Friday September 16, 2022
USFWS —
This month, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service finalized a statewide consultation to help simplify implementation of important aquatic habitat restoration project in California for the benefit of wildlife and people while federal agencies fulfill Endangered Species Act obligations.
“We are proud to announce this comprehensive statewide consultation completed in partnership with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Restoration Center, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, and Sustainable Conservation, who has been championing efficient ways to accomplish more restoration and protect imperiled species,” said Paul Souza, regional director for the Service’s Pacific Southwest Region.
The Section 7 consultation and accompanying materials cover 72 federally listed species and 40 critical habitat areas for 10 types of restoration projects. Currently, eligible projects funded, authorized or carried out by federal agencies referenced above are covered by the consultation. However, any agency interested in using this consultation when conducting qualified restoration projects may join the consultation as a “late arriving agency.”
“The goal of this consultation and the late-arriving agency option is to simplify ESA compliance to encourage and expedite good work for California’s unique landscapes and wildlife. Our intent is to allow our partners to be nimble in where and when to restore landscapes. We are hopeful this can be used as a model for our region moving forward,” said Souza.