Withdrawal of Rule Proposing Replacement of the Regulations for the Nonessential Experimental Population of Red Wolves in Northeastern North Carolina

We, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service), withdraw the proposed rule to replace the existing regulations governing the North Carolina nonessential experimental population designation of the red wolf (Canis rufus) under section 10(j) of the Endangered Species Act (Act), as amended. Based on recent court decisions involving the North Carolina nonessential experimental population designation of the red wolf (NC NEP), having considered the public comments submitted in response to the proposed rule, and upon further consideration of the proposal, we have determined that withdrawing the proposed rule is the best course of action at this time. The NC NEP will be managed under the provisions of the existing regulations and as informed by relevant court orders.