When the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service receives a petition to list a species as federally protected under the Endangered Species Act, we are just getting started. As a science-based agency, we must do a careful review of all petitions, ensuring we consider new information and changing conditions. To aid our reviews, a network of partners provides updates on taxonomy (naming and identification of a species) or genetics, where species are, and emerging threats. It is through these reviews that the Service is proud to recognize the dedication of our Ecological Services program. Their work led to the withdrawal of six Southeast freshwater species from a 2010 petition.
The withdrawn species include the Tallapoosa Orb mussel, Ravine Sedge, and four riverlet crayfish species. Updated information revealed that several species have stronger populations or larger ranges than previously known, while scientists revised the name of one species.
What does a petition withdrawal mean, and why does it matter? It takes a great deal of time and effort by these teams to conduct surveys, analyze emerging research, and carefully evaluate new information to ensure the best available science grounds any agency decision. And, withdrawing a species from a petition allows Service staff to shift their focus to other priorities – benefiting other species and the efficient use of American tax dollars.
Networks of Collaboration
The trust we have built with our partners is essential. Since 2010, the public petitioned just under 500 species for federal protection. The size and scale of petition review workloads require creative strategies to find conservation solutions. To do this, the Service works closely with states, tribes, private landowners, other federal agencies, and conservation groups.
Our partnerships create an environment of shared knowledge to inform our decisions. For these six Southeast species, vital contributions came from experts across our networks including the University of Mississippi, North Carolina State University, Alabama Natural Heritage Program at Auburn University, state Natural Heritage Programs, the U.S. Forest Service, and the U.S. Geological Survey. Through this shared commitment to sound conservation decisions, we create opportunities that eliminate the need for federal protection. This shared commitment is significant: it has resulted in petition withdrawals for 139 species since 2010
"Petition withdrawals show the power of partnerships," said Nicole Rankin, Manager of the Conservation and Classification Division within the Southeast Region. "These actions reflect our commitment to science, innovative solutions, and the most efficient use of our resources."
The Service's status review process combined with information gathering and sharing from our partners expanded our understanding of these species and conservation actions. This information will continue to inform our decisions and conservation planning across the region.
Learn more about the Endangered Species Act and our conservation work at fws.gov/endangered.
