Consultation

Section 7 of the Endangered Species Act (ESA), requires all federal agencies to use their authorities for the conservation of species protected under the Act. Federal agencies must consult with the USFWS to ensure that their actions do not jeopardize the continued existence of protected species. Federal actions include all projects carried out, authorized, or funded by any department agency of the federal government (for example, issuing a wetlands fill permit under Section 404 of the Clean Water Act).

The first step in complying with Section 7 in Northwest Florida is to determine whether any endangered or threatened species may occur in a project area by contacting the Panama City Field Office. We maintain species lists of plants and animals protected under the Act that may occur in each of the 16 Panhandle counties.

All individuals, not just Federal agencies, are prohibited by Section 9 of the ESA from harming endangered or threatened animals without an incidental take permit [PDF] from the USFWS. The first step in complying with Section 9 in the Northwest Florida is again to determine whether any protected species may occur in a project area. If so, Service biologists will advise you about developing a Habitat Conservation Plan [PDF], which will allow you to legally proceed with your project.

Click here for Emergency Consultation.