Alaska RRT ESA Consultation Implementation Workgroup ARRT Update

Alaska RRT ESA Consultation Implementation Workgroup ARRT Update January 2015

Background We are now ~3+ years along �Workgroup Commissioned in FEB 2011 �“to ensure the AK Unified Plan complies with ESA section 7 consultation requirements” �ESA Section 7(a)(2) requires Federal Agencies to consult on actions that may affect listed species and/or habitat �Workgroup members: � EPA (chair), USCG, FWS, NMFS *ADEC opted to be informed along the way

Current Status � Final Biological Assessment (BA) of Alaska Unified Plan (AUP) —(looking at all response methods for potential impacts to threatened and endangered species and critical habitat) completed in January 2014 and submitted to Services. � BA to be followed by Biological Opinion (Bi. Op)—Services � Formal ESA consultation was initiated with NOAA/NMFS and USFWS in February 2014 � Services have asked for more detailed information/analysis � Bi. Ops expected within 30 -60 days barring additional delay � EFH analysis completed, awaiting final concurrence from NMFS —”any day”

Timeline/Next Steps � Biological Opinions (Services—USFWS + NOAA) � 30 days to review request � 90 days to formally consult � 45 days to deliver a biological opinion ~5 -6 months (we’re now into ~12 months) � Once Bi. Ops received, “reasonable and prudent measures” and “conservation measures” may be suggested or proposed. � Will need to evaluate recommendations and corresponding changes to the AUP. � Goal is to get consultation completed, Dispersant Use Plan finalized, and AUP in compliance with ESA in Spring/Summer 2015.