RENO - The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is reopening the public comment period on its proposal to protect the Bi-State Distinct Population Segment (DPS) of greater sage-grouse along the California-Nevada border as a threatened species under the Endangered Species Act. The proposal includes a special rule that would provide increased flexibility for land management practices that are intended to benefit the sage-grouse. The additional 30-day comment period was announced in the Federal Register on Aug. 5.
The extra comment period is necessary because the Service received new information regarding population trends. Additionally, interagency funding commitments were recently announced for various conservation efforts associated with the Bi-State Action Plan. Comments previously submitted need not be resubmitted, as they will be fully considered. The final listing decision will be published on or before April 28, 2015.
The new information and the proposed listing and special 4(d) rule, as well as other information about the Bi-State DPS of greater sage-grouse, are available at www.fws.gov/nevada/, www.regulations.gov, or through the Nevada Fish and Wildlife Office at (775) 861-6300.
Scientific information regarding these proposals will be accepted until 11:59 p.m., on Sept. 4, 2014, and may be submitted by one of the following methods:
Electronically, via the Federal eRulemaking Portal, at http://www.regulations.gov. In the search box, enter FWS-R8-ES-2013-0072, which is the docket number for the rulemaking. Then, in the search panel on the left side of the screen, under the document type heading, click on the proposed rules link to locate this document. You may submit a comment by clicking on "Comment Now!"
Hard copy, via U.S. mail or hand delivery, to: Public Comments Processing, Attn: FWS-R8-ES-2013-0072; Division of Policy and Directives Management; U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service; 4401 N. Fairfax Drive, MS 2042-PDM; Arlington, VA 22203.
The Endangered Species Act provides a critical safety net for America's native fish, wildlife and plants. This landmark conservation law has prevented the extinction of hundreds of imperiled species across the nation and promoted the recovery of many others.
The mission of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is working with others to conserve, protect, and enhance fish, wildlife, plants, and their habitats for the continuing benefit of the American people. We are both a leader and trusted partner in fish and wildlife conservation, known for our scientific excellence, stewardship of lands and natural resources, dedicated professionals, and commitment to public service. For more information on our work and the people who make it happen, visit http://www.fws.gov/cno. Connect with our Facebook page, follow our tweets, watch our YouTube Channel, and download photos from our Flickr page.
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