Service planning policy, to (1) advise other Federal and State agencies and the public of our intention to conduct detailed planning on this refuge; and, (2) obtain suggestions and information on the scope of issues to include in the environmental document. The Service will involve the public through open houses, informational and technical meetings, and written comments. Special mailings, newspaper articles, and announcements will provide information about opportunities for public involvement in the planning process.

The public is invited to comment on the following applications to conduct certain activities with endangered species.

The public is invited to comment on the following applications to conduct certain activities with endangered species.

We (Fish and Wildlife Service) have sent a request to OMB to renew approval for our information collection associated with the mourning dove call count survey. The current OMB control number for this information collection is 1018-0010, which expires October 31, 2005. We have requested that OMB renew approval of this information collection for a 3-year term.

We, the Fish and Wildlife Service (Service), give notice that we are suspending import of and foreign commerce in beluga sturgeon (Huso huso) caviar and meat originating in the Black Sea littoral states of Bulgaria, Georgia, Romania, the Russian Federation, Serbia and Montenegro, Turkey, and Ukraine effective immediately. This suspension applies to shipments that have been exported directly from these countries, re-exported through an intermediary country, or transported as personal or household effects, and it prohibits foreign commerce in the course of a commercial activity. We are taking this action under the special rule that was promulgated to control the trade of threatened beluga sturgeon (Huso huso) (70 FR 10493; March 4, 2005). Interstate commerce in beluga sturgeon caviar or meat from the Black Sea basin that was legally imported into the United States before the trade suspension is not prohibited.

We, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, extend the comment period on a proposed rule to add all forms of live black carp (Mylopharyngodon piceus), including gametes and viable eggs, to the list of injurious fish under the Lacey Act and on the draft environmental assessment and draft economic analysis prepared in association with the proposed rule.

We, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS), announce a 90- day finding for two petitions(1) the first that sought removal of the gray wolf from the designation of endangered under the Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended (ESA); and (2) the second that requested to establish the northern Rocky Mountain Distinct Population Segment (Rocky Mountain DPS) of gray wolf (Canis lupus) and to remove the gray wolf in the northern Rocky Mountain DPS from the Federal list of threatened and endangered species, pursuant to the ESA. Although only one of these petitions presented substantial information, we have considered the collective weight of evidence indicating that the northern Rocky Mountain population of gray wolves may qualify as a DPS and that delisting may be warranted. We are initiating a status review to determine if delisting the species is warranted. To ensure that the review is comprehensive, we are soliciting information and data regarding this species.

This notice advises the public that the owners of the Burrows Ranch and Big Bluff Ranch (Applicants) have applied to the Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) for an enhancement of survival permit pursuant to section 10(a)(1)(A) of the Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended (16 U.S.C. 1531 et seq.) (Act). The permit application includes a proposed Safe Harbor Agreement (Agreement) between the Applicants and the Service for the threatened California red-legged frog (CRLF, Rana aurora draytonii) and the valley elderberry longhorn beetle (VELB, Desmocerus californicus dimorphus). The Agreement and permit application are available for public comment.

Pursuant to the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), the Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) advises the public that we intend to gather information necessary to prepare, in coordination with the Kern County Waste Management Department (KCWMD), a joint Draft Environmental Impact Statement/Environmental Impact Report (EIS/EIR) on the Amendment to the Kern County Waste Facilities Habitat Conservation Plan and permit number 830963 (Amendment 1). Amendment 1 is being prepared under Section 10(a)(1)(B) of the Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended, (ESA). Amendment 1 addresses potential take of threatened and endangered species at Kern County waste facilities due to the proposed expansion of the permit area, new covered activities, and an increase in the number of species covered by Permit 830963. The term of Permit 830963 shall remain at 50 years, expiring in 2047. KCWMD intends to request an ESA permit amendment for 5 species federally listed as threatened or endangered and 14 unlisted species that may become listed during the term of the permit. The Service provides this notice to: (1) Describe the proposed action and possible alternatives; (2) advise other Federal and State agencies, affected Tribes, and the public of our intent to prepare an EIS/EIR; (3) announce the initiation of a public scoping period; and (4) obtain suggestions and information on the scope of issues to be included in the EIS/EIR. Written comments will be accepted at the public meeting. In addition, you may submit written comments by mail or facsimile transmission.

We, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service), are designating critical habitat for the southwestern willow flycatcher (Empidonax traillii extimus) pursuant to the Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended (Act). In total, approximately 48,896 hectares (ha) (120,824 acres (ac)) or 1,186 kilometers (km) (737 miles (mi)) fall within the boundaries of the critical habitat designation. The critical habitat is located in Apache, Cochise, Gila, Graham, Greenlee, Maricopa, Mohave, Pinal, Pima, and Yavapai counties in Arizona (AZ), Kern, Santa Barbara, San Bernardino, and San Diego counties in southern California (CA), Clark County in southeastern Nevada (NV), Grant, Hidalgo, Mora, Rio Arriba, Soccoro, Taos, and Valencia counties in New Mexico (NM), and Washington County in Southwestern Utah (UT).

We, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service), propose to designate critical habitat for the Alameda whipsnake (Masticophis lateralis euryxanthus) pursuant to the Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended (Act). In total, approximately 203,342 acres (ac) (82,289 hectares (ha)) fall within the boundaries of the proposed critical habitat designation. The proposed critical habitat is located in Contra Costa, Alameda, San Joaquin, and Santa Clara counties, California.

The Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) is preparing a Comprehensive Conservation Plan (CCP) and Environmental Assessment (EA) document for Prime Hook National Wildlife Refuge (NWR). This notice advises the public that the Service intends to gather information necessary to prepare a CCP and an EA pursuant to the National Wildlife Refuge System Administration Act of 1966, as amended, and the National Environmental Policy Act. The public is invited to participate in the planning process. The Service is furnishing this notice in compliance with the Service's CCP policy to: 1. Advise other agencies and the public of our intentions; and 2. Obtain suggestions and information on the scope of issues to include in the environmental documents. The Service will solicit information from the public via open houses, meetings, and written comments. Special mailings, newspaper articles, refuge Web site postings, and announcements will provide information regarding opportunities for public involvement in the planning process. The first public meetings are scheduled for the week of November 7, 2005.

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (we or us) proposes changes in the regulations governing captive propagation of raptors in the United States. We propose reorganization of the current regulations, and we have added or changed some provisions therein. The changes will make it easier to understand the requirements for raptor propagation and the procedures for obtaining a propagation permit.

Southern Multicapital Corporation (Applicant) requests an incidental take permit (ITP) for a duration of ten years, pursuant to section 10(a)(1)(B) of the Endangered Species Act of 1973 (Act), as amended (U.S.C. 1531 et seq.). The Applicant anticipates destroying about 93 acres of occupied Florida scrub-jay (Aphelocoma coerulescens) (scrub-jay) habitat in Section 21, Township 16 South, Range 21 East, Marion County, Florida. Habitat destruction would be expected due to vegetation clearing and the subsequent construction of infrastructure and single-family homes. Up to four scrub-jay families could be taken as a result of the Applicant's proposed actions. This ITP application was previously announced in the Federal Register on June 14, 2005. On July 29, 2005, the Applicant withdrew the Habitat Conservation Plan (HCP) that was part of the application, in order to make modifications. The Service suspended processing the application pending receipt of a modified HCP. The Applicant submitted the current HCP on August 1, 2005. The Applicant's HCP describes the mitigation and minimization measures proposed to address the effects of the proposed project on the scrub-jay. These measures are outlined in the SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION section below. We announce the availability of the ITP application, HCP, and an environmental assessment. Copies of the application, HCP, and environmental assessment may be obtained by making a request to the Southeast Regional Office (see ADDRESSES). Requests must be in writing to be processed. This notice is provided pursuant to section 10 of the Act and National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) regulations (40 CFR 1506.6).

Pursuant to section 10(a)(2) of the Federal Advisory Committee Act (5 U.S.C. App), this notice announces a meeting of the Trinity Adaptive Management Working Group (TAMWG). The TAMWG affords stakeholders the opportunity to give policy, management, and technical input concerning Trinity River restoration efforts to the Trinity Management Council. Primary objectives of the meeting will include: History of restoration efforts on the Trinity River; Introduction to the Trinity River Restoration Program (TRRP); TAMWG priorities, procedures, organization, operations and interaction with other TRRP entities; and status of wildlife in TRRP policy and budget. Completion of the agenda is dependent on the amount of time each item takes. The meeting could end early if the agenda has been completed. The meeting is open to the public.

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) announces that the Draft Comprehensive Conservation Plan and Environmental Assessment is available for the Hagerman National Wildlife Refuge, Sherman, Texas. We prepared this CCP pursuant to the National Wildlife Refuge System Administration Act of 1966, as amended by the National Wildlife Refuge System Improvement Act of 1997(16 U.S.C. 668dd et seq.), and the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (42 U.S.C. 4321-4370d), and we describe how the Service intends to manage this Refuge over the next 15 years.

We, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service), are designating critical habitat for the Arkansas River Basin population of the Arkansas River shiner (Notropis girardi) pursuant to the Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended (Act). In total, approximately 856 kilometers (532 miles) of linear distance of rivers, including 91.4 meters (300 feet) of adjacent riparian areas measured laterally from each bank are included within the boundaries of the critical habitat designation. The areas that we have determined to possess the features that are essential to the conservation of the Arkansas River shiner include portions of the Canadian River (often referred to as the South Canadian River) in New Mexico, Texas, and Oklahoma, the Beaver/North Canadian River in Oklahoma, and the Cimarron River in Kansas and Oklahoma, and the Arkansas River in Kansas. As presented in the proposed rule, we have excluded from this designation all previously designated critical habitat in the Beaver/North Canadian River in Oklahoma and the Arkansas River in Kansas under authority of section 4(b)(2) of the Act. In addition, we have excluded all previously proposed critical habitat in Unit 1a of the Canadian River in New Mexico and Texas and a portion of Unit 1b in Texas and Oklahoma under authority of section 4(b)(2) of the Act.

The following applicants have applied for a survival enhancement permit to conduct certain activities with endangered species pursuant to section 10(a)(1)(A) of the Endangered Species Act (16 U.S.C. 1531 et seq.). The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (``we'') solicits review and comment from the public, and from local, State, and Federal agencies on the following permit requests.

The following permits were issued.

This notice announces a meeting of the Aquatic Nuisance Species (ANS) Task Force. The meeting is open to the public. The meeting topics are identified in the SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION section.

This notice advises the public that the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) intends to prepare a Supplement to the Draft Comprehensive Conservation Plan (CCP) and Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) pursuant to the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) and its implementing regulations, for the Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife and Fish Refuge (Refuge) located in Illinois, Iowa, Minnesota, and Wisconsin. The Refuge has decided to draft a new preferred alternative (Alternative E) in the form of a Supplement to the Draft CCP and EIS. All current alternatives in the Draft CCP and EIS (Alternatives A through D) will remain and will be considered in preparing the Final CCP and EIS. The Service is furnishing this notice in compliance with the National Wildlife Refuge System Administration Act of 1966, as amended (16 U.S.C. 668dd et seq.), and the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969, to advise other agencies and the public of our intentions.

We, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service), announce the reopening of the public comment period on the proposed designation of critical habitat for Brodiaea filifolia, and the availability of a draft economic analysis of the proposed designation of critical habitat. We are reopening the comment period to allow all interested parties an opportunity to comment simultaneously on the proposed rule and the associated draft economic analysis. Comments previously submitted on this proposed rule need not be resubmitted as they have already been incorporated into the public record and will be fully considered in our final determination.

The following permits were issued.

The following permits were issued.

The public is invited to comment on the following applications to conduct certain activities with endangered species and marine mammals.

In response to an application from Kaheawa Wind Power, LLC (applicant), the Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) is considering issuing an incidental take permit pursuant to section 10(a)(1)(B) of the Endangered Species Act (ESA). In response to this application, we are making it available for public review and comment. If approved, the permit would authorize take of species listed under the ESA incidental to otherwise lawful activities associated with the proposed Kaheawa Pastures Wind Energy Generation Facility.

We, the Fish and Wildlife Service (Service), give notice that we are suspending import of and foreign commerce in beluga sturgeon (Huso huso) caviar and meat originating in the Caspian Sea littoral states of Azerbaijan, the Islamic Republic of Iran, Kazakhstan, the Russian Federation, and Turkmenistan effective immediately. This suspension includes shipments that have been exported directly from these countries, re-exported through an intermediary country, or transported as personal or household effects, and it prohibits foreign commerce in the course of a commercial activity. We are taking this action under the special rule that was promulgated to control the trade of threatened beluga sturgeon (Huso huso) (70 FR 10493; March 4, 2005). Interstate commerce in beluga sturgeon caviar or meat from the Caspian Sea basin that was legally imported into the United States before the trade suspension is not prohibited.

We, the Fish and Wildlife Service (Service), announce our revised 12-month finding for a petition to list the Southern Rocky Mountain population (SRMP) of the boreal toad (Bufo boreas boreas) as endangered under the Endangered Species Act (ESA). After a review of the best available scientific and commercial information, we find that listing is not warranted at this time because the SRMP of the boreal toad does not constitute a species, subspecies, or distinct population segment (DPS) under the ESA. Therefore, we withdraw the SRMP from the candidate list. The Service will continue to seek new information on the taxonomy, biology, and ecology of these toads, as well as potential threats to their continued existence.

The following applicants have applied for scientific research permits to conduct certain activities with endangered species pursuant to section 10(a)(1)(A) of the Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended.

This rule prescribes special late-season migratory bird hunting regulations for certain tribes on Federal Indian reservations, off-reservation trust lands, and ceded lands. This rule responds to tribal requests for U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (hereinafter Service or we) recognition of their authority to regulate hunting under established guidelines. This rule allows the establishment of season bag limits and, thus, harvest at levels compatible with populations and habitat conditions.

The Fish and Wildlife Service published a document in the Federal Register on September 13, 2005 (70 FR 54146), amending 50 CFR part 32. This document related to the addition of refuges and wetland management districts to the list of areas open for hunting and/or sport fishing programs and increased the activities available at other refuges. We also developed pertinent refuge-specific regulations for those activities and amended certain regulations on other refuges that pertain to migratory game bird hunting, upland game hunting, big game hunting, and sport fishing for the 2005-2006 season. This document corrects the final regulations.

We, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service), designate critical habitat for the Klamath River, Columbia River, Jarbidge River, Coastal-Puget Sound, and Saint Mary-Belly River populations of bull trout (Salvelinus confluentus) in the coterminous United States pursuant to the Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended (Act). This final designation totals approximately 3,828 miles (mi) (6,161 kilometers (km) of streams, 143,218 acres (ac) (57,958 hectares (ha) of lakes in Idaho, Montana, Oregon, and Washington, and 985 mi (1,585 km) of shoreline paralleling marine habitat in Washington. We solicited data and comments from the public on all aspects of the proposed rules, including data on economic and other impacts of the designations.

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service or we) is proposing migratory bird subsistence harvest regulations in Alaska for the 2006 season. This proposed rule would establish regulations that prescribe frameworks, or outer limits, for dates when harvesting of birds may occur, species that can be taken, and methods and means that would be excluded from use. These regulations were developed under a co-management process involving the Service, the Alaska Department of Fish and Game, and Alaska Native representatives. These regulations are intended to provide a framework to enable the continuation of customary and traditional subsistence uses of migratory birds in Alaska. The rulemaking is necessary because the regulations governing the subsistence harvest of migratory birds in Alaska are subject to annual review. This rulemaking proposes regulations that start on April 2, 2006, and expire on August 31, 2006, for the subsistence harvest of migratory birds in Alaska.

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) announces the availability of the approved Barton Springs Salamander Recovery Plan (Recovery Plan). The Barton Springs salamander (Eurycea sosorum) is known to occur near four spring outlets that collectively make up Barton Springs in Austin, Texas. Habitat loss and modification from water quality and water quantity degradation are the primary threats facing the species. The Recovery Plan outlines the necessary criteria, objectives, and tasks to reduce these threats and accomplish the goal of delisting the Barton Springs salamander.

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) announces a 5- year review of the red wolf (Canis rufus), Appalachian elktoe (Alasmidonta raveneliana), Cumberland elktoe (Alasmidonta atropurpurea), Cumberland monkeyface (Quadrula intermedia), Cumberlandian combshell (Epioblasma brevidens), green blossom (Epioblasma torulosa gubernaculum), oyster mussel (Epioblasma capsaeformis), tubercled blossom (Epioblasma torulosa torulosa), turgid blossom (Epioblasma turgidula), yellow blossom (Epioblasma florentina florentina), painted snake coiled forest snail (Anguispira picta), dwarf-flowered heartleaf (Hexastylis naniflora), Schweinitz's sunflower (Helianthus schweinitzii), and seabeach amaranth (Amaranthus pumilus) under section 4(c)(2) of the Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended (Act). The purpose of reviews conducted under this section of the Act is to ensure that the classification of species as threatened or endangered on the List of Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and Plants (50 CFR 17.11 and 17.12) is accurate. The 5-year review is an assessment of the best scientific and commercial data available at the time of the review.

The Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) has received an application from the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (Applicant) for an enhancement of survival permit (ESP) pursuant to section 10(a)(1)(A) of the Endangered Species Act of 1973 (U.S.C. 1531 et seq.), as amended (Act). The Applicant proposes to implement conservation measures for the Eastern Massasauga rattlesnake (Sistrurus sistrurus catenatus) by removing the threats to the survival and protecting and managing its habitat within the Rome State Nature Preserve. The Service announces receipt of the ESP application as well as the availability of a proposed Candidate Conservation Agreement with Assurances (CCAA) intended to facilitate the implementation of conservation measures for the species by the Applicant. Compliance under the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) for the proposed action was addressed in an Environmental Assessment (EA) approved July 26, 2005. A copy of the final EA and Finding of No Significant Impact (FONSI) is available at: https://www.fws.gov/midwest/NEPA.

We are proposing to update and amend the standards for the humane and healthful transport of wild mammals and birds to the United States. To determine how to proceed, we are asking the public for comments and input on whether the current regulations are up to date and adequate. We are also seeking comments for the best process to address necessary changes to the requirements in the Code of Federal Regulations that provide standards for the humane and healthful transport of wild mammals and birds to the United States. This will allow us to further meet our responsibilities under the Lacey Act Amendments of 1981 and our obligations under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES). The current standards for transport of mammals and birds now available are in accordance with the accepted international requirements as described in the International Air Transport Association's (IATA) Live Animal Regulations (LAR) published in October 1993 (20th edition). This edition is now 12 years old and several updates of the IATA Live Animal Regulations have been published since publication of that edition. Many mammals and birds are protected by CITES and it is a recommendation that all species listed under CITES be transported using the current IATA LAR. We expect that if we promulgate amendments to the standards for humane and healthful transport of wild mammals and birds to the United States, these amendments will be consistent with the most current IATA LAR at the time of the final rule, and, therefore, be current with the industry standards for ensuring the humane and healthful shipment of live mammals and birds. Finally, it has come to our attention that IATA LAR requirements may not always agree with those of the international ground transport industry, such as those of the Animal Transport Association (AATA). We are interested in public comments on this issue as well.

The Applicant, White Water Springs, L.L.C., has applied to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) for an incidental take permit pursuant to section 10(a) of the Endangered Species Act (Act). The Applicant has been assigned permit number TE-110131-0. The requested permit, which is for a period of 30 years, would authorize incidental take of the endangered golden-cheeked warbler (Dendroica chrysoparia). The proposed take would occur as a result of the construction and operation of a residential development on 1,758-acres (717 hectares) of the White Water Springs property, Burnet County, Texas. The Service has prepared the Environmental Assessment/Habitat Conservation Plan (EA/ HCP) for the incidental take application. A determination of jeopardy or non-jeopardy to the species and a decision pursuant to the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) will not be made until at least 60 days from the date of publication of this notice. This notice is provided pursuant to Section 10(c) of the Act and National Environmental Policy Act regulations (40 CFR 1506.6).

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) announces the availability of the Final Recovery Plan for the Pecos sunflower (Helianthus paradoxus). The Pecos sunflower is a wetland annual plant that grows on wet, alkaline soils at spring seeps, wet meadows and pond margins. It occurs in seven widely spaced populations in west-central and eastern New Mexico and west Texas. Loss and/or alteration of wetland habitat is the primary threat to Pecos sunflower, primarily by surface water diversion and wetland filling for agriculture and recreational uses, and groundwater pumping and aquifer depletion for municipal uses. The Recovery Plan outlines the necessary criteria, objectives, and actions to reduce these threats and accomplish the goal of delisting the Pecos sunflower.

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (hereinafter Service or we) published a document in the August 31, 2005, Federal Register prescribing the hunting seasons, hours, areas, and daily bag and possession limits for mourning, white-winged, and white-tipped doves; band-tailed pigeons; rails; moorhens and gallinules; woodcock; common snipe; sandhill cranes; sea ducks; early (September) waterfowl seasons; migratory game birds in Alaska, Hawaii, Puerto Rico, and the Virgin Islands; and some extended falconry seasons. This document corrects errors in the season dates and other pertinent information for the States of Hawaii and Texas.

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) is gathering information necessary to prepare Comprehensive Conservation Plans (CCP) and associated environmental documentation for Howland Island National Wildlife Refuge (NWR), Baker Island NWR, and Jarvis Island NWR (refuges, collectively). These refuges are unincorporated insular areas, or U.S. territories, located near the equator in the Pacific Ocean, approximately 1,300 to 1,600 miles south to southwest of Honolulu, Hawaii, and are administered as units of the National Wildlife Refuge System. The Service is publishing this notice in compliance with the National Wildlife Refuge System Administration Act of 1966, as amended (16 U.S.C. 668dd et seq.) and the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) and implementing regulations for the following purposes: (1) To advise the public and other agencies of this effort; (2) to obtain public comments, suggestions, and information on the issues to be addressed in the CCP; and (3) to determine interest from public and other agencies in attending public scoping meetings. Special mailings, newspaper articles, and other media announcements will be used to inform the public and foreign, State, and local government agencies of the opportunities for input throughout the planning process.

We, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service), propose to designate critical habitat for the Rota bridled white-eye (Zosterops rotensis) pursuant to the Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended (Act). In total, approximately 3,958 acres (ac) (1,602 hectares (ha)) fall within the boundaries of the proposed critical habitat designation on the island of Rota, Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands (CNMI).

The Fish and Wildlife Service adds six refuges to the list of areas open for hunting and/or sport fishing programs and increases the activities available at seven other refuges. We also implement pertinent refuge-specific regulations for those activities and amend certain regulations on other refuges that pertain to migratory game bird hunting, upland game hunting, big game hunting, and sport fishing for the 2005-2006 season.

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) announces a 5- year review of the Puerto Rican parrot (Amazona vittata), Puerto Rican plain pigeon (Columba (=Patagioenas) inornata wetmorei), red-cockaded woodpecker (Picoides borealis), Puerto Rican boa (Epicrates inornatus), Virgin Islands tree boa (Epicrates monensis granti), guaj[oacute]n (Eleutherodactylus cooki), Harrisia portoricensis (higo chumbo), and Adiantum vivesii (no common name), under section 4(c)(2) of the Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended (Act). The purpose of reviews conducted under this section of the Act is to ensure that the classification of species as threatened or endangered on the List of Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and Plants (50 CFR 17.11 and 17.12) is accurate. The 5-year review is an assessment of the best scientific and commercial data available at the time of the review.

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service or we) is issuing this notice to advise the public that we are initiating efforts to prepare a Supplemental Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) for the Sport Hunting of Migratory Birds under the authority of the Migratory Bird Treaty Act. The EIS will consider a range of management alternatives for addressing sport hunting of migratory birds under the authority of the Migratory Bird Treaty Act. The Service seeks suggestions and comments on the scope and substance of this supplemental EIS, options or alternatives to be considered, and important management issues. Federal and State agencies and the public are invited to present their views on the subject to the Service. While we have yet to determine potential sites of public scoping meetings, we will publish a notice of any such public meetings with the locations, dates, and times in the Federal Register.

We, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service), announce that we will hold a public hearing (see DATES and ADDRESSES sections) on our proposed rule to remove the Arizona distinct population segment (DPS) of the cactus ferruginous pygmy-owl (Glaucidium brasilianum cactorum) (pygmy-owl) from the Federal List of Endangered and Threatened Wildlife, eliminate its currently designated critical habitat, and to withdraw its proposed new critical habitat. This public hearing will allow all interested parties an opportunity to comment on our proposed actions.

Eugene T. Butler, Carlos E. Gauthier, Robert Moren, and Kheino A. Phidd (Applicants) individually request an incidental take permit (ITP) pursuant to section 10(a)(1)(B) of the Endangered Species Act of 1973 (U.S.C. 1531 et seq.), as amended (Act). The Applicants anticipate taking a combined total of about 1.03 acres of Florida scrub-jay (Aphelocoma coerulescens) (scrub-jay) foraging, sheltering, and possibly nesting habitat incidental to lot preparation for the construction of single-family homes and supporting infrastructure in Brevard County, Florida (Projects). Requested permit duration is one year for all applicants, except for Moren, who requests a 10-year permit term. The destruction of 1.03 acre of foraging, sheltering, and possibly nesting habitat is expected to result in the take of three families of scrub-jays. Each of the Applicants' Habitat Conservation Plans (HCPs) describe the mitigation and minimization measures proposed to address the effects of the proposed Project to the Florida scrub-jay. These measures are outlined in the SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION section below. We have determined that each Applicant's proposal, including the proposed mitigation and minimization measures, will individually and cumulatively have a minor or negligible effect on the species covered in the HCPs. Therefore, the ITPs are ``low-effect'' projects and qualify as categorical exclusions under the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), as provided by the Department of Interior Manual (516 DM 2, Appendix 1 and 516 DM 6, Appendix 1). We announce the availability of the HCPs for the incidental take applications. Copies of the HCPs may be obtained by making a request to the Regional Office (see ADDRESSES). Requests must be in writing to be processed. This notice is provided pursuant to Section 10 of the Endangered Species Act and NEPA regulations (40 CFR 1506.6).

Mr. Mitchel Pace (Applicant/Cooperator) has applied to the Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) for an Enhancement of Survival Permit (ESP) for the Utah prairie dog pursuant to section 10(a)1(A) of the Endangered Species Act of 1973 (U.S.C. 1531 et seq.), as amended (Act). This permit application includes a proposed Safe Harbor Agreement (SHA) between the Applicant and the Service. The proposed SHA and permit would become effective upon signature of the SHA and would remain in effect for 25 years. This notice is provided pursuant to the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), section 10 of the Act, and the Service's Safe Harbor Policy (64 FR 32717). The Service requests information, views, and opinions from the public via this notice. Further, the Service is soliciting information regarding the adequacy of the SHA as measured against the Service's Safe Harbor Policy and the regulations that implement it.

We, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service), are amending the regulations promulgated under the Endangered Species Act (Act) (16 U.S.C. 1531 et seq.) to add new regulations to govern certain activities with U.S. captive-bred scimitar-horned oryx (Oryx dammah), addax (Addax nasomaculatus), and dama gazelle (Gazella dama), which have been listed as endangered. For U.S. captive-bred live wildlife, including embryos and gametes, and sport-hunted trophies of these three species, this rule authorizes certain otherwise prohibited activities that enhance the propagation or survival of the species. International trade in specimens of these species will continue to be subject to the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES). We have also prepared a final Environmental Assessment with a Finding of No Significant Impact for this final rule under regulations implementing the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (NEPA).

This notice announces the availability of the draft East Contra Costa County Habitat Conservation Plan and Natural Community Conservation Plan (Plan), draft Implementing Agreement, and draft Environmental Impact Statement/Environmental Impact Report (EIS/EIR) for public review and comment. In response to receipt of an application from the East Contra County Habitat Conservation Plan Association (Association), the Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) is considering the proposed action of issuing a 30-year permit for 28 species. The proposed permit would authorize take of individual members of species listed under the Federal Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended (ESA). The permit is needed because take of species could occur during proposed urban development activities, rural infrastructure projects, and preserve management activities within a 175,435-acre planning area located in eastern Contra Costa County, California.

The following applicant has applied for a scientific research permit to conduct certain activities with endangered species pursuant to section 10(a)(1)(A) of the Endangered Species Act (16 U.S.C. 1531 et seq.). The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (``we'') solicits review and comment from local, State, and Federal agencies, and the public on the following permit request.

We, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service), announce the reopening of the public comment period on the proposed designation of critical habitat for Atriplex coronata var. notatior under the Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended (16 U.S.C. 1531 et seq.) (Act), and the availability of a draft economic analysis of the proposed designation of critical habitat. We are reopening the comment period to allow all interested parties an opportunity to comment simultaneously on the proposed rule and the associated draft economic analysis. Comments previously submitted on this proposed rule need not be resubmitted as they have already been incorporated into the public record and will be fully considered in our final determination of critical habitat for this taxon.

This rule prescribes special early season migratory bird hunting regulations for certain tribes on Federal Indian reservations, off-reservation trust lands, and ceded lands. This responds to tribal requests for U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (hereinafter Service or we) recognition of their authority to regulate hunting under established guidelines. This rule allows the establishment of season bag limits and, thus, harvest at levels compatible with populations and habitat conditions.

We, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the Biological Resources Discipline of the U.S. Geological Survey, have issued our combined Calendar Years 1999 and 2000 annual report on marine mammals under the jurisdiction of the U.S. Department of the Interior, as required by section 103(f) of the Marine Mammal Protection Act of 1972. Our report covers the periods of January 1 to December 31, 1999, and January 1 to December 31, 2000. We submitted the report to Congress on September 7, 2004. By this notice, we are informing you, the public, that the report is available and that copies may be obtained on request to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

This notice announces a meeting of the Aquatic Nuisance Species (ANS) Task Force Mid-Atlantic Regional Panel. The meeting is open to the public. The meeting topics are identified in the SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION section.

This rule prescribes the hunting seasons, hours, areas, and daily bag and possession limits of mourning, white-winged, and white- tipped doves; band-tailed pigeons; rails; moorhens and gallinules; woodcock; common snipe; sandhill cranes; sea ducks; early (September) waterfowl seasons; migratory game birds in Alaska, Hawaii, Puerto Rico, and the Virgin Islands; and some extended falconry seasons. Taking of migratory birds is prohibited unless specifically provided for by annual regulations. This rule permits taking of designated species during the 2005-06 season.