Title of document: Draft Status Review of the American Eel (Anguilla rostrata)

Timeframe: July 3 — July 28, 2006

Purpose of peer review: The peer review will help the Service ensure correct interpretation of data, clear and correct distinction between scientific fact and professional judgment, identification and characterization of scientific uncertainties, and identification of the potential implications of uncertainties for the technical conclusions drawn.

Selection of peer reviewers: The Service selected 6 independent peer reviewers who are recognized experts in fish ecology, eel biology, and/or threats potentially impacting the species. We asked these peer reviewers to conduct a review within the context of their specific area of expertise and/or a broad evaluation of the overall product.

Contact: Heather Bell, fishery biologist, 413-253-8645