Missouri Dkey Standing Analysis

The Missouri Endangered Species Determination Key (DKey) was developed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s Missouri Ecological Services Field Office to assist users efficiently evaluate how proposed projects may affect federally listed species and their critical habitats in Missouri. Based on spatial data and user input, it generates standardized biological effect determinations such as “no effect,” “not likely to adversely affect,” or “may affect.” These outcomes align with Service guidance and can be used in Section 7 Section 7
Section 7 Consultation The Endangered Species Act (ESA) directs all Federal agencies to work to conserve endangered and threatened species and to use their authorities to further the purposes of the Act. Section 7 of the Act, called "Interagency Cooperation," is the mechanism by which Federal agencies ensure the actions they take, including those they fund or authorize, do not jeopardize the existence of any listed species.

Learn more about Section 7 consultations or to request technical assistance for non-federal projects. This analysis evaluates whether the project type, geographic scope, covered species, and applicable federal nexus align with the DKey’s intended purpose and regulatory framework under the Endangered Species Act. It establishes the “standing” of the action before the DKey can be applied to reach an effect determination