Earlier this year, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the National Marine Fisheries Service published revisions to the listing/delisting process for species under the Endangered Species Act (ESA). Western Growers filed comments with both agencies praising the revisions that have been proposed. The proposed revisions provide for more state government input and increase the amount of scientific evidence required in the process, both of which should result in a fairer and more balanced listing/delisting process.
Dennis Nuxoll, vice president for federal government affairs who crafted WG’s comments, said, “The proposed revisions suggested by these agencies represent a genuine attempt to bring a more scientific and fairer approach to listing and delisting species under the ESA. Considering the ramifications the ESA has placed on the agriculture industry, Western Growers is appreciative of any efforts to ease the burden on our members.”
The revisions are anticipated to be finalized in the coming months.
Please contact Dennis Nuxoll at (202) 296-0191 for more information.