Proposed Designation of Critical Habitat for the Marbled Murrelet; Supplemental Proposed Rule

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service originally proposed to designate critical habitat for the marbled murrelet (Brachyramphus marmoratus marmoratus) in Washington, Oregon, and California on January 27, 1994 (59 FR 3811). Based on comments received on the original proposal and additional information, the Service has amended the proposed designation of critical habitat for the marbled murrelet, listed as a threatened species under the Endangered Species Act (Act). The marbled murrelet is a small seabird of the Alcidae family that forages in the near-shore marine environment and nests in large trees in coniferous forest along the coast. Located primarily on Federal land, and to a lesser extent on State, county, city, and private lands, this amended critical habitat proposal would provide additional protection requirements under section 7 of the Act with regard to activities that are funded, authorized, or carried out by a Federal agency. Section 4 of the Act requires the Service to designate critical habitat for listed species on the basis of the best scientific information available and to consider the economic and other relevant impacts of including particular areas in the designation.