[Federal Register Volume 80, Number 210 (Friday, October 30, 2015)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 66821-66838]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2015-27639]


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DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR

Fish and Wildlife Service

50 CFR Part 17

[Docket No. FWS-R6-ES-2015-0013; FXES11130900000C6-145-FF09E42000]
RIN 1018-BA42


Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and Plants; Establishment of a 
Nonessential Experimental Population of Black-footed Ferrets in Wyoming

AGENCY: Fish and Wildlife Service, Interior.

ACTION: Final rule.

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SUMMARY: We, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service), in 
coordination with the State of Wyoming and other partners, will 
reestablish additional populations of the black-footed ferret (Mustela 
nigripes), a federally listed endangered mammal, into prairie dog 
(Cynomys spp.) occupied habitat in Wyoming and classify any 
reestablished population as a nonessential experimental population 
(NEP) under section 10(j) of the Endangered Species Act of 1973, as 
amended (Act). This final rule establishes the NEP area and provides 
for allowable legal incidental taking of the black-footed ferret within 
the defined NEP area. The best available data indicate the 
reintroduction of black-footed ferrets to Wyoming is biologically 
feasible and will promote conservation and recovery of the species. 
This NEP area and two previously designated NEPs in Wyoming 
collectively cover the entire State of Wyoming and provide consistent 
management flexibility Statewide. We are also amending the historical 
range column for the species within the List of Endangered and 
Threatened Wildlife (List) to include Mexico; the historical range 
information in the List is informational, not regulatory.

DATES: This rule becomes effective November 30, 2015.

ADDRESSES: This final rule, along with the public comments, 
environmental assessment (EA), and finding of no significant impact 
(FONSI), is available on the Internet at http://www.regulations.gov, 
Docket No. FWS-R6-ES-2015-0013. Comments and materials received, as 
well as supporting documentation used in the preparation of this rule, 
will also be available for public inspection, by appointment, during 
normal business hours at: U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Wyoming 
Ecological Services Field Office, 5353 Yellowstone Road, Suite 308A, 
Cheyenne, WY 82009; telephone 307-772-2374. 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: Mark Sattelberg, Field Supervisor, 
Telephone: 307-772-2374. Direct all questions or requests for 
additional information to: BLACK-FOOTED FERRET QUESTIONS, U.S. Fish and 
Wildlife Service, Wyoming Ecological Services Field Office, 5353 
Yellowstone Road, Suite 308A, Cheyenne, WY 82009. Individuals who are 
hearing-impaired or speech-impaired may call the Federal Relay Service 
at 1-800-877-8337 for TTY assistance.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: 

Executive Summary

Purpose of the Regulatory Action

    This is a final rule to designate the black-footed ferret (Mustela 
nigripes) nonessential experimental population (NEP) area in the State 
of Wyoming in accordance with section 10(j) of the Endangered Species 
Act (Act). This designation increases the Service's flexibility and 
discretion in managing reintroduced endangered species and allows 
promulgation of regulations deemed appropriate for conservation of the 
reintroduced species. We have determined that the issuance of this rule 
will advance the recovery of the endangered black-footed ferret. 
Specifically, this rulemaking will facilitate the establishment of 
free-ranging populations of ferrets within the species' historical 
range in Wyoming, thereby contributing to the numerical and 
distributional population targets laid out in the recovery plan's 
delisting and downlisting (reclassifying from endangered to threatened) 
criteria (U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service 2013a, p. 6)

Summary of the Major Provisions of the Regulatory Action In Question

    Under section 10(j) of the Act and our regulations at 50 CFR 17.81, 
the Service may establish an NEP, outside of the current range of the 
species, but within its historical range, for the purposes of 
reintroducing the species into formerly occupied habitat. Under this 
10(j) rule, the Service is classifying any reestablished black-footed 
ferret population in the State of Wyoming as an NEP. The Service has 
determined that this NEP designation meets the requirements of the Act; 
the population is wholly geographically separate from other 
populations, and the experimental population is not essential to the

[[Page 66822]]

continued existence of the black-footed ferret in the wild.
    This NEP designation will apply to all ferrets reintroduced to 
Wyoming, with the exception of animals found on lands managed by the 
National Park Service or U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Under a 
section 10(j) designation as an NEP, both the take prohibitions and 
consultation requirements of the Act are relaxed, easing regulatory 
burden associated with endangered species and facilitating acceptance 
by local landowners and managers.
    Once this rule takes effect, the Service, the Wyoming Game and Fish 
Department (WGFD), and other partners propose to reintroduce the black-
footed ferret at one or more additional sites within the species' 
historical range in Wyoming. The WGFD will serve as the lead agency in 
the reintroduction and subsequent management of black-footed ferret in 
Wyoming; however, WGFD will continue to coordinate closely with the 
Service on these restoration efforts.

Costs and Benefits

    Costs and benefits of a Statewide NEP designation in Wyoming will 
depend upon the number and type of reintroduction efforts initiated. 
The Black-footed Ferret Recovery Plan estimates that 35,000 acres (ac) 
(14,000 hectares (ha)) of purposefully managed prairie dog occupied 
habitat will be needed to meet Wyoming's portion of the rangewide 
habitat goal for downlisting, and 70,000 ac (28,000 ha) to meet their 
portion of the rangewide habitat goal for delisting (USFWS 2013a, Table 
8). This equates to purposeful management of approximately 2 percent of 
prairie dog occupied habitat in Wyoming to meet their portion of the 
rangewide habitat goal for delisting. We completed an environmental 
assessment for this action, which analyzes potential impacts of 
reestablishing black-footed ferrets in Wyoming under section 10(j) of 
the Act. Participation in this recovery effort is entirely voluntary 
and would not occasion any substantive change in land use by 
participants; consequently, we anticipate that the benefits of 
reintroduction will off-set the costs incurred for any recovery 
partners who choose to participate.

Background

Statutory and Regulatory Framework

    The black-footed ferret was listed as endangered throughout its 
range on March 11, 1967 (32 FR 4001), and again on June 2, 1970 (35 FR 
8491), under early endangered species legislation and was 
``grandfathered'' under the Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended 
(Act; 16 U.S.C. 1531 et seq.) without critical habitat. 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 
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 unsuitable 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 rule issued under section 10(j) of the Act (hereafter 
referred to as a 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

[[Page 66823]]

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 which 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 any 
future experimental populations of black-footed ferrets in Wyoming 
would not be essential to the continued existence of the species in the 
wild. This determination has been made because loss of an experimental 
population in Wyoming will not affect the captive population or the 24 
existing reintroduction sites in Arizona, Colorado, Kansas, Montana, 
New Mexico, South Dakota, Utah, and Wyoming; in Chihuahua, Mexico; and 
in Saskatchewan, Canada. Therefore, loss of an experimental population 
in Wyoming will not appreciably reduce the likelihood of future 
survival of the ferret rangewide.
    For the purposes of section 7 of the Act, we treat an NEP as a 
threatened species only when the NEP is located within a National 
Wildlife Refuge or unit of the National Park Service. In these areas, 
the 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 black-footed 
ferrets 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 April 10, 2015, the Service published a proposed rule in the 
Federal Register to establish a nonessential experimental population of 
black-footed ferrets in Wyoming, and announced the availability of a 
draft environmental assessment (EA) in accordance with the National 
Environmental Policy Act of 1969, as amended (NEPA) (80 FR 19263). This 
EA analyzed the potential environmental impacts associated with the 
proposed reintroduction of ferrets in Wyoming. 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 and the draft EA closed on June 9, 2015. Prior to the 
April 10, 2015, publication of the proposed rule, we also held a series 
of informational public meetings across the State in concert with 
Wyoming Game and Fish Department.
    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 endangered black-footed ferret is the only ferret species 
native to the Americas (Anderson et al. 1986, p. 24). It is a medium-
sized mustelid, typically weighing 1.4 to 2.5 pounds (645 to 1,125 
grams) and measuring 19 to 24 inches (479 to 600 millimeters) in total 
length; upper body parts are yellowish buff, occasionally whitish, feet 
and tail tip are black, and a black ``mask'' occurs across the eyes 
(Hillman and Clark 1980, p. 30).
    The black-footed ferret depends almost exclusively on prairie dogs 
for food and on prairie dog burrows for shelter (Hillman 1968, p. 438; 
Biggins 2006, p. 3). Historical habitat of the ferret coincided with 
the ranges of the black-tailed prairie dog (Cynomys ludovicianus), 
white-tailed prairie dog (C. leucurus), and Gunnison's prairie dog (C. 
gunnisoni), which collectively occupied approximately 100 million ac 
(40 million ha) of intermountain and prairie grasslands extending from 
Canada to Mexico (Anderson et al. 1986, pp. 25-50; Biggins et al. 1997, 
p. 420). This amount of prairie dog habitat could have supported 
500,000 to 1,000,000 ferrets (Anderson et al. 1986, p. 58). Since the 
late 1800s, ferret specimens have been collected from Arizona, 
Colorado, Kansas, Montana, Nebraska, New Mexico, North Dakota, 
Oklahoma, South Dakota, Texas, Utah, and Wyoming in the United States 
and Saskatchewan and Alberta in Canada (Anderson et al. 1986, pp. 25-
50). In the 1990s, we concluded that the ferret's historical range also 
included Mexico, which is within the contiguous range of the black-
tailed prairie dog as previously noted (Biggins et al. 1997, p. 420). 
This inclusion of Mexico in the ferret's historical range is described 
in more detail in the recovery plan and resulted in a ferret 
reintroduction initiated in 2001 (USFWS 2013a, pp. 16-17). This final 
rule also corrects the historical range of the species at 50 CFR 
17.11(h); this action has no regulatory impact as this column is 
strictly informational.
    Black-footed ferrets historically occurred throughout most of 
Wyoming. Specifically, black-footed ferrets occurred within black-
tailed prairie dog habitat in the eastern portion of the State and 
white-tailed prairie dog habitat in the west; black-footed ferrets did 
not occur in the extreme northwest corner of the State (Anderson et al. 
1986, p. 48). The last wild population of ferrets (from which all 
surviving black-footed ferrets descend) was discovered near Meeteetse, 
Wyoming, in 1981, after the species was presumed extinct (Clark et al. 
1986, p. 8; Lockhart et al. 2006, p. 8). Following disease outbreaks at 
Meeteetse, all surviving wild ferrets were removed from the wild 
between 1985 and 1987, to initiate a captive-breeding program (Lockhart 
et al. 2006, p. 8). No wild populations have been found since the 
capture of the last

[[Page 66824]]

Meeteetse ferret despite extensive and intensive rangewide searches; it 
is unlikely that any undiscovered wild populations remain. Therefore, 
the Service considers the State of Wyoming unoccupied by wild ferrets, 
with the exception of reintroduced populations, which alleviates the 
requirement for project proponents to conduct presence/absence surveys 
for ferrets under section 7 of the Act prior to developing projects 
(USFWS 2013c).
    In 1991, a reintroduced population of ferrets was established in 
Shirley Basin, Wyoming as an NEP in accordance with section 10(j) of 
the Act. In 2001, the Wolf Creek, Colorado, reintroduction site was 
also established as an NEP under section 10(j), and includes a small 
portion of Sweetwater County, Wyoming, in the experimental population 
area. However, no evidence of ferrets from the Wolf Creek 
reintroduction effort has been found in Sweetwater County or elsewhere 
in Wyoming. The Shirley Basin NEP persists today. The map at the 
conclusion of this rule identifies the existing NEPs in Wyoming.

Relationship of the Experimental Population to Recovery Efforts

    All known black-footed ferrets in the wild are the result of 
reintroduction efforts. There have been 24 ferret reintroduction 
projects, beginning in 1991, at Shirley Basin in the southeastern 
portion of Wyoming. Shirley Basin contains the only ferret population 
currently in Wyoming.
    The downlisting criteria for the black-footed ferret include 
establishing at least 1,500 free-ranging breeding adults in 10 or more 
populations, in at least 6 of 12 States within the historical range of 
the species, with no fewer than 30 breeding adult ferrets in any 
population; delisting criteria include establishing at least 3,000 
free-ranging breeding adults in 30 or more populations, in at least 9 
of 12 States within the historical range of the species, with no fewer 
than 30 breeding adults in any population (USFWS 2013a, pp. 61-62). In 
our recovery plan for the ferret, we suggest recovery guidelines for 
the States that are proportional to the amount of prairie dog habitat 
historically present. A proportional share for Wyoming would include 
approximately 171 free-ranging breeding adult ferrets to meet their 
portion of the rangewide numerical goal for downlisting and 341 
breeding adults to meet their portion of the rangewide numerical goal 
for delisting (USFWS 2013a, Table 8).
    Approximately 100 breeding adult black-footed ferrets have been 
established at Shirley Basin, Wyoming (USFWS 2013a, Table 8). Shirley 
Basin is one of four currently successful ferret reintroduction sites--
other successful sites include two in South Dakota and one in Arizona 
(USFWS 2013a, p. 73). We are confident that Wyoming can support 
additional successful reintroduction sites, based on the amount of 
available habitat (see the following section on Likelihood of 
Population Establishment and Survival) and a history of successful 
ferret management at Shirley Basin since 1991. Additional viable ferret 
populations within Wyoming will aid recovery of the species.

Location of the Nonessential Experimental Population Area

    The NEP area for Wyoming is Statewide, with the exception of the 
two areas where a NEP designation for black-footed ferret already 
exists (see below). In combination, these three NEPs collectively cover 
the entire State of Wyoming. Suitable habitat for ferret reintroduction 
will likely be limited to Albany, Big Horn, Campbell, Carbon, Converse, 
Crook, Fremont, Goshen, Hot Springs, Johnson, Laramie, Lincoln, 
Natrona, Niobrara, Park, Platte, Sheridan, Sublette, Sweetwater, Uinta, 
Washakie, and Weston Counties because these counties have sufficient 
prairie dog habitat to support viable ferret populations. We are not 
aware of any prairie dog complexes suitable for ferret reintroduction 
on or adjacent to Tribal lands in Wyoming. The nearest potential 
reintroduction sites to Tribal lands are two white-tailed prairie dog 
complexes--Fifteen-mile Complex near Worland in Hot Springs County and 
Sweetwater Complex near Sweetwater Station in Fremont County (Luce 
2008, pp. 29-30). Both sites are of intermediate potential for ferret 
reintroduction and are located approximately 19 miles (30 kilometers) 
from any reservation boundaries.
    Any ferrets found in Wyoming would be considered part of an NEP. 
There are many historical records of ferrets in Wyoming (Anderson et 
al. 1986, pp. 36-37). However, the species has been extirpated from the 
State since 1987, with the exception of a reintroduced ferret 
population in the Shirley Basin. As previously noted, a 10(j) 
designation already exists for the Shirley Basin ferret population in 
Albany County and portions of Carbon and Natrona Counties that are east 
of the North Platte River. A 10(j) designation also exists for the Wolf 
Creek, Colorado, ferret reintroduction site, which includes a small 
portion of Sweetwater County in Wyoming. Both of these reintroduction 
sites would remain outside the boundary of this newly designated NEP 
area and would continue to operate under their respective management 
plans. Any new reintroduction sites within this newly designated NEP 
area would require development of a new management plan approved by the 
Service.
    Several sites in Wyoming are suitable for reintroduction of black-
footed ferrets in addition to the Shirley Basin site. The main 
requirements for ferret reintroduction are: (1) An area of occupied 
prairie dog habitat that is purposefully managed and of sufficient size 
to support a viable population of ferrets (a minimum of 1,500 ac (608 
ha) of black-tailed prairie dog occupied habitat or 3,000 ac (1,215 ha) 
of white-tailed or Gunnison's prairie dog occupied habitat); (2) a 
willing landowner; and (3) a management plan that addresses sylvatic 
plague. Recent estimates of prairie dog occupied habitat in Wyoming 
include 2,893,487 ac (1,171,862 ha) in the white-tailed prairie dog 
range and 229,607 ac (92,991 ha) in the black-tailed prairie dog range 
(Van Pelt 2013, pp. 8, 14). Luce (2008, pp. 28-31) identified several 
sites in Wyoming with potential for ferret reintroduction including one 
site with potential for reintroduction within less than 3 years, 24 
sites with potential for reintroduction within 3 to 10 years, and two 
sites with long-term potential for reintroduction.

Likelihood of Population Establishment and Survival

    The Service and its partners have initiated 24 black-footed ferret 
reintroduction projects since 1991. These projects have experienced 
varying degrees of success. However, all reintroduction efforts have 
contributed to our understanding of the species' needs. Recovery of the 
species is a dynamic process that requires adaptive management.
    Some transfers of individual black-footed ferrets between 
populations will likely be necessary in perpetuity to maintain genetic 
diversity in the face of habitat fragmentation and as a management tool 
for sylvatic plague (until additional plague vaccines can be adapted 
for field use). Nevertheless, we believe that recovery can be achieved 
through a combination of expansion of ferret populations at existing 
reintroduction sites and reintroduction of ferrets at new sites, both 
of which are possible if conservation of prairie dog occupied habitat 
and disease management are aggressively pursued.
    Participation by all States within the historical range of the 
black-footed ferret is important to maximize resilience of

[[Page 66825]]

ferret populations in the wild and to allow for an equitable 
distribution of the responsibility for achieving recovery goals. 
Federal, State, and local agencies in Wyoming have been active 
participants in ferret recovery since the last wild population was 
found at Meeteetse in 1981. We estimate 100 breeding adult ferrets are 
already established at Shirley Basin. The suggested numerical recovery 
guidelines for Wyoming are 171 breeding adults to support the State's 
share of the rangewide downlisting target and 341 breeding adults to 
support the State's share of the rangewide delisting target. Meeting 
their portion of the rangewide numerical goal for downlisting would 
require establishing one additional large reintroduction site similar 
to Shirley Basin or two to three smaller sites. Meeting their portion 
of the rangewide numerical goal for delisting would require 
establishing two large sites, six small sites, or a combination of 
large, medium, and small sites, in addition to the sites previously 
established for meeting their portion of the rangewide numerical goal 
for downlisting. The Recovery Plan estimates that 35,000 ac (14,000 ha) 
of purposefully managed prairie dog occupied habitat will be needed to 
meet Wyoming's portion of the rangewide habitat goal for downlisting 
and 70,000 ac (28,000 ha) to meet their portion of the rangewide 
habitat goal for delisting (USFWS 2013a, Table 8). This equates to 
purposeful management of approximately 2 percent of prairie dog 
occupied habitat in Wyoming to meet their portion of the rangewide 
habitat goal for delisting.
    Sustaining black-footed ferret numbers during periodic outbreaks of 
sylvatic plague will require ongoing management, potentially including 
dusting prairie dog burrows with flea control powder and vaccinating 
ferrets prior to release. Additionally, research is currently underway 
investigating the potential for supporting ferrets at reintroduction 
sites by providing a vaccine to wild prairie dogs via oral bait.
    Based upon the past history of successful management at Shirley 
Basin, Wyoming, and the substantial amount of prairie dog occupied 
habitat available for additional reintroduction of black-footed 
ferrets, we believe there is a high likelihood of population 
establishment and survival in Wyoming.

Addressing Causes of Extirpation

    The black-footed ferret rangewide population declined for three 
principal reasons: (1) A major conversion of native rangeland to 
cropland, particularly in the eastern portion of the species' range, 
beginning in the late 1800s; (2) poisoning of prairie dogs to reduce 
competition with domestic livestock for forage, beginning in the early 
1900s; and (3) the inadvertent introduction of sylvatic plague, which 
causes mortality to both ferrets and prairie dogs, beginning in the 
1930s. The combined effects of these three factors resulted in a 
rangewide decrease in the amount of habitat occupied by prairie dogs 
from approximately 100 million ac (40.5 million ha) historically to 1.4 
million ac (570,000 ha) in the 1960s (USFWS 2013a, pp. 23-24). This 
habitat loss and fragmentation resulted in a corresponding decrease in 
ferrets, which require relatively large areas of prairie dog occupied 
habitat to maintain viable populations. By the 1960s, only two remnant 
ferret populations remained--in Mellette County, South Dakota, and in 
Meeteetse, Wyoming (Lockhart et al. 2006, pp. 7-8).
    Wyoming has had less rangeland converted to cropland than most 
other States within the historical range of the black-footed ferret 
(U.S. Department of Agriculture 2005, Table 1). Consequently, prairie 
dog poisoning and sylvatic plague are likely the two primary reasons 
for extirpation of ferrets from the State. Extensive poisoning of 
prairie dogs had begun in Wyoming by 1916 (Clark 1973, p. 89), and 
plague was present in Wyoming by 1936 (Eskey and Haas 1940, p. 4). 
Occupied prairie dog habitat reached a low in Wyoming in the early 
1960s when approximately 64,336 ac (26,056 ha) were reported (U.S. 
Bureau of Sport Fisheries and Wildlife 1961, Table 1). However, large-
scale poisoning of prairie dogs no longer occurs, and the use of 
poisons is more closely regulated than it was historically. Improved 
plague management, including dusting prairie dog burrows with 
insecticide to control fleas (the primary vector for plague 
transmission), is also being used, and the development of vaccines that 
prevent plague in prairie dogs and black-footed ferrets is underway. 
The most recent surveys estimate 3,123,094 ac (1,264,853 ha) of 
occupied prairie dog habitat in Wyoming (Van Pelt 2013, pp. 8, 14). 
This considerable increase over the past 50 years indicates that there 
has been a reduction in threats and improved management of prairie 
dogs. This increases the likelihood of successful reintroduction of 
ferrets in Wyoming.

Release Procedures

    The Service will cooperate with other Federal agencies, WGFD, 
Tribes, landowners, and other stakeholders to develop, implement, and 
maintain long-term site management before, during, and after releases. 
Partners will collect habitat data for site evaluation and 
documentation of baseline conditions and develop management plans for 
prairie dogs and plague prior to any release of black-footed ferrets. 
All applicable laws regulating the protection of ferrets will be 
followed (see section on Management Considerations and Protective 
Measures, below). Partners will develop annual site-specific 
reintroduction plans and submit them to the Service by mid-March as 
part of an annual ferret allocation process (which allocates available 
captive ferrets for release in specific numbers for specific sites). 
Reintroduction plans will include current estimates of prairie dog 
numbers and density, disease prevalence and management, and proposed 
reintroduction and monitoring methods. If the reintroduction plan 
covers years subsequent to the initial releases, it will also include a 
recent description of the status of ferrets on the site.
    All reintroduction efforts will follow techniques described in 
Roelle et al. (2006) as appropriate, which presents recommendations for 
managing captive populations, evaluating potential habitat, 
reestablishing populations, and managing disease. Captive-reared black-
footed ferrets exposed to prairie dog burrows and natural prey in 
outdoor preconditioning pens prior to their release survive in the wild 
at significantly higher rates than cage-reared, non-preconditioned 
ferrets (Biggins et al. 1998, pp. 651-652; Vargas et al. 1998, p. 77). 
Therefore, all captive-reared ferrets released within the Wyoming NEP 
area will receive adequate preconditioning in outdoor pens at the 
National Black-footed Ferret Conservation Center or at another facility 
approved by the Service. We will vaccinate all ferrets for canine 
distemper and sylvatic plague, and mark them with passive integrated 
transponder tags prior to release. We will transport ferrets to the 
reintroduction site and release them directly from transport cages into 
prairie dog burrows. In conformance with standard ferret reintroduction 
protocol, no fewer than 20 captive-raised or wild-translocated ferrets 
will be released at any reintroduction site in Wyoming during the first 
year of the project. Twenty or more additional animals will be released 
annually for the next 2 to 4 years. Released ferrets will be excess to 
the needs of the captive-breeding program.

[[Page 66826]]

Donor Stock Assessment and Effects on Captive or Wild-Born Donor 
Populations

    Eighteen black-footed ferrets were captured from the last wild 
population at Meeteetse, Wyoming in 1985-1987, and used to initiate a 
captive-breeding program (Lockhart et al. 2006, pp. 11-12). Of the 18 
captured ferrets, 15 individuals, representing the genetic equivalent 
of 7 distinct founders, produced a captive population that is the 
foundation of present recovery efforts (Garelle et al. 2006, p. 4). 
Extant populations, both captive and reintroduced, descend from these 
``founder'' animals. The purpose of the captive-breeding program is to 
provide animals for reintroduction to achieve recovery of the species, 
while maintaining maximum genetic diversity in the captive population 
(USFWS 2013a, p. 81).
    Black-footed ferrets used to establish any experimental population 
in the Wyoming NEP area will either be translocated wild-born kits from 
another self-sustaining reintroduced population (such as Shirley Basin) 
or come from one of six captive-breeding populations currently housed 
at the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service National Black-footed Ferret 
Conservation Center near Wellington, Colorado; the Cheyenne Mountain 
Zoological Park, Colorado Springs, Colorado; the Louisville Zoological 
Garden, Louisville, Kentucky; the Smithsonian Biology Conservation 
Institute, Front Royal, Virginia; the Phoenix Zoo, Phoenix, Arizona; or 
the Toronto Zoo, Toronto, Ontario.
    The Service and its partners maintain a captive-breeding population 
of approximately 280 breeding adult black-footed ferrets in order to 
provide a sustainable source of ferrets for reintroduction. The 
captive-breeding facilities produce approximately 120 to 240 juvenile 
ferrets annually. Approximately 80 juveniles are retained annually at 
these facilities for future captive-breeding purposes. The remaining 
juveniles are allocated annually for reintroduction, or occasionally 
for research (USFWS 2013a, p. 81). Ferrets selected for reintroduction 
under this final rule will be genetically redundant to animals 
maintained for captive-breeding. Consequently, any loss of reintroduced 
ferrets will not impact the genetic diversity of the species. Only 
ferrets that are surplus to the needs of the captive-breeding program 
are used for reintroduction into the wild. Therefore, any loss of an 
experimental population in the wild will not threaten the survival of 
the species as a whole. Therefore, there will be no effects on donor 
populations beyond those which are intended and accounted for in the 
management of wild or captive populations.

Status of Proposed Population

    The effects of using black-footed ferrets from any captive or wild-
born donor populations for releases into the Wyoming NEP area will be 
examined through our section 10 permitting authority and section 7 
consultation process to ensure that their use is not likely to 
jeopardize the continued existence of the species in the wild. We based 
this determination on the following: (1) As an NEP, black-footed 
ferrets utilized for reintroductions are not essential to the survival 
of the species; (2) The 10(j) rule is expected to result in the 
creation of additional reintroduction areas in Wyoming; (3) Measures to 
avoid and minimize the incidental take of black-footed ferrets will be 
implemented within reintroduced populations; (4) The 10(j) rule will 
likely constitute a beneficial effect for the black-tailed and white-
tailed prairie dog, as it includes measures to reduce the incidence of 
sylvatic plague, the primary factor responsible for the decline of 
these two species. This will result in an increase in the reproduction, 
numbers and distribution of the black-footed ferret, and therefore not 
resulting in reducing appreciably the likelihood of survival and 
recovery.
    Additional successful reintroductions of ferrets are necessary for 
recovery of the species. Once this rule takes effect (see DATES, 
above), any releases of ferrets in Wyoming will be part of an NEP 
because of the need for increased management flexibility, which will 
encourage landowner participation and alleviate concerns regarding 
possible land use restrictions.
    This 10(j) rule is designed to broadly exempt from the section 9 
take prohibitions any take of black-footed ferrets 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 black-footed ferret populations will result from 
release of progeny from either a wild or captive donor population onto 
a new reintroduction site. We also expect that any reintroduction 
efforts in Wyoming will result in the successful establishment of a 
self-sustaining population, which will contribute to the recovery of 
the species.

Management Considerations and Protective Measures

    We conclude that the effects of Federal, State, or private actions 
and activities will not pose a substantial threat to black-footed 
ferret establishment and persistence in Wyoming because most activities 
currently occurring in the NEP area are compatible with ferret recovery 
and there is no information to suggest that future activities would be 
incompatible with ferret recovery. We base this conclusion on 
experience at previous reintroduction sites, where incidental take 
associated with otherwise lawful activities such as ranching and energy 
development has been low. Poisoning of prairie dogs can occur in 
prairie dog habitat and could result in habitat loss or incidental take 
of ferrets. However, poisoning within a reintroduction site is very 
restricted, occurring only in specific instances where protection of 
residences, resources, or infrastructure on participating farm and 
ranch lands becomes necessary. These considerations are planned for in 
cooperation with participating landowners and stakeholders and 
documented in site-specific management plans that must be approved by 
the Service before ferrets are allocated to any reintroduction sites. 
Poisoning with the anticoagulant Rozol[supreg] at current and future 
reintroduction sites, however, is prohibited by Environmental 
Protection Agency label that governs use of Rozol (USFWS 2013a, p. 50). 
Prairie dog control programs may also be necessary at the boundary 
between ferret reintroduction sites and adjacent properties in order to 
maintain local support for the reintroduction. If boundary control is 
necessary because prairie dogs have encroached onto adjacent properties 
where prairie dogs are not wanted, it is carefully managed. Lethal 
control of prairie dogs should not be employed at a level that would 
reduce prairie dog occupied habitat to the extent that the viability of 
any potential ferret population is compromised--a minimum of 1,500 ac 
(608 ha) of black-tailed prairie dog occupied habitat or 3,000 ac 
(1,215 ha) of white-tailed or Gunnison's prairie dog occupied habitat 
is needed to sustain a viable ferret population.
    The Service will coordinate closely with WGFD and other partners in 
the management of any black-footed ferrets in Wyoming that are 
reintroduced under section 10(j) authorities. Management of ferret 
populations in the Wyoming NEP

[[Page 66827]]

area will be guided by provisions in site-specific management plans 
developed by partners (WGFD) with input from any affected landowners 
and stakeholders such as U.S Animal and Plant Health Inspection 
Service, U.S. Bureau of Land Management (BLM), U.S. Forest Service 
(USFS), Natural Resources Conservation Service, Wyoming Department of 
Agriculture, or potentially affected Tribes. The responsibilities and 
commitments of the participating agencies will be documented in the 
management plan. As mentioned above, management plans must be approved 
by the Service before ferrets are allocated to any reintroduction 
sites.
    Management plans will be site-specific with management strategies 
based on site-specific characteristics (e.g., prairie dog distribution 
and expansion potential, sylvatic plague history, ferret movement 
barriers) and land use patterns (e.g., livestock grazing, recreational 
use, mineral development potential). Management plans are tailored to 
achieve conservation objectives using management strategies compatible 
with existing ranch, livestock, and mineral extraction operations so 
that neither lifestyles nor income potential are negatively affected. 
We expect that future management plans under this 10(j) rule will have 
many similarities to past plans for other reintroduction sites. Some 
examples of management strategies for Shirley Basin in Wyoming include: 
(1) Attempting to schedule ferret releases so overlap with hunting 
opening weekends does not occur; (2) allowing landowners and land 
managers the opportunity to cooperatively decide the number and 
distribution of prairie dogs (and correspondingly ferrets) that may 
occur on privately owned and leased lands; (3) annually obtaining 
landowner approval of human activity necessary for actions specified in 
this plan; (4) biannual review of the progress of ongoing activities by 
all concerned parties. Other management plans may contain provisions 
similar to these, although the specific content and details will vary 
by site.
    Most of the area containing suitable release sites with high 
potential for ferret establishment is managed by the BLM, the USFS, or 
private landowners, and is currently protected through the following 
mechanisms.
    (1) Federal Land Policy and Management Act of 1976 (43 U.S.C. 1701 
et seq.)--The BLM's mission is set forth under the Federal Land Policy 
and Management Act, which mandates that BLM manage public land 
resources for a variety of uses, such as energy development, livestock 
grazing, recreation, and timber harvesting, while protecting the 
natural, cultural, and historical resources on those lands. The BLM 
manages listed and sensitive species under guidance provided in the BLM 
MS-6840 Manual--Special Status Species Management. The Manual directs 
BLM to proactively conserve species listed under the Act and the 
ecosystems upon which they depend, ensure that all actions authorized 
or carried out by BLM are in compliance with the Act, and cooperate 
with the planning and recovery of listed species. The BLM has 
experience in managing the black-footed ferret at four reintroduction 
sites in four States that occur at least in part on lands it manages, 
including Shirley Basin, Wyoming, and Wolf Creek, Colorado, which 
includes a small portion of Sweetwater County, Wyoming. Therefore, we 
anticipate appropriate management by BLM on any future ferret 
reintroduction sites that include BLM lands.
    (2) National Forest Management Act of 1976, as amended (16 U.S.C. 
1600 et seq.)--The National Forest Management Act instructs the USFS to 
strive to provide for a diversity of plant and animal communities when 
managing national forest lands. The USFS identifies species listed as 
endangered or threatened under the Act, including the black-footed 
ferret, as Category 1 species at risk based on rangewide and national 
imperilment. The USFS has experience in managing the black-footed 
ferret at one reintroduction site in South Dakota that occurs at least 
in part on USFS lands. Therefore, we anticipate appropriate management 
by the USFS on any future ferret reintroduction sites that include USFS 
lands.
    (3) Wyoming State Law--The responsibilities of WGFD are defined in 
Wyoming Statute section 23-1-103, which instructs the WGFD to provide 
an adequate and flexible system for the control, management, 
protection, and regulation of all Wyoming wildlife. The Statute defines 
the black-footed ferret as a protected animal. The WGFD also defines 
the ferret as a ``species of greatest conservation need'' (Wyoming Game 
and Fish Department 2010, pp. IV-2-10-IV-2-13). This final rule has 
been developed in cooperation with the State to address any concerns 
and initiate additional ferret reintroductions in Wyoming. The WGFD has 
successfully managed the ferret at the Shirley Basin Reintroduction 
site since 1991. Therefore, we anticipate appropriate management by 
WGFD on any future ferret reintroduction sites in Wyoming.
    Management issues related to the black-footed ferret Wyoming NEP 
area 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, State, Tribal, and 
local laws and regulations. Experimental population rules contain 
specific prohibitions and exceptions regarding the taking of individual 
animals. Once this 10(j) rule becomes effective, incidental take of 
black-footed ferrets within the Wyoming NEP area will not be 
prohibited, provided that the take is unintentional and is in 
accordance with this 10(j) rule. However, if there is evidence of 
intentional take of this species within the NEP area that is not 
authorized by the 10(j) rule, we would 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 or of a State wildlife agency may in 
the course of their official duties, handle black-footed ferrets to aid 
sick or injured ferrets, or to salvage dead ferrets. Employees or 
agents of other Federal, Tribal, or State agencies would need to 
acquire the necessary permits from the Service for these activities.
    (c) Coordination with landowners and land managers: This NEP 
designation under section 10(j) of the Act was discussed with 
potentially affected State and Federal agencies, Tribes, local 
governments, and other stakeholders within the expected reestablishment 
area. These agencies, landowners, and land managers have either 
indicated support for, or no opposition to, the establishment of future 
populations, provided an NEP is designated and a rule is promulgated to 
exempt incidental take from the section 9 take prohibitions. The 
Service and the WGFD will continue to coordinate to ensure local 
communities are fully engaged in any future black-footed ferret 
reintroduction efforts.
    (d) Public awareness and cooperation: We informed the general 
public of the importance of this reintroduction project for the overall 
recovery of the black-footed ferret through the proposed rule and 
associated public meetings. We notified a comprehensive list of 
stakeholders of the meetings including affected Federal and State 
agencies, Tribal entities, local governments, landowners, nonprofit 
organizations,

[[Page 66828]]

and other interested parties. The comments we received are listed in 
the final EA, were included in the formulation of alternatives 
considered in the NEPA process, and are considered in this final rule 
designating an NEP area for reintroduced black-footed ferrets in 
Wyoming. Designation of the NEP area will increase reintroduction 
opportunities and provide greater flexibility in management of the 
reintroduced ferret. The NEP designation is necessary to secure needed 
cooperation of the State, landowners, and other interests in the 
affected area.
    (e) Potential impacts to other federally listed species: There are 
several federally listed, proposed (any species of fish, wildlife, or 
plant that is proposed in the Federal Register to be listed), and 
candidate (the Service has concluded that they should be proposed for 
listing) species in Wyoming. These species are identified in the 
following table.

  Table 1--Federally Listed, Proposed, and Candidate Species in Wyoming
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                             Current status in Wyoming
                 Species                           under the act
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Black-footed ferret (Mustela nigripes)..  Shirley Basin NEP.
Gray wolf (Canis lupus).................  NEP in Wyoming.
Whooping crane (Grus americana).........  Endangered.
Interior least tern (Sterna antillarum).  Endangered.
Piping plover (Charadrius melodus)......  Threatened.
Wyoming toad (Bufo baxteri).............  Endangered.
Bonytail (Gila elegans).................  Endangered.
Colorado pikeminnow (Ptychocheilus        Endangered.
 lucius).
Humpback chub (Gila cypha)..............  Endangered.
Razorback sucker (Xyrauchen texamus)....  Endangered.
Kendall Warm Springs dace (Rhinichthys    Endangered.
 osculus thermalis).
Pallid sturgeon (Scaphirhynchus albus)..  Endangered.
Blowout penstemon (Penstemon haydenii)..  Endangered.
Canada lynx (Lynx canadensis)...........  Threatened, with critical
                                           habitat.
Grizzly bear (Ursus arctos horribilis)..  Threatened.
Preble's meadow jumping mouse (Zapus      Threatened.
 hudsonius preblei).
Yellow-billed cuckoo (Coccyzus            Threatened, with critical
 americanus).                              habitat proposed.
Colorado butterfly plant (Gaura           Threatened, with critical
 neomexicana coloradensis).                habitat.
Desert yellowhead (Yermo xanthocephalus)  Threatened, with critical
                                           habitat.
Western prairie fringed orchid            Threatened.
 (Platanthera praeclara).
Ute ladies'-tresses (Spiranthes           Threatened.
 diluvialis).
Northern long-eared bat (Myotis           Threatened.
 septentrionalis).
Greater sage-grouse (Centrocercus         Candidate at the time of the
 urophasianus).                            proposed 10(j) rule, recently
                                           found to be not warranted for
                                           listing.
Fremont County rockcress (Boechera        Candidate.
 pusilla).
Whitebark pine (Pinus albicaulis).......  Candidate.
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Nearly all of the aforementioned species have habitat requirements 
such as forests, dunes, wetlands, or river systems that differ from the 
grassland prairie habitat requirements for the black-footed ferret. The 
only species that may be affected by reintroduction projects for the 
ferret in the Wyoming NEP area, other than the ferret, is the greater 
sage-grouse. At the time of the proposed 10(j) rule, the greater sage-
grouse was a candidate species. Recently, the Service determined that 
the greater sage-grouse is no longer warranted for listing under the 
Act (80 FR 59858; October 2, 2015). The greater sage-grouse requires 
large, interconnected expanses of sagebrush (Connelly et al. 2004, p. 
3-2; Stiver et al. 2006, p. I-2; Knick and Connelly 2011, p. 1). 
Habitat loss, degradation, and fragmentation are the primary stressors 
to the greater sage-grouse. A detailed description of the species' 
natural history, seasonal habitats, threats, and population trends can 
be found in the Service's recent 12-month not warranted finding (80 FR 
59858; October 2, 2015). The ferret also requires large expanses of 
intact habitat, although it is dependent on prairie dogs, not 
sagebrush. However, some prairie dog habitat, particularly white-tailed 
prairie dog habitat, contains sagebrush.
    Direct adverse effects to greater sage-grouse can occur from the 
application of zinc phosphide-based pesticides to manage expanding 
prairie dog colonies at reintroduction sites. Because the application 
of zinc phosphide will occur in July through February, greater sage-
grouse (males, hens, and broods) may ingest zinc phosphide and become 
sickened or die. We determined that the issuance of this Federal rule 
to designate the black-footed ferret as a nonessential experimental 
population in the State of Wyoming in accordance with section 10(j) of 
the Act is not likely to jeopardize the continued existence of the 
greater sage-grouse based on the following: (1) The use of zinc 
phosphide is anticipated to be relatively rare at reintroduction sites, 
which minimizes exposure risk; (2) zinc phosphide can only be applied 
by a certified pesticide applicator, which minimizes misapplication and 
exposure risk to non-targeted species; and (3) there are approximately 
43,000,000 acres of estimated greater sage-grouse habitat in Wyoming. 
To meet delisting guidelines in the Black-footed Ferret Recovery Plan, 
there must be 70,000 acres of prairie dog habitat. Thus, most greater 
sage-grouse habitat in Wyoming would not be impacted by the proposed 
action.
    (f) Monitoring and Evaluation: Monitoring is a required element of 
all black-footed ferret reintroduction projects. The following types of 
monitoring will be conducted.
    Reintroduction Effectiveness Monitoring: Partners will monitor 
population demographics and potential sources of mortality, including 
plague, annually for 5 years following the last release using spotlight 
surveys, snow tracking, other visual survey techniques, and possibly 
radio-telemetry of some individuals. Thereafter, demographic and 
genetic surveys will be completed periodically to track population 
status. Surveys will incorporate methods to monitor breeding success 
and long-term survival rates. In general, the Service anticipates that 
monitoring will be

[[Page 66829]]

conducted by the lead for each reintroduction site, which in Wyoming 
will be the WGFD and participating partners. The WGFD will present 
monitoring results in their annual reports.
    Donor Population Monitoring: Ferrets used for reintroduction will 
either be from the captive-breeding population or translocated from 
another viable reintroduction site. Ferrets in the captive-breeding 
population are managed and monitored in accordance with the Association 
of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) Black-footed Ferret Species Survival Plan 
(SSP[supreg]). A breeding population of 280 animals will be maintained 
to provide a sustainable source of ferrets for reintroduction. The AZA 
SSP[supreg] Husbandry Manual provides up-to-date protocols for the 
care, propagation, preconditioning, and transportation of captive 
ferrets, and is used at all participating captive-breeding facilities. 
Ferrets may also be translocated from other reintroduction sites (which 
also originated from captive sources), provided their removal will not 
create adverse impacts upon the donor population and provided 
appropriate permits are issued in accordance with our regulations (50 
CFR 17.22) prior to their removal. Population monitoring will be 
conducted at all donor sites.
    Monitoring Impacts to Other Listed Species: We do not expect 
impacts to other federally listed species (see discussion under (e), 
above). The greater sage-grouse is the only species with habitat that 
might overlap with the black-footed ferret. However, we do not expect 
ferret reintroduction efforts to adversely impact greater sage-grouse 
for the reasons previously discussed. The WGFD conducts annual 
monitoring of the greater sage-grouse statewide. Additional monitoring 
will occur on non-federal lands enrolled in the Wyoming Candidate 
Conservation Agreement with Assurances for the greater sage-grouse and 
on Federal lands enrolled in the Wyoming Candidate Conservation 
Agreement for the greater sage-grouse.

Summary of Comments and Responses

    In the proposed rule published on April 10, 2015 (80 FR 19263), we 
requested that all interested parties submit written comments on the 
proposal by June 9, 2015. We also contacted appropriate federal and 
state agencies, Tribes, scientific experts and organizations, and other 
interested parties and invited them to comment on the proposal.
    During the public comment period on the proposed rule, we received 
a total of 29 comment letters addressing the proposed rule and several 
comments that were not relevant to the proposed rule. All substantive 
information provided during 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 three knowledgeable 
individuals with scientific expertise that included familiarity with 
the black-footed ferret and its habitat, biological needs, recovery 
efforts, and threats. We received responses from all three of the peer 
reviewers.
    We reviewed all comments we received from the peer reviewers for 
substantive issues and new information regarding the establishment of a 
nonessential experimental population designation for black-footed 
ferret in the State of Wyoming. In general, the peer reviewers stated 
that the proposed rule provided an accurate summation of the best 
available scientific information on the biology, current status, and 
recovery efforts for black-footed ferret, and that the proposed 
establishment of an NEP area in Wyoming to facilitate black-footed 
ferret reintroduction is well supported by the best available 
scientific information. The peer reviewers generally concurred with our 
methods and conclusions, and provided additional information, 
clarifications, and suggestions to improve the final rule. Peer 
reviewer comments are addressed in the following summary and 
incorporated into the final rule as appropriate.

Peer Reviewer Comments

    (1) Comment: One reviewer and several commenters were concerned 
with the statement in the proposed rule that the WGFD would have 
primary management responsibilities for ferret reintroduction in 
Wyoming. The reviewer stated that ``[t]urning primary authority for 
management of a federally endangered species over to a state, even 
under 10(j), would be unprecedented as far as I can determine''.
    Our Response: The Service will maintain authority for black-footed 
ferrets under the Act until the species is recovered and subsequently 
delisted. That said, as is true for nearly every endangered species 
recovery effort, recovery is a collaborative effort with success 
depending on the coordination and collaboration of a multitude of 
partners working towards a common goal. The WGFD is anticipated to play 
a lead role in recovery for the black-footed ferret in Wyoming under 
this 10(j) rule, likely conducting the actual on-the-ground ferret 
reintroduction and management work. This situation is in no way 
unprecedented, as on-the-ground reintroduction efforts under 10(j) are 
often managed by non-Service groups, including state agencies, non-
governmental organizations, and Tribes. The Service considers 
participation by the WGFD invaluable to this recovery effort given 
their long history with black-footed ferret conservation and recovery, 
leadership in successful reintroductions in Shirley Basin (also under a 
10(j) rule), intimate knowledge of local biological conditions, and 
familiarity with local landowners and other stakeholders.
    This cooperative approach is consistent with our 2013 Memorandum Of 
Uderstanding (MOU), which committed the Service, the State of Wyoming, 
and other Federal partners (``Parties'') to work collaboratively to 
develop and implement the NEP area designation (WGFD and USFWS 2013). 
This MOU includes the following guiding principles, among others: (1) 
The Parties agree that they will collaboratively identify, and 
prioritize, prospective ferret reintroduction sites in Wyoming outside 
of the current 10(j) areas (i.e., Shirley Basin and Wolf Creek); and 
(2) the Parties agree that future reintroductions of the ferret will be 
based on mutually affirmed prioritization of prospective reintroduction 
sites (WGFD and USFWS 2013, pp. 5-6).
    The Service will continue to play an active role in black-footed 
ferret recovery in Wyoming as outlined in the MOU and through the 
Service's oversight of the black-footed ferret allocation process. The 
Service determines, based on reintroduction proposals, which 
reintroduction sites receive captive born ferrets (i.e., kits) for 
release into the wild. Ferret allocation decisions made by the Service 
are based on the biological and scientific merit of the proposals, the 
suitability of proposed reintroduction sites, management capabilities 
of reintroduction programs, comprehensiveness of site work plans, the 
overall contribution to species recovery each project represents, and 
other considerations that may be unforeseen. Furthermore, the Service 
must be kept apprised of any post allocation changes in project design, 
direction, management, or field implementation of ferret reintroduction 
projects. No ferrets may be translocated, relocated, or removed from 
the wild (except for emergency health concerns)

[[Page 66830]]

without prior Service notification and authorization.
    (2) Comment: One peer reviewer stated that our determination of 
``nonessential'' is misleading and erroneous, as it is was based on the 
conclusion that a loss of the proposed NEP in Wyoming will not 
appreciably reduce the likelihood of future survival of the ferret 
rangewide (i.e., at the 23 reintroduction sites outside of Wyoming). 
This reviewer further stated that ``it is not whether the loss of a 
future population in Wyoming will affect the survival of another 
population somewhere else, but whether that population is intended to 
contribute to the recovery of the species.'' Another peer reviewer and 
several commenters also questioned how all populations in Wyoming could 
be designated as nonessential despite the anticipated future 
``essential'' role of such populations for the recovery of the species. 
In other words, some collection of reintroduction sites will 
necessarily comprise an ``essential'' part of the future recovered 
population.
    Our Response: We agree with the contention that successfully 
reintroduced populations under this 10(j) rule will be a central part 
of black-footed ferret recovery. This is consistent with the Act's 
requirements for 10(j) experimental populations. Specifically, the Act 
requires that experimental populations further the conservation of the 
species. Conservation is defined by the Act as the use of all methods 
and procedures which are necessary to bring any endangered or 
threatened species to the point at which the measures provided pursuant 
to the Act are no longer necessary (16 U.S.C. 1532(3)). In short, 
experimental populations must further the species' recovery.
    Under the revised Black-footed Ferret Recovery Plan, the species 
may be downlisted from endangered to threatened when at least 10 ferret 
populations, each with at least 30 breeding adults, are established. 
Thus, downlisting is based on biological parameters (e.g., number of 
breeding adults, number of successful sites). The recovery plan makes 
no distinction as to how these populations are designated once 
biological criteria are satisfied; each population will contribute 
toward recovery of the species whether it is designated as endangered, 
essential experimental, or nonessential experimental. The importance of 
future reintroduction sites to recovery, however, does not mean these 
populations are ``essential'' under section 10(j) of the Act. All 
reintroduction efforts are undertaken with the primary goal to move a 
species toward recovery. If importance to recovery was equated with 
essentiality, no reintroductions would qualify for nonessential status. 
This interpretation would conflict with Congress' expectation that ``in 
most cases, experimental populations will not be essential'' (H.R. 
Conference Report No. 835, supra at 34; USFWS 1984) and our 1984 
implementing regulations, which indicated an essential population will 
be a special case and not the general rule (USFWS 1984).
    (3) Comment: Two reviewers and one commenter expressed concern over 
the reliance of the black-footed ferret recovery program on the captive 
population. Selection acts on captive populations, potentially 
resulting in animals adapted for survival in captivity and maladapted 
for life in the wild.
    Our Response: We agree that reliance on captive populations for 
species conservation is never ideal for numerous reasons, including 
those noted by the reviewers. Unfortunately, there are few alternatives 
for the black-footed ferret at this time. Thus, we recognize that it is 
vitally important for species persistence to expedite the establishment 
of reintroduction sites and wild populations whenever possible. For 
this reason, our recovery strategy emphasizes the rapid expansion of 
ferret recovery in the wild (USFWS 2013a, p. 68). Working in close 
coordination with the WGFD and other stakeholders, we fully expect 
establishment of additional wild populations in Wyoming under this 
10(j) rule. An increase in successful reintroductions will result in a 
reduced reliance on the captive population in the future and allow for 
translocations of wild individuals to more fully support recovery 
efforts.
    (4) Comment: One reviewer stated that due to a potential for 
genetic adaptation to the captive environment, the assumption by the 
Service that replacing wild animals with captive animals is equivalent 
to maintaining wild populations is biologically and legally flawed. The 
reviewer further stated that this assertion should be clarified and/or 
deleted entirely.
    Our Response: Both in our proposal and this final rule, we state 
that animals lost during reintroduction efforts can be readily replaced 
through captive breeding, which produces juvenile ferrets in excess of 
the numbers needed to maintain the captive-breeding population. We do 
not make the assumption that replacement of wild animals with captive 
animals is equivalent to maintaining wild populations. It is always the 
Service's goal for reintroductions to be successful and contribute to 
recovery, which means the establishment of secure, self-sustaining 
populations in the wild. We recognize, however, that reintroductions 
are, by their nature, experiments whose outcome is uncertain. The point 
we are making with the above statement that ``animals lost during 
reintroduction can be readily replaced through captive breeding'' 
reflects the very real conservation status of the black-footed ferret; 
at this time, loss of the captive population could be catastrophic to 
the species, whereas the reverse is not true. The captive population of 
ferrets has been responsible for establishment of every wild ferret 
population in existence today, either wholly or primarily. Animals lost 
at reintroduction sites can be replaced by reintroduction of captive-
bred individuals. We expect this trend will continue for the 
foreseeable future. Specifically, the captive population will remain 
important until establishment of the at least 30 wild populations 
needed for recovery is accomplished; both as a source of animals for 
reintroduction and as insurance against stochastic environmental events 
in wild populations (e.g., plague epizootics). Conversely, the 
populations in the Wyoming NEP can be established or re-established 
from the captive population. Thus, until the species is recovered, the 
Service considers the captive population to be far more important to 
the survival of the species in the wild than the planned Wyoming NEP. 
Whether the Wyoming NEP is essential to recovery of the species ``in 
the wild'' was discussed in more detail under Comment 2.
    (5) Comment: One reviewer suggested that instead of giving reasons 
why the NEP is not ``essential'' the Service should indicate its 
intentions for the experimental population as follows: ``Once the 
ferret population reaches its delisting goal this 10(j) rule will be 
mooted, as the species will no longer require protection of the [Act]. 
The FWS will then enter into post-delisting monitoring and management 
agreements with Wyoming to ensure adequate persistence of and 
protection for reintroduced populations of ferrets to ensure that 
ferrets are no longer subject to relisting under the [Act].''
    Our Response: We are required under the Act to designate any 
experimental population as either ``essential'' or ``nonessential.'' 
Our nonessential determination is based on the best scientific and 
commercial data available and thus meets the requirements under the 
Act. This population satisfies all requirements for a 10(j) population 
and meets the standards for a nonessential

[[Page 66831]]

population under this section of the Act. Although post-delisting 
management agreements are beyond the scope of this 10(j) rule, we do 
anticipate reintroductions authorized by this rule to advance the 
conservation of the species and that this progress may contribute to an 
eventual reclassification to threatened or full species recovery and 
delisting. Prior to delisting, it is likely we would pursue management 
agreements to provide us adequate confidence that recovery progress 
achieved will be maintained. This is consistent with the Black-footed 
Ferret Recovery Plan, which calls for the completion and implementation 
of a post-delisting monitoring and management plan, in cooperation with 
the states and Tribes, to ensure recovery goals are maintained (USFWS 
2013a, p.6).
    (6) Comment: Two reviewers and several commenters were concerned 
about the potential use of anticoagulant poisons like Rozol[supreg] to 
control prairie, dogs due to the potential for secondary toxicities to 
predators like black-footed ferrets. While they recognized that details 
on anticoagulant poison use may be more appropriately addressed in 
site-specific plans, they thought a framework for how the Service 
intends to approach this issue needed to be set out in this rule.
    Our Response: Anticoagulant poisons can result in secondary impacts 
to any wildlife that consumes a poisoned prairie dog. In 2012, the 
Service completed formal consultation with the Environmental Protection 
Agency (EPA) to evaluate potential impacts to endangered and threatened 
species, including the black-footed ferret, from the use of the 
anticoagulant Rozol[supreg] to poison prairie dogs. Label restrictions 
resulting from this process prohibit application of Rozol[supreg] 
within current and future ferret recovery sites. It is a violation of 
Federal law to use a pesticide in a manner inconsistent with its 
labeling.
    The Service would have no additional section 7 consultation role 
regarding the use of Rozol[supreg] at reintroduction sites in Wyoming, 
except in National Parks and National Wildlife Refuges. However, 
through the allocation process of providing captive ferrets to 
reintroduction sites, we determine which sites will receive ferrets. We 
do not support the use of Rozol[supreg] or other anticoagulants for 
control of prairie dogs, particularly at black-footed ferret 
reintroduction sites. Boundary control of prairie dogs at 
reintroduction sites is sometimes necessary because prairie dogs have 
encroached onto adjacent properties where prairie dogs are not wanted. 
If boundary control becomes necessary to maintain relations with 
neighboring landowners, we support the use of zinc phosphide in these 
instances. In comparison with Rozol[supreg], which has a high risk of 
secondary poisoning of wildlife, zinc phosphide-based pesticides pose 
fewer risks to non-target wildlife when properly applied by a certified 
pesticide applicator as required by label.
    (7) Comment: One reviewer expressed concern over WGFD management of 
future reintroductions, noting that WGFD has not consistently conducted 
annual monitoring for the Shirley Basin black-footed ferret population.
    Our Response: Long-term wildlife management and monitoring programs 
seldom are able to achieve 100 percent success when it comes to meeting 
monitoring goals. Potential impediments to meeting monitoring goals 
include such things as changing staff workloads and turnover, budget 
limitations, inclement weather, and equipment failures, among many 
others. Overall, we believe that during the last 20 years, WGFD has 
demonstrated a meaningful commitment to black-footed ferret 
conservation in Shirley Basin through data reporting, multiple 
scientific publications on the black-footed ferret, plague management, 
and the release of over 500 ferrets into the area. Therefore, we are 
confident in their ability to manage future reintroduction efforts in 
Wyoming.
    (8) Comment: One reviewer and several commenters requested we 
provide a specific timeline for completion of the identification and 
evaluation of reintroduction sites.
    Our Response: Stakeholders in Wyoming essentially viewed the 
implementation of a Statewide 10(j) rule as a prerequisite to 
participation in any ferret recovery actions in the State of Wyoming. 
Thus, implementation of this rule is only a first step in advancing 
black-footed ferret recovery in Wyoming. Under the 2013 MOU guiding 
principles, the WGFD and the Service will collaboratively identify and 
prioritize prospective reintroduction sites in the Wyoming NEP area. 
The steps that must be taken before a site can receive ferrets are 
substantial and calculated with the goal of selecting sites with the 
best potential of success. Steps include, but are not limited to: (1) 
Identification of interested and willing landowners; (2) biological 
evaluation of each site's potential to support at least 30 ferrets; and 
(3) creation of site-specific management plans (see Location of the 
Nonessential Experimental Population Area). At this time we do not have 
precise information on locations of all suitable habitat, nor have any 
prospective reintroduction sites been approved yet for allocation of 
captive-bred ferrets. Therefore, we believe reporting a specific 
timeline would be arbitrary and premature.
    Implementation of this Statewide 10(j) rule will significantly 
reduce the administrative burden that would have been associated with 
development of multiple site-specific rules. In this case, the WGFD is 
not precluded from coordinating simultaneously with multiple landowners 
and evaluating sites for potential reintroduction. We believe under 
this Statewide 10(j) rule, the process for black-footed ferret 
reintroductions in Wyoming will be effectively streamlined. 
Encouragingly, following publication of the proposed rule in the 
Federal Register, WGFD has reported that a number of landowners have 
approached them expressing interest in establishing a ferret population 
on their land following implementation of the 10(j) rule.
    (9) Comment: One reviewer and several commenters wanted greater 
detail on specific reintroduction and sylvatic plague management plans.
    Our Response: Many of the specific questions raised in the comments 
are answered under Release Procedures, above. Development of management 
plans for reintroductions and sylvatic plague are a cooperative effort 
between the Service, WGFD, other federal agencies, landowners, and 
affected stakeholders. Final plans must be approved by the Service as 
part of the ferret allocation process. Ferret allocation decisions are 
based on the considerations mentioned in our response to Comment 1. We 
expect that future site-specific management plans will have many 
similarities to past plans for other reintroduction sites.
    (10) Comment: One reviewer and several commenters wondered if the 
public would have an opportunity to comment on potential reintroduction 
sites in the future.
    Our Response: There is no formal public comment period for 
potential reintroduction sites or site-specific management plans, but 
there will be opportunities for public involvement. The Service and the 
WGFD recognize that local involvement is important to the success of 
recovery efforts and the long-term conservation of the black-footed 
ferret in Wyoming. Consequently, as required in the 2013 MOU, the 
Service and WGFD will coordinate to ensure local communities, including 
potentially affected landowners, stakeholder groups, local governments, 
and Tribes are fully engaged in any future black-footed ferret 
reintroduction

[[Page 66832]]

efforts. Future management plans may contain provisions similar to the 
following, although the specific content and details will vary by 
reintroduction site. Public involvement may include but is not limited 
to the following: (1) Public meetings to outreach to all interested 
parties on determining potential reintroduction sites; (2) Coordination 
with all interested parties after a reintroduction site is determined; 
(3) Direct involvement of management plan development which could 
include state and federal agencies, County Commissioners, landowners, 
companies, academia, and other stakeholders, and tribes; (4) Allowing 
landowners and land managers the opportunity to cooperatively decide 
the number and distribution of prairie dogs (and correspondingly black-
footed ferrets) that may occur on privately owned and leased lands; (5) 
Annually obtaining landowner approval of human activity necessary for 
actions specified in a plan; (6) Biannual review of the progress of 
ongoing activities by all concerned parties; (7) Direct involvement any 
interested parties in monitoring activities on reintroduction sites.
    (11) Comment: Two reviewers questioned whether the estimates for 
the number of black-footed ferrets currently in the wild were the most 
current estimates available.
    Our Response: As is true for many species, and particularly with 
one that is largely fossorial (i.e., lives mostly underground) and 
nocturnal like the black-footed ferret, determining precise population 
numbers is challenging. Black-footed ferret populations are difficult 
to count due to their remote locations, difficult accessibility, 
nocturnal habits, small population sizes, and logistical problems and 
costs associated with the requisite field work. More importantly, 
ferret populations can also fluctuate significantly from one year to 
the next depending on the presence or absence of plague and active 
plague management, or due to other environmental factors like drought. 
Accordingly, a tally of adult ferret numbers at any one point in time 
is likely a poor indicator of recovery progress. We view ferret 
population estimates at most sites as minimum numbers because of the 
aforementioned issues.
    We stated in the EA and proposed rule that there are approximately 
418 breeding adult ferrets in the wild, including approximately 102 
breeding adults in the reintroduced population at Shirley Basin, 
Wyoming, as was reported in the 2013 Black-footed Ferret Recovery Plan 
(USFWS 2013a, Table 2). The reviewers are correct that the value for 
Shirley Basin is an estimate derived from surveys conducted in 2010. A 
more recent report gives the same estimate of approximately 100 
breeding adults in Shirley Basin based on the 2010 survey and 
approximately 295 breeding adults rangewide (Black-footed ferret 
Recovery and Implementation Team Conservation Subcommittee Report 2014, 
Table 1). The current Shirley Basin estimate is based on the best 
available science and is meant to provide the most accurate assessment 
of the magnitude of the population size rather than the precise number 
of individuals, which can fluctuate considerably for the reasons given 
above.
    (12) Comment: One reviewer questioned the meaning of the phrase 
``occupied prairie dog habitat,'' noting that one could ask ``occupied 
by what?''
    Our Response: When we use the phrase ``occupied prairie dog 
habitat,'' we mean areas that are occupied by prairie dogs. A review of 
the scientific literature on prairie dogs shows both ``occupied prairie 
dog habitat'' and ``prairie dog occupied habitat'' are commonly used 
terms to indicate habitat that is occupied by prairie dogs. While we 
agree with the comment in general as prairie dog colonies can and 
typically are ``occupied'' by a number of other species, in this case 
we believe, however, it is clear by the context that what is being 
referenced in this rule is occupancy by prairie dogs.
    (13) Comment: One reviewer questioned the criteria for evaluating 
potential reintroduction sites. The reviewer stated that occupancy of 
habitat by prairie dogs is a simplistic criterion considering prairie 
dog populations can fluctuate significantly over time, expanding and 
contracting for a number of reasons, including plague.
    Our Response: Determining occupancy by prairie dogs is simply a 
first step in determining the potential for reintroduction site. A 
large number of other factors are considered for determining the 
suitability of proposed reintroduction sites. Foremost in consideration 
for prioritizing black-footed ferret allocations (i.e., young ferrets 
available for release into the wild) is the size, density, health, and 
overall stability of potential ferret habitat. Additional non-
biological requirements for ferret allocations include a willing 
landowner and a management plan that addresses sylvatic plague.
    (14) Comment: One reviewer agreed with our identification of plague 
as a major impediment to the recovery of black-footed ferret, but noted 
that the management of plague only ``during periodic outbreaks of 
sylvatic plague'' understates the problem. Recent research has shown 
that plague has serious negative effects on prairie dog populations not 
only during major ``outbreaks'' but also when present at lower levels.
    Our Response: Currently, management for sylvatic plague is carried 
out largely by dusting the impacted area with pesticides meant to kill 
the fleas that host the plague bacteria. This type of management can be 
effective. We agree, however, that this approach is not ideal, as it is 
typically only applied after plague has been detected, which is often 
too late, as mortality of ferrets and prairie dogs has already been 
significant. A new oral vaccine, currently being field tested, could 
provide a more effective, less expensive way to protect prairie dogs.
    The Service recognizes that understanding how to control or 
preferably eradicate sylvatic plague is critical to black-footed ferret 
conservation. The complex dynamics of sylvatic plague are not fully 
understood. As scientific knowledge of sylvatic plague advances, that 
information will be incorporated into management plans that address 
sylvatic plague. Although research projects are not required program 
elements for ferret allocations to reintroduction sites, the Service 
encourages, supports, and may give greater priority to projects that 
incorporate research elements addressing specific ferret recovery 
problems or questions.
    (15) Comment: One reviewer wanted to see affirmation that the Wind 
River Tribes concur with the application of 10(j) to tribal lands 
within the Wind River Indian Reservation. The reviewer stated that 
Tribes may have an interest in maintaining full protection for ferrets 
within their boundaries.
    Our Response: We contacted the Eastern Shoshone and Northern 
Arapaho Tribes of the Wind River Indian Reservation and invited them to 
comment on the proposal. We did not receive comments from either Tribe. 
It is unlikely that these two Tribes have adequate prairie dog occupied 
habitat that would be suitable for a future reintroduction of the 
black-footed ferret. This does not preclude coordination with the 
Tribes in the future if circumstances change.

Comments From the State of Wyoming

    (16) Comment: The State of Wyoming and several commenters were 
concerned that the Service could change the NEP designation to 
experimental essential,

[[Page 66833]]

endangered, or threatened in the future. The Service should clarify 
under what conditions a change in designation could occur.
    Our Response: We do not foresee the need to change the NEP 
designation for any reintroduced black-footed ferret population. One of 
the benefits of an NEP designation is that it provides flexibility in 
the regulatory requirements in the area where the reintroduction 
occurs. This regulatory relief is important because, prior to 
reintroduction, these sites had no regulation related to the subject 
species because the species was not present. Thus, State, tribal, and 
private landowners typically resist endangered species reintroductions 
that bring with them new Federal regulation. This resistance can be 
nearly insurmountable. Fewer black-footed ferret reintroductions would 
have been initiated during the past 20 years without the added 
flexibility of nonessential experimental designations. To date, 11 
black-footed ferret reintroductions have occurred through use of 
section 10(j) designated NEP areas in the United States, including in 
the Shirley Basin in Wyoming (USFWS 2013a, pp. 38-39). We do not 
believe ferrets would likely exist today in Wyoming if not for their 
nonessential experimental designation in Shirley Basin and the 
resulting reduced regulatory burden.
    All determinations on essentiality are made prior to any 
reintroduction action being taken. It is instructive that Congress did 
not put requirements in section 10(j) to reevaluate the classification 
after a reintroduction has occurred. While our regulations require a 
``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'' (50 CFR 17.81(c)(4)), this has not been interpreted as 
requiring reevaluation and reconsideration of sites' nonessential 
experimental status (USFWS 1991, 1994, and 1996). We believe 
Congressional intent was to ensure that our partners could rely upon 
the original rules promulgated for the reintroduction effort. We also 
contend that retracting the nonessential experimental designation 
following implementation of this 10(j) rule would be extremely 
detrimental to ferrets in Wyoming and the partnerships that sustain 
them. Furthermore, such an alteration of the regulatory framework post-
reintroduction would undermine future reintroduction efforts.
    Typically, endangered species recovery efforts, including those for 
ferrets, depend on a myriad of partners working together to accomplish 
a common goal. In most cases, and particularly for ferrets, recovery 
would not be possible without substantial partner efforts. In looking 
back on ferret recovery over the last 25 years, we have gone from no 
ferret populations known in the wild to having 24 ferret reintroduction 
sites in the wild, with 17 of those sites continuing to have ferrets 
through 2015. Hundreds of partners have made this possible. We believe 
these are not trivial accomplishments. At nearly all the 24 ferret 
reintroduction sites, it is our partners who accomplish the actual on-
the-ground ferret reintroduction and management work. The same will be 
true in this case, with WGFD taking the lead on implementation of 
reintroductions. Absent those partnerships, there would be far fewer 
reintroductions and likely no ferrets in Wyoming. Accordingly, the 
Service highly values those local partnerships that accomplish ferret 
recovery and is understandably cautious about undertaking actions that 
disrupt those partnerships.
    In 2009, the Service received a petition to reclassify three 
reintroduced black-footed ferret populations from nonessential 
experimental to endangered, including the Shirley Basin NEP in Wyoming. 
This petition was submitted pursuant to section 553 of the 
Administrative Procedure Act (5 U.S.C. 553) (WildEarth Guardians et al. 
2009). The Service strongly believed and continues to believe that the 
ramifications of such an action would be detrimental to ferrets at 
these sites and the partnerships that sustain them. As we anticipated, 
the petition had immediate negative impacts to ferret recovery, 
prompting landowners to withdraw support for another planned 
reintroduction in Wyoming. The Service denied the petition in 2010 
(USFWS 2010).
    As mentioned above, we do not foresee the need to change the NEP 
designation for any wild black-footed ferret population. The captive 
population is crucial to survival of the species in the wild at this 
time, and likely for the foreseeable future. However, a substantial 
loss of the captive population is highly improbable, as captive ferrets 
have been purposefully dispersed among six facilities, protecting the 
species from a single catastrophic event. In any circumstance, any 
change in the 10(j) listing would require a new proposed rule, a public 
comment period (including, if requested, public hearings), public 
meetings, NEPA compliance, and other documentation prior to publication 
of a final rule to change or abandon the NEP designation.
    (17) Comment: The State of Wyoming and several commenters requested 
that the Service provide assurance that if the 10(j) designation 
changed in any respect, the Service would remove the ferrets.
    Our Response: Under 50 CFR 17.84(g)(12), the following will apply 
to any reintroduced ferret populations under this 10(j) rule:

    ``We will not include a reevaluation of the ``nonessential 
experimental'' designation for these populations during our review 
of the initial five year reintroduction program. We do not foresee 
any likely situation justifying alteration of the nonessential 
experimental status of these populations. Should any such alteration 
prove necessary and it results in a substantial modification to 
black-footed ferret management on non-Federal lands, any private 
landowner who consented to the introduction of black footed ferrets 
on their lands may rescind their consent, and at their request, we 
will relocate the ferrets pursuant to paragraph (g)(4)(iii) of this 
section.''

    (18) Comment: The State of Wyoming requested assurance from the 
Service that there will be thorough and appropriate consultation before 
any ferrets are brought into Wyoming under this rule.
    Our Response: We fully expect that all reintroductions efforts 
under this 10(j) rule will be conducted in close coordination with the 
WGFD, landowners, and affected stakeholders. This coordination will 
take place under previsions in the 2013 MOU and as part of the ferret 
allocation process.

Public Comments

    (19) Comment: Two commenters stated that the Service's current 
prairie dog range estimate is not based on the best available science 
and information. Specifically the commenters point out that the Service 
claims there to be nearly 3.1 million acres of prairie dog occupied 
habitat in Wyoming, but previously (in USFWS 2009) has stated that the 
prairie dog occupies 2.4 million acres across its entire range.
    Our Response: It is important to clarify that the 2.4 million acres 
of occupied habitat estimated in USFWS 2009 is a rangewide estimate for 
black-tailed prairie dogs (one of four species of prairie dog) only. 
Our estimate in the proposed rule and above of the amount of prairie 
dog occupied habitat in Wyoming includes estimates for both species of 
prairie dog that occur in Wyoming. We cite recent estimates of prairie 
dog occupied habitat in Wyoming at 2,893,487 ac (1,171,862 ha) in the 
white-tailed prairie dog range and 229,607 ac (92,991 ha) in the black-

[[Page 66834]]

tailed prairie dog range (Van Pelt 2013, pp. 8, 14). Black-tailed 
prairie dogs have a much smaller estimated range in the State of 
Wyoming while the estimated white-tailed prairie dog habitat in Wyoming 
is much larger. The combined estimate for both species of prairie dog 
in Wyoming is based on the best available scientific information.
    (20) Comment: Two commenters noted that aerial surveys overestimate 
occupied prairie dog habitat by as much as 94 percent (Sidle et al. 
2012). One commenter stated that if the estimate of prairie dog habitat 
is inaccurate then the area to which black-footed ferrets may be 
introduced is exaggerated. The commenter also alleged that the Service 
has used inaccurate data to formulate population goals of both the 
black-footed ferret and black tailed prairie dogs.
    Our Response: We acknowledge that aerial surveys can overestimate 
the extent of active or occupied prairie dog habitat and that there is 
some degree of error attached to any such estimate. Overestimates of 
prairie dog colonies result because observers may have difficulty 
distinguishing active, occupied burrows from unoccupied burrows from 
the air. Researchers continue working to refine methods for accurately 
assessing active prairie dog populations from the air.
    It is important to note, however, that in the case of black-footed 
ferret reintroductions, aerial surveys are used only as a rough guide 
for identifying potential black-footed ferret habitat for 
reintroductions. Measurable fluctuations in prairie dog occupancy are a 
part of the natural dynamics of prairie dog populations, but 
fluctuations can be especially pronounced in areas experiencing plague 
or subjected to poisoning. The presence of unoccupied burrows 
conclusively indicates that prairie dogs occupied the area sometime in 
the recent past. Thus, while we may use aerial surveys as rough 
estimate of prairie dog habitat, we do not rely on aerial surveys to 
identify areas with the highest biological potential for black-footed 
ferret reintroductions. Reintroduction sites are chosen instead based 
on a number of other factors including the size, density, health, and 
overall stability of the prairie dog occupied habitat, information that 
is gathered from ground surveys and local knowledge of prairie dog 
colonies in a given area.
    States are encouraged to contribute to recovery goals in proportion 
to the amount of historical ferret habitat (i.e., prairie dog colonies) 
that once occurred on these lands. The Black-footed Ferret Recovery 
Plan estimates that 35,000 ac (14,000 ha) of purposefully managed 
prairie dog occupied habitat will be needed to meet Wyoming's portion 
of the rangewide habitat goal for downlisting and 70,000 ac (28,000 ha) 
to meet their portion of the rangewide habitat goal for delisting 
(USFWS 2013a, Table 8). For the State of Wyoming, this equates to 
purposeful management of approximately 2 percent of the estimated 
prairie dog habitat in Wyoming to meet their portion of the rangewide 
habitat goals for delisting. The best available science supports our 
estimates of occupied prairie dog habitat and potentially suitable 
habitat for black-footed ferret reintroductions.
    (21) Comment: Several commenters were concerned with potential 
impacts of black-footed ferret reintroductions on federal oil and gas 
lessees. They asserted that because federal oil and gas leases are 
interests in real property, the holder of a federal oil and gas lease 
is no different than a private surface owner.
    Our Response: We concluded in the proposed rule and the EA that the 
most prevalent land use activities, including energy development, 
currently occurring in the NEP area are compatible with ferret recovery 
and that there is no information to suggest that future activities 
would be incompatible with ferret recovery. Federal oil and gas leases 
will certainly be considered and lessees likely consulted during 
development of reintroduction proposals for the ferret allocation 
process. Current and future land management, principal land uses, and 
potential for change or land management conflicts are serious 
considerations for all potential reintroduction sites. Reintroduction 
allocation decisions are made based on a potential reintroduction 
site's probability for long-term success. We have little interest in 
allocating ferrets, an exceptionally limited resource, to areas where 
land management conflicts will be an obvious problem, either currently 
or in the future.
    (22) Comment: One commenter stated that black-footed ferrets are 
believed to be predators of sage-grouse nests and therefore will have 
negative impacts on sage-grouse.
    Our Response: Based on our extensive experience with both species 
in the wild and our review of the scientific literature, we are not 
aware of any evidence that black-footed ferrets are predators on sage-
grouse at any life stage, including nests (eggs), adults, or chicks. 
Black-footed ferrets depend almost exclusively on prairie dogs for 
food.

Summary of Changes From Proposed Rule

    In our proposed rule, the language under paragraph (g)(9)(viii) 
stated that ``Any black-footed ferret found within the Wyoming 
Experimental Population Area will be considered part of the 
nonessential experimental population after the first breeding season 
following the first year of black-footed ferret release. A black-footed 
ferret occurring outside of the State of Wyoming would initially be 
considered as endangered, but may be captured for genetic testing.''
    As noted by one reviewer, this language was included in earlier 
10(j) rules at a time when the discovery of other extant wild ferret 
populations was still considered plausible. There have been no verified 
reports of any extant black-footed ferret individuals or populations in 
any prairie dog complex since the discovery of the last known wild 
black-footed ferret population near Meeteetse, Wyoming, in 1981. 
Recently, the Service issued a `block clearance' letter for the ferret 
in the State of Wyoming (Service 2013c). Block clearance provides an 
acknowledgement that the likelihood of identifying ferrets in Wyoming, 
outside of those resulting from reintroductions, is distinctly minimal. 
Our revision of paragraph (g)(9)(viii) reflects this determination. 
Thus, once this 10(j) rule becomes effective, any black-footed ferret 
found within the Wyoming NEP Experimental Population Area will be 
considered part of the nonessential experimental population. A black-
footed ferret that disperses beyond the boundaries of the nonessential 
experimental population takes on the status of that area (endangered, 
unless within another nonessential experimental population area).

Finding

    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 we received on the proposed rule and the draft 
EA 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 establishing 
this Wyoming NEP area will further conservation of the species, but 
that any future experimental populations of black-footed ferrets in 
Wyoming would not be essential to the continued existence of the 
species in the wild.

[[Page 66835]]

    Therefore, we are finalizing our proposal to designate most of 
Wyoming (the remainder of the State of Wyoming not covered under past 
NEPs) as an NEP area under section 10(j) of Act. The result of this 
designation and the two previous designations is that all black-footed 
ferrets found within the entire State of Wyoming are considered as an 
NEP. Black-footed ferrets will be managed under the associated NEP 
regulations, allowing greater management flexibility. We anticipate 
this will encourage partners to undertake new reintroductions, 
advancing the conservation and recovery of the species.

Required Determinations

Regulatory Planning and Review (Executive Orders 12866 and 13563)

    Executive Order 12866 provides that the Office of Information and 
Regulatory Affairs (OIRA) 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. 
801 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 (i.e., 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. The 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 certify 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 that will be affected by this rule includes release sites 
in Wyoming and adjacent areas in Wyoming into which black-footed 
ferrets may disperse. Because of the regulatory flexibility for Federal 
agency actions provided by the NEP designation and the exemption for 
incidental take in the 10(j) rule, we do not expect this rule to have 
significant effects on any activities within Federal, State, or private 
lands within the NEP. 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. However, because the NEP is, by definition, not 
essential to the survival of the species, conferring will likely never 
be required for the black-footed ferret populations within the NEP 
area. Furthermore, the 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 would 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 black-footed ferret, but we do not expect projects to be 
halted or substantially modified as a result of these regulations.
    This 10(j) rule will broadly authorize incidental take of the 
black-footed ferret within the NEP area. The regulations implementing 
the Act define ``incidental take'' as take that is incidental to, and 
not the purpose of, the carrying out of an otherwise lawful activity 
such as, agricultural activities and other rural development, camping, 
hiking, hunting, vehicle use of roads and highways, and other 
activities in the NEP area that are in accordance with Federal, Tribal, 
State, and local laws and regulations. Intentional take for purposes 
other than authorized data collection or recovery purposes would not be 
permitted. Intentional take for research or recovery purposes would 
require a section 10(a)(1)(A) recovery permit under the Act.
    The principal activities on private property in the NEP area are 
livestock grazing and associated ranch management practices (e.g., 
fencing, weed treatments). We believe the presence of the black-footed 
ferret would not affect the use of lands for these purposes because 
there would 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 black-footed ferret, and federal agencies would 
only have to comply 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 rule will not ``significantly or uniquely'' affect small 
governments. We have determined and certify pursuant to 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. Small governments will not be affected because the NEP 
designation does 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 black-footed ferret 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 allows for the take of 
reintroduced black-footed ferret when such take is incidental to an 
otherwise legal activity, such as recreation (e.g., hiking, hunting,

[[Page 66836]]

fishing, bird watching), forestry, agriculture, and other activities 
that are in accordance with Federal, State, 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 ferret habitat in Wyoming.
    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 any economically beneficial 
or productive use of the land or aquatic resources. This rule will 
substantially advance a legitimate public 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 (70 FR 23775), we have 
considered whether this final rule has significant Federalism effects 
and have determined that a federalism summary impact 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 
Wyoming. Achieving the recovery goals for this species will contribute 
to its eventual delisting and 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 final 
10(j) rule operates to maintain the existing relationship between the 
State and the Federal governments and is being undertaken in 
coordination with the State of Wyoming. We have cooperated with WGFD in 
the preparation of this final rule. Therefore, this final rule does not 
have significant Federalism effects or implications to warrant the 
preparation of a federalism summary impact statement pursuant to 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 does not unduly burden the 
judicial system and meets 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 of 1995 (44 
U.S.C. 3501 et seq.), require that Federal agencies obtain OMB approval 
before collecting information from the public. This final rule does not 
include any new collections of information that require OMB approval 
under the Paperwork Reduction Act. OMB has approved our collection of 
information associated with reporting the taking of experimental 
populations (50 CFR 17.84) and assigned OMB Control Number 1018-0095, 
which expires on October 31, 2017. We may not conduct or sponsor and a 
person is not required to respond to a collection of information unless 
it displays a currently valid OMB control number.

National Environmental Policy Act

    In compliance with all provisions of the National Environmental 
Policy Act of 1969 (NEPA; 42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq.), we have analyzed the 
impact of this rule. Based on this analysis and information resulting 
from public comment on the proposed action, we determined that this 
action will not have significant impacts or effects. We have prepared a 
final EA and finding of no significant impact on this action, which are 
available for public inspection: (1) In person at the Wyoming 
Ecological Services Field Office (see ADDRESSES) and (2) online at 
http://www.regulations.gov. All appropriate NEPA documents were 
finalized before this rule was finalized.

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 229511), Executive Order 13175 (65 FR 67249), and 
the Department of the Interior Manual Chapter 512 DM 2, we have 
considered possible effects on federally recognized Indian Tribes and 
have determined that Tribal lands overlap the Wyoming NEP in portions 
of Fremont and Hot Springs Counties. However, participation in black-
footed ferret recovery is entirely voluntary. If suitable habitat for 
ferret recovery is available, non-Federal landowners, including Tribes, 
may choose to either not participate, or to participate through 
authorities under 10(j), 10(a)(1)(A), or the Safe Harbor Agreement 
(USFWS 2013b). If ferrets were reintroduced on non-tribal lands 
adjacent to Tribal lands and subsequently dispersed onto Tribal lands, 
the aforementioned authorities will provide a more relaxed regulatory 
situation under the Act through allowances for incidental take. 
However, as stated previously, we are not aware of any prairie dog 
complexes suitable for ferret reintroduction on or adjacent to Tribal 
lands. The nearest potential reintroduction sites are two white-tailed 
prairie dog complexes--Fifteen-mile Complex near Worland in Hot Springs 
County, and Sweetwater Complex near Sweetwater Station in Fremont 
County (Luce 2008, pp. 29-30). Both sites are of intermediate potential 
for ferret reintroduction and are located approximately 19 miles (30 
kilometers) from reservation boundaries. We sent letters, describing 
our proposed action and requesting input, to the Northern Arapaho and 
Eastern Shoshone Tribes of the Wind River Reservation on September 4, 
2014. We did not receive a response from either Tribe.

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, or use. 
Therefore, this action is not a significant energy action, and no 
Statement of Energy Effects is required.

References Cited

    A complete list of all references cited in this rule is available 
on the Internet at http://www.regulations.gov at Docket No. FWS-R6-ES-
2015-0013, or upon request from the Wyoming Ecological Services Field 
Office (see ADDRESSES).

Authors

    The authors of this final rule are staff members of the Wyoming 
Ecological Services Field Office (see ADDRESSES).

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; and 4201-4245, unless 
otherwise noted.


[[Page 66837]]



0
2. Amend Sec.  17.11(h) by revising the entry for ``Ferret, black-
footed'' under MAMMALS in the List of Endangered and Threatened 
Wildlife to read as follows:


Sec.  17.11  Endangered and threatened wildlife.

* * * * *
    (h) * * *

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                        Species                                                  Vertebrate population
--------------------------------------------------------    Historic range        where endangered or      Status     When listed    Critical   Special
           Common name                Scientific name                                 threatened                                     habitat     rules
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
             Mammals
 
                                                                      * * * * * * *
Ferret, black-footed.............  Mustela nigripes....  Western U.S.A.,       Entire, except where              E      1, 3, 433,         NA         NA
                                                          Western Canada,       listed as an                        545, 546, 582,
                                                          Mexico.               experimental population.            646, 703, 737,
                                                                                                                               860
Ferret, black-footed.............  Mustela nigripes....  Western U.S.A.,       U.S.A. (WY and specified         XN  433, 545, 546,         NA   17.84(g)
                                                          Western Canada,       portions of AZ, CO, MT,             582, 646, 703,
                                                          Mexico.               SD, and UT, see                           737, 860
                                                                                17.84(g)(9)).
 
                                                                      * * * * * * *
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

* * * * *

0
3. Amend Sec.  17.84 by:
0
a. Revising paragraphs (g)(1) and (g)(6)(i);
0
b. Adding paragraph (g)(9)(viii); and
0
c. Adding a map entitled ``Wyoming Nonessential Experiment Population 
(NEP) Area for the Black-footed Ferret'' immediately following the map 
entitled ``Rosebud Sioux Tribe ITOPA SAPA KIN (Black-footed Ferret) 
Experimental Population Area--South Dakota.''
    The revisions and additions read as follows:


Sec.  17.84  Special rules--vertebrates.

* * * * *
    (g) * * *
    (1) The black-footed ferret populations identified in paragraphs 
(g)(9)(i) through (viii) of this section are nonessential experimental 
populations. We will manage each of these populations, and each 
reintroduction site within the Wyoming Experimental Population Area, in 
accordance with their respective management plans.
* * * * *
    (6) * * *
    (i) Report such taking in Wyoming, including the Shirley Basin/
Medicine Bow experimental population area, to the Field Supervisor, 
Ecological Services, Fish and Wildlife Service, Cheyenne, Wyoming 
(telephone: 307/772-2374).
* * * * *
    (9) * * *
    (viii) The Wyoming Experimental Population Area encompasses most of 
the State of Wyoming. The boundaries of the nonessential experimental 
population include all areas in the State of Wyoming outside of the 
Shirley Basin/Medicine Bow Management Area (see paragraph (g)(9)(i) of 
this section) and the small portion of Wyoming included as part of the 
Northwestern Colorado/Northeastern Utah Experimental Population Area 
(see paragraph (g)(9)(v) of this section). Collectively, however, these 
three 10(j) areas cover the entire State of Wyoming. Any black-footed 
ferret found within the Wyoming NEP Experimental Population Area will 
be considered part of a nonessential experimental population. A black-
footed ferret that disperses beyond the boundaries of the nonessential 
experimental population area takes on the status of that area 
(endangered, unless within another nonessential experimental population 
area). Such animals may be captured for genetic testing and relocation. 
If necessary, disposition of the captured animal may occur in the 
following ways:
    (A) If an animal is genetically determined to have originated from 
the experimental population, we may return it to the reintroduction 
area or to a captive-breeding facility.
    (B) If an animal is determined to be genetically unrelated to the 
experimental population, we will place it in captivity under an 
existing contingency plan.
* * * * *

[[Page 66838]]

[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TR30OC15.016

* * * * *

    Dated: October 21, 2015.
Michael J. Bean,
Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary for Fish and Wildlife and Parks.
[FR Doc. 2015-27639 Filed 10-29-15; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4333-15-P