80 FR 37568 - Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and Plants; 90-Day Findings on 31 Petitions
DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR
Fish and Wildlife Service Federal Register Volume 80, Issue 126 (July 1, 2015)
Fish and Wildlife Service
Federal Register Volume 80, Issue 126 (July 1, 2015)
| Page Range | 37568-37579 | |
| FR Document | 2015-16001 |
[Federal Register Volume 80, Number 126 (Wednesday, July 1, 2015)] [Proposed Rules] [Pages 37568-37579] From the Federal Register Online [www.thefederalregister.org] [FR Doc No: 2015-16001] ======================================================================= ----------------------------------------------------------------------- DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR Fish and Wildlife Service 50 CFR Part 17 [4500030115] Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and Plants; 90-Day Findings on 31 Petitions AGENCY: Fish and Wildlife Service, Interior. ACTION: Notice of petition findings and initiation of status reviews. ----------------------------------------------------------------------- SUMMARY: We, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service), announce 90- day findings on various petitions to list 30 species and one petition that describes itself as a petition to reclassify one species under the Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended (Act). Based on our review, we find that eight petitions do not present substantial scientific or commercial information indicating that the petitioned actions may be warranted, we find that one petition does not present substantial information that the petitioned entity may be a listable entity under the Act, and we find that one petition does not present substantial information that the petitioned entity may be a listable entity under the Act and does not present substantial scientific or commercial information indicating that the petitioned action may be warranted, and we are not initiating status reviews in response to these petitions. We refer to these as ``not-substantial petition findings.'' Based on our review, we find that 21 petitions present substantial scientific or commercial information indicating that the petitioned actions may be warranted. Therefore, with the publication of this document, we are initiating a review of the status of each of these species to determine if the petitioned actions are warranted. To ensure that these status reviews are comprehensive, we are requesting scientific and commercial data and other information regarding these species. Based on the status reviews, we will issue 12-month findings on the petitions, which will address whether the petitioned action is warranted, as provided in section 4(b)(3)(B) of the Act. DATES: To allow us adequate time to conduct the status reviews, we request that we receive information on or before August 31, 2015. Information submitted electronically using the Federal eRulemaking Portal (see ADDRESSES, below) must be received by 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time on the closing date. ADDRESSES: Not-substantial petition findings: The not-substantial petition findings announced in this document are available on http://www.regulations.gov under the appropriate docket number (see Table 1, below). Supporting information in preparing these findings is available for public inspection, by appointment, during normal business hours by contacting the appropriate person, as specified under FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT. Table 1--Not-Substantial Petition Findings ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Species Docket No. Docket link ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Blue Ridge gray-cheeked salamander...... FWS-R4-ES-2015-0042........ http://www.regulations.gov/#!docketDetail;D=FWS-R4-ES-2015-0042 Caddo Mountain salamander............... FWS-R4-ES-2015-0043........ http://www.regulations.gov/#!docketDetail;D=FWS-R4-ES-2015-0043 California giant salamander............. FWS-R8-ES-2015-0044........ http://www.regulations.gov/#!docketDetail;D=FWS-R8-ES-2015-0044 Colorado checkered whiptail............. FWS-R6-ES-2015-0048........ http://www.regulations.gov/#!docketDetail;D=FWS-R6-ES-2015-0048 Distinct population segment of North FWS-R8-ES-2015-0049........ http://www.regulations.gov/ American wild horse. #!docketDetail;D=FWS-R8-ES-2015-0049 [[Page 37569]] Gray wolf, excluding Mexican wolf, in FWS-HQ-ES-2015-0072........ http://www.regulations.gov/ the conterminous U.S.. #!docketDetail;D=FWS-HQ-ES-2015-0072 Olympic torrent salamander.............. FWS-R1-ES-2015-0056........ http://www.regulations.gov/#!docketDetail;D=FWS-R1-ES-2015-0056 Pigeon Mountain salamander.............. FWS-R4-ES-2015-0058........ http://www.regulations.gov/#!docketDetail;D=FWS-R4-ES-2015-0058 Weller's salamander..................... FWS-R4-ES-2015-0065........ http://www.regulations.gov/#!docketDetail;D=FWS-R4-ES-2015-0065 Wingtail crayfish....................... FWS-R4-ES-2015-0067........ http://www.regulations.gov/#!docketDetail;D=FWS-R4-ES-2015-0067 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Status reviews: You may submit information on species for which a status review is being initiated (see Table 2, below) by one of the following methods: (1) Electronically: Go to the Federal eRulemaking Portal: http://www.regulations.gov. In the Search box, enter the appropriate docket number (see Table 2, below). Then click the Search button. You may submit information by clicking on ``Comment Now!'' If your information will fit in the provided comment box, please use this feature of http://www.regulations.gov, as it is most compatible with our information review procedures. If you attach your information as a separate document, our preferred file format is Microsoft Word. If you attach multiple comments (such as form letters), our preferred format is a spreadsheet in Microsoft Excel. (2) By hard copy: Submit by U.S. mail or hand-delivery to: Public Comments Processing, Attn: [Insert appropriate docket number; see table below]; U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, MS: BPHC, 5275 Leesburg Pike; Falls Church, VA 22041-3803. We request that you send information only by the methods described above. We will post all information received on http://www.regulations.gov. This generally means that we will post any personal information you provide us (see the Request for Information section, below, for more details). Table 2--Substantial Petition Findings ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Species Docket number Docket link ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Alligator snapping turtle............... FWS-R4-ES-2015-0038........ http://www.regulations.gov/#!docketDetail;D=FWS-R4-ES-2015-0038 Apalachicola kingsnake.................. FWS-R4-ES-2015-0039........ http://www.regulations.gov/#!docketDetail;D=FWS-R4-ES-2015-0039 Arizona toad............................ FWS-R2-ES-2015-0040........ http://www.regulations.gov/#!docketDetail;D=FWS-R2-ES-2015-0040 Blanding's turtle....................... FWS-R3-ES-2015-0041........ http://www.regulations.gov/#!docketDetail;D=FWS-R3-ES-2015-0041 Cascade Caverns salamander.............. FWS-R2-ES-2015-0045........ http://www.regulations.gov/#!docketDetail;D=FWS-R2-ES-2015-0045 Cascades frog........................... FWS-R1-ES-2015-0046........ http://www.regulations.gov/#!docketDetail;D=FWS-R1-ES-2015-0046 Cedar Key mole skink.................... FWS-R4-ES-2015-0047........ http://www.regulations.gov/#!docketDetail;D=FWS-R4-ES-2015-0047 Foothill yellow-legged frog............. FWS-R8-ES-2015-0050........ http://www.regulations.gov/#!docketDetail;D=FWS-R8-ES-2015-0050 Gopher frog............................. FWS-R4-ES-2015-0051........ http://www.regulations.gov/#!docketDetail;D=FWS-R4-ES-2015-0051 Green salamander........................ FWS-R4-ES-2015-0052........ http://www.regulations.gov/#!docketDetail;D=FWS-R4-ES-2015-0052 Illinois chorus frog.................... FWS-R3-ES-2015-0053........ http://www.regulations.gov/#!docketDetail;D=FWS-R3-ES-2015-0053 Kern Canyon slender salamander.......... FWS-R8-ES-2015-0054........ http://www.regulations.gov/#!docketDetail;D=FWS-R8-ES-2015-0054 Key ringneck snake...................... FWS-R4-ES-2015-0055........ http://www.regulations.gov/#!docketDetail;D=FWS-R4-ES-2015-0055 Oregon slender salamander............... FWS-R1-ES-2015-0057........ http://www.regulations.gov/#!docketDetail;D=FWS-R1-ES-2015-0057 Relictual slender salamander............ FWS-R8-ES-2015-0059........ http://www.regulations.gov/#!docketDetail;D=FWS-R8-ES-2015-0059 Rim Rock crowned snake.................. FWS-R4-ES-2015-0060........ http://www.regulations.gov/#!docketDetail;D=FWS-R4-ES-2015-0060 Rio Grande cooter....................... FWS-R2-ES-2015-0061........ http://www.regulations.gov/#!docketDetail;D=FWS-R2-ES-2015-0061 Silvery phacelia........................ FWS-R1-ES-2015-0062........ http://www.regulations.gov/#!docketDetail;D=FWS-R1-ES-2015-0062 Southern hog-nosed snake................ FWS-R4-ES-2015-0063........ http://www.regulations.gov/#!docketDetail;D=FWS-R4-ES-2015-0063 Spotted turtle.......................... FWS-R5-ES-2015-0064........ http://www.regulations.gov/#!docketDetail;D=FWS-R5-ES-2015-0064 Western spadefoot toad.................. FWS-R8-ES-2015-0066........ http://www.regulations.gov/#!docketDetail;D=FWS-R8-ES-2015-0066 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Species Contact information ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Alligator snapping turtle................ Andreas Moshogianis; (404) 679-7119 Apalachicola kingsnake................... Andreas Moshogianis; (404) 679-7119 Arizona toad............................. Michelle Shaughnessy; (505) 248-6920 Blanding's turtle........................ Laura Ragan; (612) 713-5350 Blue Ridge gray-cheeked salamander....... Susan Cameron; (828) 258- 3939, ext. 224 Caddo Mountain salamander................ Andreas Moshogianis; (404) 679-7119 California giant salamander.............. Dan Russell; (916) 414-6647 Cascade Caverns salamander............... Michelle Shaughnessy; (505) 248-6920 Cascades frog............................ Paul Henson; (503) 231-6179 Cedar Key mole skink..................... Andreas Moshogianis; (404) 679-7119 Colorado checkered whiptail.............. Leslie Ellwood; (303) 236- 4747 Distinct population segment of North Doug Krofta; (703) 358-2527 American wild horse. Foothill yellow-legged frog.............. Dan Russell; (916) 414-6647 Gopher frog.............................. Andreas Moshogianis; (404) 679-7119 Gray wolf, excluding Mexican wolf, in the Don Morgan; (703) 358-2444 conterminous U.S. [[Page 37570]] Green salamander......................... Andreas Moshogianis; (404) 679-7119 Illinois chorus frog..................... Laura Ragan; (612) 713-5350 Kern Canyon slender salamander........... Dan Russell; (916) 414-6647 Key ringneck snake....................... Andreas Moshogianis; (404) 679-7119 Olympic torrent salamander............... Eric Rickerson; (360) 753- 9440 Oregon slender salamander................ Paul Henson; (503) 231-6179 Pigeon Mountain salamander............... Andreas Moshogianis; (404) 679-7119 Relictual slender salamander............. Dan Russell; (916) 414-6647 Rim Rock crowned snake................... Andreas Moshogianis; (404) 679-7119 Rio Grande cooter........................ Michelle Shaughnessy; (505) 248-6920 Silvery phacelia......................... Paul Henson; (503) 231-6179 Southern hog-nosed snake................. Andreas Moshogianis; (404) 679-7119 Spotted turtle........................... Wende Mahaney; (207) 866-3344 Weller's salamander...................... Susan Cameron; (828) 258- 3939, ext. 224 Western spadefoot toad................... Dan Russell; (916) 414-6647 Wingtail crayfish........................ Patty Kelly; (850) 769-0552, x 228 ------------------------------------------------------------------------ If you use a telecommunications device for the deaf (TDD), please call the Federal Information Relay Service (FIRS) at 800-877-8339 If you use a telecommunications device for the deaf (TDD), please call the Federal Information Relay Service (FIRS) at 800-877-8339. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Request for Information When we make a finding that a petition presents substantial information indicating that listing, reclassification, or delisting a species may be warranted, we are required to promptly review the status of the species (status review). For the status review to be complete and based on the best available scientific and commercial information, we request information on alligator snapping turtle, Apalachicola kingsnake, Arizona toad, Blanding's turtle, Cascade Caverns salamander, Cascades frog, Cedar Key mole skink, foothill yellow-legged frog, gopher frog, green salamander, Illinois chorus frog, Kern Canyon slender salamander, Key ringneck snake, Oregon slender salamander, relictual slender salamander, Rim Rock crowned snake, Rio Grande cooter, silvery phacelia, southern hog-nosed snake, spotted turtle, and western spadefoot toad from governmental agencies, Native American Tribes, the scientific community, industry, and any other interested parties. We seek information on: (1) The species' biology, range, and population trends, including: (a) Habitat requirements; (b) Genetics and taxonomy; (c) Historical and current range, including distribution patterns; (d) Historical and current population levels, and current and projected trends; and (e) Past and ongoing conservation measures for the species, its habitat, or both. (2) The factors that are the basis for making a listing, reclassification, or delisting determination for a species under section 4(a)(1) of the Act (16 U.S.C. 1531 et seq.), which are: (a) The present or threatened destruction, modification, or curtailment of its habitat or range (Factor A); (b) Overutilization for commercial, recreational, scientific, or educational purposes (Factor B); (c) Disease or predation (Factor C); (d) The inadequacy of existing regulatory mechanisms (Factor D); or (e) Other natural or manmade factors affecting its continued existence (Factor E). (3) The potential effects of climate change on the species and its habitat. (4) If, after the status review, we determine that listing is warranted, we will propose critical habitat (see definition in section 3(5)(A) of the Act) under section 4 of the Act for those species that fall within the jurisdiction of the United States, to the maximum extent prudent and determinable at the time we propose to list the species. Therefore, we also specifically request data and information for the 21 species for which we are conducting status reviews on: (a) What may constitute ``physical or biological features essential to the conservation of the species,'' within the geographical range occupied by the species; (b) Where these features are currently found; (c) Whether any of these features may require special management considerations or protection; (d) Specific areas outside the geographical area occupied by the species that are ``essential for the conservation of the species''; and (e) What, if any, critical habitat you think we should propose for designation if the species is proposed for listing, and why such habitat meets the requirements of section 4 of the Act. Please include sufficient information with your submission (such as scientific journal articles or other publications) to allow us to verify any scientific or commercial information you include. Submissions merely stating support for or opposition to the actions under consideration without providing supporting information or analysis, although noted, will not be considered in making a determination. Section 4(b)(1)(A) of the Act directs that determinations as to whether any species is an endangered or threatened species must be made ``solely on the basis of the best scientific and commercial data available.'' You may submit your information concerning these status reviews by one of the methods listed in the ADDRESSES section. If you submit information via http://www.regulations.gov, your entire submission-- including any personal identifying information--will be posted on the Web site. If you submit a hardcopy that includes personal identifying information, you may request at the top of your document that we withhold this personal identifying information from public review. However, we cannot guarantee that we will be able to do so. We will post all hardcopy submissions on http://www.regulations.gov. Information and supporting documentation that we received and used in preparing this finding will be available for you to review at http://www.regulations.gov, or you may make an appointment during normal business hours at the appropriate lead U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Field Office (see FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT). Background Section 4(b)(3)(A) of the Act requires that we make a finding on whether a petition to list, delist, or reclassify a species presents substantial scientific or commercial information indicating that the petitioned action may be warranted. To the maximum extent practicable, we are to make this finding within 90 days of our receipt of the petition and publish our notice of the finding promptly in the Federal Register. Our standard for substantial scientific or commercial information within the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) with regard to a 90-day petition finding is ``that amount of information that would lead a reasonable person to believe that the measure proposed in the petition may be warranted'' (50 CFR 424.14(b)). If we find that substantial scientific or commercial information was presented, we are required to promptly commence a review of the status of the species, which we will subsequently summarize in our 12-month finding. [[Page 37571]] Section 4 of the Act (16 U.S.C. 1533) and its implementing regulations at 50 CFR 424 set forth the procedures for adding a species to, or removing a species from, the Federal Lists of Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and Plants. A species may be determined to be an endangered or threatened species due to one or more of the five factors described in section 4(a)(1) of the Act (see (2) under Request For Information, above). In considering what factors might constitute threats, we must look beyond the exposure of the species to a factor to evaluate whether the species may respond to the factor in a way that causes actual impacts to the species. If there is exposure to a factor and the species responds negatively, the factor may be a threat, and, during the subsequent status review, we attempt to determine how significant a threat it is. The threat is significant if it drives, or contributes to, the risk of extinction of the species such that the species may warrant listing as an ``endangered species'' or a ``threatened species,'' as those terms are defined in the Act. However, the identification of factors that could affect a species negatively may not be sufficient for us to find that the information in the petition and our files is substantial. The information must include evidence sufficient to suggest that these factors may be operative threats that act on the species to the point that the species may meet the definition of an ``endangered species'' or ``threatened species'' under the Act. Evaluation of a Petition To List the Alligator Snapping Turtle as an Endangered or Threatened Species Under the Act Additional information regarding our review of this petition can be found as an appendix at http://www.regulations.gov under Docket No. FWS-R4-ES-2015-0038 under the Supporting Documents section. Species and Range Alligator snapping turtle (Macrochelys temminckii; previously Macroclemys temminckii); Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, Missouri, Oklahoma, Tennessee, and Texas. Petition History On July 11, 2012, we received a petition dated July 11, 2012, from The Center for Biological Diversity, requesting that 53 species of reptiles and amphibians, including the alligator snapping turtle, be listed as endangered or threatened and critical habitat be designated under the Act. The petition clearly identified itself as such and included the requisite identification information for the petitioner, required at 50 CFR 424.14(a). This finding addresses the petition. Finding Based on our review of the petition and sources cited in the petition, we find that the petition presents substantial scientific or commercial information indicating that the petitioned action may be warranted for the alligator snapping turtle (Macrochelys temminckii; previously Macroclemys temminckii) based on Factors A, B, C and D. However, during our status review we will thoroughly evaluate all potential threats to the species. Thus, for the alligator snapping turtle, the Service requests information on the five listing factors under section 4(a)(1) of the Act, including the factors identified in this finding (see Request for Information, above). Evaluation of a Petition To List the Apalachicola Kingsake as an Endangered or Threatened Species Under the Act Additional information regarding our review of this petition can be found as an appendix at http://www.regulations.gov under Docket No. FWS-R4-ES-2015-0039 under the Supporting Documents section. Species and Range Apalachicola kingsnake (Lampropeltis getula meansi); Florida Petition History On July 11, 2012, we received a petition dated July 11, 2012, from The Center for Biological Diversity, requesting that 53 species of reptiles and amphibians, including the Apalachicola kingsnake, be listed as endangered or threatened and critical habitat be designated under the Act. The petition clearly identified itself as such and included the requisite identification information for the petitioner, required at 50 CFR 424.14(a). This finding addresses the petition. Finding Based on our review of the petition and sources cited in the petition, we find that the petition presents substantial scientific or commercial information indicating that the petitioned action may be warranted for the Apalachicola kingsnake (Lampropeltis getula meansi) based on Factor A. However, during our status review we will thoroughly evaluate all potential threats to the species. Thus, for the Apalachicola kingsnake, the Service requests information on the five listing factors under section 4(a)(1) of the Act, including the factors identified in this finding (see Request for Information, above). Evaluation of a Petition To List the Arizona Toad as an Endangered or Threatened Species Under the Act Additional information regarding our review of this petition can be found as an appendix at http://www.regulations.gov under Docket No. FWS-R2-ES-2015-0040 under the Supporting Documents section. Species and Range Arizona toad (Anaxyrus microscaphus); Arizona, California, Nevada, New Mexico, and Utah Petition History On July 11, 2012, we received a petition dated July 11, 2012, from the Center for Biological Diversity requesting that 53 species of reptiles and amphibians, including the Arizona toad, be listed as endangered or threatened and critical habitat be designated under the Act. The petition clearly identified itself as such and included the requisite identification information for the petitioner, required at 50 CFR 424.14(a). This finding addresses the petition. Finding Based on our review of the petition and sources cited in the petition, we find that the petition presents substantial scientific or commercial information indicating that the petitioned action may be warranted for the Arizona toad (Anaxyrus microscaphus) based on Factor E. However, during our status review we will thoroughly evaluate all potential threats to the species. Thus, for the Arizona toad, the Service requests information on the five listing factors under section 4(a)(1) of the Act, including the factors identified in this finding (see Request for Information, above). Evaluation of a Petition To List the Blanding's Turtle as an Endangered or Threatened Species Under the Act Additional information regarding our review of this petition can be found as an appendix at http://www.regulations.gov under Docket No. FWS-R3-ES-2015-0041 under the Supporting Documents section. [[Page 37572]] Species and Range Blanding's turtle (Emydoidea blandingii); Illinois, Iowa, Indiana, New Hampshire, New York, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, Ohio, Pennsylvania, South Dakota, and Wisconsin, United States; Ontario, Quebec, and Nova Scotia, Canada. Petition History On July 11, 2012, we received a petition dated July 11, 2012, from the Center for Biological Diversity requesting that 53 species of reptiles and amphibians, including the Blanding's turtle, be listed as endangered or threatened and critical habitat be designated under the Act. The petition clearly identified itself as such and included the requisite identification information for the petitioner, required at 50 CFR 424.14(a). This finding addresses the petition. Finding Based on our review of the petition and sources cited in the petition, we find that the petition presents substantial scientific or commercial information indicating that the petitioned action may be warranted for the Blanding's turtle (Emydoidea blandingii) based on Factors A, B, C, D, and E. However, during our status review we will thoroughly evaluate all potential threats to the species. Thus, for the Blanding's turtle, the Service requests information on the five listing factors under section 4(a)(1) of the Act, including the factors identified in this finding (see Request for Information, above). Evaluation of a Petition To List the Blue Ridge Gray-Cheeked Salamander as an Endangered or Threatened Species Under the Act Additional information regarding our review of this petition can be found as an appendix at http://www.regulations.gov under Docket No. FWS-R4-ES-2015-0042 under the Supporting Documents section. Species and Range Blue Ridge gray-cheeked salamander (Plethodon amplus); North Carolina Petition History On July 11, 2012, we received a petition dated July 11, 2012, from the Center for Biological Diversity, requesting that 53 species of amphibians and reptiles, including the Blue Ridge gray-cheeked salamander, be listed as endangered or threatened and critical habitat be designated under the Act. The petition clearly identified itself as such and included the requisite identification information for the petitioner, required at 50 CFR 424.14(a). This finding addresses the petition. Finding Based on our review of the petition and sources cited in the petition, we find that the petition does not provide substantial information indicating that listing the species may be warranted. We are not initiating a status review of this species in response to the petition. Our justification for this finding can be found as an appendix at http://www.regulations.gov under Docket No. FWS-R4-ES-2015- 0042 under the ``Supporting Documents'' section. However, we ask that the public submit to us any new information that becomes available concerning the status of, or threats to, the Blue Ridge gray-cheeked salamander salamander or its habitat at any time (see FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT). Evaluation of a Petition To List the Caddo Mountain Salamander as an Endangered or Threatened Species Under the Act Additional information regarding our review of this petition can be found as an appendix at http://www.regulations.gov under Docket No. FWS-R4-ES-2015-0043 under the Supporting Documents section. Species and Range Caddo Mountain salamander (Plethodon caddoensis); Arkansas Petition History On July 11, 2012, we received a petition dated July 11, 2012, from the Center for Biological Diversity, requesting that 53 species of amphibians and reptiles, including the Caddo Mountain salamander, be listed as endangered or threatened and critical habitat be designated under the Act. The petition clearly identified itself as such and included the requisite identification information for the petitioner, required at 50 CFR 424.14(a). This finding addresses the petition. Finding Based on our review of the petition and sources cited in the petition, we find that the petition does not provide substantial scientific or commercial information indicating that the petitioned action may be warranted. We are not initiating a status review of this species in response to the petition. Our justification for this finding can be found as an appendix at http://www.regulations.gov under Docket No. FWS-R4-ES-2015-0043 under the ``Supporting Documents'' section. However, we ask that the public submit to us any new information that becomes available concerning the status of, or threats to, the Caddo Mountain salamander or its habitat at any time (see FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT). Evaluation of a Petition To List the California Giant Salamander as an Endangered or Threatened Species Under the Act Additional information regarding our review of this petition can be found as an appendix at http://www.regulations.gov under Docket No. FWS-R8-ES-2015-0044 under the Supporting Documents section. Species and Range California giant salamander (Dicamptodon ensatus); California Petition History On July 11, 2012, we received a petition dated July 11, 2012, from the Center for Biological Diversity requesting that 53 species of reptiles and amphibians, including the California giant salamander, be listed as endangered or threatened and critical habitat be designated under the Act. The petition clearly identified itself as such and included the requisite identification information for the petitioner, required at 50 CFR 424.14(a). This finding addresses the petition. Finding Based on our review of the petition and sources cited in the petition, we find that the petition does not provide substantial scientific or commercial information indicating that the petitioned action may be warranted. We are not initiating a status review of this species in response to the petition. Our justification for this finding can be found as an appendix at http://www.regulations.gov under Docket No. FWS-R8-ES-2015-0044 under the ``Supporting Documents'' section. However, we ask that the public submit to us any new information that becomes available concerning the status of, or threats to, the California giant salamander or its habitat at any time (see FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT). Evaluation of a Petition To List the Cascade Caverns Salamander as an Endangered or Threatened Species Under the Act Additional information regarding our review of this petition can be found as an appendix at http://www.regulations.gov under Docket No. FWS-R2-ES-2015-0045 under the Supporting Documents section. [[Page 37573]] Species and Range Cascade Caverns salamander (Eurycea latitans); Texas Petition History On July 11, 2012, we received a petition dated July 11, 2012 from the Center for Biological Diversity, requesting that 53 species of reptiles and amphibians, including the Cascade Caverns salamander, be listed as endangered or threatened and critical habitat be designated under the Act. The petition clearly identified itself as such and included the requisite identification information for the petitioner, required at 50 CFR 424.14(a). This finding addresses the petition. Finding Based on our review of the petition and sources cited in the petition, we find that the petition presents substantial scientific or commercial information indicating that the petitioned action may be warranted for the Cascade Caverns salamander (Eurycea latitans) based on Factor A. However, during our status review we will thoroughly evaluate all potential threats to the species. Thus, for the Cascade Caverns salamander, the Service requests information on the five listing factors under section 4(a)(1) of the Act, including the factors identified in this finding (see Request for Information, above). Evaluation of a Petition To List the Cascades Frog as an Endangered or Threatened Species Under the Act Additional information regarding our review of this petition can be found as an appendix at http://www.regulations.gov under Docket No. FWS-R1-ES-2015-0046 under the Supporting Documents section. Species and Range Cascades frog (Rana cascadae); California, Oregon, and Washington Petition History On July 11, 2012, we received a petition dated July 11, 2012, from the Center for Biological Diversity requesting that 53 species of reptiles and amphibians, including the Cascades frog, be listed as endangered or threatened and critical habitat be designated under the Act. The petition clearly identified itself as such and included the requisite identification information for the petitioner, required at 50 CFR 424.14(a). This finding addresses the petition. Finding Based on our review of the petition and sources cited in the petition, we find that the petition presents substantial scientific or commercial information indicating that the petitioned action may be warranted for the Cascades frog (Rana cascadae) based on Factors A, C, and E. However, during our status review we will thoroughly evaluate all potential threats to the species. Thus, for the Cascades frog, the Service requests information on the five listing factors under section 4(a)(1) of the Act, including the factors identified in this finding (see Request for Information, above). Evaluation of a Petition To List the Cedar Key Mole Skink as an Endangered or Threatened Species Under the Act Additional information regarding our review of this petition can be found as an appendix at http://www.regulations.gov under Docket No. FWS-R4-ES-2015-0047 under the Supporting Documents section. Species and Range Cedar Key mole skink (Plestiodon egregius insularis); Florida Petition History On July 11, 2012, we received a petition dated July 11, 2012, from the Center for Biological Diversity requesting that 53 species of reptiles and amphibians, including the Cedar Key mole skink, be listed as endangered or threatened and critical habitat be designated under the Act. The petition clearly identified itself as such and included the requisite identification information for the petitioner, required at 50 CFR 424.14(a). This finding addresses the petition. Finding Based on our review of the petition and sources cited in the petition, we find that the petition presents substantial scientific or commercial information indicating that the petitioned action may be warranted for the Cedar Key mole skink (Plestiodon egregius insularis) based on Factors A, B, and E. However, during our status review we will thoroughly evaluate all potential threats to the species. Thus, for the Cedar Key mole skink, the Service requests information on the five listing factors under section 4(a)(1) of the Act, including the factors identified in this finding (see Request for Information, above). Evaluation of a Petition To List the Colorado Checkered Whiptail as an Endangered or Threatened Species Under the Act Additional information regarding our review of this petition can be found as an appendix at http://www.regulations.gov under Docket No. FWS-R6-ES-2015-0048 under the Supporting Documents section. Species and Range Colorado checkered whiptail (Aspidoscelis neotesselata); Colorado Petition History On July 11, 2012, we received a petition dated July 11, 2012, from the Center for Biological Diversity, requesting that 53 species of amphibians and reptiles, including the Colorado checkered whiptail, be listed as endangered or threatened and critical habitat be designated under the Act. The petition clearly identified itself as such and included the requisite identification information for the petitioner, required at 50 CFR 424.14(a). This finding addresses the petition. Finding Based on our review of the petition and sources cited in the petition, we find that the petition does not provide substantial scientific or commercial information indicating that the petitioned action may be warranted. We are not initiating a status review of this species in response to the petition. Our justification for this finding can be found as an appendix at http://www.regulations.gov under Docket No. FWS-R6-ES-2015-0048 under the ``Supporting Documents'' section. However, we ask that the public submit to us any new information that becomes available concerning the status of, or threats to, the Colorado checkered whiptail or its habitat at any time (see FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT). Evaluation of a Petition To List the Distinct Population Segment of North American Wild Horse as an Endangered or Threatened Species Under the Act Additional information regarding our review of this petition can be found as an appendix at http://www.regulations.gov under Docket No. FWS-R8-ES-2015-0049 under the Supporting Documents section. Species and Range North American wild horse (population of the species Equus caballus); U.S. Federal public lands [[Page 37574]] Petition History On June 17, 2014, we received a petition, dated June 10, 2014, from Friends of Animals and The Cloud Foundation, requesting that the distinct population segment (DPS) of North American wild horses on all U.S. federal public lands be listed as an endangered or threatened species under the Act. The petition clearly identified itself as such and included the requisite identification information for the petitioner(s), as required by 50 CFR 424.14(a). In an October 3, 2014, letter to the petitioner, we responded that we reviewed the information presented in the petition and did not find that the petition warranted an emergency listing. This finding addresses the petition. Finding Based on our review of the petition and sources cited in the petition, we find that the petition does not provide substantial information indicating the petitioned entity may qualify as a DPS and, therefore, a listable entity under section 3(16) of the Act. The petition does not present substantial information supporting the characterization of North American wild horses on all U.S. Federal public lands as a DPS, because the discreteness criteria were not met. Therefore, this population is not a valid listable entity under section 3(16) of the Act, and we are not initiating a status review in response to the petition. Our justification for this finding can be found as an appendix at http://www.regulations.gov under Docket No. FWS-R8-ES-2015- 0049 under the ``Supporting Documents'' section. However, we ask that the public submit to us any new information that becomes available concerning the status of, or threats to, the North American wild horse or its habitat at any time (see FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT). Evaluation of a Petition To List the Foothill Yellow-Legged Frog as an Endangered or Threatened Species Under the Act Additional information regarding our review of this petition can be found as an appendix at http://www.regulations.gov under Docket No. FWS-R8-ES-2015-0050 under the Supporting Documents section. Species and Range Foothill yellow-legged frog (Rana boylii); Oregon and California Petition History On July 11, 2012, we received a petition dated July 11, 2012, from the Center for Biological Diversity requesting that 53 species of reptiles and amphibians, including the foothill yellow-legged frog, be listed as endangered or threatened and critical habitat be designated under the Act. The petition clearly identified itself as such and included the requisite identification information for the petitioner, required at 50 CFR 424.14(a). This finding addresses the petition. Finding Based on our review of the petition and sources cited in the petition, we find that the petition presents substantial scientific or commercial information indicating that the petitioned action may be warranted for the foothill yellow-legged frog (Rana boylii) based on Factors A and E. However, during our status review we will thoroughly evaluate all potential threats to the species. Thus, for the foothill yellow-legged frog, the Service requests information on the five listing factors under section 4(a)(1) of the Act, including the factors identified in this finding (see Request for Information, above). Evaluation of a Petition To List the Gopher Frog as an Endangered or Threatened Species Under the Act Additional information regarding our review of this petition can be found as an appendix at http://www.regulations.gov under Docket No. FWS-R4-ES-2015-0051 under the Supporting Documents section. Species and Range Gopher frog (Lithobates capito); Alabama, Florida, Tennessee, Georgia, South Carolina, and North Carolina Petition History On July 11, 2012, we received a petition dated July 11, 2012, from the Center for Biological Diversity requesting that 53 species of reptiles and amphibians, including the gopher frog, be listed as endangered or threatened and critical habitat be designated under the Act. The petition clearly identified itself as such and included the requisite identification information for the petitioner, required at 50 CFR 424.14(a). This finding addresses the petition. Finding Based on our review of the petition and sources cited in the petition, we find that the petition presents substantial scientific or commercial information indicating that the petitioned action may be warranted for the gopher frog (Lithobates capito) based on Factors A, C, D, and E. However, during our status review we will thoroughly evaluate all potential threats to the species. Thus, for the gopher frog, the Service requests information on the five listing factors under section 4(a)(1) of the Act, including the factors identified in this finding (see Request for Information, above). Evaluation of a Petition To Reclassify the Gray Wolf, Excluding Mexican Wolf, in the Conterminous U.S. as a Threatened Species Under the Act Additional information regarding our review of this petition can be found as an appendix at http://www.regulations.gov under Docket No. FWS-HQ-ES-2015-0072 under the Supporting Documents section. Species and Range Gray wolf, excluding the Mexican wolf (population of the species Canis lupus); conterminous United States. Petition History On January 27, 2015, we received a petition dated January 27, 2015, from the Humane Society of the United States (HSUS) and twenty-two undersigned petitioners (The Center for Biological Diversity, The Fund for Animals, Born Free USA, Friends of Animals and Their Environment, Help Our Wolves Live, The Detroit Zoological Society, Midwest Environmental Advocates, Predator Defense, National Wolfwatcher Coalition, Northwoods Alliance, Wisconsin Federated Humane Societies, Minnesota Humane Society, Howling for Wolves, Detroit Audubon Society, Sault Sainte Marie Tribe of Chippewa Indians, Wildlife Public Trust and Coexistence, Minnesota Voters for Animal Protection, Friends of the Wisconsin Wolf, Wolves of Douglas County Wisconsin, Justice for Wolves, and Wildwoods (Minnesota)), requesting that the gray wolf, excluding the Mexican wolf subspecies, be reclassified as threatened throughout the conterminous United States (U.S.) under the Act. The petition clearly identified itself as such and included the requisite identification information for the petitioner, required at 50 CFR 424.14(a). On March 10, 2015, we received electronic copies of the published references cited in the January, 27, 2015 petition from HSUS. In a March 27, 2015, letter to HSUS, we responded that we reviewed the information presented in the petition and did not find that the petition warranted an emergency listing. This finding addresses the petition. [[Page 37575]] Finding Based on our review of the petition, we find the petition does not provide substantial scientific or commercial information indicating the petitioned entity may qualify as a DPS and, therefore, a listable entity under section 3(16) of the Act. Although any further evaluation of the petition was unnecessary because this is a sound basis for a not-substantial finding, due to the level of controversy surrounding the legal status of gray wolf under the Act and the high interest in this petition specifically we further evaluated the petition by analyzing the five listing factors under section 4(a)(1). Based on our review of the petition, sources cited in the petition, and our files we find the petition does not provide substantial scientific or commercial information indicating that gray wolves, excluding Mexican wolves, in the coterminous U.S. may be likely to become an endangered species within the foreseeable future (a threatened species) due to any one of the five listing factors. We come to the same conclusion when we consider whether collective information presented in the petition represents substantial information. The petitioner's information with respect to unoccupied suitable habitat is based on a misinterpretation of the Act. Moreover, despite making allegations with respect to disease, and small population size, the petitioners provided no information to support their claim. Inadequate existing regulatory mechanisms are not an independent source of threat, but relate to amelioration of threats under the other factors. Therefore, the petition only provides information with respect to possible overutilization from recreational hunting and trapping, and the information is not substantial. Thus the petition provides no information to combine with the information regarding possible overutilization from recreational hunting and trapping. In any case, even if the petition had presented information with respect to other sources of mortality, the existing state plans regulating take of wolves only allow take above certain population thresholds, such that if the other causes of mortality increased above certain levels, hunting and trapping would be reduced to prevent the population from dipping below those thresholds. So those plans have a built-in response to possible concerns relating to cumulative impacts. Accordingly, we are not initiating a status review in response to this petition. Our justification for this finding can be found as an appendix at http://www.regulations.gov under Docket No. FWS-HQ-ES-2015-0072 under the ``Supporting Documents'' section. However, we ask that the public submit to us any new information that becomes available concerning the status of, or threats to, the gray wolf or its habitat at any time (see FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT). Evaluation of a Petition To List the Green Salamander as an Endangered or Threatened Species Under the Act Additional information regarding our review of this petition can be found as an appendix at http://www.regulations.gov under Docket No. FWS-R4-ES-2015-0052 under the Supporting Documents section. Species and Range Green salamander (Aneides aeneus); Alabama, Georgia, Indiana, Maryland, Mississippi, Ohio, Pennsylvania, North Carolina, and South Carolina. Petition History On July 11, 2012, we received a petition dated July 11, 2012, from the Center for Biological Diversity, requesting that 53 species of amphibians and reptiles, including the green salamander, be listed as endangered or threatened and critical habitat be designated under the Act. The petition clearly identified itself as such and included the requisite identification information for the petitioner, required at 50 CFR 424.14(a). This finding addresses the petition. Finding Based on our review of the petition and sources cited in the petition, we find that the petition presents substantial scientific or commercial information indicating that the petitioned action may be warranted for the green salamander (Aneides aeneus) based on Factors A, B, C, D, and E. However, during our status review we will thoroughly evaluate all potential threats to the species. Thus, for the green salamander, the Service requests information on the five listing factors under section 4(a)(1) of the Act, including the factors identified in this finding (see Request for Information, above). Evaluation of a Petition To List the Illinois Chorus Frog as an Endangered or Threatened Species Under the Act Additional information regarding our review of this petition can be found as an appendix at http://www.regulations.gov under Docket No. FWS-R3-ES-2015-0053 under the Supporting Documents section. Species and Range Illinois chorus frog (Pseudacris illinoensis or Pseudacris streckeri illinoensis); Illinois, Missouri, and Arkansas Petition History On July 11, 2012, we received a petition dated July 11, 2012, from the Center for Biological Diversity requesting that 53 species of reptiles and amphibians, including the Illinois chorus frog, be listed as endangered or threatened and critical habitat be designated under the Act. The petition clearly identified itself as such and included the requisite identification information for the petitioner, required at 50 CFR 424.14(a). This finding addresses the petition. Finding Based on our review of the petition and sources cited in the petition, we find that the petition presents substantial scientific or commercial information indicating that the petitioned action may be warranted for the Illinois chorus frog (Pseudacris illinoensis or Pseudacris streckeri illinoensis) based on Factors A and E. However, during our status review we will thoroughly evaluate all potential threats to the species. Thus, for the Illinois chorus frog, the Service requests information on the five listing factors under section 4(a)(1) of the Act, including the factors identified in this finding (see Request for Information, above). Evaluation of a Petition To List the Kern Canyon Slender Salamander as an Endangered or Threatened Species Under the Act Additional information regarding our review of this petition can be found as an appendix at http://www.regulations.gov under Docket No. FWS-R8-ES-2015-0054 under the Supporting Documents section. Species and Range Kern Canyon slender salamander (Batrachoseps simatus); California Petition History On July 11, 2012, we received a petition dated July 11, 2012, from the Center for Biological Diversity, requesting that 53 species of amphibians and reptiles, including the Kern Canyon slender salamander, be listed as endangered or threatened and critical habitat be designated under the Act. The petition clearly identified itself as such [[Page 37576]] and included the requisite identification information for the petitioner, required at 50 CFR 424.14(a). This finding addresses the petition. Finding Based on our review of the petition and sources cited in the petition, we find that the petition presents substantial scientific or commercial information indicating that the petitioned action may be warranted for the Kern Canyon slender salamander (Batrachoseps simatus) based on Factors A, D, and E. However, during our status review we will thoroughly evaluate all potential threats to the species. Thus, for the Kern Canyon slender salamander, the Service requests information on the five listing factors under section 4(a)(1) of the Act, including the factors identified in this finding (see Request for Information, above). Evaluation of a Petition To List the Key Ringneck Snake as an Endangered or Threatened Species Under the Act Additional information regarding our review of this petition can be found as an appendix at http://www.regulations.gov under Docket No. FWS-R4-ES-2015-0055 under the Supporting Documents section. Species and Range Key ringneck snake (Diadophis punctatus acricus); Florida Petition History On July 11, 2012, we received a petition dated July 11, 2012, from the Center for Biological Diversity, requesting that 53 species of amphibians and reptiles, including the Key ringneck snake, be listed as endangered or threatened and critical habitat be designated under the Act. The petition clearly identified itself as such and included the requisite identification information for the petitioner, required at 50 CFR 424.14(a). This finding addresses the petition. Finding Based on our review of the petition and sources cited in the petition, we find that the petition presents substantial scientific or commercial information indicating that the petitioned action may be warranted for the Key ringneck snake (Diadophis punctatus acricus) based on Factors A and E. However, during our status review we will thoroughly evaluate all potential threats to the species. Thus, for the Key ringneck snake, the Service requests information on the five listing factors under section 4(a)(1) of the Act, including the factors identified in this finding (see Request for Information, above). Evaluation of a Petition To List the Olympic Torrent Salamander as an Endangered or Threatened Species Under the Act Additional information regarding our review of this petition can be found as an appendix at http://www.regulations.gov under Docket No. FWS-R1-ES-2015-0056 under the Supporting Documents section. Species and Range Olympic torrent salamander (Rhyacotriton olympicus); Washington Petition History On July 11, 2012, we received a petition dated July 11, 2012, from the Center for Biological Diversity requesting that 53 species of reptiles and amphibians, including the Olympic torrent salamander, be listed as endangered or threatened and critical habitat be designated under the Act. The petition clearly identified itself as such and included the requisite identification information for the petitioner, required at 50 CFR 424.14(a). This finding addresses the petition. Finding Based on our review of the petition and sources cited in the petition, we find that the petition does not provide substantial scientific or commercial information indicating that the petitioned action may be warranted. We are not initiating a status review of this species in response to the petition. Our justification for this finding can be found as an appendix at http://www.regulations.gov under Docket No. FWS-R1-ES-2015-0056 under the ``Supporting Documents'' section. However, we ask that the public submit to us any new information that becomes available concerning the status of, or threats to, the Olympic torrent salamander or its habitat at any time (see FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT). Evaluation of a Petition To List the Oregon Slender Salamander as an Endangered or Threatened Species Under the Act Additional information regarding our review of this petition can be found as an appendix at http://www.regulations.gov under Docket No. FWS-R1-ES-2015-0057 under the Supporting Documents section. Species and Range Oregon slender salamander (Batrachoseps wrighti; previously B. wrightorum); Oregon Petition History On July 11, 2012, we received a petition dated July 11, 2012, from the Center for Biological Diversity requesting that 53 species of reptiles and amphibians, including the Oregon slender salamander, be listed as endangered or threatened and critical habitat be designated under the Act. The petition clearly identified itself as such and included the requisite identification information for the petitioner, required at 50 CFR 424.14(a). This finding addresses the petition. Finding Based on our review of the petition and sources cited in the petition, we find that the petition presents substantial scientific or commercial information indicating that the petitioned action may be warranted for the Oregon slender salamander (Batrachoseps wrighti) based on Factors A and E. However, during our status review we will thoroughly evaluate all potential threats to the species. Thus, for the Oregon slender salamander, the Service requests information on the five listing factors under section 4(a)(1) of the Act, including the factors identified in this finding (see Request for Information, above). Evaluation of a Petition To List the Pigeon Mountain Salamander as an Endangered or Threatened Species Under the Act Additional information regarding our review of this petition can be found as an appendix at http://www.regulations.gov under Docket No. FWS-R4-ES-2015-0058 under the Supporting Documents section. Species and Range Pigeon Mountain salamander (Plethodon petraeus); Georgia Petition History On July 11, 2012, we received a petition dated July 11, 2012, from the Center for Biological Diversity, requesting that 53 species of amphibians and reptiles, including the Pigeon Mountain salamander, be listed as endangered or threatened and critical habitat be designated under the Act. The petition clearly identified itself as such and included the requisite identification information for the petitioner, required at 50 CFR 424.14(a). This finding addresses the petition. [[Page 37577]] Finding Based on our review of the petition and sources cited in the petition, we find that the petition does not provide substantial scientific or commercial information indicating that the petitioned action may be warranted. We are not initiating a status review of this species in response to the petition. Our justification for this finding can be found as an appendix at http://www.regulations.gov under Docket No. FWS-R4-ES-2015-0058 under the ``Supporting Documents'' section. However, we ask that the public submit to us any new information that becomes available concerning the status of, or threats to, the Pigeon Mountain salamander or its habitat at any time (see FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT). Evaluation of a Petition To List the Relictual Slender Salamander as an Endangered or Threatened Species Under the Act Additional information regarding our review of this petition can be found as an appendix at http://www.regulations.gov under Docket No. FWS-R8-ES-2015-0059 under the Supporting Documents section. Species and Range Relictual slender salamander (Batrachoseps relictus); California Petition History On July 11, 2012, we received a petition dated July 11, 2012, from the Center for Biological Diversity, requesting that 53 species of amphibians and reptiles, including the relictual slender salamander, be listed as endangered or threatened and critical habitat be designated under the Act. The petition clearly identified itself as such and included the requisite identification information for the petitioner, required at 50 CFR 424.14(a). This finding addresses the petition. Finding Based on our review of the petition and sources cited in the petition, we find that the petition presents substantial scientific or commercial information indicating that the petitioned action may be warranted for the relictual slender salamander (Batrachoseps relictus) based on Factors A, D, and E. However, during our status review we will thoroughly evaluate all potential threats to the species. Thus, for the relictual slender salamander, the Service requests information on the five listing factors under section 4(a)(1) of the Act, including the factors identified in this finding (see Request for Information, above). Evaluation of a Petition To List the Rim Rock Crowned Snake as an Endangered or Threatened Species Under the Act Additional information regarding our review of this petition can be found as an appendix at http://www.regulations.gov under Docket No. FWS-R4-ES-2015-0060 under the Supporting Documents section. Species and Range Rim Rock crowned snake (Tantilla oolitica); Florida Petition History On July 11, 2012, we received a petition dated July 11, 2012, from The Center for Biological Diversity, requesting that 53 species of reptiles and amphibians, including the Rim Rock crowned snake, be listed as endangered or threatened and critical habitat be designated under the Act. The petition clearly identified itself as such and included the requisite identification information for the petitioner, required at 50 CFR 424.14(a). This finding addresses the petition. Finding Based on our review of the petition and sources cited in the petition, we find that the petition presents substantial scientific or commercial information indicating that the petitioned action may be warranted for the Rim Rock crowned snake (Tantilla oolitica) based on Factors A and E. However, during our status review we will thoroughly evaluate all potential threats to the species. Thus, for the Rim Rock crowned snake, the Service requests information on the five listing factors under section 4(a)(1) of the Act, including the factors identified in this finding (see Request for Information, above). Evaluation of a Petition To List the Rio Grande Cooter as an Endangered or Threatened Species Under the Act Additional information regarding our review of this petition can be found as an appendix at http://www.regulations.gov under Docket No. FWS-R2-ES-2015-0061 under the Supporting Documents section. Species and Range Rio Grande cooter or Western River cooter (Pseudemys gorzugi); Texas and New Mexico, United States; Coahuila, Neuvo Leon, and Tamaulipas, Mexico Petition History On July 11, 2012, we received a petition dated July 11, 2012, from The Center for Biological Diversity, requesting that 53 species of reptiles and amphibians, including the Rio Grande cooter, be listed as endangered or threatened and critical habitat be designated under the Act. The petition clearly identified itself as such and included the requisite identification information for the petitioner, required at 50 CFR 424.14(a). This finding addresses the petition. Finding Based on our review of the petition and sources cited in the petition, we find that the petition presents substantial scientific or commercial information indicating that the petitioned action may be warranted for the Rio Grande cooter (Pseudemys gorzugi) based on Factors A, B, and D. However, during our status review we will thoroughly evaluate all potential threats to the species. Thus, for the Rio Grande cooter, the Service requests information on the five listing factors under section 4(a)(1) of the Act, including the factors identified in this finding (see Request for Information, above). Evaluation of a Petition To List Silvery Phacelia as an Endangered or Threatened Species Under the Act Additional information regarding our review of this petition can be found as an appendix at http://www.regulations.gov under Docket No. FWS-R1-ES-2015-0062 under the Supporting Documents section. Species and Range Silvery phacelia (Phacelia argentea); Oregon and California Petition History On March 7, 2014, we received a petition dated March 7, 2014, from The Center for Biological Diversity, Oregon Wild, Friends of Del Norte, Oregon Coast Alliance, The Native Plant Society of Oregon, The California Native Plant Society, The Environmental Protection Information Center, and Klamath-Siskiyou Wildlands Center (the petitioners), requesting that silvery phacelia be listed as an endangered or threatened species and, if applicable, critical habitat be designated for this species under the Act. The petition clearly identified itself as such and included the requisite identification information for the petitioner, required at 50 CFR 424.14(a). This finding addresses the petition. Finding Based on our review of the petition and sources cited in the petition, we [[Page 37578]] find that the petition presents substantial scientific or commercial information indicating that the petitioned action may be warranted for the silvery phacelia (Phacelia argentea) based on Factors A and D. However, during our status review we will thoroughly evaluate all potential threats to the species. Thus, for the silvery phacelia, the Service requests information on the five listing factors under section 4(a)(1) of the Act, including the factors identified in this finding (see Request for Information, above). Evaluation of a Petition To List the Southern Hog-Nosed Snake as an Endangered or Threatened Species Under the Act Additional information regarding our review of this petition can be found as an appendix at http://www.regulations.gov under Docket No. FWS-R4-ES-2015-0063 under the Supporting Documents section. Species and Range Southern hog-nosed snake (Heterodon simus); North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, and Florida Petition History On July 11, 2012, we received a petition dated July 11, 2012, from The Center for Biological Diversity, requesting that 53 species of reptiles and amphibians, including the southern hog-nosed snake, be listed as endangered or threatened and critical habitat be designated under the Act. The petition clearly identified itself as such and included the requisite identification information for the petitioner, required at 50 CFR 424.14(a). This finding addresses the petition. Finding Based on our review of the petition and sources cited in the petition, we find that the petition presents substantial scientific or commercial information indicating that the petitioned action may be warranted for the southern hog-nosed snake (Heterodon simus) based on Factors A and E. However, during our status review we will thoroughly evaluate all potential threats to the species. Thus, for the southern hog-nosed snake, the Service requests information on the five listing factors under section 4(a)(1) of the Act, including the factors identified in this finding (see Request for Information, above). Evaluation of a Petition To List the Spotted Turtle as an Endangered or Threatened Species Under the Act Additional information regarding our review of this petition can be found as an appendix at http://www.regulations.gov under Docket No. FWS-R5-ES-2015-0064 under the Supporting Documents section. Species and Range Spotted turtle (Clemmys guttata); Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Pennsylvania, New Hampshire, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, South Carolina, Vermont, Virginia, and West Virginia Petition History On July 11, 2012, we received a petition dated July 11, 2012, from the Center for Biological Diversity requesting that 53 species of reptiles and amphibians, including the spotted turtle, be listed as endangered or threatened and critical habitat be designated under the Act. The petition clearly identified itself as such and included the requisite identification information for the petitioner, required at 50 CFR 424.14(a). This finding addresses the petition. Finding Based on our review of the petition and sources cited in the petition, we find that the petition presents substantial scientific or commercial information indicating that the petitioned action may be warranted for the spotted turtle (Clemmys guttata) based on Factors A, B, D, and E. However, during our status review we will thoroughly evaluate all potential threats to the species. Thus, for the spotted turtle, the Service requests information on the five listing factors under section 4(a)(1) of the Act, including the factors identified in this finding (see Request for Information, above). Evaluation of a Petition To List the Weller's Salamander as an Endangered or Threatened Species Under the Act Additional information regarding our review of this petition can be found as an appendix at http://www.regulations.gov under Docket No. FWS-R4-ES-2015-0065 under the Supporting Documents section. Species and Range Weller's salamander (Plethodon welleri, 1931); North Carolina, Tennessee, and Virginia Petition History On July 11, 2012, we received a petition dated July 11, 2012, from the Center for Biological Diversity, requesting that 53 species of amphibians and reptiles, including the Weller's salamander, be listed as endangered or threatened and critical habitat be designated under the Act. The petition clearly identified itself as such and included the requisite identification information for the petitioner, required at 50 CFR 424.14(a). This finding addresses the petition. Finding Based on our review of the petition and sources cited in the petition, we find that the petition does not provide substantial scientific or commercial information indicating that the petitioned action may be warranted. We are not initiating a status review of this species in response to the petition. Our justification for this finding can be found as an appendix at http://www.regulations.gov under Docket No. FWS-R4-ES-2015-0065 under the ``Supporting Documents'' section. However, we ask that the public submit to us any new information that becomes available concerning the status of, or threats to, the Weller's salamander or its habitat at any time (see FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT). Evaluation of a Petition To List the Western Spadefoot Toad as an Endangered or Threatened Species Under the Act Additional information regarding our review of this petition can be found as an appendix at http://www.regulations.gov under Docket No. FWS-R8-ES-2015-0066 under the Supporting Documents section. Species and Range Western spadefoot toad (Spea hammondii or Scaphiopus hammondii); California, United States; Northwestern Baja California, Mexico Petition History On July 11, 2012, we received a petition dated July 11, 2012, from the Center for Biological Diversity requesting that 53 species of reptiles and amphibians, including the western spadefoot toad, be listed as endangered or threatened and critical habitat be designated under the Act. The petition clearly identified itself as such and included the requisite identification information for the petitioner, required at 50 CFR 424.14(a). This finding addresses the petition. [[Page 37579]] Finding Based on our review of the petition and sources cited in the petition, we find that the petition presents substantial scientific or commercial information indicating that the petitioned action may be warranted for the western spadefoot toad (Spea hammondii or Scaphiopus hammondii) based on Factors A and E. However, during our status review we will thoroughly evaluate all potential threats to the species. Thus, for the western spadefoot toad, the Service requests information on the five listing factors under section 4(a)(1) of the Act, including the factors identified in this finding (see Request for Information, above). Evaluation of a Petition To List the Wingtail Crayfish as an Endangered or Threatened Species Under the Act Additional information regarding our review of this petition can be found as an appendix at http://www.regulations.gov under Docket No. FWS-R4-ES-2015-0067 under the Supporting Documents section. Species and Range Wingtail crayfish (Procambarus (Leconticambarus) latipleurum); Florida Petition History On January 6, 2014, we received a petition dated January 6, 2014, from the Center for Biological Diversity, requesting that the wingtail crayfish be listed as an endangered or threatened species under the Act. The petition clearly identified itself as such and included the requisite identification information for the petitioner, required at 50 CFR 424.14(a). Finding Based on our review of the petition and sources cited in the petition, we find that the petition does not provide substantial scientific or commercial information indicating that the petitioned action may be warranted. We are not initiating a status review of this species in response to the petition. Our justification for this finding can be found as an appendix at http://www.regulations.gov under Docket No. FWS-R4-ES-2015-0067 under the ``Supporting Documents'' section. However, we ask that the public submit to us any new information that becomes available concerning the status of, or threats to, the wingtail crayfish or its habitat at any time (see FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT). Conclusion On the basis of our evaluation of the information presented under section 4(b)(3)(A) of the Act, we have determined that the petitions summarized above for the Blue Ridge gray-cheeked salamander, Caddo Mountain salamander, California giant salamander, Colorado checkered whiptail, the distinct population segment of North American wild horse, gray wolf, excluding Mexican wolf, in the conterminous U.S., Olympic torrent salamander, Pigeon Mountain salamander, Weller's salamander, and wingtail crayfish do not present substantial scientific or commercial information indicating that the requested actions may be warranted. Therefore, we are not initiating status reviews for these species. On the basis of our evaluation of the information presented under section 4(b)(3)(A) of the Act, we have determined that the petitions summarized above for alligator snapping turtle, Apalachicola kingsnake, Arizona toad, Blanding's turtle, Cascade Caverns salamander, Cascades frog, Cedar Key mole skink, foothill yellow-legged frog, gopher frog, green salamander, Illinois chorus frog, Kern Canyon slender salamander, Key ringneck snake, Oregon slender salamander, relictual slender salamander, Rim Rock crowned snake, Rio Grande cooter, silvery phacelia, southern hog-nosed snake, spotted turtle, and western spadefoot toad present substantial scientific or commercial information indicating that the requested actions may be warranted. Because we have found that the petitions present substantial information indicating that the petitioned actions may be warranted, we are initiating status reviews to determine whether these actions under the Act are warranted. At the conclusion of the status reviews, we will issue a 12-month finding in accordance with section 4(b)(3)(B) of the Act, as to whether or not the Service believes listing is warranted. It is important to note that the ``substantial information'' standard for a 90-day finding as to whether the petitioned action may be warranted differs from the Act's ``best scientific and commercial data'' standard that applies to the Service's determination in a 12- month finding as to whether a petitioned action is in fact warranted. A 90-day finding is not based on a status review. In a 12-month finding, we will determine whether a petitioned action is warranted after we have completed a thorough status review of the species, which is conducted following a substantial 90-day finding. Because the Act's standards for 90-day and 12-month findings are different, as described above, a substantial 90-day finding does not mean that the 12-month finding will result in a warranted finding. References Cited A complete list of references cited is available on the Internet at http://www.regulations.gov and upon request from the appropriate lead field offices (see FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT). Authors The primary authors of this document are the staff members of the Branch of Listing, Ecological Services Program, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Authority The authority for these actions is the Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended (16 U.S.C. 1531 et seq.). Dated: June 22, 2015. Stephen Guertin, Acting Director, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. [FR Doc. 2015-16001 Filed 6-30-15; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4310-55-P
![37568 Federal Register / Vol. 80, No. 126 / Wednesday, July 1, 2015 / Proposed Rules
party, noting on the document filed, or submitted using the electronic filing indicating that the petitioned actions
on the transmitting letter, that a copy system are considered filed as of the may be warranted, we find that one
has been so furnished. date/time (Eastern Time) reflected in the petition does not present substantial
* * * * * system. Documents mailed to the information that the petitioned entity
Recorder are considered filed on the may be a listable entity under the Act,
PART 966—RULES OF PRACTICE IN date mailed as evidenced by a United and we find that one petition does not
PROCEEDINGS RELATIVE TO States Postal Service postmark. Filings present substantial information that the
ADMINISTRATIVE OFFSETS INITIATED by any other means are considered filed petitioned entity may be a listable entity
AGAINST FORMER EMPLOYEES OF upon receipt by the Recorder of a under the Act and does not present
THE POSTAL SERVICE complete copy of the filing during substantial scientific or commercial
normal business hours (Normal information indicating that the
■ 4. The authority citation for 39 CFR
Recorder office business hours are petitioned action may be warranted, and
part 966 continues to read as follows:
between 8:45 a.m. and 4:45 p.m., we are not initiating status reviews in
Authority: 31 U.S.C. 3716; 39 U.S.C. 204, Eastern Time). If both parties are response to these petitions. We refer to
401, 2601. participating via the electronic filing these as ‘‘not-substantial petition
■ 5. In § 966.4, revise paragraph (c), and system, separate service upon the findings.’’ Based on our review, we find
add a sentence at the beginning of opposing party is not required. that 21 petitions present substantial
paragraph (d) to read as follows: Otherwise, documents shall be served scientific or commercial information
personally or by mail on the opposing indicating that the petitioned actions
§ 966.4 Petition for a hearing and party, noting on the document filed, or
supplement to petition. may be warranted. Therefore, with the
on the transmitting letter, that a copy publication of this document, we are
* * * * * has been so furnished. initiating a review of the status of each
(c) Within thirty (30) calendar days
* * * * * of these species to determine if the
after the date of receipt of the
petitioned actions are warranted. To
Accounting Service Center’s decision Stanley F. Mires,
ensure that these status reviews are
upon reconsideration, after the Attorney, Federal Compliance.
comprehensive, we are requesting
expiration of sixty (60) calendar days [FR Doc. 2015–16141 Filed 6–30–15; 8:45 am]
scientific and commercial data and
after a request for reconsideration where BILLING CODE 7710–12–P
other information regarding these
a reconsideration determination is not
made, or following an administrative species. Based on the status reviews, we
offset taken without prior notice and will issue 12-month findings on the
DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR petitions, which will address whether
opportunity for reconsideration
pursuant to paragraph (b)(1) of this the petitioned action is warranted, as
Fish and Wildlife Service
section, the former employee must file provided in section 4(b)(3)(B) of the Act.
a written petition electronically at 50 CFR Part 17 DATES: To allow us adequate time to
https://uspsjoe.justware.com/justiceweb, conduct the status reviews, we request
[4500030115]
or by mail at Recorder, Judicial Officer that we receive information on or before
Department, United States Postal Endangered and Threatened Wildlife August 31, 2015. Information submitted
Service, 2101 Wilson Blvd., Suite 600, and Plants; 90-Day Findings on 31 electronically using the Federal
Arlington, VA 22201–3078. Petitions eRulemaking Portal (see ADDRESSES,
(d) A sample petition is available below) must be received by 11:59 p.m.
through the Judicial Officer Electronic AGENCY: Fish and Wildlife Service, Eastern Time on the closing date.
Filing Web site (https:// Interior.
uspsjoe.justware.com/justiceweb).* * * ACTION: Notice of petition findings and ADDRESSES: Not-substantial petition
initiation of status reviews. findings: The not-substantial petition
* * * * *
findings announced in this document
■ 6. Revise paragraph (a) of § 966.6 to
read as follows: SUMMARY: We, the U.S. Fish and are available on http://
Wildlife Service (Service), announce 90- www.regulations.gov under the
§ 966.6 Filing, docketing and serving day findings on various petitions to list appropriate docket number (see Table 1,
documents; computation of time; 30 species and one petition that below). Supporting information in
representation of parties. describes itself as a petition to reclassify preparing these findings is available for
(a) Filing. After a petition is filed, all one species under the Endangered public inspection, by appointment,
documents required under this part Species Act of 1973, as amended (Act). during normal business hours by
must be filed using the electronic filing Based on our review, we find that eight contacting the appropriate person, as
system unless the Hearing Official petitions do not present substantial specified under FOR FURTHER
permits otherwise. Documents scientific or commercial information INFORMATION CONTACT.
TABLE 1—NOT-SUBSTANTIAL PETITION FINDINGS
Species Docket No. Docket link
Blue Ridge gray-cheeked FWS–R4–ES–2015–0042 .. http://www.regulations.gov/#!docketDetail;D=FWS-R4-ES-2015-0042
tkelley on DSK3SPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS
salamander.
Caddo Mountain salamander FWS–R4–ES–2015–0043 .. http://www.regulations.gov/#!docketDetail;D=FWS-R4-ES-2015-0043
California giant salamander FWS–R8–ES–2015–0044 .. http://www.regulations.gov/#!docketDetail;D=FWS-R8-ES-2015-0044
Colorado checkered whiptail FWS–R6–ES–2015–0048 .. http://www.regulations.gov/#!docketDetail;D=FWS-R6-ES-2015-0048
Distinct population segment FWS–R8–ES–2015–0049 .. http://www.regulations.gov/#!docketDetail;D=FWS-R8-ES-2015-0049
of North American wild
horse.
VerDate Sep<11>2014 18:04 Jun 30, 2015 Jkt 235001 PO 00000 Frm 00014 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 E:\FR\FM\01JYP1.SGM 01JYP1](https://thefederalregister.org/doc/80_FR_37694/page/1.svg)
![Federal Register / Vol. 80, No. 126 / Wednesday, July 1, 2015 / Proposed Rules 37569
TABLE 1—NOT-SUBSTANTIAL PETITION FINDINGS—Continued
Species Docket No. Docket link
Gray wolf, excluding Mexi- FWS–HQ–ES–2015–0072 http://www.regulations.gov/#!docketDetail;D=FWS-HQ-ES-2015-0072
can wolf, in the
conterminous U.S..
Olympic torrent salamander FWS–R1–ES–2015–0056 .. http://www.regulations.gov/#!docketDetail;D=FWS-R1-ES-2015-0056
Pigeon Mountain sala- FWS–R4–ES–2015–0058 .. http://www.regulations.gov/#!docketDetail;D=FWS-R4-ES-2015-0058
mander.
Weller’s salamander ............ FWS–R4–ES–2015–0065 .. http://www.regulations.gov/#!docketDetail;D=FWS-R4-ES-2015-0065
Wingtail crayfish ................... FWS–R4–ES–2015–0067 .. http://www.regulations.gov/#!docketDetail;D=FWS-R4-ES-2015-0067
Status reviews: You may submit provided comment box, please use this docket number; see table below]; U.S.
information on species for which a feature of http://www.regulations.gov, as Fish and Wildlife Service, MS: BPHC,
status review is being initiated (see it is most compatible with our 5275 Leesburg Pike; Falls Church, VA
Table 2, below) by one of the following information review procedures. If you 22041–3803.
methods: attach your information as a separate
(1) Electronically: Go to the Federal We request that you send information
document, our preferred file format is
eRulemaking Portal: http:// only by the methods described above.
Microsoft Word. If you attach multiple
www.regulations.gov. In the Search box, comments (such as form letters), our We will post all information received on
enter the appropriate docket number preferred format is a spreadsheet in http://www.regulations.gov. This
(see Table 2, below). Then click the Microsoft Excel. generally means that we will post any
Search button. You may submit (2) By hard copy: Submit by U.S. mail personal information you provide us
information by clicking on ‘‘Comment or hand-delivery to: Public Comments (see the Request for Information section,
Now!’’ If your information will fit in the Processing, Attn: [Insert appropriate below, for more details).
TABLE 2—SUBSTANTIAL PETITION FINDINGS
Species Docket number Docket link
Alligator snapping turtle ....... FWS–R4–ES–2015–0038 .. http://www.regulations.gov/#!docketDetail;D=FWS-R4-ES-2015-0038
Apalachicola kingsnake ....... FWS–R4–ES–2015–0039 .. http://www.regulations.gov/#!docketDetail;D=FWS-R4-ES-2015-0039
Arizona toad ......................... FWS–R2–ES–2015–0040 .. http://www.regulations.gov/#!docketDetail;D=FWS-R2-ES-2015-0040
Blanding’s turtle ................... FWS–R3–ES–2015–0041 .. http://www.regulations.gov/#!docketDetail;D=FWS-R3-ES-2015-0041
Cascade Caverns sala- FWS–R2–ES–2015–0045 .. http://www.regulations.gov/#!docketDetail;D=FWS-R2-ES-2015-0045
mander.
Cascades frog ...................... FWS–R1–ES–2015–0046 .. http://www.regulations.gov/#!docketDetail;D=FWS-R1-ES-2015-0046
Cedar Key mole skink .......... FWS–R4–ES–2015–0047 .. http://www.regulations.gov/#!docketDetail;D=FWS-R4-ES-2015-0047
Foothill yellow-legged frog ... FWS–R8–ES–2015–0050 .. http://www.regulations.gov/#!docketDetail;D=FWS-R8-ES-2015-0050
Gopher frog .......................... FWS–R4–ES–2015–0051 .. http://www.regulations.gov/#!docketDetail;D=FWS-R4-ES-2015-0051
Green salamander ............... FWS–R4–ES–2015–0052 .. http://www.regulations.gov/#!docketDetail;D=FWS-R4-ES-2015-0052
Illinois chorus frog ................ FWS–R3–ES–2015–0053 .. http://www.regulations.gov/#!docketDetail;D=FWS-R3-ES-2015-0053
Kern Canyon slender sala- FWS–R8–ES–2015–0054 .. http://www.regulations.gov/#!docketDetail;D=FWS-R8-ES-2015-0054
mander.
Key ringneck snake ............. FWS–R4–ES–2015–0055 .. http://www.regulations.gov/#!docketDetail;D=FWS-R4-ES-2015-0055
Oregon slender salamander FWS–R1–ES–2015–0057 .. http://www.regulations.gov/#!docketDetail;D=FWS-R1-ES-2015-0057
Relictual slender salamander FWS–R8–ES–2015–0059 .. http://www.regulations.gov/#!docketDetail;D=FWS-R8-ES-2015-0059
Rim Rock crowned snake .... FWS–R4–ES–2015–0060 .. http://www.regulations.gov/#!docketDetail;D=FWS-R4-ES-2015-0060
Rio Grande cooter ............... FWS–R2–ES–2015–0061 .. http://www.regulations.gov/#!docketDetail;D=FWS-R2-ES-2015-0061
Silvery phacelia .................... FWS–R1–ES–2015–0062 .. http://www.regulations.gov/#!docketDetail;D=FWS-R1-ES-2015-0062
Southern hog-nosed snake .. FWS–R4–ES–2015–0063 .. http://www.regulations.gov/#!docketDetail;D=FWS-R4-ES-2015-0063
Spotted turtle ........................ FWS–R5–ES–2015–0064 .. http://www.regulations.gov/#!docketDetail;D=FWS-R5-ES-2015-0064
Western spadefoot toad ....... FWS–R8–ES–2015–0066 .. http://www.regulations.gov/#!docketDetail;D=FWS-R8-ES-2015-0066
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Species Contact information Species Contact information
Species Contact information Caddo Mountain Andreas Moshogianis; Distinct population Doug Krofta; (703) 358–
salamander. (404) 679–7119 segment of 2527
Alligator snapping Andreas Moshogianis; California giant Dan Russell; (916) 414– North American
turtle. (404) 679–7119 salamander. 6647 wild horse.
Apalachicola Andreas Moshogianis; Cascade Caverns Michelle Shaughnessy; Foothill yellow- Dan Russell; (916) 414–
tkelley on DSK3SPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS
kingsnake. (404) 679–7119 salamander. (505) 248–6920 legged frog. 6647
Arizona toad ......... Michelle Shaughnessy; Cascades frog ...... Paul Henson; (503) Gopher frog .......... Andreas Moshogianis;
(505) 248–6920 231–6179 (404) 679–7119
Blanding’s turtle .... Laura Ragan; (612) Cedar Key mole Andreas Moshogianis; Gray wolf, exclud- Don Morgan; (703) 358–
713–5350 skink. (404) 679–7119 ing Mexican 2444
Blue Ridge gray- Susan Cameron; (828) Colorado check- Leslie Ellwood; (303) wolf, in the
cheeked sala- 258–3939, ext. 224 ered whiptail. 236–4747 conterminous
mander. U.S.
VerDate Sep<11>2014 19:07 Jun 30, 2015 Jkt 235001 PO 00000 Frm 00015 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 E:\FR\FM\01JYP1.SGM 01JYP1](https://thefederalregister.org/doc/80_FR_37694/page/2.svg)
![Federal Register / Vol. 80, No. 126 / Wednesday, July 1, 2015 / Proposed Rules 37579
Finding found as an appendix at http:// petitioned actions may be warranted, we
Based on our review of the petition www.regulations.gov under Docket No. are initiating status reviews to
and sources cited in the petition, we FWS–R4–ES–2015–0067 under the determine whether these actions under
find that the petition presents ‘‘Supporting Documents’’ section. the Act are warranted. At the conclusion
substantial scientific or commercial However, we ask that the public submit of the status reviews, we will issue a 12-
information indicating that the to us any new information that becomes month finding in accordance with
petitioned action may be warranted for available concerning the status of, or section 4(b)(3)(B) of the Act, as to
the western spadefoot toad (Spea threats to, the wingtail crayfish or its whether or not the Service believes
hammondii or Scaphiopus hammondii) habitat at any time (see FOR FURTHER listing is warranted.
INFORMATION CONTACT). It is important to note that the
based on Factors A and E. However,
during our status review we will Conclusion ‘‘substantial information’’ standard for a
thoroughly evaluate all potential threats 90-day finding as to whether the
On the basis of our evaluation of the petitioned action may be warranted
to the species. information presented under section
Thus, for the western spadefoot toad, differs from the Act’s ‘‘best scientific
4(b)(3)(A) of the Act, we have and commercial data’’ standard that
the Service requests information on the determined that the petitions
five listing factors under section 4(a)(1) applies to the Service’s determination in
summarized above for the Blue Ridge a 12-month finding as to whether a
of the Act, including the factors gray-cheeked salamander, Caddo
identified in this finding (see Request petitioned action is in fact warranted. A
Mountain salamander, California giant 90-day finding is not based on a status
for Information, above). salamander, Colorado checkered review. In a 12-month finding, we will
Evaluation of a Petition To List the whiptail, the distinct population determine whether a petitioned action is
Wingtail Crayfish as an Endangered or segment of North American wild horse, warranted after we have completed a
Threatened Species Under the Act gray wolf, excluding Mexican wolf, in thorough status review of the species,
Additional information regarding our the conterminous U.S., Olympic torrent which is conducted following a
review of this petition can be found as salamander, Pigeon Mountain substantial 90-day finding. Because the
an appendix at http:// salamander, Weller’s salamander, and Act’s standards for 90-day and 12-
www.regulations.gov under Docket No. wingtail crayfish do not present month findings are different, as
FWS–R4–ES–2015–0067 under the substantial scientific or commercial described above, a substantial 90-day
Supporting Documents section. information indicating that the finding does not mean that the 12-
requested actions may be warranted. month finding will result in a warranted
Species and Range Therefore, we are not initiating status finding.
Wingtail crayfish (Procambarus reviews for these species.
(Leconticambarus) latipleurum); Florida On the basis of our evaluation of the References Cited
information presented under section
Petition History A complete list of references cited is
4(b)(3)(A) of the Act, we have
available on the Internet at http://
On January 6, 2014, we received a determined that the petitions
www.regulations.gov and upon request
petition dated January 6, 2014, from the summarized above for alligator
from the appropriate lead field offices
Center for Biological Diversity, snapping turtle, Apalachicola
(see FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT).
requesting that the wingtail crayfish be kingsnake, Arizona toad, Blanding’s
listed as an endangered or threatened turtle, Cascade Caverns salamander, Authors
species under the Act. The petition Cascades frog, Cedar Key mole skink, The primary authors of this document
clearly identified itself as such and foothill yellow-legged frog, gopher frog, are the staff members of the Branch of
included the requisite identification green salamander, Illinois chorus frog, Listing, Ecological Services Program,
information for the petitioner, required Kern Canyon slender salamander, Key U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.
at 50 CFR 424.14(a). ringneck snake, Oregon slender
salamander, relictual slender Authority
Finding salamander, Rim Rock crowned snake, The authority for these actions is the
Based on our review of the petition Rio Grande cooter, silvery phacelia, Endangered Species Act of 1973, as
and sources cited in the petition, we southern hog-nosed snake, spotted amended (16 U.S.C. 1531 et seq.).
find that the petition does not provide turtle, and western spadefoot toad
substantial scientific or commercial present substantial scientific or Dated: June 22, 2015.
information indicating that the commercial information indicating that Stephen Guertin,
petitioned action may be warranted. We the requested actions may be warranted. Acting Director, U.S. Fish and Wildlife
are not initiating a status review of this Because we have found that the Service.
species in response to the petition. Our petitions present substantial [FR Doc. 2015–16001 Filed 6–30–15; 8:45 am]
justification for this finding can be information indicating that the BILLING CODE 4310–55–P
tkelley on DSK3SPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS
VerDate Sep<11>2014 18:04 Jun 30, 2015 Jkt 235001 PO 00000 Frm 00025 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 9990 E:\FR\FM\01JYP1.SGM 01JYP1](https://thefederalregister.org/doc/80_FR_37694/page/12.svg)
Document Created: 2015-12-15 13:19:34
Document Modified: 2015-12-15 13:19:34
| Category | Regulatory Information | |
| Collection | Federal Register | |
| sudoc Class | AE 2.7: GS 4.107: AE 2.106: | |
| Publisher | Office of the Federal Register, National Archives and Records Administration | |
| Section | Proposed Rules | |
| Action | Notice of petition findings and initiation of status reviews. | |
| Dates | To allow us adequate time to conduct the status reviews, we request that we receive information on or before August 31, 2015. Information submitted electronically using the Federal eRulemaking | |
| Contact | Species Contact information | |
| FR Citation | 80 FR 37568 |
2025 Federal Register | Disclaimer | Privacy Policy
USC | CFR | eCFR