Initiation of a 5-Year Review of Black-Footed Ferret (Mustela nigripes) and Pallid Sturgeon (Scaphirhynchus albus)

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) announces a 5- year review of black-footed ferret (Mustela nigripes) and pallid sturgeon (Scaphirhynchus albus) under section 4(c)(2)(A) of the Endangered Species Act of 1973 (ESA). A 5-year review is a periodic process conducted to ensure that the listing classification of a species is accurate. A 5-year review is based on the best scientific and commercial data available at the time of the review; therefore, we are requesting submission of any such information on black-footed ferret and pallid sturgeon that has become available since their original listings as endangered species. Based on the results of this 5-year review, we will make the requisite findings under section 4(c)(2)(B) of the ESA.