[Federal Register Volume 78, Number 137 (Wednesday, July 17, 2013)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 42702-42718]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2013-17087]


=======================================================================
-----------------------------------------------------------------------

DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR

Fish and Wildlife Service

50 CFR Part 17

[Docket No. FWS-R3-ES-2012-0087; FXES11130900000C3-123-FF09E30000]
RIN 1018-AY45


Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and Plants; Establishment of a 
Nonessential Experimental Population of Topeka Shiner (Notropis topeka) 
in Northern Missouri

AGENCY: Fish and Wildlife Service, Interior.

ACTION: Final rule.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------

SUMMARY: We, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service), jointly with 
the Missouri Department of Conservation and the Nature Conservancy, 
will reestablish the Topeka shiner (Notropis topeka), a federally 
endangered fish. We will reestablish the Topeka shiner under section 
10(j) of the Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended (Act), and 
classify the reestablished population as a nonessential experimental 
population (NEP) within portions of the species' historical range in 
Adair, Gentry, Harrison, Putnam, Sullivan, and Worth Counties, 
Missouri. This final rule provides a plan for establishing the NEP and 
provides for allowable legal incidental taking of the Topeka shiner 
within the defined NEP area. The best available data indicate that 
reintroduction of Topeka shiner to portions of the species' historical 
range in Adair, Gentry, Harrison, Putnam, Sullivan, and Worth Counties, 
Missouri, is biologically feasible and will promote the conservation of 
the species.

DATES: This rule becomes effective August 16, 2013.

ADDRESSES: This final rule, along with the public comments, and the 
Environmental Action Statement for Categorical Exclusion are available 
on the Internet at http://www.regulations.gov, Docket No. FWS-R3-ES-
2012-0087. Comments and materials received, as well as supporting 
documentation used in the preparation of this rule, will be available 
for public inspection, by appointment, during normal business hours at: 
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Ecological Services Field Office, 101 
Park DeVille Dr.; Suite A, Columbia, MO 65203; telephone: 573-234-2132; 
facsimile: 573-234-2181. Persons who use a telecommunications device 
for the deaf (TDD) may call the Federal Information Relay Services 
(FIRS) at 800-877-8339.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Amy Salveter, Field Supervisor, 
telephone: 573-234-2132; facsimile: 573-234-2181. Direct all questions 
or requests for additional information to: Topeka Shiner Questions, 
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Ecological Services Field Office, 101 
Park DeVille Dr.; Suite A, Columbia, MO 65203. Persons who use a 
telecommunications device for the deaf (TDD) may call the Federal 
Information Relay Services (FIRS) at 800-877-8339.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: 

Background

Statutory and Regulatory Framework

    The Topeka shiner was listed as endangered throughout its range on 
December 15, 1998 (63 FR 69008), and critical habitat was designated in 
Iowa, Minnesota, and Nebraska on July 27, 2004 (69 FR 44736), under the 
Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended (16 U.S.C. 1531 et seq.). 
The Act provides that species listed as endangered are afforded 
protection primarily through the prohibitions of section 9 and the 
requirements of section 7. Section 9 of the Act, among other things, 
prohibits the take of endangered wildlife. ``Take'' is defined by the 
Act as harass, harm, pursue, hunt, shoot, wound, kill, trap, capture, 
or collect, or attempt to engage in any such conduct. Section 7 of the 
Act outlines the procedures for Federal interagency cooperation to 
conserve federally listed species and protect designated critical 
habitat. It mandates that all Federal agencies use their existing 
authorities to further the

[[Page 42703]]

purposes of the Act by carrying out programs for the conservation of 
listed species. It also states that Federal agencies must, in 
consultation with the Service, ensure that any action they authorize, 
fund, or carry out is not likely to jeopardize the continued existence 
of a listed species or result in the destruction or adverse 
modification of designated critical habitat. Section 7 of the Act does 
not affect activities undertaken on private land unless they are 
authorized, funded, or carried out by a Federal agency.
    The 1982 amendments to the Act (16 U.S.C. 1531 et seq.) included 
the addition of section 10(j) which allows for the designation of 
reintroduced populations of listed species as ``experimental 
populations.'' Under section 10(j) of the Act and our regulations at 50 
CFR 17.81, the Service may designate as an experimental population a 
population of endangered or threatened species that has been or will be 
released into suitable natural habitat outside the species' current 
natural range (but within its probable historical range, absent a 
finding by the Director of the Service in the extreme case that the 
primary habitat of the species has been unsuitably and irreversibly 
altered or destroyed). With the experimental population designation, 
the relevant population is treated as threatened for purposes of 
section 9 of the Act, regardless of the species' designation elsewhere 
in its range. Threatened designation allows us discretion in devising 
management programs and special regulations for such a population. 
Section 4(d) of the Act allows us to adopt whatever regulations are 
necessary and advisable to provide for the conservation of a threatened 
species. In these situations, the general regulations that extend most 
section 9 prohibitions to threatened species do not apply to that 
species, and the 10(j) rule contains the prohibitions and exemptions 
necessary and appropriate to conserve that species.
    Before authorizing the release as an experimental population of any 
population (including eggs, propagules, or individuals) of an 
endangered or threatened species, and before authorizing any necessary 
transportation to conduct the release, the Service must find, by 
regulation, that such release will further the conservation of the 
species. In making such a finding, the Service uses the best scientific 
and commercial data available to consider: (1) Any possible adverse 
effects on extant populations of a species as a result of removal of 
individuals, eggs, or propagules for introduction elsewhere; (2) the 
likelihood that any such experimental population will become 
established and survive in the foreseeable future; (3) the relative 
effects that establishment of an experimental population will have on 
the recovery of the species; and (4) the extent to which the introduced 
population may be affected by existing or anticipated Federal or State 
actions or private activities within or adjacent to the experimental 
population area.
    Furthermore, as set forth in 50 CFR 17.81(c), all regulations 
designating experimental populations under section 10(j) must provide: 
(1) Appropriate means to identify the experimental population, 
including, but not limited to, its actual or proposed location, actual 
or anticipated migration, number of specimens released or to be 
released, and other criteria appropriate to identify the experimental 
population(s); (2) a finding, based solely on the best scientific and 
commercial data available, and the supporting factual basis, on whether 
the experimental population is, or is not, essential to the continued 
existence of the species in the wild; (3) management restrictions, 
protective measures, or other special management concerns of that 
population, which may include but are not limited to, measures to 
isolate and/or contain the experimental population designated in the 
regulation from natural populations; and (4) a process for periodic 
review and evaluation of the success or failure of the release and the 
effect of the release on the conservation and recovery of the species.
    Under 50 CFR 17.81(d), the Service must consult with appropriate 
State fish and wildlife agencies, local governmental entities, affected 
Federal agencies, and affected private landowners in developing and 
implementing experimental population rules. To the maximum extent 
practicable, section 10(j) rules represent an agreement between the 
Service, the affected State and Federal agencies, and persons holding 
any interest in land that may be affected by the establishment of an 
experimental population.
    Based on the best scientific and commercial data available, we must 
determine whether the experimental population is essential or 
nonessential to the continued existence of the species. The regulations 
(50 CFR 17.80(b)) state that an experimental population is considered 
essential if its loss would be likely to appreciably reduce the 
likelihood of survival of that species in the wild. All other 
populations are considered nonessential.
    We have determined that this experimental population will not be 
essential to the continued existence of the species in the wild, 
because its loss will not be likely to appreciably reduce the 
likelihood of survival of Topeka shiner in the wild. We made this 
determination because several populations of Topeka shiner are 
considered secure and our 5-year review concluded that the species is 
resilient to many threats identified at the time of listing (Service 
2009, pp. 32-33).
    In our January 23, 2013, proposed rule (78 FR 4813) to establish 
this experimental population in three areas in northern Missouri, our 
preliminary determination that the population was nonessential was 
based on the existence of secure populations of Topeka shiner in South 
Dakota and Minnesota, as well as the apparent resiliency of the species 
to many threats identified at the time of listing. This led us to 
conclude that loss of this experimental population would not 
appreciably reduce the likelihood of survival of the Topeka shiner in 
the wild. Since publishing that proposed rule, we have undertaken 
efforts to re-evaluate the status of the species, particularly in the 
northern part of its range where large complexes of occupied streams 
exist. We will not conclude that status review before establishing this 
experimental population, thus we determined it appropriate to re-
evaluate the nonessential status of this experimental population 
without consideration of the existing northern populations.
    While the states of South Dakota and Minnesota are estimated to 
contain 70 percent of the currently known Topeka shiner populations, 
they represent only approximately 20 percent of the species' known 
historical range; the remaining estimated 80 percent of the Topeka 
shiner's historical range occurs in Nebraska, Iowa, Kansas, and 
Missouri (Service 2010, p. 32). Topeka shiner occupancy varies 
throughout its historical range, and certain areas experience 
apparently greater levels of threats (Service 2010, pp. 30-31). While 
some local population declines since listing have been documented in 
Kansas and Missouri (Service 2010, pp. 8, 9), Iowa, Minnesota, 
Nebraska, and South Dakota have documented additional occupied streams 
since listing (Service 2010, pp. 6-7; Mena 2013, pers. comm.). The 
majority of occupied watersheds identified at the time of the species' 
listing continue to be occupied today, despite ongoing actions that may 
affect the species.
    Recovery actions for the Topeka shiner are also being undertaken 
that lower extinction risk across the range.

[[Page 42704]]

For example, management plans currently being implemented by the 
Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC 1999), the Kansas Department 
of Wildlife and Parks (Mammoliti 2004), and the Fort Riley Military 
Installation (U.S. Army 2001) were sufficient to preclude the need to 
designate critical habitat in Missouri and Kansas (69 FR 44736). 
Further, two of the plans have been updated (MDC 2010; U.S. Army 2010), 
and this proposed reintroduction in Missouri represents an important 
State-Federal partnership intended to fulfill Missouri's Ten Year 
Strategic Plan for Recovery of the Topeka Shiner in Missouri (MDC 
2010). Captive- rearing efforts have been successful, and plans are 
ongoing to reintroduce Topeka shiners to a Kansas watershed where the 
species was determined to be recently extirpated (Tabor 2013, pers. 
comm.). Recovery actions in Iowa to restore off-channel habitats to 
allow use by Topeka shiners have been effective (Service 2012). 
Nebraska Game and Parks Commission developed a conservation assessment 
in 2012 for Topeka shiners to assist in future conservation 
decisionmaking (Panella 2012). Topeka shiners have been identified in 
two new occupied streams in Nebraska since listing (Mena 2013, pers. 
comm.).
    With extant populations and ongoing recovery actions within the 
range of the Topeka shiner, the species is expected to persist in other 
watersheds within its historical range even if this reintroduction 
effort is unsuccessful. We do not believe the species will be in 
greater peril, nor will its likelihood of survival in the wild be 
appreciably reduced if this experimental population is lost. We also 
recognize the nonessential designation is important to our recovery 
partners, and including section 10(j) is consistent with the 
Congressional intent of the 1982 amendment of the Act. Congress allowed 
such experimental populations to be identified as either essential or 
nonessential, but noted the expectation that most experimental 
populations would be nonessential (H.R. Conference Report No. 835, 
supra at 34; Service 1984, p. 3388). As noted in our 1984 implementing 
regulations, an essential experimental population would be a special 
case, not the general rule (H.R. Conference Report No. 835, supra at 
34; Service 1984, p. 3388). Therefore, we determine that this 
experimental population of Topeka shiners in three areas in northern 
Missouri is nonessential to the continued existence of the species in 
the wild.
    For the purposes of section 7 of the Act, we treat an NEP as a 
threatened species when the NEP is located within a National Wildlife 
Refuge or unit of the National Park Service, and Federal agency 
conservation requirements under section 7(a)(1) and the Federal agency 
consultation requirements of section 7(a)(2) of the Act apply. Section 
7(a)(1) requires all Federal agencies to use their authorities to carry 
out programs for the conservation of listed species. Section 7(a)(2) 
requires that Federal agencies, in consultation with the Service, 
ensure that any action authorized, funded, or carried out is not likely 
to jeopardize the continued existence of a listed species or adversely 
modify its critical habitat. When NEPs are located outside a National 
Wildlife Refuge or National Park Service unit, then, for the purposes 
of section 7, we treat the population as proposed for listing and only 
section 7(a)(1) and section 7(a)(4) apply. In these instances, NEPs 
provide additional flexibility because Federal agencies are not 
required to consult with us under section 7(a)(2). Section 7(a)(4) 
requires Federal agencies to confer (rather than consult) with the 
Service on actions that are likely to jeopardize the continued 
existence of a species proposed to be listed. The results of a 
conference are in the form of conservation recommendations that are 
optional as the agencies carry out, fund, or authorize activities. 
Because the NEP is, by definition, not essential to the continued 
existence of the species, the effects of proposed actions affecting the 
NEP will generally not rise to the level of jeopardizing the continued 
existence of the species. As a result, a formal conference will likely 
never be required for Topeka shiners established within the NEP area. 
Nonetheless, some agencies voluntarily confer with the Service on 
actions that may affect a proposed species. Activities that are not 
carried out, funded, or authorized by Federal agencies are not subject 
to provisions or requirements in section 7.
    On January 23, 2013, the Service published a proposed rule in the 
Federal Register to establish a nonessential experimental population of 
Topeka shiner within portions of the species' historical range in 
Adair, Gentry, Harrison, Putnam, Sullivan, and Worth Counties, Missouri 
(78 FR 4813). We contacted interested parties including Federal and 
State agencies, local governments, scientific organizations, interest 
groups, and private landowners through a press release and related fact 
sheets, and emails. In addition, we notified the public and invited 
comments through news releases to local media outlets. The public 
comment period for the proposed rule closed on March 25, 2013.
    Section 10(j)(2)(C)(ii) of the Act states that critical habitat 
shall not be designated for any experimental population that is 
determined to be nonessential. Accordingly, we cannot designate 
critical habitat in areas where we establish an NEP.

Biological Information

    The Topeka shiner is a small, stout minnow. This shiner species 
averages 1.5 to 2.5 inches (in.) (3.81-6.35 centimeters (cm)) in length 
at maturity, with a maximum size around 3 in. (7.62 cm) (Service 1993, 
p. 4; Service 1998, p. 69008; Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) 
2010, p. 9). The head is short, and the mouth does not extend beyond 
the front of the eye. The eye diameter is equal to or slightly longer 
than the snout. All fins are plain except for the tail fin, which has a 
chevron-shaped black spot at its base. Dorsal and pelvic fins each 
contain 8 rays (Service 1993, p. 4; Service 1998, p. 69008; MDC 2010, 
p. 9). The anal and pectoral fins contain 7 and 13 rays, respectively, 
and there are 32 to 37 lateral line scales. Dorsally, the body is olive 
with a distinct dark stripe preceding the dorsal fin. A dusky stripe 
runs along the entire length of the lateral line (Service 1993, p. 4; 
Service 1998, p. 69008; MDC 2010, p. 9). The scales above this line are 
darkly outlined with pigment, appearing cross-hatched. Below the 
lateral line, the body lacks pigment, appearing silvery-white (Pflieger 
1975, pp. 161-162; Pflieger 1997, p. 154; Service 1993, p. 4; Service 
1998, p. 69008). Males in breeding condition have orange-red fins and 
``cheeks,'' and the dark lateral stripe diffuses. A distinct chevron-
like spot exists at the base of the caudal fin (Pflieger 1975, pp. 161-
162; Pflieger 1997, p. 154; Service 1993, p. 4; Service 1998, p. 
69008).
    Topeka shiners spawn in pool habitats over green sunfish (Lepomis 
cyanellus) and orangespotted sunfish (L. humilis) nests from late May 
through July in Missouri and Kansas (Pflieger 1975, p. 162; Pflieger 
1997, p. 154; Kerns 1983, pp. 8-9; Kerns and Bonneau 2002, p. 139; 
Stark et al. 2002, pp. 147-149). Males establish small territories on 
the periphery of these nests. It is unclear to what extent Topeka 
shiners are obligated to spawn over sunfish nests, or whether they can 
successfully utilize other silt-free areas as spawning sites. In a fish 
hatchery pond environment, Topeka shiner production was greatly 
enhanced by the introduction of orangespotted sunfish (Cook 2011, pers. 
comm.). Topeka

[[Page 42705]]

shiners feed primarily on insects, such as midges (chironomids), true 
flies (dipterans), and mayflies (ephemeropterans), but they also are 
known to feed on zooplankton such as cladocera and copepoda (Kerns and 
Bonneau 2002, p. 138). Studies from Minnesota found Topeka shiners to 
be omnivorous, ingesting a significant amount of plant material and 
detritus along with animal matter (Dahle 2001, pp. 30-32; Hatch and 
Besaw 2001, pp. 229-230).
    Topeka shiners are a schooling species found in mixed-species 
schools consisting primarily of redfin (Lythrurus umbratilis), sand 
(Notropis stramineus), common (Luxilus cornutus), and red shiners 
(Cyprinella lutrensis), and central stonerollers (Campostoma anomalum) 
(Pflieger 1997, p. 155; Kerns and Bonneau 2002, p. 139). Topeka shiners 
live a maximum of 3 years, although few survive to their third summer 
(Kerns 1983, p. 16; Dahle 2001, pp. 30-31; Kerns and Bonneau 2002, p. 
138). Topeka shiner populations appear to be more tolerant than other 
native fish species to drought conditions in Kansas (Minckley and Cross 
1959, p. 215; Barber 1986, pp. 70-71; Kerns and Bonneau 2002, p. 138). 
The Topeka shiner is tolerant of high water temperatures and low 
dissolved oxygen levels (Koehle 2006, p. 26), which may in part account 
for the Topeka shiner's apparent drought condition tolerance. Topeka 
shiners are typically found in small, low order, prairie streams with 
good water quality and cool temperatures. These streams generally flow 
all year; however, some may become intermittent during late summer and 
fall. Pool water levels and cool temperatures are maintained by 
percolation through the stream bed, spring flow, or groundwater seepage 
when surface water flow ceases in these stream reaches (Minckley and 
Cross 1959, p. 212; Pflieger 1975, p. 162; Service 1993, p. 5; Service 
1998, p. 69008). Topeka shiners generally inhabit streams with clean 
gravel, cobble, or sand bottoms. However, bedrock and clay hardpan 
covered by a thin layer of silt are not uncommon (Minckley and Cross 
1959, p. 212).
    Topeka shiners are found in pools and runs, and only rarely in 
riffles. In the northern portion of its range (Iowa, Minnesota, and 
South Dakota), the Topeka shiner is frequently found in off-channel 
aquatic habitat (Clark 2000, p. 7; Dahle 2001, p. 8; Berg et al. 2004, 
p. 1). These habitats are characterized by lack of flow, moderate 
depth, and substrate composed of a thick silt and detritus layer (Dahle 
2001, p. 9; Hatch 2001, p. 41). However, such off-channel habitat is 
rarely found along prairie headwater streams in Missouri. Occasionally, 
Topeka shiners have been found in larger streams, downstream of known 
populations, presumably as migrants (Pflieger 1975, p. 162; Service 
1993, pp. 5-9; Service 1998, p. 69008). Dahle (2001, p. 39) noted that 
the Topeka shiner is a multiple clutch spawner and reported that 
relative abundance was higher in off-channel habitat than instream 
habitat.
    The Topeka shiner was once widespread and abundant in headwater 
streams throughout the Central Prairie Region of the United States. The 
species' range historically included much of Missouri, Iowa, and 
Kansas, as well as portions of Nebraska, South Dakota, and Minnesota 
(Bailey and Allum 1962, pp. 68-70; Cross 1970, p. 254; Gilbert 1988, p. 
317). In Missouri, Topeka shiners historically occurred in most of the 
prairie and Ozark border portions of north and central Missouri. With 
the exception of a population known from Cedar Creek, a tributary of 
the Des Moines River in Clark County (Mississippi River basin), all 
Topeka shiner populations in Missouri are known from the Missouri River 
basin. The species once occupied portions of the Missouri, Grand, 
Lamine, Chariton, Crooked, Des Moines, Loutre, Middle, Hundred and Two, 
and Little Blue river basins (MDC 2010, p. 10).
    Since 1940, the species has been extirpated from many Missouri 
River tributaries, including Perche Creek, Petite Saline Creek, Tavern 
Creek, Auxvasse Creek, Middle River, Moreau River, Splice Creek, Slate 
Creek, Crooked River, Fishing River, Shoal Creek, Hundred and Two 
River, and Little Blue River watersheds (Bailey and Allum 1962, pp. 69-
70; Pflieger 1971, p. 360; MDC 2010, p. 10). Topeka shiners have been 
observed in the following Missouri streams, with the most recent 
observations in parentheses: Moniteau Creek headwaters in Cooper and 
Moniteau Counties (2008), Clear Creek (1992) and a tributary of Heath's 
Creek (1995) in Cooper and Pettis Counties, Bonne Femme Creek watershed 
in Boone County (1997), Sugar Creek and tributaries in Daviess and 
Harrison Counties (2008), Dog Branch in Putnam County (1990), and Cedar 
Creek in Clark County (1987) (MDC 2010, p. 10; Novinger 2011, pers. 
comm.). It is presumed Topeka shiners are extirpated from the Bonne 
Femme Creek watershed (MDC 2010, p. 10).
    The Topeka shiner in Missouri exists in highly disjunct populations 
in a small fraction of its historical range. Sampling specifically for 
Topeka shiners during the early 1990s found this species at only 19 
percent (14 of 72) of historical sites, and at only 15 percent (20 of 
136) of the total sites sampled in Missouri (Gelwicks and Bruenderman 
1996, p. 5). Additionally, the remaining populations were found to be 
smaller than they had been recorded historically. For example, more 
than 300 Topeka shiners were recorded among 7 locations in Bonne Femme 
Creek from 1961 to 1983. However, during comparable surveys within the 
same watershed, in the 1990s, only six Topeka shiners were identified 
at two locations (Wiechman, MDC 2012, pers. comm.). The isolation and 
small size of the remaining populations makes them highly vulnerable to 
extirpation. Currently, remaining viable populations of Topeka shiners 
can be consistently found in only two Missouri stream systems: Moniteau 
Creek headwaters in Cooper and Moniteau Counties, and Sugar Creek 
headwaters in Daviess and Harrison Counties. Several other streams have 
produced samples of a few individuals in the past 25 years, but these 
occurrences are based on a very limited number of fish (MDC 2010, p. 
10).

Effects of Establishing a Nonessential Experimental Population on 
Recovery of the Species

    Restoring an endangered or threatened species to the point where it 
is recovered is a primary goal of the Service's endangered species 
program. Although a Service recovery plan has not been issued for the 
Topeka shiner, the MDC devised State-specific recovery criteria for the 
species in their 10-year Strategic Plan for the Recovery of the Topeka 
Shiner in Missouri (MDC 2010, p. 8). The recovery goal of this plan is 
to stabilize and enhance Topeka shiner numbers in Missouri by securing 
populations in seven streams. Seven populations would be equivalent to 
one half of the known populations sampled in Missouri since 1960. Two 
main criteria were established to accomplish the goal: (1) Reduce or 
eliminate major threats and restore suitable habitat in Moniteau Creek 
and Sugar Creek watersheds, and (2) introduce (or reintroduce) and 
establish secure populations in five additional streams (MDC 2010, p. 
8). According to fisheries experts with the Missouri Department of 
Conservation and as outlined in MDC's strategic plan, the designation 
of a Topeka shiner NEP in Missouri is necessary to establish new 
populations in the State (MDC 2010, p. 26).
    The MDC (2011a, pp. 1-2; 2011b, pp. 2-3; 2011c, p. 3) established 
six criteria for identifying possible reintroduction sites in Missouri: 
(1) Propagation and

[[Page 42706]]

release sites are to be under public ownership; (2) ownership involves 
a partner committed to conservation; (3) release sites are within 
relatively close proximity to existing Topeka shiner populations; (4) 
release sites are within the overall historical range of the species in 
Missouri; (5) the overall condition of the stream (e.g., land use, 
environmental parameters, stream bank and channel stability, ecological 
and biological integrity) and watershed is suitable; and (6) the 
perceived likelihood of success of the reintroduction is high because 
there are no physical barriers that will prevent the species from 
inhabiting these sites. We have selected high-quality streams for 
reintroduction that will support growth, survival, and natural 
reproduction. Sites selected are also deemed to be adequate to 
facilitate expansion of reintroduced populations.

Location of the Nonessential Experimental Population

    Based on criteria outlined above for reintroduction sites, Little 
Creek headwaters in Harrison County; East Fork Big Muddy Creek in 
Gentry, Harrison, and Worth Counties; and tributaries of Spring Creek 
in Adair, Putnam, and Sullivan Counties have been identified for 
initial release efforts (MDC 2010, pp. 27-31). Although no historical 
records exist of Topeka shiner in the selected reintroduction sites, 
the species likely once inhabited these waters. Our conclusion is based 
on the following: (1) The species was historically known from adjacent 
watersheds--Little Creek and Big Muddy Creek are located approximately 
16-19 air miles (mi.) (25.75-30.58 air kilometers (km)) from extant 
sites in Harrison County, Missouri (Wiechman 2012, pers. comm.), and 
the Spring Creek watershed in Adair, Putnam, and Sullivan Counties is 
located approximately 11 air mi. (17.7 air km) (Novinger 2012, pers. 
comm.) from a historical location in Putnam County, Missouri; (2) 
habitat is identical or similar to currently occupied sites in Harrison 
County, Missouri; and (3) the reintroduction sites have suitable 
habitat necessary for the successful establishment of the species (MDC 
2011a, pp. 1-2).
    The reintroduction areas will include both pond (similar to off-
channel habitats used by the species elsewhere within its range) and 
stream habitats. Initial donor populations of Topeka shiner will 
originate from extant sites in Sugar Creek, Harrison County, and be 
propagated at MDC's Lost Valley Hatchery in Warsaw, Missouri. Future 
captive-breeding of the Topeka shiner would occur in pond habitats, and 
the progeny would be used to stock the NEP streams rather than 
continual use of the Lost Valley Hatchery (Novinger 2012, pers. comm.). 
The subsequent use of pond fish for ongoing reintroduction efforts will 
be dependent upon the success of propagation efforts at The Nature 
Conservancy's Dunn Ranch, MDC's Pawnee Prairie Natural Area (NA), and 
MDC's Union Ridge Conservation Area (CA) (see below) (Novinger 2012, 
pers. comm.).
Little Creek
    Little Creek is a tributary to West Fork Big Creek in the greater 
Grand River drainage. The NEP portion of the watershed is located in 
the headwaters of Little Creek and is estimated at 7,600 acres (ac) 
(3,075 hectares (ha)). The area extends from the backwaters of Harrison 
County Lake, upstream to the headwaters of Little Creek, and includes 
all tributaries in this reach from the reservoir to headwaters. 
Specific reintroduction sites will be located in select ponds (greater 
than 8 feet (2.44 m) deep) and in headwater stream reaches on Dunn 
Ranch, which is owned and operated by The Nature Conservancy (TNC). 
Dunn Ranch comprises the upper half of the watershed, and it has 
several characteristics that promote a successful reintroduction 
program (e.g., land management within the watershed is excellent) (MDC 
2011a, p. 2). Harrison County Lake (280 ac) (113.1 ha) is identified as 
the downstream extent of the NEP because it supports a popular sport 
fishery with abundant predator fishes (largemouth bass, crappie, 
channel catfish), which greatly limit the potential for downstream 
migration of cyprinid species (MDC 2011a, p. 2). Little Creek is 
approximately 16 air miles (mi.) (25.75 air kilometers (km)) from 
extant sites in Harrison County, Missouri (Wiechman 2012, pers. comm.). 
A physical barrier in Harrison County Lake downstream of the 
reintroduction site will prevent the mixing of wild and reintroduced 
populations of Topeka shiners (MDC 2011a, p. 7).
Big Muddy Creek
    Big Muddy Creek is a tributary to the East Fork Grand River 
drainage, and its watershed covers 44,339 ac. Land use is predominantly 
grassland (60 percent), containing minor components of cropland (16 
percent) and deciduous forest (15 percent). Cropland is concentrated in 
the bottomland along the mainstem of Big Muddy Creek. Grassed uplands 
are mostly used for cattle grazing and hay production. Headwaters of 
Big Muddy Creek (upper 33 percent of watershed) lie within the Grand 
River Grasslands Conservation Opportunity Area (GRGCOA). Two notable 
properties within the GRGCOA portion of Big Muddy Creek include MDC's 
Pawnee Prairie Natural Area (NA) (476 ac) (192 ha) and TNC's Pawnee 
Prairie (500 ac) (202 ha), which are cooperatively managed for native 
prairie and associated wildlife (MDC 2011b, pp. 1-2).
    The 10-year-old GRGCOA covers approximately 70,000 ac (28,327 ha) 
in northern Missouri and southern Iowa, with approximately 14,800 ac 
(5,989 ha) (21 percent) located within the Big Muddy Creek basin. In 
northern Missouri, GRGCOA is believed to have the greatest potential to 
restore a functioning tallgrass prairie ecosystem on a landscape scale. 
The MDC, TNC, the Iowa Department of Natural Resources, the Natural 
Resources Conservation Service, the Service, and interested private 
landowners are working cooperatively to restore prairie, promote soil 
conservation practices, and enhance habitat for prairie chickens in 
this area. Prescribed burning is commonly used to help meet these 
objectives. Experimental patch-burn grazing on Pawnee Prairie NA is 
also being evaluated by MDC and Iowa State University (MDC 2011b, p. 
2).
    The eastern side of MDC's Emmet and Leah Seat Memorial (Seat) 
Conservation Area (CA) (2,030 ac) (821 ha) is located within the Little 
Muddy Creek basin, a lower sub-basin to Big Muddy Creek. Little Muddy 
Creek basin is located outside the GRGCOA. Seat CA is a mixture of old 
field, grasslands, cropland, and woodland habitats. The area features 
public hunting (deer, turkey, quail, small game), primitive camping, an 
archery range, 16 fishable ponds (totaling 13 ac), and a permanent 
stream. The area is managed primarily for upland game hunting (MDC 
2011b, p. 2).
    The Big Muddy Creek watershed, from its confluence with East Fork 
Grand River upstream through all headwaters, is included in the NEP 
area for the following reasons: (1) There are no known fish barriers; 
(2) there are no reservoirs (except small farm ponds) with abundant 
predator fishes; and (3) stream size remains relatively small with 
habitat conditions comparable to those found in reaches of Sugar Creek 
where Topeka shiners occur. Big Muddy Creek is approximately 19 air 
miles (mi.) (30.58 air kilometers (km)) from extant sites in Harrison 
County, Missouri (Wiechman 2012, pers. comm.). East Fork Grand River is 
believed to effectively limit the potential for downstream migration of

[[Page 42707]]

cyprinids given its higher densities of predator fishes (predominantly 
channel catfish) and minimal cover for small fish (MDC 2011b, p. 2). A 
physical barrier in the East Fork of the Grand River downstream of the 
reintroduction site will prevent mixing of wild and reintroduced 
populations of Topeka shiners (MDC 2011b, p. 9).
Spring Creek
    Spring Creek is a tributary to the Chariton River, and its 
watershed covers 60,869 ac (24,632 ha). Land use is essentially limited 
to deciduous woodlands (41 percent) and grassland (39 percent), with 
only 10 percent cropland. Cropland is concentrated in the bottomland 
along the mainstem of Spring Creek and in the upper watershed in the 
Unionville Plains. Grassed uplands are mostly used for cattle grazing 
and hay production. The Union Ridge Conservation Opportunity Area 
(URCOA) and the Spring Creek Priority Watershed (SCPW) encompass 
roughly 75 percent of the Spring Creek watershed. MDC ownership within 
the watershed includes Morris Prairie CA (167 ac) (67 ha), Dark Hollow 
NA (315 ac) (127 ha), Union Ridge CA (8,110 ac) (3,282 ha), and 
Shoemaker CA (259 ac) (104 ha). Morris Prairie NA (47 ac) (19 ha) and 
Spring Creek Ranch NA (1,769 ac) (716 ha) are located within the 
boundaries of Morris Prairie CA and Union Ridge CA, respectively. These 
properties are managed for native prairie-savanna-woodland and 
associated wildlife (MDC 2011c, p. 1).
    The Spring Creek watershed, from its confluence with the Chariton 
River upstream through all headwaters, is included in the NEP area for 
the following reasons: (1) There are no known fish barriers; (2) there 
are no reservoirs (except small farm ponds) with abundant predator 
fishes; and (3) stream size remains relatively small, with habitat 
conditions comparable to those found in reaches of Sugar Creek where 
Topeka shiners occur. The Spring Creek watershed in Adair, Putnam, and 
Sullivan Counties is located approximately 47 air mi. (75.64 air km) 
(Wiechman 2012, pers. comm.) from extant sites in Harrison County, and 
the Spring Creek locations are not in any watershed where there are 
extant records of Topeka shiner (MDC 2011c, pp. 8-11). The Chariton 
River is believed to effectively limit the potential for downstream 
migration of Topeka shiners given its higher densities of predator 
fishes (predominantly channel catfish) and minimal cover for small fish 
(MDC 2011c, p. 2).
    Initial reintroduction sites for Topeka shiners will be in at least 
six ponds and all suitable stream reaches on MDC's Union Ridge CA. 
Subsequent monitoring of Topeka shiners will be restricted to the 
middle-Spring Creek sub-basin of the Spring Creek watershed. Within 
Spring Creek, this sub-basin is believed to offer the greatest 
potential to establish a self-sustaining population of Topeka shiners, 
and the smaller size of the middle-Spring Creek sub-basin also allows 
for regional Fisheries staff to reasonably complete monitoring efforts 
and evaluate success (MDC 2011c, p. 2).

Likelihood of Population Establishment and Survival

    A subset of the ponds on Dunn Ranch, Pawnee Prairie, and Union 
Ridge CA determined to be suitable for the propagation of Topeka 
shiners will be treated with rotenone to remove potential predators 
prior to stocking (MDC 2011a, p. 2; MDC 20011b, p. 2; MDC 2011c, p. 3). 
Spawning gravel will also be added to littoral areas (0-1 meter deep). 
The success of reproduction in these ponds will be compared to ponds 
with bare soil bottom types that did not receive spawning gravel. 
Reducing predators and increasing spawning success should increase the 
likelihood of population establishment and survival.

Addressing Causes of Extirpation

    The Topeka shiner has declined throughout its range for apparently 
numerous reasons. Reductions and disappearance of many Topeka shiner 
populations appear to be related to a combination of physical 
degradation of habitat and species interactions (MDC 2010, p. 11). 
Physical degradation of habitat is primarily related to patterns of 
land use including destruction, modification and fragmentation of 
habitat resulting from siltation, reduced water quality, tributary 
impoundment, and reduction of water levels (MDC 2010, p. 11). These 
habitat alterations may have been caused by intensive agriculture, 
urbanization, and highway construction (Minckley and Cross 1959, p. 
216; Cross and Moss 1987, p. 165; Pflieger 1997, p. 199; Tabor 1992, 
pp. 38-39; MDC 2010, p. 11).
    Bayless et al. (2003, p. 47) found that generally good water 
quality and habitat prevailed in the Moniteau Creek watershed, where 
the largest remaining populations of the Topeka shiner persist. No 
overall pattern relating Topeka shiner distribution and water quality 
was detectable; however, the Topeka shiner has never been observed in 
sub-basins of the watershed characterized by chronically extreme levels 
of urbanization, nutrient additions, and turbidity. Construction of 
watershed impoundments that limit sediment-flushing flows and provide a 
source of piscivorous predators, low-water crossings that obstruct 
animal and particle passage, and reduction of groundwater levels 
resulting from irrigation may have also contributed to the Topeka 
shiner's decline (Layher 1993, pp. 15-17; Tabor 1992, p. 39; Pflieger 
1997, p. 155; Schrank et al. 2001, p. 419; Mammoliti 2002, p. 2; MDC 
2010, p. 11).
    Species interactions, such as predation and competition with other 
fishes, have likely played a role in the decline of the Topeka shiner 
in portions of its range. Stocking piscivores such as largemouth bass 
(Micropterus salmoides), crappie (Pomoxis spp.), and bluegill (Lepomis 
macrochirus) in ponds constructed in watersheds containing the Topeka 
shiner has probably accelerated the decline of the Topeka shiner 
through predation (MDC 2010, p. 11). Additionally, Pflieger (1997, p. 
155) suggested that the introduced blackstripe topminnow (Fundulus 
notatus) and western mosquitofish (Gambusia affinis) likely compete 
with the Topeka shiner for food.
    The Topeka shiner in Missouri has declined in the presence of 
largemouth bass, bluegill, and blackstripe topminnow, and this decline 
coincided with the decline of other fishes considered generally 
tolerant of poor physical and chemical conditions but intolerant of 
species interactions (Winston 2002, p. 249). Schrank et al. (2001, p. 
413) noted that sites where the Topeka shiner had been extirpated in 
Kansas had a greater number of small impoundments in the watershed, 
longer pools, higher catch per effort of largemouth bass, and higher 
species diversity by trophic guild and richness compared to sites where 
the Topeka shiner was extant. Dahle and Hatch (2002, p. 3) determined 
the threat of predation of Topeka shiners by piscivorous fish 
(including largemouth bass) in southwest Minnesota streams was low due 
to the rarity of such predators.
    Other unidentified factors may be responsible for the loss of the 
Topeka shiner from some streams and for localized undocumented fish 
kills. Further study is needed to determine the relative significance 
of habitat degradation versus species interactions as causes for the 
decline of the Topeka shiner. Koehle (2006, p. 26) found Topeka shiners 
to be tolerant of high water temperatures and low dissolved oxygen 
levels. Additional experimental

[[Page 42708]]

studies would be particularly useful to elucidate the physiological 
tolerances and behavior of the Topeka shiner in addition to comparisons 
of the hydrology, water chemistry, physical habitat, land use 
practices, and fish communities in areas where the species persists and 
where it has been extirpated (MDC 2010, p. 11).
    All reintroduction sites are on public land, and are properly 
managed to prevent potential causes of extirpation (Pflieger 1997, pp. 
154-155). In addition to implementing management techniques that will 
sustain headwater prairie stream habitat, efforts have been undertaken 
to eliminate potential predation by nonnative piscivorous fish (MDC 
2010, pp. 26-31). Ponds on Dunn Ranch, Pawnee Prairie NA, and Union 
Ridge CA determined to be suitable for the propagation of Topeka 
shiners were treated with rotenone during the summer of 2011, to remove 
potential piscivorous predators prior to stocking (MDC 2011a, p. 2; MDC 
20011b, p. 2; MDC 2011c, p. 3). Ponds will be regularly monitored to 
assess success of removal operations. Additional treatments will be 
provided if needed to ensure ponds are free of fish predators before 
any stocking takes place. Such actions should improve the probability 
of success of reintroduction efforts. Ponds on reintroduction areas 
used in propagation efforts will likely duplicate off-channel habitats 
occupied by Topeka shiners elsewhere within the species' range (MDC 
2010, p. 26). The use of such ponds in propagation efforts will serve 
as refugia for Topeka shiners during extreme drought and may provide 
excellent sources of intra-basin transfers to promote population 
expansion (MDC 2011a, p. 2).

Release Procedures

    Initial donor populations of Topeka shiner will originate from 
extant sites in Sugar Creek, Harrison County, and from fish propagated 
at MDC's Lost Valley Hatchery in Warsaw, Missouri. NEP reintroductions 
will include pond and stream habitats within the Little Creek, Big 
Muddy Creek, and Spring Creek watersheds. Captive-reared fish will be 
stocked into stream and pond habitats by MDC fisheries personnel. 
Cooperators include MDC, TNC, and the Service. Topeka shiners that are 
subsequently and successfully reared in ponds on Dunn Ranch, Pawnee 
Prairie NA, and the Union Ridge CA will be placed into stream habitats 
following established stocking protocols described in the 
reintroduction plans (MDC 2011a, 2011b, and 2011c). We do not 
anticipate that the removal of fish would have a deleterious effect on 
the genetics of the species, because only a sample of Topeka shiners in 
Sugar Creek will be collected.

Parameters To Assess the Success of the Reintroduction

Sampling Sites
    Information on fish species composition and simple stream habitat 
conditions will be collected at sites throughout the NEP portion of the 
Little Creek, Big Muddy Creek, and Spring Creek watersheds prior to 
initial stockings. Twenty-five sites with 3 pools per site that are at 
least 200 meters (m) in length will be selected using a Generalized 
Random Tessellation Stratified (GRTS) design (http://www.epa.gov/nheerl/arm/designing/design_intro.htm).
Fish Sampling
    Each pool will be sampled once with a 15-foot (ft) (4.57-m) x 6-ft 
(1.83-m), one-eighth-inch (0.32-centimeters (cm)) mesh drag seine to 
collect fish. To be more effective in narrow pools (width less than 6 
m), the net may be shortened to facilitate sampling. Two nets hauled 
side-by-side will be used for wide pools between 10 and 20 m in width. 
All species present in a catch will be identified and categorized by 
apparent relative abundance: ``Low'' is defined by low approximate 
number (fewer than 10 fish) and low approximate percent of total catch 
(less than 5 percent); ``medium'' (10-50 fish, less than 25 percent); 
or ``high'' (greater than 50 fish, greater than 25 percent). Presence 
of juvenile Topeka shiners (less than 40 millimeters (mm) total length) 
will be noted as an indication of spawning at each site.
    Habitat--Habitat variables to be measured in the field in each pool 
include: Global Positioning System (GPS) coordinates at the downstream 
edge of the pool using Universal Transverse Mercator North American 
Datum of 1983 (UTM NAD83); water temperature and conductivity (measured 
with a handheld meter, indicates ion concentration and relative degree 
of water replenishment); pool length and representative pool width 
(measured with rangefinder or meter stick), and maximum depth (via 
meter stick or similar); visual assessments of the relative amount of 
silt or organic debris covering the stream bottom (1 = almost none, 2 = 
thin layer, 3 = thick layer) and overall substrate type/coarseness (1 = 
clay or bedrock, 2 = small rock less than 128 mm diameter/cobble, 3 = 
large rock greater than 128 mm); degree of pool isolation (1 = 
intermittent or isolated, 2 = continuous or interconnected by flowing 
water habitat); and overall level of seining difficulty (1 = not 
difficult, 2 = difficult). Visual assessments and level of difficulty 
will be based on consensus of the sampling crew. An adaptive monitoring 
approach will be used to assess the NEP population numbers and habitat 
variables; adjustments will be made, if necessary, after assessing the 
monitoring techniques.
Initial Stocking
    Ponds--Topeka shiners will be stocked at a rate of 500 fish per 
acre in designated ponds at reintroduction sites on public properties. 
All fish will come from either Sugar Creek (Harrison County) or those 
propagated at MDC's Lost Valley Hatchery. Additionally, orangespotted 
sunfish will be stocked in each pond at a rate of 25 to 50 fish per 
acre. The source of the sunfish will preferably be from Sugar Creek 
broodstock propagated at MDC's Lost Valley Hatchery or another local 
basin within the greater Grand River watershed. Green sunfish (also 
from local basins) may be substituted to meet desired stocking rates 
for sunfish if adequate numbers of orangespotted sunfish cannot be 
reasonably collected.
    Stream Reaches--Topeka shiners will also be stocked in suitable 
stream reaches within the NEP area on public properties at a minimum 
rate of 5,000 fish per mile. Based on monitoring data, a need for 
stocking sunfish would be determined for selected stream reaches on 
public properties. Sources of Topeka shiners and sunfish will be the 
same as described above for the ponds.
Supplemental Stocking
    Supplemental stockings of Topeka shiners or sunfish will be 
conducted for ponds or selected stream reaches on public properties 
within the greater NEP portion of Little, Big Muddy, and Spring creeks, 
if necessary. Criteria for such stockings will be determined by MDC 
fisheries personnel as needed and necessary to meet reintroduction 
goals outlined in MDC's 10-year Action Plan for the Topeka Shiner (MDC 
2010, pp. 29-35). Supplemental stocking rates in ponds and streams will 
occur at the same rates described for initial stockings above.

Effects on Extant Populations

    Individual Topeka shiners used to establish an experimental 
population will be supplied by MDC's Lost Valley Hatchery in Warsaw, 
MO, propagated under the Federal Fish and Wildlife Permit 
TE71730A. The donor population for the Lost Valley Hatchery is 
from sites in Sugar Creek, Harrison

[[Page 42709]]

County, Missouri. Sugar Creek's Topeka shiner population is closest to 
reintroduction sites. Typical gear used for small cyprinids will be 
used to collect Topeka shiners, and they will be held at Lost Valley 
Hatchery until they could be stocked into pond and stream habitats at 
identified reintroduction sites.
    The 10-year Strategic Plan for the Recovery of the Topeka Shiner in 
Missouri (MDC 2010, pp. 29-35) and reintroduction plans for Topeka 
shiner in the Little Creek, Big Muddy Creek, and Spring Creek 
watersheds (MDC 2011a, pp. 1-9; MDC 2011b, pp. 1-11; MDC 2011c, pp. 1-
11) contain additional information on the release procedures and 
monitoring protocols (see FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT for copies of 
this document or go to http://www.regulations.gov).
Status of the NEP Population
    We will ensure, through our section 10 permitting authority and the 
section 7 consultation process, that the use of Topeka shiner from the 
donor population within the Sugar Creek Basin for releases into Little 
Creek, Big Muddy Creek, and Spring Creek is not likely to jeopardize 
the continued existence of the species in the wild.
    The special rule that accompanies this section 10(j) final rule is 
designed to broadly exempt, from the section 9 take prohibitions, any 
take of Topeka shiners that is incidental to otherwise lawful 
activities. We provide this exemption because we believe that such 
incidental take of members of the NEP associated with otherwise lawful 
activities is necessary and advisable for the conservation of the 
species.
    This designation is justified because no adverse effects to extant 
wild or captive Topeka shiner populations will result from release of 
progeny from the Sugar Creek population. Transfer of disease or mixing 
of wild and reintroduced populations is not possible due to the 
distances involved between the donor population and reintroductions, 
the watersheds involved, and the physical barriers associated with the 
Little Creek and Big Muddy Creek watersheds. The majority of the 
reintroductions will occur on managed public land, and exemptions from 
prohibition for activities on private land are not likely to result in 
the loss of the NEP. Successful propagation of Topeka shiners in ponds 
at Dunn Ranch, Pawnee Prairie NA, and Union Ridge CA will provide a 
continual reservoir of Topeka shiners for supplemental stocking as 
needed. We expect that the reintroduction effort into Little, Big 
Muddy, and Spring creeks will result in the successful establishment of 
a self-sustaining population of Topeka shiners, which will contribute 
to the recovery of the species.

Extent to Which the Reintroduced Population May Be Affected by Land 
Management Within the NEP Watersheds

    We conclude that the effects of Federal, State, or private actions 
and activities will not pose a substantial threat to Topeka shiner 
establishment and persistence in the Little Creek, Big Muddy Creek, and 
Spring Creek watersheds, because most activities currently occurring in 
the NEP area are compatible with Topeka shiner recovery, and there is 
no information to suggest that future activities will be incompatible 
with Topeka shiner recovery. Most of the area containing suitable 
release sites with high potential for Topeka shiner establishment is 
managed by MDC or TNC through the following mechanisms:
    (1) There are existing best management practices (BMPs) for Topeka 
shiners that are followed by MDC and TNC; these practices include 
recommendations to maintain the water quality and headwater stream 
habitat (MDC 2000, p. 1).
    (2) Reintroduction plans have been developed for all NEP sites (MDC 
2011a, pp. 1-9; MDC 2011b, pp. 1-11; MDC 2011c, pp. 1-9).
    (3) All reintroduction sites are managed to maintain Topeka shiner 
habitat (MDC 2011a, pp. 1-9; MDC 2011b, pp. 1-11; MDC 2011c, pp. 1-9).
    Management issues related to the Topeka shiner NEP that have been 
considered include:
    (a) Incidental take: The regulations implementing the Act define 
``incidental take'' as take that is incidental to, and not the purpose 
of, carrying out an otherwise lawful activity (50 CFR 17.3), such as 
agricultural activities and other rural development, and other 
activities that are in accordance with Federal, Tribal, State, and 
local laws and regulations. Experimental population special rules 
contain specific prohibitions and exceptions regarding the taking of 
individual animals. By finalizing this 10(j) rule, incidental take of 
Topeka shiners within the NEP area will not be prohibited, provided 
that the take is unintentional and is in accordance with the special 
rule that is a part of this 10(j) rule. However, if we find evidence of 
intentional take of an individual Topeka shiner within the NEP that is 
not authorized by the special rule, we will refer the matter to the 
appropriate law enforcement entities for investigation.
    (b) Special handling: In accordance with 50 CFR 17.21(c)(3), any 
employee or agent of the Service, any other Federal land management 
agency, or State personnel, designated for such purposes, may in the 
course of their official duties, handle individual Topeka shiners to 
aid sick or injured individual Topeka shiners, or to salvage dead 
individual Topeka shiners. Other persons will need to acquire permits 
from the Service for these activities.
    (c) Coordination with landowners and land managers: The Service and 
our cooperators have identified issues and concerns associated with the 
Topeka shiner nonessential experimental population establishment. The 
NEP establishment was discussed with potentially affected State 
agencies, Tribal entities, local governments, businesses, and 
landowners within the reestablishment area. Affected State agencies, 
landowners, and land managers have indicated support for, or no 
opposition to, the NEP establishment, provided an NEP is designated and 
a special rule is promulgated to exempt incidental take from the 
prohibitions under section 9.
    (d) Public awareness and cooperation: We will inform the general 
public of the importance of this reintroduction project in the overall 
recovery of the Topeka shiner in Missouri. After the publication of the 
proposed rule, we hosted two public meetings on February 19 and March 
7, 2013, and informed the public of the purpose of the reintroduction, 
while emphasizing that the proposed NEP would not impact activities on 
private property. Additionally, MDC fisheries and private land 
biologists and the Service will highlight the same issues while working 
with private landowners on various landowner incentive programs or when 
providing technical assistance within the designated NEP watersheds. 
The designation of the NEP within Little Creek, Big Muddy Creek, and 
Spring Creek will provide greater flexibility in the management of the 
reintroduced Topeka shiner individuals. Affected State agencies, 
landowners, and land managers have either indicated support for, or no 
opposition to, the population establishment, provided the NEP is 
designated and a special rule is promulgated that does not prohibit 
incidental take.
    (e) Potential impacts to other federally listed species: No other 
federally listed species are present within streams where the NEP is to 
be designated; therefore, Topeka shiner reintroductions

[[Page 42710]]

will not impact any other federally listed species.
    (f) Monitoring and evaluation: Monitoring of changes in the 
distribution of Topeka shiners will be undertaken using occupancy 
modeling or a similar approach following procedural guidelines 
described in MacKenzie et al. (2006, pp. 183-224). Monitoring will be 
undertaken annually by personnel of the MDC, and results will be 
communicated to the public during future public meetings and through 
the use of outreach documents. If monitoring of released individuals 
indicates that reintroductions have been successful, additional release 
areas may be identified in a proposed rule in the Federal Register at a 
future date, following guidelines outlined in MDC's 10-year Strategic 
Plan for Recovery of the Topeka Shiner in Missouri (MDC 2010, p. 8). We 
project that it will be necessary to establish Topeka shiners in seven 
reintroduced populations to achieve recovery of the species in Missouri 
(MDC 2010, p. 26). However, this final rule covers only three of the 
seven reintroductions because the potential establishment of the 
remaining four populations will be contingent upon the success of 
initial propagation and release efforts. Reintroduction into the 
remaining sites will also follow the same protocols and guidelines 
conducted under this 10(j) rule, including the opportunity for the 
public to comment on such reintroductions in a possible future proposed 
rule.

Reintroduction Effectiveness Monitoring

    Evaluations of our reintroduction goal and objectives will require 
monitoring for at least 10 years following initial stockings. Initial 
success of the reintroduction efforts will be evaluated through annual 
sampling of ponds and selected stream reaches on public properties 
during the first 3 years following initial stockings. Pond sampling 
will include fall seining with at least five, one-fourth arc pulls 
around the shore. Catch rates (fish per pull) will be recorded for 
shiners and sunfish, and a subsample of up to 100 Topeka shiners will 
be used to evaluate natural reproduction. Topeka shiners that are less 
than 40 mm (1.6 inches) in length will be considered juveniles. Minnow 
traps may also be used as a comparison to seining data. Stream sampling 
will follow the methods described earlier for ``Baseline Data'' 
sampling. After the first 3 years, ponds stocked with Topeka shiners 
will be monitored biennially for 10 years. Stream monitoring will be 
continued annually for 10 years to measure changes in the distribution 
of Topeka shiners, other fishes in the watershed, and trends in stream 
habitat conditions. Program Presence (Hines 2006) software to estimate 
patch occupancy and related parameters will be used to evaluate changes 
in occupancy and determine Topeka shiner use of Little Creek, Big 
Muddy, and Spring Creek watersheds.

Donor Population Monitoring

    The MDC will continue to monitor the donor population of Topeka 
shiners in Sugar Creek. Monitoring of the donor population will follow 
guidelines established in the 10-Year Strategic Plan for the Recovery 
of Topeka Shiner in Missouri (MDC 2010, pp. 55-60); however, occupancy 
modeling will follow the protocols and principles in MacKenzie et al. 
(2006, pp. 183-224) to assess the status of the species. If monitoring 
detects a significant decline in donor populations, appropriate 
management action will be taken.

Monitoring Impacts to Other Listed Species

    No other federally listed species occur within ponds or streams 
targeted for reintroductions; therefore, this monitoring will not 
impact any other federally listed species.

Summary of Comments and Responses

    In the proposed rule published on January 23, 2013 (78 FR 4813), we 
requested that all interested parties submit written comments on the 
proposal by March 25, 2013. We also contacted appropriate Federal and 
State agencies, scientific experts and organizations, and other 
interested parties and invited them to comment on the proposal. 
Newspaper notices inviting general public comment were published in the 
Albany Ledger, the Bethany Republican Clipper, the Grant City Time's 
Tribune, the Kirksville Daily Express, the Milan Standard, and the 
Unionville Republican. We held a public meeting on February 19, 2013, 
in Eagleville, Missouri, and one on March 7, 2013, in Green City, 
Missouri.
    During the public comment period on the proposed rule, we received 
a total of two comment letters addressing the proposed special rule. 
During the public meetings held on February 19, 2013, and March 7, 
2013, representatives from The Nature Conservancy provided verbal 
comments on the proposed rule. All comments received supported the 
Service's proposed rule. All substantive information provided during 
the comment periods has either been incorporated directly into this 
final determination or addressed below.

Peer Review

    In accordance with our peer review policy published on July 1, 1994 
(59 FR 34270), we solicited expert opinion from two knowledgeable 
individuals with scientific expertise that included familiarity with 
Topeka shiner and its habitat, biological needs, and threats and from 
two individuals who are recognized fish biology, ecology and 
conservation experts. We received a response from one of the peer 
reviewers.
    We reviewed all comments received from one peer reviewer for 
substantive issues and new information regarding the proposed 10(j) 
determination and reintroduction of Topeka shiner into portions of the 
species' historical range in Adair, Gentry, Harrison, Putnam, Sullivan, 
and Worth Counties, Missouri. The peer reviewer concurred with our 
methods and conclusions, and commented that determining the success of 
initial reintroductions before proposing the establishment of 
additional populations was wise conservation planning. He further 
concurred that the proposed reintroductions would further the 
conservation of Topeka shiner in Missouri.

Comments From States

    Section 4(i) of the Act states, ``the Secretary shall submit to the 
State agency a written justification for his failure to adopt 
regulations consistent with the agency's comments or petition.'' The 
Missouri Department of Conservation completely supports the proposed 
action. They have been active partners with the Service in 
reintroduction efforts and much of the information, proposed locations, 
monitoring protocols, and propagation goals provided in the proposed 
rule are outlined in their 2010 State Action Plan (MDC 2010, pp. 7-60). 
The MDC State Action Plan includes guidelines for establishing seven 
populations within the species' historical range, including 
recommendations for release locations, stocking rates, site 
preparations at pond locations, and monitoring protocols for assessing 
the success of reintroduction efforts.

Public Comments

    Comment: Two commenters wholeheartedly supported the proposed rule 
and noted that such reintroductions were necessary due to habitat loss.
    Our Response: The Service concurs that reintroductions are now 
necessary due to habitat destruction that contributed to the species' 
decline.
    Comment: One commenter questioned the need to designate 
reintroductions as

[[Page 42711]]

a nonessential experimental population and the necessity to exempt from 
prohibitions any actions that could result in the incidental take of 
Topeka shiners.
    Our Response: The Service believes that the designation of a 
nonessential experimental population enables us to provide regulatory 
flexibility that will ensure continued cooperation with private 
landowners and further enhance the likelihood of success.
    Comment: One commenter questioned whether the Service would 
continue to view reintroduced fish as a nonessential experimental 
population, whether stocked fish were unable to recover on their own, 
and whether new measures and resources would be devoted to enhance the 
conservation of such individuals.
    Our Response: The designation as a nonessential experimental 
population is not contingent upon the ability of stocked fish to 
successfully reproduce in the wild. The Service's determination that 
reintroductions are not essential to the continued existence of the 
species in the wild would not change. Nonetheless, the decision to 
establish two additional reintroduced populations in an effort to meet 
MDC's goal of seven populations (two are extant) will depend on the 
success of the reintroduction sites outlined in this final rule. 
Whether reintroduced fish will subsequently reproduce on their own is 
yet to be determined. MDC and TNC are committed to managing sites 
targeted for reintroductions to the benefit of Topeka shiners to the 
maximum extent practical and logistically feasible.
    Comment: One commenter asked if a failure of reintroductions would 
reflect on the species' ability to recover in the wild.
    Our Response: The Service believes that reintroductions are 
essential to recovery of the species in Missouri. The success of 
reintroductions depends on a number of factors (e.g., population 
levels, genetics, climatic variables) and the failure of such efforts 
would not necessarily be due to a species' ability to recover on its 
own without human assistance. In the event reintroduced fish do not 
reproduce, the Service, MDC, and TNC will use an adaptive management 
framework to determine what adjustments in reintroduction strategies 
would be needed to further recovery and improve the likelihood of 
success. Without reintroduction efforts, it is possible, however, that 
the species could become extirpated in the State. Consequently, we have 
determined that reintroductions will further the conservation of the 
species.

Findings

    We followed the procedures required by the Act, NEPA, and the 
Administrative Procedure Act during this Federal rulemaking process. We 
solicited public comment on the proposed NEP designation. We have 
considered all comments received on the proposed rule before making 
this final determination. Based on the above information, and using the 
best scientific and commercial data available (in accordance with 50 
CFR 17.81), we find that releasing Topeka shiners into portions of the 
species' historical range in Adair, Gentry, Harrison, Putnam, Sullivan, 
and Worth Counties, Missouri will further the conservation of the 
species, but that this population is not essential to the continued 
existence of the species in the wild.

Required Determinations

Regulatory Planning and Review (Executive Orders 12866 and 13563)

    Executive Order 12866 provides that the Office of Information and 
Regulatory Affairs (OIRA) in the Office of Management and Budget will 
review all significant rules. The Office of Information and Regulatory 
Affairs has determined that this rule is not significant.
    Executive Order 13563 reaffirms the principles of E.O. 12866 while 
calling for improvements in the nation's regulatory system to promote 
predictability, to reduce uncertainty, and to use the best, most 
innovative, and least burdensome tools for achieving regulatory ends. 
The executive order directs agencies to consider regulatory approaches 
that reduce burdens and maintain flexibility and freedom of choice for 
the public where these approaches are relevant, feasible, and 
consistent with regulatory objectives. E.O. 13563 emphasizes further 
that regulations must be based on the best available science and that 
the rulemaking process must allow for public participation and an open 
exchange of ideas. We have developed this rule in a manner consistent 
with these requirements.

Regulatory Flexibility Act (5 U.S.C. 601 et seq.)

    Under the Regulatory Flexibility Act (as amended by the Small 
Business Regulatory Enforcement Fairness Act (SBREFA) of 1996; 5 U.S.C. 
601 et seq.), whenever a Federal agency is required to publish a notice 
of rulemaking for any proposed or final rule, it must prepare, and make 
available for public comment, a regulatory flexibility analysis that 
describes the effect of the rule on small entities (small businesses, 
small organizations, and small government jurisdictions). However, no 
regulatory flexibility analysis is required if the head of an agency 
certifies that the rule will not have a significant economic impact on 
a substantial number of small entities. SBREFA amended the Regulatory 
Flexibility Act to require Federal agencies to provide a statement of 
the factual basis for certifying that a rule will not have a 
significant economic impact on a substantial number of small entities. 
We are certifying that this rule will not have a significant economic 
effect on a substantial number of small entities. The following 
discussion explains our rationale.
    The area affected in this final includes the release areas in 
northern Missouri and adjacent areas into which Topeka shiners may 
disperse, which over time could include significant portions of the 
NEP. Because of the regulatory flexibility for Federal agency actions 
provided by the NEP designation and because of the exemption for 
incidental take in this special rule, we do not expect this rule to 
have significant effects on any activities within Federal, State, or 
private lands within the NEP. In regard to section 7(a)(2), the 
population is treated as proposed for listing and Federal action 
agencies are not required to consult on their activities. Section 
7(a)(4) requires Federal agencies to confer (rather than consult) with 
the Service on actions that are likely to jeopardize the continued 
existence of a proposed species. Results of a conference are advisory 
in nature and do not restrict agencies from carrying out, funding, or 
authorizing activities. In addition, section 7(a)(1) requires Federal 
agencies to use their authorities to carry out programs to further the 
conservation of listed species, which will apply on any lands within 
the NEP area. As a result, and in accordance with these regulations, 
some modifications to proposed Federal actions within the NEP area may 
occur to benefit the Topeka shiner, but we do not expect projects would 
be halted or substantially modified as a result of these regulations.
    This final rule will broadly authorize incidental take of the 
Topeka shiner within the NEP area, when such take is incidental to an 
otherwise lawful activity, such as agricultural activities, animal 
husbandry, grazing, ranching, road and utility maintenance and 
construction, other rural development, camping, hiking, fishing, 
hunting, vehicle use of roads and highways, and other activities in the 
NEP area that are in accordance with Federal, Tribal,

[[Page 42712]]

State, and local laws and regulations. Intentional take for purposes 
other than authorized data collection or recovery purposes will not be 
permitted. Intentional take for research or recovery purposes will 
require a section 10(a)(1)(A) recovery permit under the Act.
    The principal activities on private property near the designated 
NEP area are agriculture, rural development, and recreation. We 
conclude the presence of the Topeka shiner will not affect the use of 
lands for these purposes because there will be no new or additional 
economic or regulatory restrictions imposed upon States, non-Federal 
entities, or members of the public due to the presence of the Topeka 
shiner, and Federal agencies will have to comply only with sections 
7(a)(1) and 7(a)(4) of the Act in these areas. Therefore, this 
rulemaking is not expected to have any significant adverse impacts to 
activities on private lands within the NEP area.

Unfunded Mandates Reform Act (2 U.S.C. 1501 et seq.)

    In accordance with the Unfunded Mandates Reform Act (2 U.S.C. 1501 
et seq.):
    (1) This final rule will not ``significantly or uniquely'' affect 
small governments. We have determined and certify under the Unfunded 
Mandates Reform Act, 2 U.S.C. 1502 et seq., that this rulemaking will 
not impose a cost of $100 million or more in any given year on local or 
State governments or private entities. A Small Government Agency Plan 
is not required. As explained above, small governments will not be 
affected because the NEP designation will not place additional 
requirements on any city, county, or other local municipalities.
    (2) This rule will not produce a Federal mandate of $100 million or 
greater in any year (i.e., it is not a ``significant regulatory 
action'' under the Unfunded Mandates Reform Act). This NEP designation 
for the Topeka shiner will not impose any additional management or 
protection requirements on the States or other entities.

Takings (E.O. 12630)

    In accordance with Executive Order 12630, this final rule does not 
have significant takings implications. This rule will allow for the 
take of reintroduced Topeka shiners when such take is incidental to an 
otherwise legal activity, such as agricultural activities and other 
rural development, camping, hiking, hunting, vehicle use of roads and 
highways, and other activities that are in accordance with Federal, 
State, Tribal, and local laws and regulations. Therefore, we do not 
believe that establishment of this NEP will conflict with existing or 
proposed human activities or hinder public use of the Little Creek, Big 
Muddy Creek, and Spring Creek or its tributaries.
    A takings implication assessment is not required because this rule: 
(1) Will not effectively compel a property owner to suffer a physical 
invasion of property and (2) will not deny all economically beneficial 
or productive use of the land or aquatic resources. This rule will 
substantially advance a legitimate government interest (conservation 
and recovery of a listed species) and will not present a barrier to all 
reasonable and expected beneficial use of private property.

Federalism (E.O. 13132)

    In accordance with Executive Order 13132, we have considered 
whether this final rule has significant Federalism effects and have 
determined that a federalism impact summary statement is not required. 
This rule will not have substantial direct effects on the States, on 
the relationship between the Federal Government and the States, or on 
the distribution of power and responsibilities among the various levels 
of government. In keeping with Department of the Interior policy, we 
requested information from and coordinated development of this final 
rule with the affected resource agencies in Missouri. Achieving the 
recovery goals for this species in Missouri will contribute to its 
eventual delisting and its return to State management. No intrusion on 
State policy or administration is expected; roles or responsibilities 
of Federal or State governments will not change; and fiscal capacity 
will not be substantially directly affected. The special rule will 
operate to maintain the existing relationship between the State and the 
Federal Government and is being undertaken in coordination with the 
State of Missouri. Therefore, this rule does not have significant 
Federalism effects or implications to warrant the preparation of a 
federalism impact summary statement under the provisions of Executive 
Order 13132.

Civil Justice Reform (E.O. 12988)

    In accordance with Executive Order 12988, the Office of the 
Solicitor has determined that this rule will not unduly burden the 
judicial system and will meet the requirements of sections (3)(a) and 
(3)(b)(2) of the Order.

Paperwork Reduction Act

    Office of Management and Budget (OMB) regulations at 5 CFR 1320, 
which implement provisions of the Paperwork Reduction Act (44 U.S.C. 
3501 et seq.), require that Federal agencies obtain approval from OMB 
before collecting information from the public. This final rule does not 
contain any new information collections that require approval. OMB has 
approved our collection of information associated with reporting the 
taking of experimental populations (50 CFR 17.84) and assigned control 
number 1018-0095, which expires on May 31, 2014. We may not collect or 
sponsor, and you are not required to respond to, a collection of 
information unless it displays a currently valid OMB control number.

National Environmental Policy Act

    The reintroduction of native species into suitable habitat within 
their historical or established range is categorically excluded from 
NEPA documentation requirements consistent with 40 CFR 1508.4, 43 CFR 
46.205, 43 CFR 46.210, and 516 DM 8.5 B(6).

Government-to-Government Relationship With Tribes

    In accordance with the presidential memorandum of April 29, 1994, 
``Government-to-Government Relations with Native American Tribal 
Governments'' (59 FR 22951), Executive Order 13175 (65 FR 67249), and 
the Department of Interior Manual Chapter 512 DM 2, we have considered 
possible effects on federally recognized Indian tribes and have 
determined that there are no tribal lands within the areas targeted for 
reintroductions. Therefore, no tribal lands will be affected by this 
rule.

Energy Supply, Distribution or Use (E.O. 13211)

    Executive Order 13211 requires agencies to prepare Statements of 
Energy Effects when undertaking certain actions. This rule is not 
expected to significantly affect energy supplies, distribution, and 
use. Because this action is not a significant energy action, no 
Statement of Energy Effects is required.

References Cited

    A complete list of all references cited in this final rule is 
available at http://www.regulations.gov at Docket No. FWS-R3-ES-2012-
0087 or upon request from the Columbia, Missouri, Ecological Services 
Field Office (see FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT).

[[Page 42713]]

Authors

    The primary authors of this final rule are staff members of the 
Service's Columbia, Missouri, Ecological Services Field Office (see FOR 
FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT).

List of Subjects in 50 CFR Part 17

    Endangered and threatened species, Exports, Imports, Reporting and 
recordkeeping requirements, Transportation.

Regulation Promulgation

    Accordingly, we hereby amend part 17, subchapter B of chapter I, 
title 50 of the Code of Federal Regulations, as set forth below:

PART 17--[AMENDED]

0
1. The authority citation for part 17 continues to read as follows:

    Authority:  16 U.S.C. 1361-1407; 1531-1544; 4201-4245; unless 
otherwise noted.


0
2. Amend Sec.  17.11(h) by revising the entry for ``Shiner, Topeka'' 
under ``FISHES'' in the List of Endangered and Threatened Wildlife to 
read as follows:


Sec.  17.11  Endangered and threatened wildlife.

* * * * *
    (h) * * *

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                        Species                                                    Vertebrate
--------------------------------------------------------                        population where                                  Critical     Special
                                                            Historic range       endangered or         Status      When listed    habitat       rules
           Common name                Scientific name                              threatened
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
                                                                      * * * * * * *
              FISHES
 
                                                                      * * * * * * *
Shiner, Topeka...................  Notropis              U.S.A. (IA, KS, MN,  Entire, except       E                       654     17.95(e)           NA
                                    topeka=tristis.       MO, NE, SD).         where listed as an
                                                                               experimental
                                                                               population.
Shiner, Topeka...................  Notropis              U.S.A. (IA, KS, MN,  U.S.A. (MO--         XN              ...........           NA     17.84(n)
                                    topeka=tristis.       MO, NE, SD).         specified portions
                                                                               of Little Creek,
                                                                               Big Muddy Creek,
                                                                               and Spring Creek
                                                                               watersheds in
                                                                               Adair, Gentry,
                                                                               Harrison, Putnam,
                                                                               Sullivan, and
                                                                               Worth Counties;
                                                                               see
                                                                               17.84(n)(1)(i)).
 
                                                                      * * * * * * *
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


0
3. Amend Sec.  17.84 by adding paragraph (n) to read as follows:


Sec.  17.84  Special rules--vertebrates.

* * * * *
    (n) Topeka shiner (Notropis topeka).
    (1) Where is the Topeka shiner designated as a nonessential 
experimental population (NEP)? (i) The NEP area for the Topeka shiner 
is within the species' historical range and includes those waters 
within the Missouri counties of Adair, Gentry, Harrison, Putnam, 
Sullivan, and Worth identified below in paragraph (n)(5) of this 
section.
    (ii) The Topeka shiner is not known to currently exist in Adair, 
Gentry, Putnam, Sullivan, and Worth Counties in Missouri, or in those 
portions of Harrison County, Missouri, where the NEP is being 
designated. Based on its habitat requirements and potential predation 
by other fish predators, we do not expect this species to become 
established outside this NEP area, although there is a remote chance it 
may.
    (iii) We will not change the NEP designations to ``essential 
experimental,'' ``threatened,'' or ``endangered'' within the NEP area 
without a public rulemaking. Additionally, we will not designate 
critical habitat for this NEP, as provided by 16 U.S.C. 
1539(j)(2)(C)(ii).
    (2) What activities are not allowed in the NEP area? (i) Except as 
expressly allowed in paragraph (n)(3) of this section, all the 
prohibitions of Sec.  17.21 apply to the Topeka shiner NEP.
    (ii) Any manner of take not described under paragraph (n)(3) of 
this section is prohibited in the NEP area.
    (iii) You may not possess, sell, deliver, carry, transport, ship, 
import, or export by any means, Topeka shiners, or parts thereof, that 
are taken or possessed in violation of paragraph (n)(3) of this section 
or in violation of the applicable State fish and wildlife laws or 
regulations or the Act.
    (iv) You may not attempt to commit, solicit another to commit, or 
cause to be committed any offense defined in paragraph (n)(2)(iii) of 
this section.
    (3) What take is allowed in the NEP area? Take of this species that 
is incidental to an otherwise legal activity, such as agriculture, 
forestry and wildlife management, land development, recreation, and 
other activities, is allowed provided that the activity is not in 
violation of any applicable State fish and wildlife laws or 
regulations.
    (4) How will the effectiveness of these reintroductions be 
monitored? We will monitor reintroduction efforts to assess changes in 
distribution within each watershed by sampling ponds and streams where 
releases occur for 10 years after reintroduction. Streams will be 
sampled annually, and ponds will be sampled annually for the first 3 
years and biennially thereafter.

[[Page 42714]]

    (5) Note: Map of the NEP areas [Big Muddy Creek (Gentry, Harrison, 
and Worth Counties), Little Creek (Harrison County), and Spring Creek 
(Adair, Putnam, and Sullivan Counties)] for the Topeka shiner, follows:
BILLING CODE 4310-55-P
[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TR17JY13.000


[[Page 42715]]


    (6) Note: Map of the NEP area for the Topeka shiner in Little Creek 
watershed, Harrison County, follows:
[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TR17JY13.001


[[Page 42716]]


    (7) Note: Map of the NEP area for the Topeka shiner in Big Muddy 
Creek watershed, Gentry, Harrison, and Worth Counties, follows:
[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TR17JY13.002


[[Page 42717]]


    (8) Note: Map of the NEP area for the Topeka shiner in Spring Creek 
watershed, Adair, Putnam, and Sullivan Counties, follows:
[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TR17JY13.003


[[Page 42718]]


* * * * *

    Dated: July 9, 2013.
Michael J. Bean,
Principal Deputy Acting Assistant Secretary for Fish and Wildlife and 
Parks.
[FR Doc. 2013-17087 Filed 7-16-13; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4310-55-C