NOAA Fisheries has published a proposed rule that would apply take prohibitions specified in Section 9 of the Endangered Species Act (ESA) to the Southern distinct population segment of green sturgeon. This population of green sturgeon is listed as threatened under the ESA. Exceptions would be provided for some activities that are not expected to impede the recovery of this species (e.g., some types of research/monitoring, enforcement, emergency rescue/salvage, and habitat restoration). For more information about specific requirements under the ESA, refer to the proposed rule.
NOAA has also announced the availability of a draft environmental assessment (EA) that analyzes the environmental impacts of these proposed regulations. Comments may be sent to www.regulations.gov until 5pm Pacific time on July 20, 2009. Data, information, and comments that are accompanied by supporting documentation such as maps, logbooks, bibliographic references, personal notes, and/or reprints of pertinent publications are appreciated. A public hearing will be held if any individual requests one by July 6, 2009. For more information, contact Melissa.Neuman@noaa.gov.