81 FR 14058 - Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and Plants; 90-Day Findings on 29 Petitions
DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR
Fish and Wildlife Service Federal Register Volume 81, Issue 51 (March 16, 2016)
Fish and Wildlife Service
Federal Register Volume 81, Issue 51 (March 16, 2016)
| Page Range | 14058-14072 | |
| FR Document | 2016-05699 |
[Federal Register Volume 81, Number 51 (Wednesday, March 16, 2016)] [Proposed Rules] [Pages 14058-14072] From the Federal Register Online [www.thefederalregister.org] [FR Doc No: 2016-05699] ======================================================================= ----------------------------------------------------------------------- DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR Fish and Wildlife Service 50 CFR Part 17 [4500030115] Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and Plants; 90-Day Findings on 29 Petitions AGENCY: Fish and Wildlife Service, Interior. [[Page 14059]] 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, reclassify, or delist fish, wildlife, or plants under the Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended (Act). Based on our review, we find that 13 petitions do not present substantial scientific or commercial information indicating that the petitioned actions may be warranted, and we are not initiating status reviews in response to these petitions. We refer to these as ``not-substantial'' petition findings. We also find that 16 petitions present substantial scientific or commercial information indicating that the petitioned actions may be warranted. Therefore, with the publication of this document, we announce that we plan to initiate a review of the status 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: When we conduct status reviews, we will consider all information that we have received. To ensure that we will have adequate time to consider submitted information during the status reviews, we request that we receive information no later than May 16, 2016. For information submitted electronically using the Federal eRulemaking Portal (see ADDRESSES, below), this would mean submitting the information electronically by 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time on that 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 in SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION), or on the Service's Web site at http://ecos.fws.gov. 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 Table 3 in SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION. If you have new information concerning the status of, or threats to, any of these species or their habitats, please submit that information to the person listed under Table 3 in SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION. Status reviews: You may submit information on species for which a status review is being initiated 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 in SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION). 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 2 in SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION]; 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 Request for Information for Status Reviews for more information). FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: See Table 3 in SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION for specific people to contact for each species. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Not Substantial Findings The not-substantial petition findings announced in this document are listed in Table 1 below, and are available on http://www.regulations.gov under the appropriate docket number, or on the Service's Web site at http://ecos.fws.gov. Table 1--List of Not-Substantial Findings ------------------------------------------------------------------------ URL to docket in Common name Docket No. Regulations.gov ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Acuna cactus--delist.......... FWS-R2-ES-2016-00 http:// 25. www.regulations.gov/ #!docketDetail;D=FWS- R2-ES-2016-0025. Arizona night lizard.......... FWS-R2-ES-2015-00 http:// 75. www.regulations.gov/ #!docketDetail;D=FWS- R2-ES-2015-0075. Arizona wetsalts tiger beetle. FWS-R2-ES-2016-00 http:// 27. www.regulations.gov/ #!docketDetail;D=FWS- R2-ES-2016-0027. Bezy's night lizard........... FWS-R2-ES-2015-00 http:// 76. www.regulations.gov/ #!docketDetail;D=FWS- R2-ES-2015-0076. Cheoah Bald salamander........ FWS-R4-ES-2015-00 http:// 81. www.regulations.gov/ #!docketDetail;D=FWS- R4-ES-2015-0081. Cow Knob salamander........... FWS-R5-ES-2015-00 http:// 84. www.regulations.gov/ #!docketDetail;D=FWS- R5-ES-2015-0084. MacDougal's yellowtops........ FWS-R2-ES-2016-00 http:// 33. www.regulations.gov/ #!docketDetail;D=FWS- R2-ES-2016-0033. Monito skink.................. FWS-R4-ES-2016-00 http:// 34. www.regulations.gov/ #!docketDetail;D=FWS- R4-ES-2016-0034. Navasota ladies-tresses-- FWS-R2-ES-2016-00 http:// delist. 35. www.regulations.gov/ #!docketDetail;D=FWS- R2-ES-2016-0035. Patagonia eyed silkmoth....... FWS-R2-ES-2016-00 http:// 36. www.regulations.gov/ #!docketDetail;D=FWS- R2-ES-2016-0036. Reticulate collared lizard.... FWS-R2-ES-2015-01 http:// 09. www.regulations.gov/ #!docketDetail;D=FWS- R4-ES-2015-0109. South Mountain gray-cheeked FWS-R4-ES-2015-01 http:// salamander. 17. www.regulations.gov/ #!docketDetail;D=FWS- R4-ES-2015-0117. Southern dusky salamander..... FWS-R4-ES-2016-00 http:// 38. www.regulations.gov/ #!docketDetail;D=FWS- R4-ES-2016-0038. ------------------------------------------------------------------------ [[Page 14060]] Substantial Findings List of Substantial Findings The list of substantial findings is given below in Table 2. Table 2--List of Substantial Findings for Which a Status Review Is Being Initiated. ------------------------------------------------------------------------ URL to docket in Common name Docket No. Regulations.gov ------------------------------------------------------------------------ African elephant--reclassify.. FWS-HQ-ES-2016-00 http:// 10. www.regulations.gov/ #!docketDetail;D=FWS- HQ-ES-2016-0010. American burying beetle-- FWS-R2-ES-2016-00 http:// delist. 11. www.regulations.gov/ #!docketDetail;D=FWS- R2-ES-2016-0011. Chinese pangolin.............. FWS-HQ-ES-2016-00 http:// 12. www.regulations.gov/ #!docketDetail;D=FWS- HQ-ES-2016-0012. Deseret milkvetch--delist..... FWS-R6-ES-2016-00 http:// 13. www.regulations.gov/ #!docketDetail;D=FWS- R6-ES-2016-0013. Giant ground pangolin......... FWS-HQ-ES-2016-00 http:// 14. www.regulations.gov/ #!docketDetail;D=FWS- HQ-ES-2016-0014. Indian pangolin............... FWS-HQ-ES-2016-00 http:// 15. www.regulations.gov/ #!docketDetail;D=FWS- HQ-ES-2016-0015. Leoncita false-foxglove....... FWS-R2-ES-2016-00 http:// 16. www.regulations.gov/ #!docketDetail;D=FWS- R2-ES-2016-0016. Long-tailed pangolin.......... FWS-HQ-ES-2016-00 http:// 17. www.regulations.gov/ #!docketDetail;D=FWS- HQ-ES-2016-0017. Philippine pangolin........... FWS-HQ-ES-2016-00 http:// 18. www.regulations.gov/ #!docketDetail;D=FWS- HQ-ES-2016-0018. Rio Grande chub............... FWS-R2-ES-2016-00 http:// 19. www.regulations.gov/ #!docketDetail;D=FWS- R2-ES-2016-0019. Rio Grande sucker............. FWS-R2-ES-2016-00 http:// 20. www.regulations.gov/ #!docketDetail;D=FWS- R2-ES-2016-0020. Southwestern willow FWS-R2-ES-2016-00 http:// flycatcher--delist. 39. www.regulations.gov/ #!docketDetail;D=FWS- R2-ES-2016-0039. Sunda pangolin................ FWS-HQ-ES-2016-00 http:// 21. www.regulations.gov/ #!docketDetail;D=FWS- HQ-ES-2016-0021. Tree pangolin................. FWS-HQ-ES-2016-00 http:// 22. www.regulations.gov/ #!docketDetail;D=FWS- HQ-ES-2016-0022. Western bumble bee............ FWS-R6-ES-2016-00 http:// 23. www.regulations.gov/ #!docketDetail;D=FWS- R6-ES-2016-0023. Yellow-banded bumble bee...... FWS-R5-ES-2016-00 http:// 24. www.regulations.gov/ #!docketDetail;D=FWS- R5-ES-2016-0024. ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Request for Information for Status Reviews 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 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 these species 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; and (d) Historical and current population levels, and current and projected trends. (2) The five factors that are the basis for making a listing, reclassification, or delisting determination for a species under section 4(a) of the Act (16 U.S.C. 1531 et seq.), including past and ongoing conservation measures that could decrease the extent to which one or more of the factors affect the species, its habitat, or both. The five factors 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, and the extent to which it affects the habitat or range of the species. 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) for domestic (U.S.) species under section 4 of the Act, to the maximum extent prudent and determinable at the time we propose to list the species. Therefore, we also request data and information for the species listed in Table 2 (to be submitted as provided for in the ADDRESSES section) on: (1) What may constitute ``physical or biological features essential to the conservation of the species,'' within the geographical range occupied by the species; (2) Where these features are currently found; (3) Whether any of these features may require special management considerations or protection; (4) Specific areas outside the geographical area occupied by the species that are ``essential for the conservation of the species''; and (5) What, if any, critical habitat you think we should propose for designation if the species is proposed for listing, and why such habitat falls within the definition of ``critical habitat'' at section 3(5) 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, 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. Contacts Contact information is provided below in Table 3 for both substantial and not-substantial findings. [[Page 14061]] Table 3--Contacts ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Common name Contact person ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Acuna cactus........................................................................ Brady McGee, 505-248-6657; [email protected]. African elephant.................................................................... Jessica Evans, 703-358- 2141; [email protected]. American burying beetle............................................................. Brady McGee, 505-248-6657; [email protected]. Arizona night lizard................................................................ Michelle Shaughnessy, 505- 248-6920; [email protected]. Arizona wetsalts tiger beetle....................................................... Michelle Shaughnessy, 505- 248-6920; [email protected]. Bezy's night lizard................................................................. Michelle Shaughnessy, 505- 248-6920; [email protected]. Cheoah Bald salamander.............................................................. Sue Cameron, 828-258-3939; [email protected]. Chinese pangolin.................................................................... Jessica Evans, 703-358- 2141; [email protected]. Cow Knob salamander................................................................. Krishna Gifford, 413-253- 8619; [email protected]. Deseret milkvetch................................................................... Larry Crist, 801-975-3330 x126; [email protected]. Giant ground pangolin............................................................... Jessica Evans, 703-358- 2141; [email protected]. Indian pangolin..................................................................... Jessica Evans, 703-358- 2141; [email protected]. Leoncita false-foxglove............................................................. Michelle Shaughnessy, 505- 248-6920; [email protected]. Long-tailed pangolin................................................................ Jessica Evans, 703-358- 2141; [email protected]. MacDougal's yellowtops.............................................................. Michelle Shaughnessy, 505- 248-6920; [email protected]. Monito skink........................................................................ Andreas Moshogianis, 404- 679-7119; [email protected]. Navasota ladies-tresses............................................................. Brady McGee, 505-248-6657; [email protected]. Patagonia eyed silkmoth............................................................. Michelle Shaughnessy, 505- 248-6920; [email protected]. Philippine pangolin................................................................. Jessica Evans, 703-358- 2141; [email protected]. Reticulate collared lizard.......................................................... Michelle Shaughnessy, 505- 248-6920; [email protected]. Rio Grande chub..................................................................... Michelle Shaughnessy, 505- 248-6920; [email protected]. Rio Grande sucker................................................................... Michelle Shaughnessy, 505- 248-6920; [email protected]. South Mountain gray-cheeked salamander.............................................. Sue Cameron, 828-258-3939; [email protected]. Southern dusky salamander........................................................... Andreas Moshogianis, 404- 679-7119; [email protected]. Southwestern willow flycatcher...................................................... Brady McGee, 505-248-6657; [email protected]. Sunda pangolin...................................................................... Jessica Evans, 703-358- 2141; [email protected]. Tree pangolin....................................................................... Jessica Evans, 703-358- 2141; [email protected]. Western bumble bee.................................................................. Mark Sattelberg, 307-772- 2374; [email protected]. Yellow-banded bumble bee............................................................ Krishna Gifford, 413-253- 8619; [email protected]. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- If you use a telecommunications device for the deaf (TDD), please call the Federal Information Relay Service (FIRS) at 800-877-8339. 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 regulations in the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) establish that the standard for substantial scientific or commercial information 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 a petition presents substantial scientific or commercial information, we are required to promptly commence a review of the status of the species, and we will subsequently summarize the status review in our 12-month finding. Section 4 of the Act (16 U.S.C. 1533) and its implementing regulations at 50 CFR part 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 because of one or more of the five factors described in section 4(a)(1) of the Act (see Request for Information for Status Reviews, above). In considering whether conditions described within one or more of the factors might constitute threats, we must look beyond the exposure of the species to those conditions to evaluate whether the species may respond to the conditions in a way that causes actual impacts to the species. If there is exposure to a condition and the species responds negatively, the condition qualifies as a stressor and, during the subsequent status review, we attempt to determine how significant the stressor is. If the stressor is sufficiently significant that it drives, or contributes to, the risk of extinction of the species such that the species may warrant listing as endangered or threatened as those terms are defined in the Act, the stressor constitutes a threat to the species. Thus, the identification of conditions that could affect a species negatively may not be sufficient to compel a finding that the information in the petition and our files is substantial. The information must include evidence sufficient to suggest that these conditions may be operative threats that act on the species to a sufficient degree that the species may meet the definition of an endangered or threatened species under the Act. Evaluation of a Petition To Remove the Acuna Cactus From the List of Endangered and Threatened Wildlife 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-2016-0025 under the Supporting Documents section. Species and Range Acuna cactus (Echinomastus erectocentrus var. acunensis): Arizona; Mexico Petition History On October 21, 2014, we received a petition dated October 8, 2014, from Freeport-McMoRan Minerals Corporation requesting the acuna cactus be delisted under the Act due to invalid taxonomy, larger range than previously known, and lack of adequate monitoring and survey data resulting in overstated decline in populations. The petition clearly identified itself as such and included the requisite identification information for the petitioner, required at 50 CFR 424.14(a). In a December 18, 2014, letter to the petitioner, we responded that we received the petition. This finding addresses the petition. [[Page 14062]] Finding Based on our review of the petition and sources cited in the petition, we find that the petition does not present substantial scientific or commercial information indicating that the petitioned action (delisting) may be warranted for the acuna cactus (Echinomastus erectocentrus var. acunensis). Because the petition does not present substantial information indicating that delisting the acuna cactus may be warranted, we are not initiating a status review of this species in response to this petition. The basis and scientific support for this finding can be found as an appendix at http://www.regulations.gov under Docket No. FWS-R2-ES-2016-0025 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, this species or its habitat at any time (see Table 3 in SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION). Evaluation of Two Petitions To Reclassify the African Elephant From a Threatened Species to an Endangered Species Under the Act Additional information regarding our review of these petitions can be found as an appendix at http://www.regulations.gov under Docket No. FWS-HQ-ES-2016-0010 under the Supporting Documents section. Species and Range African elephant (Loxodonta africana): Angola; Benin; Botswana; Burkina Faso; Cameroon; Central African Republic; Chad; Congo; Democratic Republic of the Congo; C[ocirc]te d'Ivoire; Equatorial Guinea; Eritrea; Ethiopia; Gabon; Ghana; Guinea; Guinea-Bissau; Kenya; Liberia; Malawi; Mali; Mozambique; Namibia; Niger; Nigeria; Rwanda; Senegal; Sierra Leone; Somalia; South Africa; South Sudan; Swaziland; Tanzania; Togo; Uganda; Zambia; Zimbabwe Petitions History On February 12, 2015, we received an electronic petition dated February 11, 2015, from the International Fund for Animal Welfare, Humane Society International, Humane Society of the United States, and Fund for Animals requesting that the African elephant (Loxodonta africana) be reclassified from threatened status to endangered status 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). In a June 17, 2015, letter to the petitioner, we responded that we had reviewed the information presented in the petition and did not find that the petition warranted an emergency listing under section 4(b)(7) of the Act. On June 10, 2015, we received a second petition dated June 10, 2015, from the Center for Biological Diversity (CBD) requesting that the listed African elephant be reclassified from a single species (Loxodonta africana) into two separate species, forest elephants (Loxodonta cyclotis) and savannah elephants (Loxodonta africana); the petition also requested to have both species reclassified as endangered 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). In a June 17, 2015, letter to the petitioner, we responded that we had reviewed the information presented in the petition and did not find that the petition warranted an emergency listing under section 4(b)(7) of the Act. As both petitions requested the same action for the same species, this finding will address both petitions. Additionally, although CBD requested that the listed African elephant be reclassified from a single species (Loxodonta africana) into two separate species, the forest elephants (Loxodonta cyclotis) and the savannah elephants (Loxodonta africana), a taxonomic change is beyond the scope of our initial 90-day finding, and we will instead consider whether such a change is warranted as part of our status review and 12-month finding for the species. 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 listing the African elephant (Loxodonta africana) may be warranted based on Factors A, B, D, and E. However, during our status review, we will thoroughly evaluate all potential threats to the species, including the extent to which any protections or other conservation efforts have reduced those threats. Thus, for this species, the Service requests any information relevant to whether the species falls within the definition of either an endangered species under section 3(6) of the Act or a threatened species under section 3(20), including information on the five listing factors under section 4(a)(1) and any other factors identified in this finding (see Request for Information for Status Reviews, above). Evaluation of a Petition To Remove the American Burying Beetle From the List of Endangered and Threatened Wildlife 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-2016-0011 under the Supporting Documents section. Species and Range American burying beetle (Nicrophorus americanus): Arkansas, Kansas, Massachusetts, Missouri, Nebraska, Oklahoma, Rhode Island, South Dakota, and Texas Petition History On August 18, 2015, we received a petition dated August 18, 2015, via electronic mail from American Stewards of Liberty, the Independent Petroleum Association of America, the Texas Public Policy Foundation, and Dr. Steven W. Carothers (petitioners) requesting that the American burying beetle be delisted under the Act due to error in information such that the existence or magnitude of threats to the species, or both, do not support a conclusion that the species is at risk of extinction now or in the foreseeable future. The petition clearly identified itself as a petition and included the requisite identification information for the petitioner, as required by 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 (delisting) may be warranted for the American burying beetle (Nicrophorus americanus), based on a lack of threats under any of the five listing factors. However, during our status review, we will thoroughly evaluate all potential threats to the species, including the extent to which any protections or other conservation efforts have reduced those threats. Thus, for this species, the Service requests any information relevant to whether the species falls within the definition of either an endangered species under section 3(6) of the Act or a threatened species under section 3(20), including information on the five listing factors under section 4(a)(1) and any other factors identified in this finding (see Request for Information for Status Reviews, above). [[Page 14063]] Evaluation of a Petition To List the Arizona Night Lizard 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-2015-0075 under the Supporting Documents section. Species and Range Arizona night lizard (Xantusia arizonae): Arizona Petition History On July 11, 2012, we received a petition dated July 11, 2012, from CBD requesting that 53 species of reptiles and amphibians, including the Arizona night lizard, be listed under the Act as endangered or threatened and that 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 Arizona night lizard. Finding Based on our review of the petition and sources cited in the petition, we find that the petition does not present substantial scientific or commercial information indicating that the petitioned action may be warranted for the Arizona night lizard (Xantusia arizonae). Because the petition does not present substantial information indicating that listing the Arizona night lizard may be warranted, we are not initiating a status review of this species in response to this petition. The basis and scientific support for this finding can be found as an appendix at http://www.regulations.gov under Docket No. FWS-R2-ES-2015-0075 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, this species or its habitat at any time (see Table 3 in SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION). Evaluation of a Petition To List the Arizona Wetsalts Tiger Beetle 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-2016-0027 under the Supporting Documents section. Species and Range Arizona wetsalts tiger beetle (Cicindela haemorrhagica arizonae): Arizona and Utah. This is a subspecies of the wetsalts tiger beetle (Cicindela haemorrhagica). Petition History On May 1, 2015, we received a petition dated May 1, 2015, from CBD requesting that the Arizona wetsalts tiger beetle be listed as threatened or endangered 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). In a June 4, 2015, letter to the petitioner, we responded that we had reviewed the information presented in the petition and did not find that the petition warranted an emergency listing under section 4(b)(7) of the Act. 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 present substantial scientific or commercial information indicating that the petitioned action may be warranted for the Arizona wetsalts tiger beetle (Cicindela haemorrhagica arizonae). Because the petition does not present substantial information indicating that listing the Arizona wetsalts tiger beetle may be warranted, we are not initiating a status review of this species in response to this petition. The basis and scientific support for this finding can be found as an appendix at http://www.regulations.gov under Docket No. FWS-R2-ES-2016-0027 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, this species or its habitat at any time (see Table 3 in SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION). Evaluation of a Petition To List Bezy's Night Lizard 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-2015-0076 under the Supporting Documents section. Species and Range Bezy's night lizard (Xantusia bezyi): Arizona Petition History On July 11, 2012, we received a petition dated July 11, 2012, from CBD requesting that 53 species of reptiles and amphibians, including Bezy's night lizard, be listed under the Act as endangered or threatened and that 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 Bezy's night lizard. Finding Based on our review of the petition and sources cited in the petition, we find that the petition does not present substantial scientific or commercial information indicating that the petitioned action may be warranted for Bezy's night lizard (Xantusia bezyi). Because the petition does not present substantial information indicating that listing Bezy's night lizard may be warranted, we are not initiating a status review of this species in response to this petition. The basis and scientific support for this finding can be found as an appendix at http://www.regulations.gov under Docket No. FWS-R2-ES-2015-0076 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, this species or its habitat at any time (see Table 3 in SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION). Evaluation of a Petition To List the Cheoah Bald 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-2015-0081 under the Supporting Documents section. Species and Range Cheoah Bald salamander (Plethodon cheoah): North Carolina Petition History On July 11, 2012, we received a petition dated July 11, 2012, from CBD requesting that 53 species of reptiles and amphibians, including the Cheoah Bald salamander, be listed under the Act as endangered or threatened and that 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 Cheoah Bald salamander. Finding Based on our review of the petition and sources cited in the petition, we find that the petition does not present [[Page 14064]] substantial scientific or commercial information indicating that the petitioned action may be warranted for the Cheoah Bald salamander (Plethodon cheoah). Because the petition does not present substantial information indicating that listing the Cheoah Bald salamander may be warranted, we are not initiating a status review of this species in response to this petition. The basis and scientific support for this finding can be found as an appendix at http://www.regulations.gov under Docket No. FWS-R4-ES-2015-0081 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, this species or its habitat at any time (see Table 3 in SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION). Evaluation of Two Petitions To List the Chinese Pangolin Under the Endangered Species Act Additional information regarding our review of these petitions can be found as an appendix at http://www.regulations.gov under Docket No. FWS-HQ-ES-2016-0012 under the Supporting Documents section. Species and Range Chinese pangolin (Manis pentadactyla): Himalayan foothills, northern India; southern Bhutan; northeastern Bangladesh; northern Lao PDR; southern China; Taiwan; Hong Kong SAR; northern Viet Nam; northwest Thailand; and northern and western Myanmar Petitions History On July 15, 2015, we electronically received a petition from Born Free USA (BFUSA), CBD, Humane Society International (HSI), The Humane Society of the United States (HSUS), and the International Fund for Animal Welfare (IFAW), requesting that we list seven species of pangolin (Chinese pangolin (Manis pentadactyla), Sunda pangolin (M. javanica), Philippine pangolin (M. culionensis), Indian pangolin (M. crassicaudata), tree pangolin (M. tricuspis), giant ground pangolin (M. gigantean), and the long-tailed pangolin (M. tetradactyla)) as endangered 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). In an August 17, 2015, letter to the petitioner, we responded that we had reviewed the information presented in the petition and did not find that the petition warranted an emergency listing under section 4(b)(7) of the Act. On July 15, 2015, we electronically received a second petition from CBD, IFAW, HSUS, and BFUSA requesting that the Service list the same seven species of pangolin (Chinese pangolin (Manis pentadactyla), Sunda pangolin (M. javanica), Philippine pangolin (M. culionensis), Indian pangolin (M. crassicaudata), tree pangolin (M. tricuspis), giant ground pangolin (M. gigantean), and the long-tailed pangolin (M. tetradactyla)) as an endangered species under the similarity of appearance provisions of the Act (section 4(e)), based upon the petitioners' claim of these species' similarity of appearance to the currently listed Temminck's ground pangolin (Manis temminckii). The petition clearly identified itself as such and included the requisite identification information for the petitioner, required at 50 CFR 424.14(a). In an August 17, 2015, letter to the petitioner, we responded that we had reviewed the information presented in the petition and did not find that the petition warranted an emergency listing under section 4(b)(7) of the Act. As both petitions address the seven unlisted species of pangolin, we are combining the petitioned actions (listing each species as either threatened or endangered either based on the five factors under section 4(a)(1) of the Act or due to a similarity of appearance under section 4(e) of the Act) into a single 90-day finding for each species. The requested action for listing based on similarity of appearance (section 4(e)) will be considered under Factor E of each finding. This finding addresses the Chinese pangolin (Manis pentadactyla). 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 listing the Chinese pangolin (Manis pentadactyla) may be warranted based on Factors A, B, D, and E. However, during our status review, we will thoroughly evaluate all potential threats to the species, including the extent to which any protections or other conservation efforts have reduced those threats. Thus, for this species, the Service requests any information relevant to whether the species falls within the definition of either an endangered species under section 3(6) of the Act or a threatened species under section 3(20), including information on the five listing factors under section 4(a)(1) and any other factors identified in this finding (see Request for Information for Status Reviews, above). Evaluation of a Petition To List the Cow Knob 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-R5-ES-2015-0084 under the Supporting Documents section. Species and Range Cow Knob (or white-spotted) salamander (Plethodon punctatus): Virginia, West Virginia Petition History On July 11, 2012, we received a petition dated July 11, 2012, from CBD requesting that 53 species of reptiles and amphibians, including the Cow Knob (or white-spotted) salamander, be listed under the Act as endangered or threatened and that 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 Cow Knob salamander. Finding Based on our review of the petition and sources cited in the petition, we find that the petition does not present substantial scientific or commercial information indicating that the petitioned action may be warranted for the Cow Knob (or white-spotted) salamander (Plethodon punctatus). Because the petition does not present substantial information indicating that listing the Cow Knob salamander may be warranted, we are not initiating a status review of this species in response to this petition. The basis and scientific support for this finding can be found as an appendix at http://www.regulations.gov under Docket No. FWS-R5-ES-2015-0084 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, this species or its habitat at any time (see Table 3 in SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION). Evaluation of a Petition To Remove the Deseret Milkvetch From the List of Endangered and Threatened Wildlife 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-2016-0013 under the Supporting Documents section. [[Page 14065]] Species and Range Deseret milkvetch (Astragalus desereticus): Utah Petition History We received a petition dated October 6, 2015, from Western Area Power Administration requesting that Deseret milkvetch (currently listed as threatened), be delisted under the Act due to new information. 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 (delisting) may be warranted for the Deseret milkvetch (Astragalus desereticus), based on a lack of threats under any of the five listing factors. However, during our status review, we will thoroughly evaluate all potential threats to the species, including the extent to which any protections or other conservation efforts have reduced those threats. Thus, for this species, the Service requests information relevant to whether the species falls within the definition of either an endangered species under section 3(6) of the Act or a threatened species under section 3(20), including information on the five listing factors under section 4(a)(1) and any other factors identified in this finding (see Request for Information for Status Reviews, above). Evaluation of Two Petitions To List the Giant Ground Pangolin Under the Endangered Species Act Additional information regarding our review of these petitions can be found as an appendix at http://www.regulations.gov under Docket No. FWS-HQ-ES-2016-0014 under the Supporting Documents section. Species and Range Giant ground pangolin (Manis gigantean): Cameroon; Central African Republic; Congo; Congo, The Democratic Republic of the; C[ocirc]te d'Ivoire; Equatorial Guinea (Bioko, Equatorial Guinea (mainland)); Gabon; Ghana; Guinea; Guinea-Bissau; Liberia; Senegal; Sierra Leone; Tanzania, United Republic of; Uganda Petitions History On July 15, 2015, we electronically received a petition from BFUSA, CBD, HSI, HSUS, and IFAW requesting that we list seven species of pangolin (Chinese pangolin (Manis pentadactyla), Sunda pangolin (M. javanica), Philippine pangolin (M. culionensis), Indian pangolin (M. crassicaudata), tree pangolin (M. tricuspis), giant ground pangolin (M. gigantean), and the long-tailed pangolin (M. tetradactyla)) as endangered 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). In an August 17, 2015, 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 under section 4(b)(7) of the Act. On July 15, 2015, we electronically received a second petition from CBD, IFAW, HSI, HSUS, and BFUSA requesting that the Service list the same seven species of pangolin (Chinese pangolin (Manis pentadactyla), Sunda pangolin (M. javanica), Philippine pangolin (M. culionensis), Indian pangolin (M. crassicaudata), tree pangolin (M. tricuspis), giant ground pangolin (M. gigantean), and the long-tailed pangolin (M. tetradactyla)) as an endangered species under the similarity of appearance provisions of the Act (section 4(e)), based upon the petitioners' claim of these species' similarity of appearance to the currently listed Temminck's ground pangolin (Manis temminckii). The petition clearly identified itself as such and included the requisite identification information for the petitioner, required at 50 CFR 424.14(a). In an August 17, 2015, letter to the petitioner, we responded that we had reviewed the information presented in the petition and did not find that the petition warranted an emergency listing under section 4(b)(7) of the Act. As both petitions address the seven unlisted species of pangolin, we are combining the petitioned actions (listing each species as either threatened or endangered either based on the five factors under section 4(a)(1) of the Act or due to a similarity of appearance under section 4(e) of the Act) into a single 90-day finding for each species. The requested action for listing based on similarity of appearance (section 4(e)) will be considered under Factor E of each finding. This finding addresses the giant ground pangolin (Manis gigantean). 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 listing the giant ground pangolin (Manis gigantean) may be warranted based on Factors A, B, D, and E. However, during our status review, we will thoroughly evaluate all potential threats to the species, including the extent to which any protections or other conservation efforts have reduced those threats. Thus, for this species, the Service requests any information relevant to whether the species falls within the definition of either an endangered species under section 3(6) of the Act or a threatened species under section 3(20), including information on the five listing factors under section 4(a)(1) and any other the factors identified in this finding (see Request for Information for Status Reviews, above). Evaluation of Two Petitions To List the Indian Pangolin Under the Endangered Species Act Additional information regarding our review of these petitions can be found as an appendix at http://www.regulations.gov under Docket No. FWS-HQ-ES-2016-0015 under the Supporting Documents section. Species and Range Indian pangolin (Manis crassicaudata): Bangladesh; India; Nepal; Pakistan; Sri Lanka Petitions History On July 15, 2015, we electronically received a petition from BFUSA, CBD, HSI, HSUS, and IFAW requesting that we list seven species of pangolin (Chinese pangolin (Manis pentadactyla), Sunda pangolin (M. javanica), Philippine pangolin (M. culionensis), Indian pangolin (M. crassicaudata), tree pangolin (M. tricuspis), giant ground pangolin (M. gigantean), and the long-tailed pangolin (M. tetradactyla)) as endangered 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). In an August 17, 2015, letter to the petitioner, we responded that we had reviewed the information presented in the petition and did not find that the petition warranted an emergency listing under section 4(b)(7) of the Act. On July 15, 2015, we electronically received a second petition from CBD, IFAW, HSI, HSUS, and BFUSA requesting that the Service list the same seven species of pangolin (Chinese pangolin (Manis pentadactyla), Sunda pangolin (M. javanica), Philippine pangolin (M. culionensis), Indian pangolin (M. crassicaudata), tree pangolin (M. tricuspis), giant ground [[Page 14066]] pangolin (M. gigantean), and the long-tailed pangolin (M. tetradactyla)) as an endangered species under the similarity of appearance provisions of the Act (section 4(e)), based upon the petitioners' claim of the species' similarity of appearance to the currently listed Temminck's ground pangolin (Manis temminckii). The petition clearly identified itself as such and included the requisite identification information for the petitioner, required at 50 CFR 424.14(a). In an August 17, 2015, letter to the petitioner, we responded that we had reviewed the information presented in the petition and did not find that the petition warranted an emergency listing under section 4(b)(7) of the Act. As both petitions address the seven unlisted species of pangolin, we are combining the petitioned actions (listing each species as either threatened or endangered either based on the five factors under section 4(a)(1) of the Act or due to a similarity of appearance under section 4(e) of the Act) into a single 90-day finding for each species. The requested action for listing based on similarity of appearance (section 4(e)) will be considered under Factor E of each finding. This finding addresses the Indian pangolin (Manis crassicaudata). 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 listing the Indian pangolin (Manis crassicaudata) may be warranted based on Factors A, B, D, and E. However, during our status review, we will thoroughly evaluate all potential threats to the species, including the extent to which any protections or other conservation efforts have reduced those threats. Thus, for this species, the Service requests any information relevant to whether the species falls within the definition of either an endangered species under section 3(6) of the Act or a threatened species under section 3(20), including information on the five listing factors under section 4(a)(1) and any other factors identified in this finding (see Request for Information for Status Reviews, above). Evaluation of a Petition To List the Leoncita False-Foxglove 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-2016-0016 under the Supporting Documents section. Species and Range Leoncita false-foxglove (Agalinis calycina): New Mexico, Texas; Mexico Petition History On September 19, 2012, we received a petition dated September 6, 2012, from The Native Plant Society of New Mexico requesting that Leoncita false-foxglove be listed as endangered and 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). In a July 1, 2013, letter to the petitioner, we responded that we had reviewed the information presented in the petition and did not find that the petition warranted an emergency listing under section 4(b)(7) of the Act. 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 listing the Leoncita false- foxglove (Agalinis calycina) may be warranted, based on Factors A, D, and E. However, during our status review, we will thoroughly evaluate all potential threats to the species, including the extent to which any protections or other conservation efforts have reduced those threats. Thus, for this species, the Service requests any information relevant to whether the species falls within the definition of either an endangered species under section 3(6) of the Act or a threatened species under section 3(20), including information on the five listing factors under section 4(a)(1) and any other factors identified in this finding (see Request for Information for Status Reviews, above). Evaluation of Two Petitions To List the Long-tailed Pangolin Under the Endangered Species Act Additional information regarding our review of these petitions can be found as an appendix at http://www.regulations.gov under Docket No. FWS-HQ-ES-2016-0017 under the Supporting Documents section. Species and Range Long-tailed pangolin (Manis tetradactyla): Cameroon; Central African Republic; Congo; Congo, The Democratic Republic of the; C[ocirc]te d'Ivoire; Equatorial Guinea (Equatorial Guinea (mainland)); Gabon; Ghana; Liberia; Nigeria; Sierra Leone Petitions History On July 15, 2015, we electronically received a petition from BFUSA, CBD, HSI, HSUS, and IFAW requesting that we list seven species of pangolin (Chinese pangolin (Manis pentadactyla), Sunda pangolin (M. javanica), Philippine pangolin (M. culionensis), Indian pangolin (M. crassicaudata), tree pangolin (M. tricuspis), giant ground pangolin (M. gigantean), and the long-tailed pangolin (M. tetradactyla)) as endangered 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). In an August 17, 2015, letter to the petitioner, we responded that we had reviewed the information presented in the petition and did not find that the petition warranted an emergency listing under section 4(b)(7) of the Act. On July 15, 2015, we electronically received a second petition from CBD, IFAW, HSI, HSUS, and BFUSA requesting that the Service list the same seven species of pangolin (Chinese pangolin (Manis pentadactyla), Sunda pangolin (M. javanica), Philippine pangolin (M. culionensis), Indian pangolin (M. crassicaudata), tree pangolin (M. tricuspis), giant ground pangolin (M. gigantean), and the long-tailed pangolin (M. tetradactyla)) as an endangered species under the similarity of appearance provisions of the Act (section 4(e)), based upon the petitioners' claim of the species' similarity of appearance to the currently listed Temminck's ground pangolin (Manis temminckii). The petition clearly identified itself as such and included the requisite identification information for the petitioner, required at 50 CFR 424.14(a). In an August 17, 2015, letter to the petitioners, we responded that we had reviewed the information presented in the petition and did not find that the petition warranted an emergency listing under section 4(b)(7) of the Act. As both petitions address the seven unlisted species of pangolin, we are combining the petitioned actions (listing each species as either threatened or endangered either based on the five factors under section 4(a)(1) of the Act or due to a similarity of appearance under section 4(e) of the Act) into a single 90-day finding for each species. The requested action for listing based on similarity of appearance (section 4(e)) will be considered under Factor E of each finding. This finding addresses the long-tailed pangolin (Manis tetradactyla). [[Page 14067]] 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 listing the long-tailed pangolin (Manis tetradactyla) may be warranted based on Factors A, B, D, and E. However, during our status review, we will thoroughly evaluate all potential threats to the species, including the extent to which any protections or other conservation efforts have reduced those threats. Thus, for this species, the Service requests any information relevant to whether the species falls within the definition of either an endangered species under section 3(6) of the Act or a threatened species under section 3(20), including information on the five listing factors under section 4(a)(1) and any other factors identified in this finding (see Request for Information for Status Reviews, above). Evaluation of a Petition To List MacDougal's Yellowtops 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-2016-0033 under the Supporting Documents section. Species and Range MacDougal's Yellowtops (Flaveria macdougalii): Arizona Petition History On May 1, 2015, we received a petition dated May 1, 2015, from CBD, Tara Easter, and Robin Silver requesting that MacDougal's yellowtops (Flaveria macdougalii) be emergency listed as threatened or endangered and critical habitat be designated for the 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). Because the Act does not provide for petitions to emergency list, we are considering it as a petition to list MacDougal's yellowtops. However, we did consider the immediacy of possible threats to the species and whether emergency listing may be necessary at this time. In a June 4, 2015, letter to the petitioner, we responded that we had reviewed the information presented in the petition and did not find that the petition warranted an emergency listing under section 4(b)(7) of the Act. 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 present substantial scientific or commercial information indicating that the petitioned action may be warranted for MacDougal's yellowtops (Flaveria macdougalii). Because the petition does not present substantial information indicating that listing MacDougal's yellowtops may be warranted, we are not initiating a status review of this species in response to this petition. The basis and scientific support for this finding can be found as an appendix at http://www.regulations.gov under Docket No. FWS-R2-ES-2016-0033 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, this species or its habitat at any time (see Table 3 in SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION). Evaluation of a Petition To List the Monito 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-2016-0034 under the Supporting Documents section. Species and Range Monito skink (Spondylurus monitae): Puerto Rico Petition History On February 11, 2014, we received a petition dated February 11, 2014, from CBD requesting that the Culebra skink (Spondylurus culebrae), Mona Skink (Spondylurus monae), Monito Skink (Spondylurus Monitoe), Lesser Virgin Islands Skink (Spondylurus semitaeniatus), Virgin Islands Bronze Skink (Spondylurus sloanii), Puerto Rican Skink (Spondylurus nitidus), Greater Saint Croix Skink (Spondylurus magnacruzae), Greater Virgin Islands Skink (Spondylurus spilonotus), and Lesser Saint Croix Skink (Capitellum parvicruzae) be listed as endangered and critical habitat be designated for these 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). We acknowledged receipt of this petition via email on February 12, 2014. This finding addresses one of the nine species identified in the petition: the Monito skink. The Culebra skink, Greater Saint Croix skink, Mona skink, Puerto Rican skink, Virgin Islands bronze skink, Greater Virgin Islands skink, and Lesser Saint Croix skink were addressed in a separate finding, which was published in the Federal Register on January 12, 2016 (81 FR 1368). We will address the Lesser Virgin Islands skink in a separate evaluation. This finding addresses the Monito skink. Finding Based on our review of the petition and sources cited in the petition, we find that the petition does not present substantial scientific or commercial information indicating that the petitioned action may be warranted for the Monito skink (Spondylurus monitae). Because the petition does not present substantial information indicating that listing the Monito skink may be warranted, we are not initiating a status review of this species in response to this petition. The basis and scientific support for this finding can be found as an appendix at http://www.regulations.gov under Docket No. FWS-R4-ES-2016-0034 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, this species or its habitat at any time (see Table 3 in SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION). Evaluation of a Petition To Remove Navasota Ladies-Tresses From the List of Endangered and Threatened Wildlife 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-2016-0035 under the Supporting Documents section. Species and Range Navasota ladies-tresses (Spiranthes parksii): Texas Petition History On May 26, 2015, we received a petition dated May 26, 2015, by electronic mail, from American Stewards of Liberty and Dr. Steve W. Carothers requesting that Navasota ladies-tresses be delisted under the Act due to error in information. The petition clearly identified itself as a petition and included the requisite identification information for the petitioner, as required by 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 present substantial scientific or commercial information indicating that the [[Page 14068]] petitioned action (delisting) may be warranted for Navasota ladies- tresses (Spiranthes parksii). Because the petition does not present substantial information indicating that delisting Navasota ladies- tresses may be warranted, we are not initiating a status review of this species in response to this petition. The basis and scientific support for this finding can be found as an appendix at http://www.regulations.gov under Docket No. FWS-R2-ES-2016-0035 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, this species or its habitat at any time (see Table 3 in SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION). Evaluation of a Petition To List the Patagonia Eyed Silkmoth 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-2016-0036 under the Supporting Documents section. Species and Range Patagonia eyed silkmoth (Automeris patagoniensis): Arizona; Mexico Petition History On June 29, 2015, we received a petition dated June 17, 2015, from Defenders of Wildlife and Patagonia Area Resource Alliance requesting that the Patagonia eyed silkmoth be listed as threatened or endangered and 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 find that the petition does not present substantial scientific or commercial information indicating that the petitioned action may be warranted for the Patagonia eyed silkmoth (Automeris patagoniensis). Because the petition does not present substantial information indicating that listing the Patagonia eyed silkmoth may be warranted, we are not initiating a status review of this species in response to this petition. The basis and scientific support for this finding can be found as an appendix at http://www.regulations.gov under Docket No. FWS-R2-ES-2016-0036 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, this species or its habitat at any time (see Table 3 in SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION). Evaluation of Two Petitions To List the Philippine Pangolin Under the Endangered Species Act Additional information regarding our review of these petitions can be found as an appendix at http://www.regulations.gov under Docket No. FWS-HQ-ES-2016-0018 under the Supporting Documents section. Species and Range Philippine pangolin (Manis culionensis): Philippines Petitions History On July 15, 2015, we electronically received a petition from BFUSA, CBD, HSI, HSUS, and IFAW requesting that we list seven species of pangolin (Chinese pangolin (Manis pentadactyla), Sunda pangolin (M. javanica), Philippine pangolin (M. culionensis), Indian pangolin (M. crassicaudata), tree pangolin (M. tricuspis), giant ground pangolin (M. gigantean), and the long-tailed pangolin (M. tetradactyla)) as endangered 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). In an August 17, 2015, letter to the petitioner, we responded that we had reviewed the information presented in the petition and did not find that the petition warranted an emergency listing under section 4(b)(7) of the Act. On July 15, 2015, we electronically received a second petition from CBD, IFAW, HSI, HSUS, and BFUSA requesting that the Service list the same seven species of pangolin (Chinese pangolin (Manis pentadactyla), Sunda pangolin (M. javanica), Philippine pangolin (M. culionensis), Indian pangolin (M. crassicaudata), tree pangolin (M. tricuspis), giant ground pangolin (M. gigantean), and the long-tailed pangolin (M. tetradactyla)) as an endangered species under the similarity of appearance provisions of the Act (section 4(e)), based upon the petitioners' claim of the species' similarity of appearance to the currently listed Temminck's ground pangolin (Manis temminckii). The petition clearly identified itself as such and included the requisite identification information for the petitioners, required at 50 CFR 424.14(a). In an August 17, 2015, letter to the petitioners, we responded that we had reviewed the information presented in the petition and did not find that the petition warranted an emergency listing under section 4(b)(7) of the Act. As both petitions address the seven unlisted species of pangolin, we are combining the petitioned actions (listing each species as either threatened or endangered either based on the five factors under section 4(a)(1) of the Act or due to a similarity of appearance under section 4(e) of the Act) into a single 90-day finding for each species. The requested action for listing based on similarity of appearance (section 4(e)) will be considered under Factor E of each finding. This finding addresses the Philippine pangolin (Manis culionensis). 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 listing the Philippine pangolin (Manis culionensis) may be warranted based on Factors A, B, D, and E. However, during our status review, we will thoroughly evaluate all potential threats to the species, including the extent to which any protections or other conservation efforts have reduced those threats. Thus, for this species, the Service requests any information relevant to whether the species falls within the definition of either an endangered species under section 3(6) of the Act or a threatened species under section 3(20), including information on the five listing factors under section 4(a)(1) and any other factors identified in this finding (see Request for Information for Status Reviews, above). Evaluation of a Petition To List the Reticulate Collared Lizard 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-2015-0109 under the Supporting Documents section. Species and Range Reticulate Collared Lizard (Crotaphytus reticulatus): Texas; Mexico Petition History On July 11, 2012, we received a petition dated July 11, 2012, from CBD requesting that 53 species of reptiles and amphibians, including the reticulate collared lizard, be listed under the Act as threatened or endangered species and critical habitat [[Page 14069]] 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 present substantial scientific or commercial information indicating that the petitioned action may be warranted for the reticulate collared lizard (Crotaphytus reticulatus). Because the petition does not present substantial information indicating that listing the reticulate collared lizard may be warranted, we are not initiating a status review of this species in response to this petition. The basis and scientific support for this finding can be found as an appendix at http://www.regulations.gov under Docket No. FWS-R2-ES-2015-0109 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, this species or its habitat at any time (see Table 3 in SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION). Evaluation of a Petition To List the Rio Grande Chub 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-2016-0019 under the Supporting Documents section. Species and Range Rio Grande chub (Gila pandora): New Mexico, Texas. Petition History On September 30, 2013, we received a petition dated September 27, 2013, from Wild Earth Guardians requesting that the Rio Grande chub be listed as threatened or endangered and 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 find that the petition presents substantial scientific or commercial information indicating that listing the Rio Grande chub (Gila pandora) may be warranted, based on Factors A, C, D, and E. However, during our status review, we will thoroughly evaluate all potential threats to the species, including the extent to which any protections or other conservation efforts have reduced those threats. Thus, for this species, the Service requests any information relevant to whether the species falls within the definition of either an endangered species under section 3(6) of the Act or a threatened species under section 3(20), including information on the five listing factors under section 4(a)(1) and any other factors identified in this finding (see Request for Information for Status Reviews, above). Evaluation of a Petition To List the Rio Grande Sucker 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-2016-0020 under the Supporting Documents section. Species and Range Rio Grande sucker (Catostomus plebeius): Colorado, New Mexico; Mexico. Petition History On October 3, 2014, we received a petition dated September 29, 2014, from WildEarth Guardians requesting that Rio Grande sucker (also known as the Rio Grande mountain-sucker, or matelote del bravo) be listed as threatened or endangered and 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 find that the petition presents substantial scientific or commercial information indicating that listing the Rio Grande sucker (Catostomus plebeius) may be warranted, based on Factors A, C, D, and E. However, during our status review, we will thoroughly evaluate all potential threats to the species, including the extent to which any protections or other conservation efforts have reduced those threats. Thus, for this species, the Service requests any information relevant to whether the species falls within the definition of either ``endangered species'' under section 3(6) of the Act or ``threatened species'' under section 3(20), including information on the five listing factors under section 4(a)(1) and any other factors identified in this finding (see Request for Information for Status Reviews, above). Evaluation of a Petition To List the South Mountain 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-2015-0117 under the Supporting Documents section. Species and Range South Mountain gray-cheeked salamander (Plethodon meridianus): North Carolina. Petition History On July 11, 2012, we received a petition dated July 11, 2012, from CBD requesting that 53 species of reptiles and amphibians, including the South Mountain gray-cheeked salamander, be listed under the Act as endangered or threatened and that 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 South Mountain gray- cheeked salamander. Finding Based on our review of the petition and sources cited in the petition, we find that the petition does not present substantial scientific or commercial information indicating that the petitioned action may be warranted for the South Mountain gray-cheeked salamander (Plethodon meridianus). Because the petition does not present substantial information indicating that listing the South Mountain gray-cheeked salamander may be warranted, we are not initiating a status review of this species in response to this petition. The basis and scientific support for this finding can be found as an appendix at http://www.regulations.gov under Docket No. FWS-R4-ES-2015-0117 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, this species or its habitat at any time (see Table 3 in SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION). [[Page 14070]] Evaluation of a Petition To List the Southern Dusky 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-2016-0038 under the Supporting Documents section. Species and Range Southern dusky salamander (Desmognathus auriculatus): Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, Texas, Virginia. Petition History On April 2, 2015, we received a petition from the Coastal Plains Institute and Land Conservancy requesting that southern dusky salamander be listed as threatened under the Act. The petition clearly identified itself as such and included the requisite identification information required at 50 CFR 424.14(a); however, it did not contain copies of supporting documents. We acknowledged receipt of the petition via email on April 22, 2015. Additional materials were received on June 10, 2015. 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 present substantial scientific or commercial information indicating that the petitioned action may be warranted for the Southern dusky salamander (Desmognathus auriculatus). Because the petition does not present substantial information indicating that listing the Southern dusky salamander may be warranted, we are not initiating a status review of this species in response to this petition. The basis and scientific support for this finding can be found as an appendix at http://www.regulations.gov under Docket No. FWS-R4-ES-2016-0038 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, this species or its habitat at any time (see Table 3 in SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION). Evaluation of a Petition To Remove the Southwestern Willow Flycatcher From the List of Endangered and Threatened Wildlife 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-2016-0039 under the Supporting Documents section. Species and Range Southwestern willow flycatcher (Empidonax traillii extimus): California, Arizona, New Mexico, Colorado, Utah, and Nevada, Texas; winters in Central and South America. Petition History On August, 20, 2015, we received a petition dated August 19, 2015, from The Pacific Legal Foundation (representing The Center for Environmental Science, Accuracy, and Reliability; Building Industry Legal Defense Fund; California Building Industry Association; California Cattlemen's Association; New Mexico Business Coalition, New Mexico Cattle Growers Association; New Mexico Farm and Livestock Bureau; and New Mexico Wool Growers Inc.), requesting that the southwestern willow flycatcher (Empidonax traillii extimus) be delisted due to error in information 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 (delisting) may be warranted for the Southwestern willow flycatcher (Empidonax traillii extimus), based on information related to taxonomic status. However, during our status review, we will thoroughly evaluate all potential threats to the species, including the extent to which any protections or other conservation efforts have reduced those threats. Thus, for this species, the Service requests any information relevant to whether the species falls within the definition of either an endangered species under section 3(6) of the Act or a threatened species under section 3(20), including information on the five listing factors under section 4(a)(1) and any other factors identified in this finding (see Request for Information for Status Reviews, above). Evaluation of Two Petitions To List the Sunda Pangolin Under the Endangered Species Act Additional information regarding our review of these petitions can be found as an appendix at http://www.regulations.gov under Docket No. FWS-HQ-ES-2016-0021 under the Supporting Documents section. Species and Range Sunda pangolin (Manis javanica): Brunei Darussalam; Cambodia; Indonesia; Lao People's Democratic Republic; Malaysia; Myanmar; Singapore; Thailand; Viet Nam. Petitions History On July 15, 2015, we electronically received a petition from BFUSA, CBD, HSI, HSUS, and IFAW requesting that we list seven species of pangolin (Chinese pangolin (Manis pentadactyla), Sunda pangolin (M. javanica), Philippine pangolin (M. culionensis), Indian pangolin (M. crassicaudata), tree pangolin (M. tricuspis), giant ground pangolin (M. gigantean), and the long-tailed pangolin (M. tetradactyla)) as endangered 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). In an August 17, 2015, letter to the petitioner, we responded that we had reviewed the information presented in the petition and did not find that the petition warranted an emergency listing under section 4(b)(7) of the Act. On July 15, 2015, we electronically received a second petition from CBD, IFAW, HSI, HSUS, and BFUSA requesting that the Service list the same seven species of pangolin (Chinese pangolin (Manis pentadactyla), Sunda pangolin (M. javanica), Philippine pangolin (M. culionensis), Indian pangolin (M. crassicaudata), tree pangolin (M. tricuspis), giant ground pangolin (M. gigantean), and the long-tailed pangolin (M. tetradactyla)) as an endangered species under the similarity of appearance provisions of the Act (section 4(e)), based upon the petitioners' claim of the species' similarity of appearance to the currently listed Temminck's ground pangolin (Manis temminckii). The petition clearly identified itself as such and included the requisite identification information for the petitioner, required at 50 CFR 424.14(a). In an August 17, 2015, letter to the petitioner, we responded that we had reviewed the information presented in the petition and did not find that the petition warranted an emergency listing under section 4(b)(7) of the Act. As both petitions address the seven unlisted species of pangolin, we are combining the petitioned actions (listing each species as either threatened or endangered either based on the five factors under section 4(a)(1) of the Act or due to a similarity of appearance under section 4(e) of the Act) into a [[Page 14071]] single 90-day finding for each species. The requested action for listing based on similarity of appearance (section 4(e)) will be considered under Factor E of each finding. This finding addresses the Sunda pangolin (Manis javanica). 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 listing the Sunda pangolin (Manis javanica) may be warranted based on Factors A, B, D, and E. However, during our status review, we will thoroughly evaluate all potential threats to the species, including the extent to which any protections or other conservation efforts have reduced those threats. Thus, for this species, the Service requests any information relevant to whether the species falls within the definition of either an endangered species under section 3(6) of the Act or a threatened species under section 3(20), including information on the five listing factors under section 4(a)(1) and any other factors identified in this finding (see Request for Information for Status Reviews, above). Evaluation of Two Petitions To List the Tree Pangolin Under the Endangered Species Act Additional information regarding our review of these petitions can be found as an appendix at http://www.regulations.gov under Docket No. FWS-HQ-ES-2016-0022 under the Supporting Documents section. Species and Range Tree pangolin (Manis tricuspis): Angola (Angola); Benin; Cameroon; Central African Republic; Congo; Congo, The Democratic Republic of the; C[ocirc]te d'Ivoire; Equatorial Guinea (Bioko, Equatorial Guinea (mainland)); Gabon; Ghana; Guinea; Guinea-Bissau; Kenya; Liberia; Nigeria; Rwanda; Sierra Leone; South Sudan; Tanzania, United Republic of; Togo; Uganda; Zambia. Petitions History On July 15, 2015, we electronically received a petition from BFUSA, CBD, HSI, HSUS, and IFAW requesting that we list seven species of pangolin (Chinese pangolin (Manis pentadactyla), Sunda pangolin (M. javanica), Philippine pangolin (M. culionensis), Indian pangolin (M. crassicaudata), tree pangolin (M. tricuspis), giant ground pangolin (M. gigantean), and the long-tailed pangolin (M. tetradactyla)) as endangered 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). In an August 17, 2015, letter to the petitioner, we responded that we had reviewed the information presented in the petition and did not find that the petition warranted an emergency listing under section 4(b)(7) of the Act. On July 15, 2015, we electronically received a second petition from CBD, IFAW, HSI, HSUS, and BFUSA requesting that the Service list the same seven species of pangolin (Chinese pangolin (Manis pentadactyla), Sunda pangolin (M. javanica), Philippine pangolin (M. culionensis), Indian pangolin (M. crassicaudata), tree pangolin (M. tricuspis), giant ground pangolin (M. gigantean), and the long-tailed pangolin (M. tetradactyla)) as an endangered species under the similarity of appearance provisions of the Act (section 4(e)), based upon the petitioners' claim of the species' similarity of appearance to the currently listed Temminck's ground pangolin (Manis temminckii). The petition clearly identified itself as such and included the requisite identification information for the petitioner, required at 50 CFR 424.14(a). In an August 17, 2015, letter to the petitioner, we responded that we had reviewed the information presented in the petition and did not find that the petition warranted an emergency listing under section 4(b)(7) of the Act. As both petitions address the seven unlisted species of pangolin, we are combining the petitioned actions (listing each species as either threatened or endangered either based on the five factors under section 4(a)(1) of the Act or due to a similarity of appearance under section 4(e) of the Act) into a single 90-day finding for each species. The requested action for listing based on similarity of appearance (section 4(e)) will be considered under Factor E of each finding. This finding addresses the tree pangolin (Manis tricuspis). 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 listing the tree pangolin (Manis tricuspis) may be warranted based on Factors A, B, D, and E. However, during our status review, we will thoroughly evaluate all potential threats to the species, including the extent to which any protections or other conservation efforts have reduced those threats. Thus, for this species, the Service requests any information relevant to whether the species falls within the definition of either an endangered species under section 3(6) of the Act or a threatened species under section 3(20), including information on the five listing factors under section 4(a)(1) and any other factors identified in this finding (see Request for Information for Status Reviews, above). Evaluation of a Petition To List the Western Bumble Bee 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-2016-0023 under the Supporting Documents section. Species and Range Western bumble bee (Bombus occidentalis): Alaska, Arizona, California, Colorado, Idaho, Montana, Nebraska, New Mexico, North Dakota, Oregon, South Dakota, Washington, Wyoming, Utah; Canada: Alberta, British Columbia, Saskatchewan, Yukon Territory. Petition History On September 21, 2015, we received a petition dated September 15, 2015, from Defenders of Wildlife requesting that the western bumble bee be listed as threatened or endangered and 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 find that the petition presents substantial scientific or commercial information indicating that listing the western bumble bee (Bombus occidentalis) may be warranted, based on Factors C, D, and E. However, during our status review, we will thoroughly evaluate all potential threats to the species, including the extent to which any protections or other conservation efforts have reduced those threats. Thus, for the western bumble bee, the Service requests any information relevant to whether the species falls within the definition of either an endangered species under section 3(6) of the Act or a threatened species under section 3(20), including information on the five listing factors under section 4(a)(1) and any other factors identified in this [[Page 14072]] finding (see Request for Information for Status Reviews, above). Evaluation of a Petition To List the Yellow-Banded Bumble Bee 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-2016-0024 under the Supporting Documents section. Species and Range Yellow-banded bumble bee (Bombus terricola): Connecticut, Kentucky, Illinois, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Montana, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Tennessee, Vermont, Virginia, West Virginia, Wisconsin; Canada: Alberta, British Columbia, Manitoba, Newfoundland, Nova Scotia, Ontario, Quebec, Saskatchewan. Petition History On September 15, 2015, we received a petition dated September 15, 2015, from Defenders of Wildlife requesting that the yellow-banded bumble bee (Bombus terricola) be listed as threatened or endangered and 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 find that the petition presents substantial scientific or commercial information indicating that listing the yellow-banded bumble bee (Bombus terricola) may be warranted, based on Factors A, C, D, and E. However, during our status review, we will thoroughly evaluate all potential threats to the species, including the extent to which any protections or other conservation efforts have reduced those threats. Thus, for this species, the Service requests any information relevant to whether the species falls within the definition of either an endangered species under section 3(6) of the Act or a threatened species under section 3(20), including information on the five listing factors under section 4(a)(1) and any other factors identified in this finding (see Request for Information for Status Reviews, above). Conclusion On the basis of our evaluation of the information presented in the petitions under section 4(b)(3)(A) of the Act, we have determined that the petitions summarized above for the acuna cacus, Arizona night lizard, Arizona wetsalts tiger beetle, Bezy's night lizard, Cheoah Bald salamander, Cow Knob salamander, MacDougal's yellowtops, Monito skink, Navasota ladies-tresses, Patagonia eyed silkmoth, reticulate collared lizard, South Mountain gray-cheeked salamander, and southern dusky salamander 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. The petitions summarized above for the African elephant, American burying beetle, Chinese pangolin, deseret milkvetch, giant ground pangolin, Indian pangolin, Leoncita false-foxglove, long-tailed pangolin, Philippine pangolin, Rio Grande chub, Rio Grande sucker, Sunda pangolin, tree pangolin, southwestern willow flycatcher, western bumble bee, and yellow-banded bumble bee present substantial scientific or commercial information indicating that the requested actions may be warranted. Because we have found that these 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 each status review, we will issue a finding, in accordance with section 4(b)(3)(B) of the Act, as to whether or not the Service finds that the petitioned action is warranted. It is important to note that the standard for a 90-day finding differs from the Act's standard that applies to a status review to determine whether a petitioned action is warranted. In making a 90-day finding, we consider only the information in the petition and in our files, and we evaluate merely whether that information constitutes ``substantial information'' indicating that the petitioned action ``may be warranted.'' In a 12-month finding, we must complete a thorough status review of the species and evaluate the ``best scientific and commercial data available'' to determine whether a petitioned action ``is warranted.'' Because the Act's standards for 90-day and 12-month findings are different, 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 (contact the person listed under Table 3 in SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION). Authors The primary authors of this notice are staff members of the 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: February 24, 2016. Stephen Guertin, Acting Director, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. [FR Doc. 2016-05699 Filed 3-15-16; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4333-15-P
![14058 Federal Register / Vol. 81, No. 51 / Wednesday, March 16, 2016 / Proposed Rules
O. National Technology Transfer and PART 383—COMMERCIAL DRIVER’S them its knowledge and skills tests, in
Advancement Act LICENSE STANDARDS; accordance with subparts F, G, and H of
REQUIREMENTS AND PENALTIES this part. Such completed application
The National Technology Transfer and test results must be transmitted
and Advancement Act (15 U.S.C. 272 ■ 1. The authority citation for part 383 electronically directly from the testing
note) requires Federal agencies adopting is revised to read as follows: State to the State of domicile of such
Government technical standards to Authority: Authority: 49 U.S.C. 521, 31136, personnel in an efficient and secure
consider whether voluntary consensus 31301 et seq., and 31502; secs. 214 and 215 manner.
standards are available. This Act also of Pub. L. 106–159, 113 Stat. 1748, 1766, (2) The State of domicile of a CLP or
requires Agencies to ‘‘use technical 1767; sec. 1012(b) of Pub. L. 107–56, 115 CDL applicant on active military duty
standards that are developed or adopted Stat. 272, 297, sec. 4140 of Pub. L. 109–59, must accept the completed application
by voluntary consensus standards 119 Stat. 1144, 1746; sec. 32934 of Pub. L. form and results of knowledge and skills
bodies’’ to carry out policy objectives 112–141, 126 Stat. 405, 830; and 49 CFR 1.87. tests administered to the applicant by
determined by the agencies, unless the ■ 2. Amend § 383.5 by adding the the State where he or she is currently
standards are ‘‘inconsistent with definition of ‘‘Military services’’ in stationed, as authorized by paragraph
applicable law or otherwise alphabetical order to read as follows: (b)(1) of this section, in accordance with
impractical.’’ If the Agency chooses to subparts F, G, and H of this part, in
adopt its own standards in place of § 383.5 Definitions. fulfillment of the applicant’s application
existing voluntary consensus standards, * * * * * and testing requirements under
it must explain its decision in a separate Military services means the United § 383.71, and the State’s test
statement to OMB. This proposed rule States Army, Navy, Marine Corps, Air administration requirements under
would not involve the adoption of any Force, and Coast Guard, and their § 383.73, and issue the applicant a CLP
technical standards. associated reserve, National Guard, and or CDL.
Auxiliary units.
P. Privacy Impact Assessment * * * * * PART 384—STATE COMPLIANCE
■ 3. Amend § 383.77 by revising WITH COMMERCIAL DRIVER’S
Section 522 of title I of division H of
paragraph (b)(1) to read as follows: LICENSE PROGRAM
the Consolidated Appropriations Act,
2005, enacted December 8, 2004 (Pub. L. § 383.77 Substitute for driving skills tests ■ 5. The authority citation for part 384
108–447, 118 Stat. 2809, 3268, 5 U.S.C. for drivers with military CMV experience. continues to read as follows:
552a note), requires the Agency to * * * * * Authority: 49 U.S.C. 31136, 31301 et seq.,
conduct a privacy impact assessment (b) * * * and 31502; secs. 103 and 215 of Pub. L. 106–
(PIA) of a regulation that will affect the (1) Is regularly employed or was 59, 113 Stat. 1753, 1767; and 49 CFR 1.87.
privacy of individuals. In accordance regularly employed within the last year ■ 6. Amend § 384.301 by adding
with this Act, a privacy impact analysis in a military position requiring paragraph (j) to read as follows:
is warranted to address any privacy operation of a CMV;
implications contemplated in the § 384.301 Substantial compliance general
* * * * * requirements.
rulemaking. The Agency submitted a ■ 4. Revise § 383.79 to read as follows:
Privacy Threshold Assessment * * * * *
analyzing the privacy implications to § 383.79 Testing of out-of-State applicants (j) A State must come into substantial
the Department of Transportation, and military personnel. compliance with the requirements of
Office of the Secretary’s Privacy Office (a) Applicant. (1) A State may subpart B of this part and part 383 of
to determine whether a PIA is required. administer its skills test, in accordance this chapter in effect as of [EFFECTIVE
The DOT Chief Privacy Officer has with subparts F, G, and H of this part, DATE OF FINAL RULE] as soon as
evaluated the risks and effects that this to a person who has taken training in practical, but, unless otherwise
rulemaking might have on collecting, that State and is to be licensed in specifically provided in this part, not
storing, and sharing PII and has another U.S. jurisdiction (i.e., his/her later than [3 YEARS AFTER EFFECTIVE
examined protections and alternative State of domicile). A State that DATE OF THE FINAL RULE].
information handling processes in order administers such a test must transmit Issued under authority delegated in 49 CFR
to mitigate potential privacy risks. There the test result electronically directly 1.87 on: March 9, 2016.
are no privacy risks and effects from the testing State to the licensing T.F. Scott Darling, III,
associated with this proposed rule. State in an efficient and secure manner. Acting Administrator.
(2) The State of domicile of a CDL [FR Doc. 2016–05913 Filed 3–15–16; 8:45 am]
List of Subjects applicant must accept the results of a BILLING CODE 4910–EX–P
49 CFR 383 skills test administered to the applicant
by any other State, in accordance with
Administrative practice and subparts F, G, and H of this part, in
DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR
procedure, Alcohol abuse, Drug abuse, fulfillment of the applicant’s testing
Highway safety, Motor carriers. requirements under § 383.71, and the Fish and Wildlife Service
State’s test administration requirements
49 CFR Part 384 under § 383.73.
mstockstill on DSK4VPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS
50 CFR Part 17
(b) Military personnel. (1) A State
Administrative practice and [4500030115]
where active duty military personnel
procedure, Alcohol abuse, Drug abuse,
who are operating in a Military
Highway safety, Motor carriers. Endangered and Threatened Wildlife
Occupational Specialty as full-time
and Plants; 90-Day Findings on 29
In consideration of the foregoing, commercial motor vehicle drivers are
Petitions
FMCSA proposes to amend 49 CFR stationed, but not domiciled, may
chapter 3, parts 383 and 384 to read as accept an application for a CLP or CDL AGENCY: Fish and Wildlife Service,
follows: from such personnel and administer to Interior.
VerDate Sep<11>2014 16:39 Mar 15, 2016 Jkt 238001 PO 00000 Frm 00040 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 E:\FR\FM\16MRP1.SGM 16MRP1](https://thefederalregister.org/doc/81_FR_14109/page/1.svg)
![Federal Register / Vol. 81, No. 51 / Wednesday, March 16, 2016 / Proposed Rules 14059
ACTION: Notice of petition findings and that we receive information no later Now!’’ If your information will fit in the
initiation of status reviews. than May 16, 2016. For information provided comment box, please use this
submitted electronically using the feature of http://www.regulations.gov, as
SUMMARY: We, the U.S. Fish and Federal eRulemaking Portal (see it is most compatible with our
Wildlife Service (Service), announce 90- ADDRESSES, below), this would mean information review procedures. If you
day findings on various petitions to list, submitting the information attach your information as a separate
reclassify, or delist fish, wildlife, or electronically by 11:59 p.m. Eastern document, our preferred file format is
plants under the Endangered Species Time on that date. Microsoft Word. If you attach multiple
Act of 1973, as amended (Act). Based on comments (such as form letters), our
our review, we find that 13 petitions do ADDRESSES: Not-substantial petition
findings: The not-substantial petition preferred format is a spreadsheet in
not present substantial scientific or Microsoft Excel.
commercial information indicating that findings announced in this document
are available on http:// (2) By hard copy: Submit by U.S. mail
the petitioned actions may be
www.regulations.gov under the or hand-delivery to: Public Comments
warranted, and we are not initiating
appropriate docket number (see Table 1 Processing, Attn: [Insert appropriate
status reviews in response to these
in SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION), or on docket number; see Table 2 in
petitions. We refer to these as ‘‘not-
the Service’s Web site at http:// SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION]; U.S. Fish
substantial’’ petition findings. We also
ecos.fws.gov. Supporting information in and Wildlife Service, MS: BPHC, 5275
find that 16 petitions present substantial
preparing these findings is available for Leesburg Pike; Falls Church, VA 22041–
scientific or commercial information
indicating that the petitioned actions public inspection, by appointment, 3803.
may be warranted. Therefore, with the during normal business hours by We request that you send information
publication of this document, we contacting the appropriate person, as only by the methods described above.
announce that we plan to initiate a specified under Table 3 in We will post all information received on
review of the status of these species to SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION. If you http://www.regulations.gov. This
determine if the petitioned actions are have new information concerning the generally means that we will post any
warranted. To ensure that these status status of, or threats to, any of these personal information you provide us
reviews are comprehensive, we are species or their habitats, please submit (see Request for Information for Status
requesting scientific and commercial that information to the person listed Reviews for more information).
data and other information regarding under Table 3 in SUPPLEMENTARY FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: See
these species. Based on the status INFORMATION. Table 3 in SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION
reviews, we will issue 12-month Status reviews: You may submit for specific people to contact for each
findings on the petitions, which will information on species for which a species.
address whether the petitioned action is status review is being initiated by one SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
warranted, as provided in section of the following methods:
4(b)(3)(B) of the Act. (1) Electronically: Go to the Federal Not Substantial Findings
DATES: When we conduct status eRulemaking Portal: http:// The not-substantial petition findings
reviews, we will consider all www.regulations.gov. In the Search box, announced in this document are listed
information that we have received. To enter the appropriate docket number in Table 1 below, and are available on
ensure that we will have adequate time (see Table 2 in SUPPLEMENTARY http://www.regulations.gov under the
to consider submitted information INFORMATION). You may submit appropriate docket number, or on the
during the status reviews, we request information by clicking on ‘‘Comment Service’s Web site at http://ecos.fws.gov.
TABLE 1—LIST OF NOT-SUBSTANTIAL FINDINGS
Common name Docket No. URL to docket in Regulations.gov
Acuna cactus—delist ................ FWS–R2–ES–2016–0025 ....... http://www.regulations.gov/#!docketDetail;D=FWS-R2-ES-2016-0025.
Arizona night lizard ................... FWS–R2–ES–2015–0075 ....... http://www.regulations.gov/#!docketDetail;D=FWS-R2-ES-2015-0075.
Arizona wetsalts tiger beetle .... FWS–R2–ES–2016–0027 ....... http://www.regulations.gov/#!docketDetail;D=FWS-R2-ES-2016-0027.
Bezy’s night lizard ..................... FWS–R2–ES–2015–0076 ....... http://www.regulations.gov/#!docketDetail;D=FWS-R2-ES-2015-0076.
Cheoah Bald salamander ......... FWS–R4–ES–2015–0081 ....... http://www.regulations.gov/#!docketDetail;D=FWS-R4-ES-2015-0081.
Cow Knob salamander ............. FWS–R5–ES–2015–0084 ....... http://www.regulations.gov/#!docketDetail;D=FWS-R5-ES-2015-0084.
MacDougal’s yellowtops ........... FWS–R2–ES–2016–0033 ....... http://www.regulations.gov/#!docketDetail;D=FWS-R2-ES-2016-0033.
Monito skink .............................. FWS–R4–ES–2016–0034 ....... http://www.regulations.gov/#!docketDetail;D=FWS-R4-ES-2016-0034.
Navasota ladies-tresses—delist FWS–R2–ES–2016–0035 ....... http://www.regulations.gov/#!docketDetail;D=FWS-R2-ES-2016-0035.
Patagonia eyed silkmoth .......... FWS–R2–ES–2016–0036 ....... http://www.regulations.gov/#!docketDetail;D=FWS-R2-ES-2016-0036.
Reticulate collared lizard .......... FWS–R2–ES–2015–0109 ....... http://www.regulations.gov/#!docketDetail;D=FWS-R4-ES-2015-0109.
South Mountain gray-cheeked FWS–R4–ES–2015–0117 ....... http://www.regulations.gov/#!docketDetail;D=FWS-R4-ES-2015-0117.
salamander.
Southern dusky salamander ..... FWS–R4–ES–2016–0038 ....... http://www.regulations.gov/#!docketDetail;D=FWS-R4-ES-2016-0038.
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![14072 Federal Register / Vol. 81, No. 51 / Wednesday, March 16, 2016 / Proposed Rules
finding (see Request for Information for Conclusion References Cited
Status Reviews, above). On the basis of our evaluation of the A complete list of references cited is
Evaluation of a Petition To List the information presented in the petitions available on the Internet at http://
Yellow-Banded Bumble Bee as an under section 4(b)(3)(A) of the Act, we www.regulations.gov and upon request
Endangered or Threatened Species have determined that the petitions from the appropriate lead field offices
Under the Act summarized above for the acuna cacus, (contact the person listed under Table 3
Arizona night lizard, Arizona wetsalts in SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION).
Additional information regarding our
tiger beetle, Bezy’s night lizard, Cheoah Authors
review of this petition can be found as
Bald salamander, Cow Knob
an appendix at http:// The primary authors of this notice are
salamander, MacDougal’s yellowtops,
www.regulations.gov under Docket No. staff members of the Ecological Services
Monito skink, Navasota ladies-tresses,
FWS–R5–ES–2016–0024 under the Program, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.
Patagonia eyed silkmoth, reticulate
Supporting Documents section.
collared lizard, South Mountain gray- Authority
Species and Range cheeked salamander, and southern
The authority for these actions is the
Yellow-banded bumble bee (Bombus dusky salamander do not present
Endangered Species Act of 1973, as
terricola): Connecticut, Kentucky, substantial scientific or commercial
amended (16 U.S.C. 1531 et seq.).
Illinois, Maine, Maryland, information indicating that the
requested actions may be warranted. Dated: February 24, 2016.
Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota,
Therefore, we are not initiating status Stephen Guertin,
Montana, New Hampshire, New Jersey,
New York, North Carolina, North reviews for these species. Acting Director, U.S. Fish and Wildlife
The petitions summarized above for Service.
Dakota, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode
Island, South Dakota, Tennessee, the African elephant, American burying [FR Doc. 2016–05699 Filed 3–15–16; 8:45 am]
Vermont, Virginia, West Virginia, beetle, Chinese pangolin, deseret BILLING CODE 4333–15–P
Wisconsin; Canada: Alberta, British milkvetch, giant ground pangolin,
Columbia, Manitoba, Newfoundland, Indian pangolin, Leoncita false-
Nova Scotia, Ontario, Quebec, foxglove, long-tailed pangolin, DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE
Saskatchewan. Philippine pangolin, Rio Grande chub,
Rio Grande sucker, Sunda pangolin, tree National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Petition History pangolin, southwestern willow Administration
On September 15, 2015, we received flycatcher, western bumble bee, and
a petition dated September 15, 2015, yellow-banded bumble bee present 50 CFR Part 648
from Defenders of Wildlife requesting substantial scientific or commercial [Docket No. 150902808–6155–01]
that the yellow-banded bumble bee information indicating that the
(Bombus terricola) be listed as requested actions may be warranted. RIN 0648–BF04
threatened or endangered and critical Because we have found that these
petitions present substantial Fisheries of the Northeastern United
habitat be designated for this species States; Amendment 17 to the Atlantic
under the Act. The petition clearly information indicating that the
petitioned actions may be warranted, we Surfclam and Ocean Quahog Fishery
identified itself as such and included Management Plan
the requisite identification information are initiating status reviews to
for the petitioner, required at 50 CFR determine whether these actions under AGENCY: National Marine Fisheries
424.14(a). This finding addresses the the Act are warranted. At the conclusion Service (NMFS), National Oceanic and
petition. of each status review, we will issue a Atmospheric Administration (NOAA),
finding, in accordance with section Commerce.
Finding 4(b)(3)(B) of the Act, as to whether or ACTION: Proposed rule; request for
Based on our review of the petition not the Service finds that the petitioned comments.
and sources cited in the petition, we action is warranted.
find that the petition presents It is important to note that the SUMMARY: NMFS proposes regulations to
substantial scientific or commercial standard for a 90-day finding differs implement Amendment 17 to the
information indicating that listing the from the Act’s standard that applies to Atlantic Surfclam and Ocean Quahog
yellow-banded bumble bee (Bombus a status review to determine whether a Fishery Management Plan. Amendment
terricola) may be warranted, based on petitioned action is warranted. In 17 management measures were
Factors A, C, D, and E. However, during making a 90-day finding, we consider developed by the Mid-Atlantic Fishery
our status review, we will thoroughly only the information in the petition and Management Council to: Add cost
evaluate all potential threats to the in our files, and we evaluate merely recovery provisions for the Individual
species, including the extent to which whether that information constitutes Transferable Quota component of the
any protections or other conservation ‘‘substantial information’’ indicating fishery; modify how biological reference
efforts have reduced those threats. Thus, that the petitioned action ‘‘may be points are incorporated into the fishery
for this species, the Service requests any warranted.’’ In a 12-month finding, we management plan; and remove the
information relevant to whether the must complete a thorough status review plan’s optimum yield range. These
species falls within the definition of of the species and evaluate the ‘‘best changes are intended to make the
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either an endangered species under scientific and commercial data management plan consistent with
section 3(6) of the Act or a threatened available’’ to determine whether a requirements of the Magnuson-Stevens
species under section 3(20), including petitioned action ‘‘is warranted.’’ Act, and to improve the management of
information on the five listing factors Because the Act’s standards for 90-day these fisheries.
under section 4(a)(1) and any other and 12-month findings are different, a DATES: Comments must be received on
factors identified in this finding (see substantial 90-day finding does not or before April 15, 2016.
Request for Information for Status mean that the 12-month finding will ADDRESSES: You may submit comments
Reviews, above). result in a ‘‘warranted’’ finding. on this document, identified by NOAA–
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Document Created: 2016-03-15 23:44:42
Document Modified: 2016-03-15 23:44:42
| 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 | When we conduct status reviews, we will consider all information that we have received. To ensure that we will have adequate time to consider submitted information during the status reviews, we request that we receive information no later than May 16, 2016. For information submitted electronically using the Federal eRulemaking Portal (see | |
| Contact | See Table 3 in SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION for specific people to contact for each species. | |
| FR Citation | 81 FR 14058 |
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