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

We, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, announce the availability of a draft environmental assessment and draft economic analysis for public comment. These documents supplement the information in the proposed rule to add all forms (diploid and triploid) of live black carp (Mylopharyngodon piceus), gametes, and viable eggs to the list of injurious fish, mollusks, and crustaceans under the Lacey Act. We are also soliciting public comments on all aspects of the proposed rule.

Maronda Homes, Inc. of Florida and Duke Construction Corporation (Applicants) each 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 0.48 acre 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 (Project). The destruction of 0.48 acre of foraging, sheltering, and possibly nesting habitat is expected to result in the take of one family of scrub-jays over requested permit terms of 10 years (Maronda) and 2 years (Duke). The Applicants' Habitat Conservation Plans (HCPs) describe the mitigation and minimization measures proposed to address the effects of the Projects to the Florida scrub-jay. These measures are outlined in the SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION section below. We have determined that the Applicants' proposals, 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). 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).

Maronda Homes, Inc. (Applicant) requests an incidental take permit (ITP) for a duration of 10 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 requests a permit to remove about 0.24 acre of Florida scrub-jay (Aphelocoma coerulescens) (scrub-jay) foraging, sheltering, and possibly nesting habitat incidental to lot preparation for the construction of a single-family home and supporting infrastructure in Section 23, Township 23 South, Range 35 East, Port St. John, Brevard County, Florida. The proposed destruction of 0.24 acre of foraging, sheltering, and possibly nesting habitat could result in the take of one family of scrub-jays. The Applicant's Habitat Conservation Plan (HCP) describes the mitigation and minimization measures proposed to address the effects of the project to the scrub-jay. These measures are outlined in the SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION section below. The Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) has determined that the 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 HCP. Therefore, the ITP is a ``low-effect'' project and qualifies as a categorical exclusion under the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), as provided by the Department of the Interior Manual (516 DM 2, Appendix 1 and 516 DM 6, Appendix 1). We announce the availability of the ITP application and HCP for the incidental take application. Copies of the application and HCP 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 Endangered Species Act and NEPA regulations (40 CFR 1506.6).

Environmental Defense, Inc. (ED) has submitted to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) a request to amend their Safe Harbor Agreement (SHA) and associated Endangered Species Act (Act) Section 10(a)(1)(A) Safe Harbor Enhancement of Survival permit (Permit) for habitat restoration activities on private lands for the endangered Black-capped vireo (Vireo atricapilla) (BCVI) and Golden-cheeked warbler (Dendroica chrysoparia) (GCWA) in the Hill Country of Texas to include twelve additional counties, along with amending language in Attachment 2 of their SHA. The amendment would allow the Safe Harbor program to expand onto additional private lands in Texas, thus furthering the conservation of BCVIs and GCWAs.

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) announces that the final Comprehensive Conservation Plan (CCP) and Environmental Assessment (EA) is available for Squaw Creek NWR, Mound City, Missouri. The CCP 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, and the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969, and using the preferred alternative, goals, and objectives, we describe how the Service intends to manage this refuge over the next 15 years.

The public is invited to comment on the following applications to conduct certain activities with endangered species. We provide this notice pursuant to section 10(c) of the Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended (16 U.S.C. 1531 et seq.).

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (we) announces the availability of the Draft Revised Recovery Plan for Hawaiian Waterbirds, Second Draft of Second Revision, for public review and comment.

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (we, us, or USFWS) approves shot formulated of 62 percent iron, 25 percent tungsten, and 13 percent nickel as nontoxic for waterfowl and coot hunting in the United States. We assessed possible toxicity effects of the Iron-Tungsten-Nickel (ITN) shot, and determined that it is not a threat to wildlife or their habitats, and that further testing of ITN shot is not necessary. We have prepared a Final Environmental Assessment and a Finding of No Significant Impact in support of this decision. This rule also corrects an error and adds clarity to the list of currently approved nontoxic shot types.

We, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service), are correcting a special rule promulgated under Section 4(d) of the Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended (Act), to exempt the import and export of, and foreign and interstate commerce in, certain products of beluga sturgeon (Huso huso) from the permit requirements under 50 CFR 17.32. These corrections are not substantive.

We, the Fish and Wildlife Service, announce the availability of the final recovery plan for Catesbaea melanocarpa (no common name). This endangered plant species is a small spiny shrub of the family Rubiacea. It is extremely rare and is known from Puerto Rico, St. Croix in the U.S. Virgin Islands, Barbuda, Antigua, and Guadeloupe. The recovery plan includes specific recovery goal/objectives and criteria to be met to delist Catesbaea melanocarpa under the Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended.

We, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service), are removing the plant Helianthus eggertii (Eggert's sunflower) from the List of Endangered and Threatened Plants pursuant to the Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended (Act), because recovery actions have secured a number of populations and identified additional populations not previously known. Therefore, the threatened designation no longer correctly reflects the current status of this plant. This action is based on a review of all available data, which indicate that the species is now protected on Federal, State, and county lands; is more widespread and abundant than was documented at the time of listing; and is more resilient and less vulnerable to certain activities than previously thought. Due to the recent development of a management plan for H. eggertii, a management plan for the barrens/woodland ecosystem, and an Integrated Natural Resources Management Plan at the U.S. Air Force's Arnold Engineering and Development Center, on whose land a significant number of sites/populations occur, new management practices will include managing for, and monitoring the areas that contain, this species. Occurrences of H. eggertii are also found on six other Federal, State, or county lands, five of which now have conservation agreements with us to protect, manage, and monitor the species. The remaining site is jointly owned by the Kentucky State Nature Preserves Commission and The Nature Conservancy and has a dedicated conservation easement and a management plan in place to protect H. eggertii. At the time of listing, there were 34 known H. eggertii sites occurring in 1 county in Alabama, 5 counties in Kentucky, and 8 counties in Tennessee. The species was not defined in terms of ``populations'' at that time. Increased knowledge of H. eggertii and its habitat has resulted in increased success in locating new plant sites. Presently, there are 287 known H. eggertii sites (making up 73 populations) distributed across 3 counties in Alabama, 9 counties in Kentucky, and 15 counties in Tennessee. Consequently, H. eggertii is not likely to become endangered within the foreseeable future throughout all or a significant portion of its range and, therefore, is no longer considered to be threatened.

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service published a Notice of Review in the Federal Register on July 6, 2005, concerning initiation of 5-year reviews for 33 species in Region 1. The document contained incorrect listing information and names for the Mariana crow (Corvus kubaryi) and the Mariana fruit bat (Pteropus mariannus mariannus).

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) announces a 5- year review of the Tooth Cave ground beetle (Rhadine persephone) under the Endangered Species Act of 1973 (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 17.12) 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 announces that a Draft Comprehensive Conservation Plan and Environmental Assessment for Crocodile Lake National Wildlife Refuge are 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, plans identify wildlife-dependent recreational opportunities available to the public, including opportunities for hunting, fishing, wildlife observation, wildlife observation, wildlife photography, and environmental education and interpretation. Significant issues address in the draft plan include: threatened and endangered species; migratory birds, habitat restoration; invasive exotic species control; funding and staffing; and land acquisition.

We, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service), announce the reopening of the public comment period for the status review initiated by the 90-day finding on a petition to list Cicurina cueva as an endangered species. This action will allow all interested parties an opportunity to provide information on the status of the species under the Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended (Act).

We (Fish and Wildlife Service) will submit the collection of information described below to OMB for approval under the provisions of the Paperwork Reduction Act. We will use this information to determine which project proposals should be funded in accordance with the Marine Turtle Conservation Act (Pub. L. 108-266).

Pursuant to section 10(a)(2) of the Federal Advisory Committee Act (5 U.S.C. App. I), 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: New member orientation; TAMWG organization and operations; Trinity River Restoration Program budget status; Implementation progress report; Fall fish returns and river conditions; Science program; and Klamath-Trinity coordination. 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 (Fish and Wildlife Service, Service) plan to send OMB a request to renew approval for information collections associated with our Policy for Evaluation of Conservation Efforts When Making Listing Decisions (PECE). We use the information that we collect as part of the basis for identifying conservation efforts that can contribute to a decision to not list a species under the Endangered Species Act (ESA) or to list a species as threatened rather than endangered.

This notice advises the public and other agencies of the availability of a draft Environmental Assessment (EA)/Habitat Conservation Plan (HCP) and Incidental Take Permit (ITP) application for review and comment. The draft EA/HCP and ITP application were submitted to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) by Predevelopment LTD proposing residential development of a 6.45-acre property on Long Point, Kelleys Island, Erie County, Ohio. Federally threatened Lake Erie watersnakes (Nerodia sipedon insularum) occupy the project area, and it has been determined that the proposed actions will result in incidental take of this species. Predevelopment LTD submitted an ITP application to the Service for incidental take pursuant to section 10(a)(1)(B) of the Endangered Species Act of 1973 (Act), as amended (Act, 16 U.S.C. 1531, et seq.). The submission of the ITP application requires the development of an HCP by the applicant detailing measures to be taken to avoid, minimize, and mitigate impacts to Lake Erie Watersnakes. This notice is provided pursuant to section 10(a) of the Act and National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) regulations (40 CFR 1506.6).

This proposed rule would establish regulations for hunting and trapping seasons, harvest limits, methods and means related to taking of wildlife for subsistence uses during the 2006-2007 regulatory year. The rulemaking is necessary because Subpart D is subject to an annual public review cycle. When final, this rulemaking would replace the wildlife taking regulations included in the ``Subsistence Management Regulations for Public Lands in Alaska, Subpart D2005-2006 Subsistence Taking of Fish and Wildlife Regulations,'' which expire on June 30, 2006. 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 wildlife.

We, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service), announce a 90-day finding on a petition to remove the slackwater darter (Etheostoma boschungi) from the Federal List of Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and Plants pursuant to the Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended (Act). We find that the petition does not present substantial scientific or commercial information indicating that delisting of the slackwater darter may be warranted. Accordingly, we are not required to take any further action in response to this petition. However, we believe the information in our files indicates a decline in the status of this species since its listing. Therefore, we ask the public to submit to us any new information that has become available concerning the status of or threats to the slackwater darter since it was listed in 1977. This information will help us more accurately assess its status and complete a 5-year review as required under section 4(c)(2)(A) of the Act.

Pursuant to the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), this notice advises the public that the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) intends to prepare a draft EIS for an anticipated incidental take permit application, including an HCP, by the Barton Springs Edwards Aquifer Conservation District (District) of Austin, Texas. The proposed application is for an Incidental Take Permit for the District's management of underground water through permits authorizing withdrawals from the Barton Springs segment of the Edwards Aquifer. Such withdrawals directly affect the flow of Barton Springs, which are four hydraulically connected spring outlets constituting the major discharge points for the Barton Springs segment of the Edwards Aquifer. The District is evaluating the need for a permit for the endangered Barton Springs salamander (Eurycea sosorum) and the Austin blind salamander (Eurycea waterlooensis), a candidate for listing. Additionally, the District may prepare an HCP that includes measures to minimize and mitigate any taking of species incidental to the permitted withdrawal of groundwater from the Barton Springs segment of the Edwards Aquifer.

We, the Fish and Wildlife Service (Service), propose to amend the regulations at 50 CFR part 17, which implement the Endangered Species Act (Act), as amended (16 U.S.C. 1531 et seq.), to create a special rule for the southwest Alaska distinct population segment (DPS) of the northern sea otter (Enhydra lutris kenyoni). This DPS of the northern sea otter is listed as threatened under the Act. The special rule would allow for the limited, noncommercial import and export of items that qualify as authentic native articles of handicrafts and clothing that were derived from sea otters legally taken for subsistence purposes by Alaska Natives from the listed population. This special rule would also allow for cultural exchange by Alaska Natives and activities conducted by persons registered as an agent or tannery under existing law. We also propose to amend our definition of ``Authentic native articles of handicrafts and clothing'' which currently stipulates, among other things, that such items were commonly produced on or before December 28, 1973. We propose to strike the requirement with respect to December 28, 1973. We believe that such a definition change is appropriate in light of a court ruling on the Service's definition of ``Authentic native articles of handicrafts and clothing'' and consistent with our proposed rule regarding the definition of ``Authentic native articles of handicrafts and clothing'' published on June 4, 2004.

The following permit was issued.

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

The following applicants have applied for survival enhancement permits 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 U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (hereinafter, Service or we) proposes special migratory bird hunting regulations for certain Tribes on Federal Indian reservations, off-reservation trust lands, and ceded lands for the 2005-06 migratory bird hunting season.

The following permits were issued.

The Fish and Wildlife Service (We) will send a request to OMB to renew approval for the collection of information described below under the provisions of the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995. This information collection covers the following types of grant programs: Sport Fish Restoration, Wildlife Restoration, Coastal Wetland Restoration, Clean Vessel, Boating Infrastructure, and Partnerships for Wildlife and Endangered Species.

We, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service), are providing this notice to advise the public that a draft environmental assessment will be prepared, pursuant to the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) of 1969, as amended, in conjunction with a proposed rule to establish, under section 10(j) of the Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended (Act), a Nonessential Experimental Population (NEP) of Rio Grande silvery minnow (Hybognathus amarus) (silvery minnow) in the Rio Grande River in Big Bend National Park and the Rio Grande Wild and Scenic River in Texas. We will hold three public informational sessions and scoping meetings (see DATES and ADDRESSES sections). Through this notice and the public scoping meetings, we are seeking comments or suggestions from the public, other concerned governmental agencies, Tribes, the scientific community, industry, or any other interested parties concerning the scope of the environmental analysis, including the alternatives that should be analyzed.

We, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS), announce a 90- day finding for a petition to remove Sclerocactus wrightiae (Wright fishhook cactus), throughout its range, from the Federal list of threatened and endangered species, pursuant to the Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended (Act). We reviewed the petition and supporting documentation and find that there is not substantial information indicating that delisting of Wright fishhook cactus may be warranted. Therefore, we will not be initiating a further 12-month status review in response to this petition. However, we are initiating a 5-year review of this species under section 4(c)(2)(A) of the ESA that will consider new information that has become available since the listing of the species. This will provide the States, Tribes, other agencies, university researchers, and the public an opportunity to provide information on the status of the species. We are requesting any new information on the Wright fishhook cactus that has become available since its original listing as an endangered species in 1979.

We (Fish and Wildlife Service or Service) have submitted the collection of information described below to OMB for approval under the provisions of the Paperwork Reduction Act. The information collected for the Private Stewardship Grants Program (PSGP) is needed to review requests for funding and to comply with Federal reporting requirements for grants awarded under this program.

We, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service), propose to designate critical habitat for the California tiger salamander (Ambystoma californiense) pursuant to the Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended (Act). In total, approximately 74,223 acres (ac) (30,037 hectares (ha)) fall within the boundaries of the proposed critical habitat designation. The proposed critical habitat is located in Sonoma County, California.

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (hereinafter Service or we) is proposing to establish the 2005-06 early-season hunting regulations for certain migratory game birds. We annually prescribe frameworks, or outer limits, for dates and times when hunting may occur and the maximum number of birds that may be taken and possessed in early seasons. Early seasons may open as early as September 1, and include seasons in Alaska, Hawaii, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. These frameworks are necessary to allow State selections of specific final seasons and limits and to allow recreational harvest at levels compatible with population status and habitat conditions.

The Fish and Wildlife Service announces that a Draft Comprehensive Conservation Plan and Environmental Assessment for Pelican Island National Wildlife Refuge are 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 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 habitat, 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 notice announces that a Draft Comprehensive Conservation Plan and Environmental Assessment for Cameron Prairie National Wildlife Refuge is now 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, plans identify wildlife-dependent recreational opportunities available to the public, including opportunities for hunting, fishing, wildlife observation and photography, and environmental education and interpretation. Proposed goals for the refuge include: Preserving, restoring, and enhancing diverse habitats to provide favorable conditions for migratory and native wildlife species; Maintaining healthy and viable native fish and wildlife populations on the refuge to contribute to the purpose for which it was established and to the mission of the National Wildlife Refuge System; Providing opportunities for safe, quality, compatible, wildlife-dependent public use and recreation, which includes hunting, fishing, wildlife observation, wildlife photography, and environmental education and interpretation; Protecting cultural resources in accordance with Federal and state historic preservation legislation and regulations; and Developing and maintaining the Southwest Louisiana National Wildlife Refuge Complex Headquarters in a manner that supports, directs, and manages the needs, resources, and staff of Cameron Prairie, Sabine, and Lacassine National Wildlife Refuges. Also available for review are the draft compatibility determinations for: recreational fishing; recreational hunting; environmental education and interpretation; wildlife observation and photography; commercial alligator harvest; commercially guided wildlife viewing, photography, environmental education, and interpretation; research and monitoring; commercial video and photography; adjacent property access; and beneficial use of dredge material.

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) related to a permit application from Lewis County, Washington for the incidental take of listed species. The permit application would be associated with the Family Forest Habitat Conservation Plan in the Chehalis and Cowlitz River watersheds located in Lewis County, Washington.

Results Home Buyer Inc. (Applicant) requests 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 Applicant anticipates removal of about 0.18 acre of Florida scrub-jay (Aphelocoma coerulescens) (scrub-jay) foraging, sheltering, and possibly nesting habitat, incidental to lot preparation for the construction of a single-family residence and supporting infrastructure in Venice, Sarasota County, Florida (project). The take of one family of scrub-jays, consisting of up to four individuals, could occur as a result of the Applicant's proposed activities. The Applicant's Habitat Conservation Plan (HCP) describes the mitigation and minimization measures proposed to address the effects of the project to the scrub-jay. These measures are outlined in the SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION section below. The Service has determined that the 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 HCP. Therefore, the ITP is a ``low-effect'' project and qualifies as a categorical exclusion 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). The Service announces the availability of the ITP application, HCP, and Screening Form for Low-Effect HCP Determinations for this incidental take application. Copies of the ITP application, HCP, and Screening Form 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 Act and NEPA regulations (40 CFR 1506.6).

On February 15, 2005, a notice was published in the Federal Register (Vol. 70, No. 30, FR 7754), that an application had been filed with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) by the Triview Metropolitan District and Forest Lakes Metropolitan District for a permit to incidentally take, pursuant to section 10(a)(1)(B) of the Endangered Species Act of 1973 (16 U.S.C. 1539) as amended, Preble's meadow jumping mouse (Zapus hudsonius preblei), pursuant to the terms of the ``Low-Effect Habitat Conservation Plan for Issuance of an Endangered Species Act Section 10(a)(1)(B) Permit for the Incidental Take of the Preble's Meadow Jumping Mouse (Zapus hudsonius preblei) for the Monument Creek Interceptor Tie-In Along Jackson Creek, El Paso County, Colorado.'' Notice is hereby given that on June 30, 2005, as authorized by the provisions of the Endangered Species Act, the Service issued a permit (TE-097228-0) to the above named party subject to certain conditions set forth therein. The permit was granted only after the Service determined that it was applied for in good faith, that granting the permit will not be to the disadvantage of the threatened species, and that it will be consistent with the purposes and policy set forth in the Endangered Species Act, as amended. Additional information on this permit action may be requested by contacting the Colorado Field Office, 755 Parfet Street, Suite 361, Lakewood, Colorado 80215, telephone (303) 275-2370, between the hours of 7 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. weekdays.

This notice advises the public that the Fish and Wildlife Service, Southeast Region, intends to gather information necessary to prepare a Comprehensive Conservation Plan and Environmental Assessment for the Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge Complex, pursuant to the National Environmental Policy Act 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 issues to include in the environmental document.

The Hillcrest Travel Plaza (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 of 1973, as amended (Act). The Service is considering the issuance of a 10-year permit to the applicant that would authorize take of the endangered San Joaquin kit fox (Vulpes macrotis mutica) incidental to otherwise lawful activities. Such take would occur during the construction and operation of the applicant's proposed travel plaza in Fresno County, California. Construction of the proposed travel plaza would result in the loss of up to 9.27 acres of foraging and migration habitat for the San Joaquin kit fox. We request comments from the public on the permit application and an Environmental Assessment, both of which are available for review. The permit application includes the proposed Habitat Conservation Plan (Plan) and an accompanying Implementing Agreement. The Plan describes the proposed project and the measures that the applicant would undertake to minimize and mitigate take of the San Joaquin kit fox.

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the National Park Service, U.S. Department of the Interior (DOI), as lead agencies, announce that the Draft Bison and Elk Management Plan (Plan) and Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) for the National Elk Refuge and Grand Teton National Park/John D. Rockefeller, Jr. Memorial Parkway (Grand Teton National Park) is available. This draft Plan/EIS was prepared pursuant to the National Wildlife Refuge System Administration Act (NWRS Improvement Act), as amended; the National Park Service Management Policies 2001; and the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA). The draft Plan/EIS was prepared in cooperation and partnership with the U.S. Department of Agriculture Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS); the U.S. Forest Service; the Bridger-Teton National Forest (BTNF); the Bureau of Land Management (BLM); and the State of Wyoming Game and Fish Department (WGFD). The draft Plan/EIS describes the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service's and the National Park Service's proposal for management of the Jackson bison and elk populations within their respective jurisdictions for 15 years, beginning at the completion of a Record of Decision (ROD) on the final Plan/EIS. Six alternatives for the management of bison and elk populations in the National Elk Refuge and the Grand Teton National Park are considered in the draft Plan/EIS.

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service announce that a Draft Comprehensive Conservation Plan (CCP) and Environmental Assessment (EA) for Lost Trail National Wildlife Refuge is available. This CCP, prepared pursuant to the National Wildlife Refuge System Improvement Act of 1997 and the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969, describes how the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service intends to manage this refuge for the next 15 years.

Pursuant to section 10(c) of the Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended (16 U.S.C. 1531 et seq.), the following requests are made:

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

Northern Indiana Public Service Company and the Indiana- American Water Company, Inc. (Applicants) have applied to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) for a joint incidental take permit for one covered species pursuant to section 10(a)(1)(B) of the Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended (Act). The application addresses the potential for ``take'' of the endangered Karner blue butterfly (Lycaeides melissa samuelis) from management activities associated with electric power transmission line, natural gas pipeline, and potable water pipeline right-of-ways in northern Lake and Porter Counties, Indiana. A conservation program to mitigate for the project activities would be implemented as described in the proposed Low Effect Habitat Conservation Plan (proposed Plan), which would be implemented by the Applicants. We are requesting comments on the permit application and on the preliminary determination that the proposed Plan qualifies as a ``Low-Effect'' Habitat Conservation Plan, eligible for a categorical exclusion under the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) of 1969, as amended.

We, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, announce the reopening of the comment period on the proposed designation of critical habitat for the Central population of the California tiger salamander and the availability of the draft economic analysis of the proposed designation of critical habitat. The draft economic analysis identifies potential costs of approximately $367 million over a 20-year period or $32.8 million per year as a result of the designation of critical habitat, including those costs coextensive with listing. 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 need not be resubmitted as they will be incorporated into the public record as part of this comment period, and will be fully considered in preparation of the final rule.

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) is preparing a Comprehensive Conservation Plan (CCP) and Environmental Assessment (EA) document for Sacramento, Delevan, Colusa, and Sutter National Wildlife Refuges (NWRs) which are part of the Sacramento NWR Complex (NWRC). 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 (NEPA). 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; 2. Obtain suggestions and information on the scope of issues to include in the environmental documents; and The Service will solicit information from the public via open houses, meetings, and written comments. Special mailings, newspaper articles, and announcements will provide information regarding opportunities for public involvement in the planning process.

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) announces that the Final Comprehensive Conservation Plan (CCP) and Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) for Maine Coastal Islands National Wildlife Refuge (NWR) are available for review. The Final CCP and EIS were 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. 6688dd et seq.), and the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969. The CCP describes how the Service intends to manage the refuge over the next 15 years.

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.

The Fish and Wildlife Service proposes to add six refuges to the list of areas open for hunting and/or sport fishing programs and increase the activities available at seven other refuges. We also propose to 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.

Between April 21, 2004, and May 31, 2005, the Pacific Region and California/Nevada Operations Office of the Fish and Wildlife Service (encompassing Oregon, Washington, Idaho, Hawaii, California, and Nevada) issued 14 permits in response to applications for incidental take of threatened and endangered species, pursuant to sections 10(a)(1)(B) and 10(a)(1)(A) of the Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended (Act). Copies of the permits and associated decision documents are available upon request.

We, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, announce the initiation of 5-year reviews of 31 listed species in Table 1 below, under section 4(c)(2)(A) of the Endangered Species Act (Act). 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.

Colorado Division of Wildlife (CDOW) has applied to the Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) for an Enhancement of Survival Permit for the Gunnison Sage-Grouse (Centrocercus minimus) pursuant to section 10(a)(1)(A) of the Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended (ESA). The permit application includes a proposed Candidate Conservation Agreement with Assurances (Agreement) between the CDOW and the Service. The Agreement, the permit application, and the Environmental Assessment are available for public comment. The purpose of the Agreement is for the CDOW and the Service to implement conservation measures for the Gunnison sage-grouse in 15 counties in southwestern Colorado. The effort is in support of the CDOW's ongoing efforts to enhance the abundance and distribution of the Gunnison sage-grouse throughout its historic range in Colorado. The conservation measures would be implemented by the CDOW and by participating landowners. The selected conservation measures would primarily come from the Gunnison Sage-Grouse Rangewide Conservation Plan, which was completed in April 2005 by numerous cooperating agencies and nongovernmental organizations. Consistent with the Service's Candidate Conservation Agreement with Assurances Final Policy (64 FR 32726, June 17,1999), the Agreement is intended to facilitate the conservation of Gunnison sage-grouse by giving the State of Colorado and cooperating private landowners incentives to implement conservation measures. Participating Landowners would receive regulatory certainty concerning land use restrictions that might otherwise apply should the Gunnison sage-grouse become listed under the ESA. Participating Landowners with eligible property in southwestern Colorado could sign up under the Agreement and the associated permit through a Certificate of Inclusion. The proposed term of the Agreement and the permit is 20 years. The Service has prepared an Environmental Assessment for approval of the Agreement and issuance of the permit. 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, Agreement, and Environmental Assessment. All comments we receive, including names and addresses, will become part of the administrative record and may be released to the public.

We, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service), announce the initiation of a 5-year review of 33 species listed in Table 1 below, under section 4(c)(2)(B) of the Endangered Species Act (Act). 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 consistent with 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 33 species. Based on the results of these 5-year reviews, we will consider whether the status of the species should be changed, pursuant to section 4(c)(2)(B) of the Act. BILLING CODE 4310-55-P [GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TN06JY05.001

The following permits were issued.

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

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) announces that a Draft Comprehensive Conservation Plan and Environmental Assessment (Draft CCP/EA) for Turnbull National Wildlife Refuge (Refuge) is available for review and comment. This Draft CCP/EA, prepared pursuant to the National Wildlife Refuge System Administration Act, as amended, and the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969, describes the Service's proposal for managing the Refuge for the next 15 years. Proposed changes to Refuge management include: adding an elk hunting program; adding a youth waterfowl hunt; establishing a land conservation program with potential Refuge expansion; and expanding the interpretive, environmental education, wildlife viewing, and wildlife photography facilities and programs. The draft compatibility determinations for several different public uses are also available for review with the Draft CCP/EA.

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) is issuing this notice to advise the public that it intends to gather the information necessary to prepare an Environmental Impact Statement/Habitat Conservation Plan (EIS/HCP) regarding an application from the Indiana Department of Natural Resources (INDNR), Division of Forestry (DoF), Indianapolis, Indiana for an incidental take permit for two covered species pursuant to section 10(a)(1)(B) of the Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended (Act). The permit would allow the incidental take primarily of the Indiana bat (Myotis sodalis), but also the gray bat (Myotis grisescens), on State Forests and O'Bannon Woods State Park in the State of Indiana. This notice describes the conservation plan (proposed action) and possible alternatives, invites public participation in the scoping process for preparing the EIS/HCP, and identifies the Service official to whom questions and comments concerning the proposed action may be directed.

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service announces that the Final Comprehensive Conservation Plan (CCP) and Environmental Assessment (EA) is available for Detroit River IWR, Michigan. The CCP 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, and the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969. Goals and objectives in the CCP describe how the agency intends to manage the Refuge over the next 15 years.

This final rule establishes regulations for seasons, harvest limits, methods, and means related to taking of wildlife for subsistence uses in Alaska during the 2005-06 regulatory year. The rulemaking is necessary because the regulations governing the subsistence harvest of wildlife in Alaska are subject to an annual public review cycle. This rulemaking replaces the wildlife regulations that expire on June 30, 2005. This rule also amends the regulations that establish which Alaska residents are eligible to take specific species for subsistence uses.

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) announces a 5- year review of the Key deer (Odocoileus virginianus clavium), St. Andrew beach mouse (Peromyscus polionotus peninsularis), Florida panther (Puma (=Felis) concolor coryi), Cape Sable seaside sparrow (Ammodramus maritimus mirabilis), Okaloosa darter (Etheostoma okaloosae), beach jacquemontia (Jacquemontia reclinata), deltoid spurge (Chamaesysce deltoidea ssp. deltoidea), fringed campion (Silene polypetala), Small's milkpea (Galactia smallii), and tiny polygala (Polygala smallii) 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.

We, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service), announce a 90-day finding on a petition to list the California spotted owl (Strix occidentalis occidentalis) as threatened or endangered, under the Endangered Species Act (Act) of 1973, as amended (16 U.S.C. 1531 et seq.). We find that the petition presents substantial scientific or commercial information indicating that listing the species may be warranted. Therefore, we are initiating a status review of the species to determine if listing the species is warranted. To ensure that the review is comprehensive, we are soliciting scientific and commercial information regarding this species.

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) announces that the Draft Comprehensive Conservation Plan and Environmental Assessment (CCP/EA) for the Sand Lake National Wildlife Refuge (Refuge) is available for public review and comment. This Draft CCP/EA was prepared pursuant to the National Wildlife Refuge System Administration Act, as amended, and the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA). The Draft CCP/EA describes the Service's proposal for management of the Refuge for 15 years.

In response to an application from the Nevada Department of Wildlife (Applicant), the Fish and Wildlife Service (we, the Service) is considering issuance of an enhancement of survival permit pursuant to section 10(a)(1)(A) of the Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended (ESA). The permit application includes a proposed programmatic Safe Harbor Agreement (SHA) between the Applicant and the Service. The proposed SHA provides for voluntary habitat restoration, maintenance, enhancement, or creation activities to enhance the reintroduction and recovery of the federally threatened Lahontan cutthroat trout (Oncorhynchus clarki henshawi) within the Northwest Distinct Population Segment. The proposed duration of both the SHA and permit is 30 years. The Service has made a preliminary determination that the proposed SHA and permit application are eligible for categorical exclusion under the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (NEPA). The basis for this determination is contained in an Environmental Action Statement, which also is available for public review.

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

Southern Multicapital Corporation (Applicant) requests an incidental take permit (ITP) 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. The Applicant's Habitat Conservation Plan (HCP) describes the mitigation and minimization measures proposed to address the effects of the project to the scrub-jay. These measures are outlined in the SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION section below. We announce the availability of the ITP application, HCP, and a draft 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 regulations (40 CFR 1506.6).

The Fish and Wildlife Service announces that a Draft Comprehensive Conservation Plan and Environmental Assessment for the Northern Mississippi National Wildlife Refuge Complex are 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. Significant issues addressed in the draft plan include: threatened and endangered species; waterfowl management; neotropical migratory birds; bottomland hardwood restoration; agriculture; visitor services (e.g., hunting, fishing, wildlife observation, wildlife photography, and environmental education and interpretation); funding and staffing; cultural resources; land acquisition; and forest fragmentation.

We, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, announce the availability of the Post-delisting Monitoring Plan for the Tinian Monarch (Monarcha takatsukasae) (Monitoring Plan). The status of the Tinian monarch will be monitored over a 5-year period from 2006 to 2010, through regular field surveys of the distribution and abundance of the Tinian monarch, regular field surveys for the brown treesnake (Boiga irregularis) on Tinian, and tracking of land use and development on Tinian.

We are publishing additional information pertaining to a recent Federal Register document that opened a comment period on a proposed and final rule to designate critical habitat for the Klamath River and Columbia River populations of bull trout. This information provides clarification to that document. We hope that this additional information will benefit the public in understanding our actions in regard to the bull trout critical habitat designation.

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

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.

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) is preparing a Comprehensive Conservation Plan (CCP) and Environmental Assessment (EA) for the Farallon National Wildlife Refuge (Refuge) located in San Francisco County, California. This notice advises the public that the Service intends to gather information necessary to prepare a CCP and EA pursuant to the National Wildlife Refuge System Administration Act of 1966, as amended, and the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA). The public and other agencies are encouraged to participate in the planning process by sending written comments on management actions that the Service should consider. The Service is also furnishing this notice in compliance with the Service CCP policy to obtain suggestions and information on the scope of issues to include in the CCP and EA. Opportunities for public input will be announced throughout the CCP/EA planning and development process.

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 the opening of a public comment period on the proposed and final designation of critical habitat for the Klamath River and Columbia River populations of bull trout (Salvelinus confluentus). Due to court action, we have determined that it would be appropriate to reevaluate the exclusions made in the final critical habitat rule. We are opening this comment period to allow all interested parties to comment simultaneously on the November 29, 2002, proposed rule (67 FR 71235) and the October 6, 2004, final rule (69 FR 59996). Copies of the proposed and final rules, as well as the economic analysis for the critical habitat designation, are available on the Internet at https:// pacific.fws.gov/bulltrout or from the Portland Regional Office at the address and contact numbers below.

We (Fish and Wildlife Service) have submitted to OMB a request to renew approval for information collection associated with FWS Form 3-2197a (State Certification of Expenditures). We will use the information that we collect to determine if the States properly expended the funds they received under the Pittman-Robertson Wildlife Restoration Act (16 U.S.C. 669 et seq.) and the Dingell-Johnson Sport Fish Restoration Act (16 U.S.C. 777 et seq.). As used in this notice, the term ``States'' includes the 50 States, Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, District of Columbia, Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, Guam, U.S. Virgin Islands, and American Samoa.

This notice advises the public that the Fish and Wildlife Service, Southwest Region, intends to gather information necessary to prepare a Comprehensive Conservation Plan (CCP) and Environmental Assessment for Bosque del Apache National Wildlife Refuge, pursuant to the National Environmental Policy Act and its implementing regulations. 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.), to achieve the following: (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 document.

The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT), Monroe County, Florida, and the Florida Department of Community Affairs (DCA) (Applicants) 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 no more than 168 acres of occupied Key deer (Odocoileus virginianus clavium), breeding, foraging, and sheltering habitat. This same area is potential habitat for the eastern indigo snake (Drymarchon corais couperi). Proposed activities on this acreage may also indirectly affect adjacent habitat occupied by the Lower Keys marsh rabbit (Sylvilagus palustris hefneri). Take of these species would be incidental to development activities on Big Pine Key and No Name Key (Project Area) in Monroe County, Florida. The Applicants' Habitat Conservation Plan (HCP) describes the mitigation and minimization measures proposed to address the effects of the Project on the affected species. These measures are outlined in the SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION section below. The Service announces the availability of the HCP and the Environmental Assessment for the incidental take application. Copies of the HCP and Environmental Assessment 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 National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) regulations (40 CFR 1506.6).

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

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service announces that the Draft Comprehensive Conservation Plan (CCP), Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) and Land Protection Plan is available for Driftless Area National Wildlife Refuge (NWR) in Illinois, Iowa, and Wisconsin. The CCP 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, and the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969. Goals and objectives in the CCP describe how the agency intends to manage the refuge over the next 15 years.

We (Fish and Wildlife Service, Service) plan to submit the collection of information described below to OMB for approval under the provisions of the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995. We use the information collected to conduct our NAWCA grants programs in the manner prescribed by that Act, the Migratory Bird Conservation Commission, and the North American Wetlands Conservation Council. We also use the information to comply with Federal reporting requirements for grants awarded under the program.

The public is invited to comment on the following application for approval to conduct certain activities with birds that are protected in accordance with the Wild Bird Conservation Act of 1992. This notice is provided pursuant to Section 112(4) of the Wild Bird Conservation Act of 1992, 50 CFR 15.26(c).

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 (Fish and Wildlife Service, Service) plan to request that OMB renew approval for information collection associated with FWS Form 3-159 (Mourning Dove Call Count Survey). The current OMB Control Number for this information collection is 1018-0010, which expires October 31, 2005. We plan to request that OMB renew its approval of this information collection for a 3-year term.

In this Candidate Notice of Review (CNOR), we, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service), present an updated list of plant and animal species native to the United States that we regard as candidates or have proposed for addition to the Lists of Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and Plants under the Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended. Identification of candidate species can assist environmental planning efforts by providing advance notice of potential listings, allowing resource managers to alleviate threats and thereby possibly remove the need to list species as endangered or threatened. Even if we subsequently list a candidate species, the early notice provided here could result in more options for species management and recovery by prompting candidate conservation measures to alleviate threats to the species. The CNOR summarizes the status and threats that we evaluated in order to determine that species qualify as candidates and to assign a listing priority number to each species. Additional material that we relied on is available in the Species Assessment and Listing Priority Assignment Forms (species assessment forms, previously called candidate forms) for each candidate species. We request additional status information that may be available for the 286 candidate species. We will consider this information in preparing listing documents and future revisions to the notice of review, as it will help us in monitoring changes in the status of candidate species and in management for conserving them. We also request information on additional species that we should include as candidates as we prepare future updates of this list. This document also includes our findings on resubmitted petitions and describes our progress in revising the Lists of Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and Plants during the period May 5, 2004, through May 2, 2005.

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

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (we, us, or USFWS) proposes to approve shot formulated of 62 percent iron, 25 percent tungsten, and 13 percent nickel as nontoxic for waterfowl and coot hunting in the United States. We assessed possible toxicity effects of the Iron- Tungsten-Nickel (ITN) shot, and have determined that it is not a threat to wildlife or their habitats, and that further testing of ITN shot is not necessary. We have concluded that because all of the metals in ITN shot type have been approved in higher concentrations in other nontoxic shot types and in ITN shot are very unlikely to adversely affect fish, wildlife, their habitats, or the human environment, we do not need to prepare an Environmental Assessment for this action. We believe that the toxicity risks from ITN shot are small. This rule also corrects the formulation of Tungsten-Tin-Bismuth shot. We inadvertently left the iron in the formulation out of our August 9, 2004, approval of the shot type (69 FR 48163).

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

We, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, announce the reopening of the public comment period on the proposal to designate critical habitat for the Jarbidge River, Coastal-Puget Sound, and Saint Mary- Belly River populations of bull trout (Salvelinus confluentus), and the availability of the draft economic analysis of the proposed designation of critical habitat. We are reopening the comment period to allow all interested parties to comment simultaneously on the proposed rule and the associated draft economic analysis. 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 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://pacific.fws.gov/bulltrout or from the Portland Regional Office at the address and contact numbers below.

This notice advises the public that Metropolitan Water District of Southern California (MWD) has applied to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service or ``we'') for an enhancement of survival permit pursuant to section 10(a)(1)(A) of the Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended (Act). The permit application includes a proposed Safe Harbor Agreement (Agreement) between the applicant and the Service. The Agreement proposes to enroll 296 acres of land, which includes 276 acres that is to provide for the preservation of coastal marsh and wetlands to aid in the conservation of the endangered brown pelican (Pelecanus occidentalis), California least tern (Sterna antillarum browni), light- footed clapper rail (Rallus longirostris levipes), tidewater goby (Eucyclogobius newberryi), salt marsh bird's beak (Cordylanthus maritimus ssp. maritimus), Ventura marsh milk-vetch (Astragalus pycnostachyus var. lanosissimus) and threatened western snowy plover (Charadrius alexandrinus nivosus), and 20 acres of ongoing farming activities which will eventually be developed for industrial or commercial use. The proposed enrolled lands are properties owned by MWD at Ormond Beach, Ventura County, California. The proposed duration of the Agreement and permit is 75 years. The Service has made a preliminary determination that the proposed Agreement and permit application are eligible for categorical exclusion under the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (NEPA). The basis for this determination is contained in an Environmental Action Statement, which also is available for public review.

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) hereby provides public notice that ENVIRON-Metal, Inc., of Sweet Home, Oregon, has applied for approval of a range of tungsten-nickel-iron alloys as nontoxic for waterfowl hunting in the United States. The alloys are comprised of 10-70 percent iron, 20-70 percent tungsten, and 10-40 percent nickel. Densities of the shot alloys range from 8.5 grams per cubic centimeter (g/cc) to 13.5 g/cc. The Service has initiated review of the shot alloys under the criteria set out in Tier 1 of the nontoxic shot approval procedures given at 50 CFR 20.134.

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) hereby provides public notice that the Olin Corporation of East Alton, Illinois, has applied for approval of 60 percent tungsten, 35.1 percent copper, 3.9 percent tin, and 1 percent iron shot as nontoxic for waterfowl hunting in the United States. The Service has initiated review of the shot under the criteria set out in Tier 1 of the nontoxic shot approval procedures given at 50 CFR 20.134.

The Fish and Wildlife Service is amending a portion of the Lower St. Johns River Manatee Refuge area in Duval County, Florida, to provide for both improved public safety and increased manatee protection through improved marking and enforcement of the manatee protection area. Specifically, that portion of this manatee protection area which lies downstream of the Hart Bridge to Reddie Point will be modified to allow watercraft to travel up to 25 miles per hour (mph) in a broader portion of the St. Johns River to include areas adjacent to but outside of the navigation channel. Watercraft traveling near the banks of the river will be required to travel at slow speed much as they do now. The primary exception will be around Exchange Island where the coverage of the existing State and local slow-speed zones will be expanded. However, in the main portion of the river, watercraft will be allowed to travel at speeds up to 25 mph. The manatee protection area will also be expanded approximately one mile further downstream, to the extent it was originally proposed (68 FR 16602; April 4, 2003), in order to be consistent with existing State and local governmental manatee protection measures and thereby facilitate compliance. This modification is supported by State and local government and parties to the March 18, 2003, Stipulated Order which resulted in the initial rulemaking for this manatee protection area. The current configuration of the manatee protection area is not supported by the State of Florida or Duval County. While the Service is committed to enforcing these current protection measures, State and local government would normally provide a substantial portion of the enforcement effort. This rulemaking, through a minor modification in a small portion of the manatee protection area, resolves State and local objections and gains their support through education and enforcement throughout the extent of the manatee protection area. The modification will provide a substantial benefit to manatee conservation. Establishment of manatee protection areas is authorized under the Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended (ESA), and the Marine Mammal Protection Act of 1972, as amended (MMPA), to further recovery of the Florida manatee (Trichechus manatus latirostris) by preventing the taking of one or more manatees. We also announce the availability of a final environmental assessment for this action. Under authority of 5 U.S.C. 553, we find good cause to make this rule final without prior opportunity for public comment because public notice and comment on the rule is contrary to the public interest. However, the public may provide comments on this final rule at any time to the address in the ADDRESSES caption below.

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service announces that the Draft Comprehensive Conservation Plan (CCP) and Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) is available for Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife and Fish Refuge. The CCP 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, and the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969. Goals and objectives in the CCP describe how the agency intends to manage the refuge over the next 15 years.

We, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service), announce the availability of the draft economic analysis and draft environmental assessment for the proposal to designate critical habitat for southwestern willow flycatcher (Empidonax traillii extimus) under the Endangered Species Act of 1973 (Act), as amended. The draft economic analysis considers the potential economic effects of efforts to protect the southwestern willow flycatcher and its habitat, collectively referred to as ``flycatcher conservation activities.'' In the case of habitat conservation, these costs would reflect the costs associated with the commitment of resources to comply with habitat protection measures. The analysis also addresses how potential economic impacts are likely to be distributed and looks retrospectively at costs that have been incurred since the date the species was listed. The draft economic analysis finds that over a 10-year time period costs associated with southwestern willow flycatcher conservation activities are forecast to range from $29.2 to $39.5 million per year. Comments previously submitted on the October 12, 2004, proposed rule (69 FR 60706) and the extensions of comment period published December 13, 2004 (69 FR 72161), or March 31, 2005 (70 FR 16474) need not be resubmitted as they have been incorporated into the public record and will be fully considered in preparation of the final rule. We will hold eight public informational sessions and hearings (see DATES and ADDRESSES sections).

The public is invited to comment on the following applications to conduct certain activities with endangered species. We provide this notice pursuant to section 10(c) of the Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended (16 U.S.C. 1531 et seq.).

The following permit was issued.

Pursuant to the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) advises the public that we intend to gather information necessary to prepare an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) on the proposed expansion and amendment of the U.S. Borax Inc. (U.S. Borax) Life of Mine Project Habitat Conservation Plan (HCP). The proposed amendment is being prepared under section 10(a)(1)(B) of the Endangered Species Act of 1973 as amended, (Act). The HCP and incidental take permit amendments are needed to authorize the incidental take of listed species as a result of implementing activities covered under the proposed HCP amendment. We provide 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; (3) announce the initiation of a 30-day public scoping period; and (4) obtain suggestions and information on the scope of issues and alternatives to be included in the EIS.

We, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service), announce a 90-day finding on a petition to remove (first petition) the Idaho springsnail (Pyrgulopsis idahoensis) from the Federal List of Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and Plants (List) pursuant to the Endangered Species Act (Act), as well as a 90-day finding on a petition to add (second petition) the Jackson Lake springsnail (P. robusta), Harney Lake springsnail (P. hendersoni), and Columbia springsnail (P. spp. A) to the List as endangered or threatened. We find the first petition presents substantial scientific information that delisting the Idaho springsnail may be warranted. We also find that the second petition presents substantial scientific information that listing the Jackson Lake springsnail, Harney Lake springsnail, and Columbia springsnail may be warranted. We are requesting submission of any new information on the Idaho springsnail since its original listing as an endangered species in 1992, and information on the Jackson Lake springsnail, Harney Lake springsnail, and Columbia springsnail. Following this 12-month status review, we will issue 12-month findings on the petition to delist the Idaho springsnail and the petition to list the Jackson Lake springsnail, Harney Lake springsnail, and Columbia springsnail. Section 4(c)(2)(A) of the Act also requires a status review of listed species at least once every 5 years. We are therefore electing to conduct these reviews simultaneously. At the conclusion of these reviews, we will issue the 12-month findings on the petitions, as provided in section 4(b)(3)(B) of the Act, and make the requisite recommendation under section 4(c)(2)(B) of the Act based on the results of the 5-year review for the Idaho springsnail.

Mr. Allen Henrie (Applicant) 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 Safe Harbor Agreement (SHA) between the Applicant, the Utah Division of Wildlife Resources (UDWR), and the Service. The proposed SHA and permit would become effective upon signature of the SHA and issuance of the permit and would remain in effect for 40 years. We have made the determination that the proposed activities described in the application and SHA will improve prairie dog habitat and potentially establish a colony of prairie dogs on private land and that, therefore, it is categorically excluded under 516 DM 8.5 C. (1) of the Department of the Interior's Manual. This notice is provided pursuant to the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) and 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.