The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service today released its final critical habitat designation for endangered, underground karst-dwelling invertebrates in Bexar County, Texas. The final designation has changed significantly from the original proposal based on public comment, additional scientific information, and two management plans for underground karst formations received during the public comment period.
"These species are especially vulnerable to groundwater pollution and are an indicator species for the health of the Edwards aquifer, which is the source of drinking water for more than one million people," said Dale Hall, Director of the Services Southwest Region. "Designating habitat that is critical to their survival is another step toward ensuring their future and the health of the aquifer itself."
Overall, changes to the final rule resulted in:
WP MathAC designating 1,063 acres in 22 units as critical habitat, as compared to the Service
