The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) and National Oceanic Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) proposed revisions to the Endangered Species Act, and are asking for public comments before September 24. BIAW will be submitting a comment letter in general support with a few requested additions. If you'd like to submit comments, you can do so online
here, and clicking on the blue "Comment Now!" button. Or by mail:
Attn: FWS–HQ–ES–2018–0007
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, MS: BPHC
5275 Leesburg Pike
Falls Church, VA 22041–3803
Three sections from the Endangered Species Act have proposed reforms. If finalized, these reforms would significantly benefit both property owners and endangered species. By tailoring regulations to the threats species face, this reform would align the incentives of landowners with the interests of species.
For 45 years, the Endangered Species Act has successfully prevented species extinction but failed to promote recovery, with less than 3% of listed species having recovered. This reform might finally enable the achievement of both prevention of extinction and encourage recovery.
If you have any questions, please reach out to
Josie Cummings at 360-352-7800 ext. 163.