The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) recently announced proposed rules to restore Endangered Species Act regulations to 2019 and 2020 levels. The proposed changes eliminate the USFWS's "blanket rule" that automatically protects animals and plants when they are classified as threatened. Government agencies instead would have to craft species-specific rules for protections.
Another proposed change tasks officials with analyzing economic impacts when deciding whether habitat is critical to a species' survival and giving more weight to economic and national security impacts when considering whether to designate a geographic area as critical to the survival of a species. Such areas, known as critical habitat, require special management under the ESA.
A Trusting Partnership Avoids Confusion
Do you have questions about how the proposed rules could affect your project? We’re here to navigate these waters! Davey Resource Group’s certified professionals have the expertise needed to guide you through complex permitting processes. Contact your local office today to learn more!
