What Happened
The pygmy-owl first received federal protection in 1997 but was delisted in 2006. In 2011, the FWS determined that a petition to relist the pygmy-owl was not warranted. A court decision in 2017 directed FWS to reconsider that finding. The current proposed rule is the FWS’s latest review and proposal regarding the status of the pygmy-owl.
Read more in the full Regulatory Alert.
SWCA Lens
We supported our clients with technical, scientific research, and regulatory compliance services when the pygmy-owl was previously listed. Our experienced biologists and regulatory specialists remain ready to help you understand the proposed listing and explore ways to minimize risks to project timelines and budgets. Our scientists can also help you prepare comments on the proposed listing rule, including activities that the FWS should consider exempting from the prohibitions on take.
What to Watch
- Review the Proposed Rule: The FWS published the proposed rule in the Federal Register. Click here to view.
- Attend a Public Meeting: The FWS is holding a virtual public informational meeting and hearing on January 25, 2022. Register here to attend.
- Submit Comments: Submit comments through February 22 on www.regulations.gov under Docket Number FWS–R2–ES–2021–0098 or click here.
