On February 1, 2006, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service published a proposed rule to redesignate critical habitat for the federally listed, endangered Alabama beach mouse. The rule, which was published in the Federal Register, proposed a revision to critical habitat that was originally designated when the species was listed in 1985.

On August 8, 2006, the Service published a Notice of Availability for a draft Economic Analysis. The purpose of this report was to identify and analyze the potential economic impacts associated with the proposed CH designation for the federally listed Alabama beach mouse (Peromyscus polionotus ammobates), known as the ABM.

With publication of the draft Economic Analysis, the Service reopened the public comment period for the proposed critical habitat redesignation as well as for the Economic Analysis. This public comment period closed on September 7, 2006.

Service biologists reviewed each comment received and revised the critical habitat rule as appropriate. A final rule was published in the Federal Register on January 30, 2007.

Check the following links for more information:

Federal Register Notice, Feburary 1, 2006. Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and Plants; Critical Habitat for the Alabama Beach Mouse proposed rule

Fact Sheet: "Questions and Answers: Alabama Beach Mouse--Revision of Critical Habitat

Federal Register Notice, August 8, 2006. Revised proposed rule; reopening of comment period, notice of availability of draft economic analysis, acreage corrections, and notice of public hearing.

Final Economic Analysis of Critical Habitat Designation for the Alabama Beach Mouse

Federal Register Notice, January 30, 2007. Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and Plants; Critical Habitat for the Alabama Beach Mouse final rule

News Release: "Fish and Wildlife Service Publishes Final Critical Habitat Rule for the Alabama Beach Mouse"

Maps: Alabama beach mouse critical habitat