The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is seeking additional information and reopening the public comment on a proposed rule to downlist beach layia, a succulent herb, from endangered to threatened under the Endangered Species Act (ESA). The species was originally proposed for downlisting on September 30, 2020.
The proposed rule follows years of collaborative conservation efforts between federal, state, local and private entities on behalf of the plant. Habitat protections and ongoing management since listing has resulted in a reduction of threats to the species, however, more information is needed before the Service can make a final ESA listing determination.
On April 29, 2021, the Service will hold a virtual public information session from 4:30 to 5:00 p.m. PDT. This will be followed by a virtual public hearing from 5:00 to 6:00 p.m. PDT. The public hearing will provide an opportunity for interested parties to present verbal testimony (formal, oral comments) regarding the September 30, 2020 proposed rule. Previously submitted comments will be fully considered and do not need to be resubmitted.
Virtual meetings are consistent with Service regulations at 50 CFR 424.16(c)(3). Registration will be required to join the public hearing and provide oral comments. Please visit the following website for additional details: https://www.fws.gov/arcata/es/plants/beachLayia/layia.html.
The reopening of the 30-day public comment period will publish in the Federal Register on April 13, 2021. The Service will consider comments from all interested parties received by May 13, 2021. Information on how to submit comments is available at www.regulations.gov by searching under docket number FWS–R8–ES–2018-0042.
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service works with others to conserve, protect and enhance fish, wildlife, plants, and their habitats for the continuing benefit of the American people. For more information about our work and the people who make it happen, visit https://www.fws.gov/cno/ or connect with us via Facebook, Twitter, YouTube and Flickr.
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