TELECONFERENCE FOR ACCREDITED MEDIA ONLY
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service will hold a telephone news conference to announce its proposed critical habitat designation for the endangered Rio Grande silvery minnow. After a short description of the proposal, reporters will be able to ask questions of the panel.
WHEN: Thursday, June 6, 2002, beginning at 11 a.m. MST
WHO: Dale Hall, Director, Southwest Region, US Fish and Wildlife Service, Dr. Joy Nicholopoulos, Field Supervisor, New Mexico Ecological Services and special guests.
WHAT: The Service is proposing certain river areas be designated as critical habitat for the Rio Grande silvery minnow. Critical habitat is those areas of land and water with the habitat features that are essential to the conservation of a threatened or endangered species, and which may require special management considerations or protection. A critical habitat designation requires all Federal agencies to consult with the Fish and Wildlife Service on any project they fund, authorize or carry out that may affect critical habitat.
The silvery minnow was once historically one of the most abundant and widespread fishes in the Rio Grande Basin. It was also found in the Pecos River, a major tributary of the Rio Grande, from Santa Rosa, New Mexico, downstream to its confluence with the Rio Grande.
HOW: Call toll free 1-888-316-9411. Use password: MINNOW and identify leader - Dale Hall
Please RSVP as lines are limited.
