[Federal Register Volume 80, Number 247 (Thursday, December 24, 2015)]
[Notices]
[Pages 80584-80614]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2015-32284]



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Vol. 80

Thursday,

No. 247

December 24, 2015

Part III





Department of the Interior





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Fish and Wildlife Service





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50 CFR Part 17





 Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and Plants; Review of Native 
Species That Are Candidates for Listing as Endangered or Threatened; 
Annual Notice of Findings on Resubmitted Petitions; Annual Description 
of Progress on Listing Actions; Notice

  Federal Register / Vol. 80 , No. 247 / Thursday, December 24, 2015 / 
Notices  

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DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR

Fish and Wildlife Service

50 CFR Part 17

[Docket No. FWS-HQ-ES-2015-0135; FF09E21000 FXES11190900000 156]


Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and Plants; Review of Native 
Species That Are Candidates for Listing as Endangered or Threatened; 
Annual Notice of Findings on Resubmitted Petitions; Annual Description 
of Progress on Listing Actions

AGENCY: Fish and Wildlife Service, Interior.

ACTION: Notice of review.

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SUMMARY: In this Candidate Notice of Review (CNOR), we, the U.S. Fish 
and Wildlife Service (Service), present an updated list of plant and 
animal species native to the United States that we regard as candidates 
for or have proposed for addition to the Lists of Endangered and 
Threatened Wildlife and Plants under the Endangered Species Act of 
1973, as amended. Identification of candidate species can assist 
environmental planning efforts by providing advance notice of potential 
listings, and by allowing landowners and resource managers to alleviate 
threats and thereby possibly remove the need to list species as 
endangered or threatened. Even if we subsequently list a candidate 
species, the early notice provided here could result in more options 
for species management and recovery by prompting candidate conservation 
measures to alleviate threats to the species.
    This CNOR summarizes the status and threats that we evaluated in 
order to determine that species qualify as candidates, to assign a 
listing priority number (LPN) to each species, and to determine whether 
a species should be removed from candidate status. Additional material 
that we relied on is available in the Species Assessment and Listing 
Priority Assignment Forms (species assessment forms) for each candidate 
species.
    This CNOR changes the LPN for two candidates and removes two 
species from candidate status. Combined with other decisions for 
individual species that were published separately from this CNOR in the 
past year, the current number of species that are candidates for 
listing is 60.
    This document also includes our findings on resubmitted petitions 
and describes our progress in revising the Lists of Endangered and 
Threatened Wildlife and Plants (Lists) during the period October 1, 
2014, through September 30, 2015.
    Moreover, we request any additional status information that may be 
available for the candidate species identified in this CNOR.

DATES: We will accept information on any of the species in this 
Candidate Notice of Review at any time.

ADDRESSES: This notice is available on the Internet at http://www.regulations.gov and http://www.fws.gov/endangered/what-we-do/cnor.html. Species assessment forms with information and references on 
a particular candidate species' range, status, habitat needs, and 
listing priority assignment are available for review at the appropriate 
Regional Office listed below in SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION or at the 
Branch of Communications and Candidate Conservation, Falls Church, VA 
(see address under FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT), or on our Web site 
(http://ecos.fws.gov/tess_public/reports/candidate-species-report). 
Please submit any new information, materials, comments, or questions of 
a general nature on this notice to the Falls Church, VA, address listed 
under FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT. Please submit any new 
information, materials, comments, or questions pertaining to a 
particular species to the address of the Endangered Species Coordinator 
in the appropriate Regional Office listed in SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION. 
Species-specific information and materials we receive will be available 
for public inspection by appointment, during normal business hours, at 
the appropriate Regional Office listed below under Request for 
Information in SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION. General information we 
receive will be available at the Branch of Communications and Candidate 
Conservation, Falls Church, VA (see address under FOR FURTHER 
INFORMATION CONTACT).

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Chief, Branch of Communications and 
Candidate Conservation, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Headquarters, 
MS: ES, 5275 Leesburg Pike, Falls Church, VA 22041-3803 (telephone 703-
358-2171). Persons who use a telecommunications device for the deaf may 
call the Federal Information Relay Service at 800-877-8339.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: 
    We request additional status information that may be available for 
any of the candidate species identified in this CNOR. We will consider 
this information to monitor changes in the status or LPN of candidate 
species and to manage candidates as we prepare listing documents and 
future revisions to the notice of review. We also request information 
on additional species to consider including as candidates as we prepare 
future updates of this notice.

Candidate Notice of Review

Background

    The Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended (16 U.S.C. 1531 et 
seq.; ESA), requires that we identify species of wildlife and plants 
that are endangered or threatened based on the best available 
scientific and commercial information. As defined in section 3 of the 
ESA, an endangered species is any species that is in danger of 
extinction throughout all or a significant portion of its range, and a 
threatened species is any species that is likely to become an 
endangered species within the foreseeable future throughout all or a 
significant portion of its range. Through the Federal rulemaking 
process, we add species that meet these definitions to the List of 
Endangered and Threatened Wildlife at 50 CFR 17.11 or the List of 
Endangered and Threatened Plants at 50 CFR 17.12. As part of this 
program, we maintain a list of species that we regard as candidates for 
listing. A candidate species is one for which we have on file 
sufficient information on biological vulnerability and threats to 
support a proposal for listing as endangered or threatened, but for 
which preparation and publication of a proposal is precluded by higher 
priority listing actions. We may identify a species as a candidate for 
listing after we have conducted an evaluation of its status--either on 
our own initiative, or in response to a petition we have received. If 
we have made a finding on a petition to list a species, and have found 
that listing is warranted but precluded by other higher priority 
listing actions, we will add the species to our list of candidates.
    We maintain this list of candidates for a variety of reasons: (1) 
To notify the public that these species are facing threats to their 
survival; (2) to provide advance knowledge of potential listings that 
could affect decisions of environmental planners and developers; (3) to 
provide information that may stimulate and guide conservation efforts 
that will remove or reduce threats to these species and possibly make 
listing unnecessary; (4) to request input from interested parties to 
help us identify those candidate species that may not require 
protection under the ESA, as well as additional species that may 
require the ESA's protections; and (5) to request necessary information 
for setting priorities for preparing listing proposals. We encourage 
collaborative

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conservation efforts for candidate species, and offer technical and 
financial assistance to facilitate such efforts. For additional 
information regarding such assistance, please contact the appropriate 
Regional Office listed under Request for Information or visit our Web 
site, http://www.fws.gov/endangered/what-we-do/cca.html.

Previous Notices of Review

    We have been publishing CNORs since 1975. The most recent was 
published on December 5, 2014 (79 FR 72450). CNORs published since 1994 
are available on our Web site, http://www.fws.gov/endangered/what-we-do/cnor.html. For copies of CNORs published prior to 1994, please 
contact the Branch of Communications and Candidate Conservation (see 
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT section, above).
    On September 21, 1983, we published guidance for assigning an LPN 
for each candidate species (48 FR 43098). Using this guidance, we 
assign each candidate an LPN of 1 to 12, depending on the magnitude of 
threats, immediacy of threats, and taxonomic status; the lower the LPN, 
the higher the listing priority (that is, a species with an LPN of 1 
would have the highest listing priority). Section 4(h)(3) of the ESA 
(16 U.S.C. 1533(h)(3)) requires the Secretary to establish guidelines 
for such a priority-ranking system. As explained below, in using this 
system, we first categorize based on the magnitude of the threat(s), 
then by the immediacy of the threat(s), and finally by taxonomic 
status.
    Under this priority-ranking system, magnitude of threat can be 
either ``high'' or ``moderate to low.'' This criterion helps ensure 
that the species facing the greatest threats to their continued 
existence receive the highest listing priority. It is important to 
recognize that all candidate species face threats to their continued 
existence, so the magnitude of threats is in relative terms. For all 
candidate species, the threats are of sufficiently high magnitude to 
put them in danger of extinction, or make them likely to become in 
danger of extinction in the foreseeable future. But for species with 
higher-magnitude threats, the threats have a greater likelihood of 
bringing about extinction or are expected to bring about extinction on 
a shorter timescale (once the threats are imminent) than for species 
with lower-magnitude threats. Because we do not routinely quantify how 
likely or how soon extinction would be expected to occur absent 
listing, we must evaluate factors that contribute to the likelihood and 
time scale for extinction. We therefore consider information such as: 
(1) The number of populations or extent of range of the species 
affected by the threat(s), or both; (2) the biological significance of 
the affected population(s), taking into consideration the life-history 
characteristics of the species and its current abundance and 
distribution; (3) whether the threats affect the species in only a 
portion of its range, and, if so, the likelihood of persistence of the 
species in the unaffected portions; (4) the severity of the effects and 
the rapidity with which they have caused or are likely to cause 
mortality to individuals and accompanying declines in population 
levels; (5) whether the effects are likely to be permanent; and (6) the 
extent to which any ongoing conservation efforts reduce the severity of 
the threat(s).
    As used in our priority-ranking system, immediacy of threat is 
categorized as either ``imminent'' or ``nonimminent,'' and is based on 
when the threats will begin. If a threat is currently occurring or 
likely to occur in the very near future, we classify the threat as 
imminent. Determining the immediacy of threats helps ensure that 
species facing actual, identifiable threats are given priority for 
listing proposals over those for which threats are only potential or 
species that are intrinsically vulnerable to certain types of threats 
but are not known to be presently facing such threats.
    Our priority-ranking system has three categories for taxonomic 
status: Species that are the sole members of a genus; full species (in 
genera that have more than one species); and subspecies and distinct 
population segments of vertebrate species (DPS).
    The result of the ranking system is that we assign each candidate a 
listing priority number of 1 to 12. For example, if the threats are of 
high magnitude, with immediacy classified as imminent, the listable 
entity is assigned an LPN of 1, 2, or 3 based on its taxonomic status 
(i.e., a species that is the only member of its genus would be assigned 
to the LPN 1 category, a full species to LPN 2, and a subspecies or DPS 
would be assigned to LPN 3). In summary, the LPN ranking system 
provides a basis for making decisions about the relative priority for 
preparing a proposed rule to list a given species. No matter which LPN 
we assign to a species, each species included in this notice as a 
candidate is one for which we have sufficient information to prepare a 
proposed rule for listing because it is in danger of extinction or 
likely to become endangered within the foreseeable future throughout 
all or a significant portion of its range.
    For more information on the process and standards used in assigning 
LPNs, a copy of the 1983 guidance is available on our Web site at: 
http://www.fws.gov/endangered/esa-library/pdf/1983_LPN_Policy_FR_pub.pdf. Information on the LPN assigned to a 
particular species is summarized in this CNOR, and the species 
assessment for each candidate contains the LPN chart and a rationale 
for the determination of the magnitude and immediacy of threat(s) and 
assignment of the LPN.
    To the extent this revised notice differs from all previous animal, 
plant, and combined candidate notices of review for native species or 
previous 12-month warranted-but-precluded petition findings for those 
candidate species that were petitioned for listing, this notice 
supercedes them.

Summary of This CNOR

    Since publication of the previous CNOR on December 5, 2014 (79 FR 
72450), we reviewed the available information on candidate species to 
ensure that a proposed listing is justified for each species, and 
reevaluated the relative LPN assigned to each species. We also 
evaluated the need to emergency list any of these species, particularly 
species with higher priorities (i.e., species with LPNs of 1, 2, or 3). 
This review and reevaluation ensures that we focus conservation efforts 
on those species at greatest risk.
    In addition to reviewing candidate species since publication of the 
last CNOR, we have worked on findings in response to petitions to list 
species, and on proposed and final determinations for rules to list 
species under the ESA. Some of these findings and determinations have 
been completed and published in the Federal Register, while work on 
others is still under way (see Preclusion and Expeditious Progress, 
below, for details).
    Based on our review of the best available scientific and commercial 
information, with this CNOR, we change the LPN for two candidates and 
remove two species from candidate status. Combined with the other 
decisions published separately from this CNOR, a total of 60 species 
(18 plant and 42 animal species) are now candidates awaiting 
preparation of rules proposing their listing. These 60 species, along 
with the 71 species currently proposed for listing (including 1 species 
proposed for listing due to similarity in appearance), are included in 
Table 1.
    Table 2 lists the changes from the previous CNOR, and includes 55 
species identified in the previous CNOR as either proposed for listing 
or classified as candidates that are no longer in those

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categories. This includes 31 species for which we published a final 
listing rule, 20 candidate species for which we published separate not-
warranted findings and removed them from candidate status, 1 species 
for which we published a withdrawal of a proposed rule, 1 species for 
which we published a separate candidate removal, and the 2 species in 
this notice that we have determined do not meet the definition of an 
endangered species or threatened species and therefore do not warrant 
listing. We have removed these species from candidate status in this 
CNOR.

New Candidates

    We have not identified any new candidate species through this 
notice but identified one species--the Sierra Nevada DPS of the red 
fox--as a candidate on October 8, 2015, as a result of a separate 
petition finding published in the Federal Register (80 FR 60989).

Listing Priority Changes in Candidates

    We reviewed the LPNs for all candidate species and are changing the 
number for the following species discussed below.

Flowering Plants

    Dichanthelium hirstii (Hirst Brothers' panic grass) -- The 
following summary is based on information initially provided in the May 
11, 2004, petition and updated information contained in our files. 
Dichanthelium hirstii is a perennial grass that produces erect, leafy, 
flowering stems from May to October. The species occurs in coastal 
plain intermittent ponds, usually in wet savanna or pine barren 
habitats, and is known to occur at only three sites in New Jersey, one 
site in Delaware, two sites in North Carolina, and one site in Georgia. 
Six of the extant D. hirstii populations are located on public land and 
one is on private land.
    At each site the species is threatened by encroachment of woody and 
herbaceous vegetation, competition from rhizomatous perennials, 
fluctuations in hydrology, and threats associated with small population 
number and size; sites in New Jersey are threatened by illegal off-road 
vehicle use. Given the naturally fluctuating number of plants found at 
each site, and the isolated nature of the wetlands (limiting dispersal 
opportunities), even small changes in the species' habitat could result 
in local extirpation. Loss of any known sites would constitute a 
significant contraction of the species' range. An increase in regional 
precipitation patterns causing long-term flooding in the species' 
coastal plain pond habitat is recent and coincides with a precipitous 
decline in population size in New Jersey and first-time absence of the 
population in Delaware. Therefore, we are changing the immediacy of 
threats from nonimminent to imminent and, consequently, the LPN of the 
species from a 5 to a 2.
    Pinus albicaulis (Whitebark pine) -- The following summary is based 
on information in our files and in the petition received on December 9, 
2008. Whitebark pine is a hardy conifer found at alpine tree line and 
subalpine elevations in Washington, Oregon, Nevada, California, Idaho, 
Montana, and Wyoming, and in British Columbia and Alberta, Canada. In 
the United States, approximately 96 percent of land where the species 
occurs is federally owned or managed, primarily by the U.S. Forest 
Service. Whitebark pine is a slow-growing, long-lived tree that often 
lives for 500 and sometimes more than 1,000 years. It is considered a 
keystone, or foundation, species in western North America, where it 
increases biodiversity and contributes to critical ecosystem functions.
    The primary threat to the species is from disease in the form of 
the nonnative white pine blister rust and its interaction with other 
threats. Whitebark pine also is currently experiencing mortality from 
predation by the native mountain pine beetle (Dendroctonus ponderosae), 
but the current epidemic appears to be subsiding. We also anticipate 
that continuing environmental effects resulting from climate change 
will result in direct habitat loss for whitebark pine. Models predict 
that suitable habitat for whitebark pine will decline precipitously 
within the next 100 years. Past and ongoing fire suppression is also 
negatively affecting populations of whitebark pine through direct 
habitat loss. Additionally, environmental changes resulting from 
changing climatic conditions are acting alone and in combination with 
the effects of fire suppression to increase the frequency and severity 
of wildfires. Lastly, the existing regulatory mechanisms are inadequate 
to address the threats presented above.
    As the mountain pine beetle epidemic appears to be subsiding, we no 
longer consider this threat to be having the high level of impact that 
was seen in recent years. However, given projected warming trends, we 
expect that conditions will remain favorable for epidemic levels of 
mountain pine beetle into the foreseeable future. The significant 
threats from white pine blister rust, fire, and fire suppression, and 
environmental effects of climate change remain on the landscape. 
However, the overall magnitude of threat to whitebark pine is somewhat 
diminished given the current absence of epidemic levels of mountain 
pine beetle, and because of this, individuals with genetic resistance 
to white pine blister rust likely have a higher probability of 
survival. Survival and reproduction of genetically resistant trees are 
critical to the persistence of the species given the imminent, 
ubiquitous presence of white pine blister rust on the landscape. 
Overall, the threats to the species are ongoing, and therefore 
imminent, and are now moderate in magnitude. Thus, we have changed the 
LPN for whitebark pine from a 2 to an 8.

Candidate Removals

    As summarized below, we have evaluated the threats to the following 
species and considered factors that, individually and in combination, 
currently or potentially could pose a risk to the species and their 
habitats. After a review of the best available scientific and 
commercial data, we conclude that listing these species under the 
Endangered Species Act is not warranted because these species are not 
likely to become endangered species within the foreseeable future 
throughout all or a significant portion of their respective ranges. 
Therefore, we no longer consider them to be candidate species for 
listing. We will continue to monitor the status of these species and to 
accept additional information and comments concerning this finding. We 
will reconsider our determination in the event that we gather new 
information that indicates that the threats are of a considerably 
greater magnitude or imminence than identified through assessments of 
information contained in our files, as summarized here.

Crustaceans

    Anchialine pool shrimp (Metabetaeus lohena)--Metabetaeus lohena is 
a species of shrimp belonging to the family Alpheidae. At the time M. 
lohena became a candidate, it was considered to be an endemic shrimp to 
the Hawaiian Islands, restricted to small anchialine habitats that were 
thought to have imminent threats. Though the total number of occupied 
pools in Hawaii is not known, M. lohena has recently been observed in 
at least 35 anchialine pools and pool groups on the islands of Hawaii, 
Maui, and Oahu. Many of these pools are located within protected 
habitat on State (e.g., Manuka and Ahihi-Kinau Natural Area Reserves) 
and Federal land (e.g., Volcanoes National Park and Pearl Harbor 
National Wildlife Refuge).

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    New information has extended the range and habitat of Metabetaeus 
lohena to include Rapa Nui (Easter Island), Chile, where it is was 
recently identified in an anchialine pool and coastal shallow water 
wells. A specimen found in Ambon Bay (Maluku Islands, Indonesia) was 
also identified as M. lohena; however, this determination remains 
uncertain because the specimen reviewed was highly degraded. The 
discovery of at least one, and perhaps two, populations so distant from 
the Hawaiian Islands suggests that M. lohena has greater dispersal 
capabilities than previously known and the species has recently been 
observed naturally recolonizing restored anchialine habitats in the 
Hawaiian Islands. The survey effort for this species outside of Hawaii 
and Rapa Nui has not provided information about population levels in 
those areas.
    Our review of the best available scientific information indicates 
that Metabetaeus lohena exists across a much greater area than was 
previously believed, has greater dispersal ability than previously 
known, can naturally recolonize restored habitats, and largely exists 
in protected areas where it is known to occur. Given this recent 
information, we find that the best available information indicates that 
the species is not likely to become in danger of extinction in the 
foreseeable future throughout all or a significant portion of its 
range.
    Anchialine pool shrimp (Palaemonella burnsi)--Palaemonella burnsi 
is a species of shrimp belonging to the family Palaemonidae. At the 
time that P. burnsi became a candidate, it was considered to be an 
endemic shrimp to the Hawaiian Islands, restricted to small anchialine 
habitats that were thought to have imminent threats. Though the total 
number of occupied pools in Hawaii is not known, P. burnsi has recently 
been observed in anchialine pools and pool groups on the islands of 
Hawaii and Maui. Many of these pools are located within protected 
habitat on State (e.g., Manuka and Ahihi-Kinau Natural Area Reserves) 
and Federal land (e.g., Kaloko-Honokohau National Historic Park).
    New information has revealed that Palaemonella burnsi occurs in 
Kume-jima in the Ryuku archipelago, Japan, where it is was recently 
identified in coral reef flats. The discovery of an additional 
population in non-anchialine habitat so distant from the Hawaiian 
Islands suggests that Palaemonella burnsi exists across a much greater 
area than was previously believed, is not restricted to anchialine 
habitats, and largely exists in protected areas where it is known to 
occur. Given this recent information, we find that the best available 
information indicates that the species is not likely to become in 
danger of extinction in the foreseeable future throughout all or a 
significant portion of its range.

Petition Findings

    The ESA provides two mechanisms for considering species for 
listing. One method allows the Secretary, on the Secretary's own 
initiative, to identify species for listing under the standards of 
section 4(a)(1). We implement this authority through the candidate 
program, discussed above. The second method for listing a species 
provides a mechanism for the public to petition us to add a species to 
the Lists. The CNOR serves several purposes as part of the petition 
process: (1) In some instances (in particular, for petitions to list 
species that the Service has already identified as candidates on its 
own initiative), it serves as the initial petition finding; (2) for 
candidate species for which the Service has made a warranted-but-
precluded petition finding, it serves as a ``resubmitted'' petition 
finding that the ESA requires the Service to make each year; and (3) it 
documents the Service's compliance with the statutory requirement to 
monitor the status of species for which listing is warranted but 
precluded, and to ascertain if they need emergency listing.
    First, the CNOR serves as an initial petition finding in some 
instances. Under section 4(b)(3)(A), when we receive a petition to list 
a species, we must determine within 90 days, to the maximum extent 
practicable, whether the petition presents substantial information 
indicating that listing may be warranted (a ``90-day finding''). If we 
make a positive 90-day finding, we must promptly commence a status 
review of the species under section 4(b)(3)(A); we must then make, 
within 12 months of the receipt of the petition, and publish one of 
three possible findings (a ``12-month finding''):
    (1) The petitioned action is not warranted;
    (2) The petitioned action is warranted (in which case we are 
required to promptly publish a proposed regulation to implement the 
petitioned action; once we publish a proposed rule for a species, 
sections 4(b)(5) and 4(b)(6) of the ESA govern further procedures, 
regardless of whether we issued the proposal in response to a 
petition); or
    (3) The petitioned action is warranted, but (a) the immediate 
proposal of a regulation and final promulgation of a regulation 
implementing the petitioned action is precluded by pending proposals to 
determine whether any species is endangered or threatened, and (b) 
expeditious progress is being made to add qualified species to the 
Lists. We refer to this third option as a ``warranted-but-precluded 
finding.''
    We define ``candidate species'' to mean those species for which the 
Service has on file sufficient information on biological vulnerability 
and threat(s) to support issuance of a proposed rule to list, but for 
which issuance of the proposed rule is precluded (61 FR 64481; December 
5, 1996). The standard for making a species a candidate through our own 
initiative is identical to the standard for making a warranted-but-
precluded 12-month petition finding on a petition to list, and we add 
all petitioned species for which we have made a warranted-but-precluded 
12-month finding to the candidate list.
    Therefore, all candidate species identified through our own 
initiative already have received the equivalent of substantial 90-day 
and warranted-but-precluded 12-month findings. Nevertheless, if we 
receive a petition to list a species that we have already identified as 
a candidate, we review the status of the newly petitioned candidate 
species and through this CNOR publish specific section 4(b)(3) findings 
(i.e., substantial 90-day and warranted-but-precluded 12-month 
findings) in response to the petitions to list these candidate species. 
We publish these findings as part of the first CNOR following receipt 
of the petition. In this CNOR, we are making a substantial 90-day 
finding and a warranted but precluded 12-month petition finding for 
Streptanthus bracteatus (bracted twistflower). This species was added 
to the candidate list on October 26, 2011, and we received a petition 
to list this species on August 5, 2014. We have identified the 
candidate species for which we received petitions by the code ``C*'' in 
the category column on the left side of Table 1 below.
    Second, the CNOR serves as a ``resubmitted'' petition finding. 
Section 4(b)(3)(C)(i) of the ESA requires that when we make a 
warranted-but-precluded finding on a petition, we treat the petition as 
one that is resubmitted on the date of the finding. Thus, we must make 
a 12-month petition finding in compliance with section 4(b)(3)(B) of 
the ESA at least once a year, until we publish a proposal to list the 
species or make a final not-warranted finding. We make these annual 
findings for petitioned candidate species through the CNOR. These 
annual findings supercede any findings from previous CNORs and the 
initial 12-month

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warranted-but-precluded finding, although all previous findings are 
part of the administrative record for the new finding, and we may rely 
upon them or incorporate them by reference in the new finding as 
appropriate.
    Third, through undertaking the analysis required to complete the 
CNOR, the Service determines if any candidate species needs emergency 
listing. Section 4(b)(3)(C)(iii) of the ESA requires us to ``implement 
a system to monitor effectively the status of all species'' for which 
we have made a warranted-but-precluded 12-month finding, and to ``make 
prompt use of the [emergency listing] authority [under section 4(b)(7)] 
to prevent a significant risk to the well being of any such species.'' 
The CNOR plays a crucial role in the monitoring system that we have 
implemented for all candidate species by providing notice that we are 
actively seeking information regarding the status of those species. We 
review all new information on candidate species as it becomes 
available, prepare an annual species assessment form that reflects 
monitoring results and other new information, and identify any species 
for which emergency listing may be appropriate. If we determine that 
emergency listing is appropriate for any candidate, we will make prompt 
use of the emergency listing authority under section 4(b)(7). For 
example, on August 10, 2011, we emergency listed the Miami blue 
butterfly (76 FR 49542). We have been reviewing and will continue to 
review, at least annually, the status of every candidate, whether or 
not we have received a petition to list it. Thus, the CNOR and 
accompanying species assessment forms constitute the Service's system 
for monitoring and making annual findings on the status of petitioned 
species under sections 4(b)(3)(C)(i) and 4(b)(3)(C)(iii) of the ESA.
    A number of court decisions have elaborated on the nature and 
specificity of information that we must consider in making and 
describing the petition findings in the CNOR. The CNOR that published 
on November 9, 2009 (74 FR 57804), describes these court decisions in 
further detail. As with previous CNORs, we continue to incorporate 
information of the nature and specificity required by the courts. For 
example, we include a description of the reasons why the listing of 
every petitioned candidate species is both warranted and precluded at 
this time. We make our determinations of preclusion on a nationwide 
basis to ensure that the species most in need of listing will be 
addressed first and also because we allocate our listing budget on a 
nationwide basis (see below). Regional priorities can also be discerned 
from Table 1, below, which includes the lead region and the LPN for 
each species. Our preclusion determinations are further based upon our 
budget for listing activities for unlisted species only, and we explain 
the priority system and why the work we have accomplished has precluded 
action on listing candidate species.
    In preparing this CNOR, we reviewed the current status of, and 
threats to, the 56 candidates for which we have received a petition to 
list and the 3 listed species for which we have received a petition to 
reclassify from threatened to endangered, where we found the petitioned 
action to be warranted but precluded. We find that the immediate 
issuance of a proposed rule and timely promulgation of a final rule for 
each of these species, has been, for the preceding months, and 
continues to be, precluded by higher-priority listing actions. 
Additional information that is the basis for this finding is found in 
the species assessments and our administrative record for each species.
    Our review included updating the status of, and threats to, 
petitioned candidate or listed species for which we published findings, 
under section 4(b)(3)(B) of the ESA, in the previous CNOR. We have 
incorporated new information we gathered since the prior finding and, 
as a result of this review, we are making continued warranted-but-
precluded 12-month findings on the petitions for these species. 
However, for some of these species, we are currently engaged in a 
thorough review of all available data to determine whether to proceed 
with a proposed listing rule; this review may result in us concluding 
that listing is no longer warranted.
    The immediate publication of proposed rules to list these species 
was precluded by our work on higher-priority listing actions, listed 
below, during the period from October 1, 2014, through September 30, 
2015. Below we describe the actions that continue to preclude the 
immediate proposal and final promulgation of a regulation implementing 
each of the petitioned actions for which we have made a warranted-but-
precluded finding, and we describe the expeditious progress we are 
making to add qualified species to, and remove species from, the Lists. 
We will continue to monitor the status of all candidate species, 
including petitioned species, as new information becomes available to 
determine if a change in status is warranted, including the need to 
emergency list a species under section 4(b)(7) of the ESA.
    In addition to identifying petitioned candidate species in Table 1 
below, we also present brief summaries of why each of these candidates 
warrants listing. More complete information, including references, is 
found in the species assessment forms. You may obtain a copy of these 
forms from the Regional Office having the lead for the species, or from 
the Fish and Wildlife Service's Internet Web site: http://ecos.fws.gov/tess_public/reports/candidate-species-report. As described above, under 
section 4 of the ESA, we identify and propose species for listing based 
on the factors identified in section 4(a)(1)--either on our own 
initiative or through the mechanism that section 4 provides for the 
public to petition us to add species to the Lists of Endangered or 
Threatened Wildlife and Plants under the ESA.

Preclusion and Expeditious Progress

    To make a finding that a particular action is warranted but 
precluded, the Service must make two determinations: (1) That the 
immediate proposal and timely promulgation of a final regulation is 
precluded by pending listing proposals and (2) that expeditious 
progress is being made to add qualified species to either of the lists 
and to remove species from the lists (16 U.S.C. 1533(b)(3)(B)(iii)).

Preclusion

    A listing proposal is precluded if the Service does not have 
sufficient resources available to complete the proposal, because there 
are competing demands for those resources, and the relative priority of 
those competing demands is higher. Thus, in any given fiscal year (FY), 
multiple factors dictate whether it will be possible to undertake work 
on a listing proposal regulation or whether promulgation of such a 
proposal is precluded by higher priority listing actions--(1) The 
amount of resources available for completing the listing function, (2) 
the estimated cost of completing the proposed listing, and (3) the 
Service's workload and prioritization of the proposed listing in 
relation to other actions.

Available Resources

    The resources available for listing actions are determined through 
the annual Congressional appropriations process. In FY 1998 and for 
each fiscal year since then, Congress has placed a statutory cap on 
funds that may be expended for the Listing Program. This spending cap 
was designed to prevent the listing function from depleting funds 
needed for other functions under the ESA (for example, recovery

[[Page 80589]]

functions, such as removing species from the Lists), or for other 
Service programs (see House Report 105-163, 105th Congress, 1st 
Session, July 1, 1997). The funds within the spending cap are available 
to support work involving the following listing actions: Proposed and 
final listing rules; 90-day and 12-month findings on petitions to add 
species to the Lists or to change the status of a species from 
threatened to endangered; annual ``resubmitted'' petition findings on 
prior warranted-but-precluded petition findings as required under 
section 4(b)(3)(C)(i) of the ESA; critical habitat petition findings; 
proposed and final rules designating critical habitat; and litigation-
related, administrative, and program-management functions (including 
preparing and allocating budgets, responding to Congressional and 
public inquiries, and conducting public outreach regarding listing and 
critical habitat).
    We cannot spend more for the Listing Program than the amount of 
funds within the spending cap without violating the Anti-Deficiency Act 
(see 31 U.S.C. 1341(a)(1)(A)). In addition, since FY 2002, the 
Service's budget has included a subcap for critical habitat 
designations for already-listed species to ensure that some funds 
within the spending cap for listing are available for completing 
Listing Program actions other than critical habitat designations for 
already-listed species (``The critical habitat designation subcap will 
ensure that some funding is available to address other listing 
activities'' (House Report No. 107-103, 107th Congress, 1st Session. 
June 19, 2001)). In FY 2002 and each year until FY 2006, the Service 
had to use virtually all of the funds within the critical habitat 
subcap to address court-mandated designations of critical habitat, and 
consequently none of the funds within the critical habitat subcap were 
available for other listing activities. In some FYs since 2006, we have 
not needed to use all of the funds within the critical habitat to 
comply with court orders, and we therefore could use the remaining 
funds within the subcap towards additional proposed listing 
determinations for high-priority candidate species. In other FYs, while 
we did not need to use all of the funds within the critical habitat 
subcap to comply with court orders requiring critical habitat actions, 
we did not use the remaining funds towards additional proposed listing 
determinations, and instead used the remaining funds towards completing 
the critical habitat determinations concurrently with proposed listing 
determinations; this allowed us to combine the proposed listing 
determination and proposed critical habitat designation into one rule, 
thereby being more efficient in our work. In FY 2015, based on the 
Service's workload, we were able to use some of the funds within the 
critical habitat subcap to fund proposed listing determinations.
    For FY 2012, Congress also put in place two additional subcaps 
within the listing cap: One for listing actions for foreign species and 
one for petition findings. As with the critical habitat subcap, if the 
Service does not need to use all of the funds within either subcap, we 
are able to use the remaining funds for completing proposed or final 
listing determinations. In FY 2015, based on the Service's workload, we 
were able to use some of the funds within the foreign species subcap 
and the petitions subcap to fund proposed listing determinations.
    We make our determinations of preclusion on a nationwide basis to 
ensure that the species most in need of listing will be addressed 
first, and also because we allocate our listing budget on a nationwide 
basis. Through the listing cap, the three subcaps, and the amount of 
funds needed to complete court-mandated actions within those subcaps, 
Congress and the courts have in effect determined the amount of money 
available for listing activities nationwide. Therefore, the funds in 
the listing cap--other than those within the subcaps needed to comply 
with court orders or court-approved settlement agreements requiring 
critical habitat actions for already-listed species, listing actions 
for foreign species, and petition findings--set the framework within 
which we make our determinations of preclusion and expeditious 
progress.
    For FY 2015, on December 16, 2014, Congress passed a Consolidated 
and Further Continuing Appropriations Act, 2015 (Pub. L. 113-235), 
which provided funding through September 30, 2015, at the same level as 
FY 2014. In particular, it included an overall spending cap of 
$20,515,000 for the listing program. Of that, no more than $1,504,000 
could be used for listing actions for foreign species, and no more than 
$1,501,000 could be used to make 90-day or 12-month findings on 
petitions. The Service thus had $ 12,905,000 available to work on 
proposed and final listing determinations for domestic species. In 
addition, if the Service had funding available within the critical 
habitat, foreign species, or petition subcaps after those workloads had 
been completed, it could use those funds to work on listing actions 
other than critical habitat designations or foreign species.
    Costs of Listing Actions. The work involved in preparing various 
listing documents can be extensive, and may include, but is not limited 
to: Gathering and assessing the best scientific and commercial data 
available and conducting analyses used as the basis for our decisions; 
writing and publishing documents; and obtaining, reviewing, and 
evaluating public comments and peer review comments on proposed rules 
and incorporating relevant information from those comments into final 
rules. The number of listing actions that we can undertake in a given 
year also is influenced by the complexity of those listing actions; 
that is, more complex actions generally are more costly. The median 
cost for preparing and publishing a 90-day finding is $39,276; for a 
12-month finding, $100,690; for a proposed listing rule with proposed 
critical habitat, $345,000; and for a final listing rule with final 
critical habitat, $305,000.
    Prioritizing Listing Actions. The Service's Listing Program 
workload is broadly composed of four types of actions, which the 
Service prioritizes as follows: (1) Compliance with court orders and 
court-approved settlement agreements requiring that petition findings 
or listing or critical habitat determinations be completed by a 
specific date; (2) essential litigation-related, administrative, and 
listing program-management functions; (3) section 4 (of the ESA) 
listing and critical habitat actions with absolute statutory deadlines; 
and (4) section 4 listing actions that do not have absolute statutory 
deadlines. In the last few years, the Service received many new 
petitions and a single petition to list 404 species, significantly 
increasing the number of actions within the second category of our 
workload--actions that have absolute statutory deadlines. As a result 
of the petitions to list hundreds of species, we currently have over 
500 12-month petition findings yet to be initiated and completed.
    An additional way in which we prioritize work in the section 4 
program is application of the listing priority guidelines (48 FR 43098; 
September 21, 1983). Under those guidelines, we assign each candidate 
an LPN of 1 to 12, depending on the magnitude of threats (high or 
moderate to low), immediacy of threats (imminent or nonimminent), and 
taxonomic status of the species (in order of priority: Monotypic genus 
(a species that is the sole member of a genus), a species, or a part of 
a species (subspecies or distinct population segment)). The lower the 
listing priority number, the higher the listing priority (that is, a 
species with an LPN of 1

[[Page 80590]]

would have the highest listing priority). A species with a higher LPN 
would generally be precluded from listing by species with lower LPNs, 
unless work on a proposed rule for the species with the higher LPN can 
be combined with work on a proposed rule for other high-priority 
species. In addition to prioritizing species with our 1983 guidance, 
because of the large number of high-priority species we have had in the 
recent past, we had further ranked the candidate species with an LPN of 
2 by using the following extinction-risk type criteria: International 
Union for the Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources (IUCN) Red 
list status/rank, Heritage rank (provided by NatureServe), Heritage 
threat rank (provided by NatureServe), and species currently with fewer 
than 50 individuals, or 4 or fewer populations. Those species with the 
highest IUCN rank (critically endangered), the highest Heritage rank 
(G1), the highest Heritage threat rank (substantial, imminent threats), 
and currently with fewer than 50 individuals, or fewer than 4 
populations, originally comprised a group of approximately 40 candidate 
species (``Top 40''). These 40 candidate species had the highest 
priority to receive funding to work on a proposed listing determination 
and we used this to formulate our work plan for FYs 2010 and 2011 that 
was included in the MDL Settlement Agreement (see below), as well as 
for work on proposed and final listing rules for the remaining 
candidate species with LPNs of 2 and 3.
    Finally, proposed rules for reclassification of threatened species 
to endangered species are lower priority, because as listed species, 
they are already afforded the protections of the ESA and implementing 
regulations. However, for efficiency reasons, we may choose to work on 
a proposed rule to reclassify a species to endangered if we can combine 
this with work that is subject to a court order or court-approved 
deadline.
    Since before Congress first established the spending cap for the 
Listing Program in 1998, the Listing Program workload has required 
considerably more resources than the amount of funds Congress has 
allowed for the Listing Program. It is therefore important that we be 
as efficient as possible in our listing process. As we implement our 
listing work plan and work on proposed rules for the highest priority 
species in the next several years, we are preparing multi-species 
proposals when appropriate, and these may include species with lower 
priority if they overlap geographically or have the same threats as one 
of the highest priority species. In addition, we take into 
consideration the availability of staff resources when we determine 
which high-priority species will receive funding to minimize the amount 
of time and resources required to complete each listing action.
    Listing Program Workload. Each FY we determine, based on the amount 
of funding Congress has made available within the Listing Program 
spending cap, specifically which actions we will have the resources to 
work on in that FY. We then prepare Allocation Tables that identify the 
actions that we are funding for that FY, and how much we estimate it 
will cost to complete each action; these Allocation Tables are part of 
our record for this notice and the listing program. Our Allocation 
Table for FY 2012, which incorporated the Service's approach to 
prioritizing its workload, was adopted as part of a settlement 
agreement in a case before the U.S. District Court for the District of 
Columbia (Endangered Species Act Section 4 Deadline Litigation, No. 10-
377 (EGS), MDL Docket No. 2165 (``MDL Litigation''), Document 31-1 
(D.D.C. May 10, 2011) (``MDL Settlement Agreement'')). The requirements 
of paragraphs 1 through 7 of that settlement agreement, combined with 
the work plan attached to the agreement as Exhibit B, reflected the 
Service's Allocation Tables for FY 2011 and FY 2012. In addition, 
paragraphs 2 through 7 of the agreement require the Service to take 
numerous other actions through FY 2017--in particular, complete either 
a proposed listing rule or a not-warranted finding for all 251 species 
designated as ``candidates'' in the 2010 candidate notice of review 
(``CNOR'') before the end of FY 2016, and complete final listing 
determinations for those species proposed for listing within the 
statutory deadline (usually one year from the proposal). Paragraph 10 
of that settlement agreement sets forth the Service's conclusion that 
``fulfilling the commitments set forth in this Agreement, along with 
other commitments required by court orders or court-approved settlement 
agreements already in existence at the signing of this Settlement 
Agreement (listed in Exhibit A), will require substantially all of the 
resources in the Listing Program.'' As part of the same lawsuit, the 
court also approved a separate settlement agreement with the other 
plaintiff in the case; that settlement agreement requires the Service 
to complete additional actions in specific fiscal years--including 12-
month petition findings for 11 species, 90-day petition findings for 
478 species, and proposed listing determinations or not-warranted 
findings for 40 species.
    These settlement agreements have led to a number of results that 
affect our preclusion analysis. First, the Service has been, and will 
continue to be, limited in the extent to which it can undertake 
additional actions within the Listing Program through FY 2017, beyond 
what is required by the MDL Settlement Agreements. Second, because the 
settlement is court-approved, two broad categories of actions now fall 
within the Service's highest priority (compliance with a court order): 
(1) The actions required to be completed in FY 2015 by the MDL 
Settlement Agreements; and (2) completion, before the end of FY 2016, 
of proposed listings or not-warranted findings for most of the 
candidate species identified in this CNOR (in particular, for those 
candidate species that were included in the 2010 CNOR). Therefore, each 
year, one of the Service's highest priorities is to make steady 
progress towards completing by the end of 2017 proposed and final 
listing determinations for the 2010 candidate species--based on the 
Service's LPN prioritization system, preparing multi-species actions 
when appropriate, and taking into consideration the availability of 
staff resources.
    Based on these prioritization factors, we continue to find that 
proposals to list the petitioned candidate species included in Table 1 
are all precluded by higher priority listing actions, including listing 
actions with deadlines required by court-orders and court-approved 
settlement agreements and listing actions with absolute statutory 
deadlines. We provide tables in the Expeditious Progress section, 
below, identifying the listing actions that we completed in FY 2015, as 
well as those we worked on but did not complete in FY 2015.

Expeditious Progress

    As explained above, a determination that listing is warranted but 
precluded must also demonstrate that expeditious progress is being made 
to add and remove qualified species to and from the Lists. As with our 
``precluded'' finding, the evaluation of whether progress in adding 
qualified species to the Lists has been expeditious is a function of 
the resources available for listing and the competing demands for those 
funds. (Although we do not discuss it in detail here, we are also 
making expeditious progress in removing species from the list under the 
Recovery program in light of the resources available for delisting, 
which

[[Page 80591]]

is funded by a separate line item in the budget of the Endangered 
Species Program. During FY 2015, we completed a delisting rule for one 
species.) As discussed below, given the limited resources available for 
listing, we find that we made expeditious progress in adding qualified 
species to the Lists in FY 2015.
    We provide below tables cataloguing the work of the Service's 
Listing Program in FY 2015. This work includes all three of the steps 
necessary for adding species to the Lists: (1) Identifying species that 
warrant listing; (2) undertaking the evaluation of the best available 
scientific data about those species and the threats they face, and 
preparing proposed and final listing rules; and (3) adding species to 
the Lists by publishing proposed and final listing rules that include a 
summary of the data on which the rule is based and show the 
relationship of that data to the rule. After taking into consideration 
the limited resources available for listing, the competing demands for 
those funds, and the completed work catalogued in the tables below, we 
find that we made expeditious progress to add qualified species to the 
Lists in FY 2015.
    First, we made expeditious progress in the third and final step: 
Listing qualified species. In FY 2015, we resolved the status of 31 
species that we determined, or had previously determined, qualified for 
listing. Moreover, for 31 species, the resolution was to add them to 
the Lists, most with concurrent designations of critical habitat, and 
for 1 species we published a withdrawal of the proposed rule. We also 
proposed to list an additional 67 qualified species, most with 
concurrent critical habitat proposals.
    Second, we are making expeditious progress in the second step: 
working towards adding qualified species to the Lists. In FY 2015, we 
worked on developing proposed listing rules or not-warranted 12-month 
petition findings for 28 species (most of them with concurrent critical 
habitat proposals). Although we have not yet completed those actions, 
we are making expeditious progress towards doing so.
    Third, we are making expeditious progress in the first step towards 
adding qualified species to the Lists: Identifying additional species 
that qualify for listing. In FY 2015, we completed 90-day petition 
findings for 67 species and 12-month petition findings for 27 species.
    Our accomplishments this year should also be considered in the 
broader context of our commitment to reduce the number of candidate 
species for which we have not made final determinations whether or not 
to list. On May 10, 2011, the Service filed in the MDL Litigation a 
settlement agreement that put in place an ambitious schedule for 
completing proposed and final listing determinations at least through 
FY 2016; the court approved that settlement agreement on September 9, 
2011. That agreement required, among other things, that for all 251 
species that were included as candidates in the 2010 CNOR, the Service 
submit to the Federal Register proposed listing rules or not-warranted 
findings by the end of FY 2016, and for any proposed listing rules, the 
Service complete final listing determinations within the statutory time 
frame. Paragraph 6 of the agreement provided indicators that the 
Service is making adequate progress towards meeting that requirement--
which included: Completing proposed listing rules or not-warranted 
findings for at least 200 species by the end of FY 2015. The Service 
has completed proposed listing rules or not-warranted findings for 220 
of the 2010 candidate species, as well as final listing rules for 143 
of those proposed rules, and is therefore is making adequate progress 
towards meeting all of the requirements of the MDL settlement 
agreement. Both by entering into the settlement agreement and by making 
adequate progress towards making final listing determinations for the 
251 species on the 2010 candidate list, the Service is making 
expeditious progress to add qualified species to the lists.
    The Service's progress in FY 2015 included completing and 
publishing the following determinations:

                                         2015 Completed Listing Actions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
         Publication date                   Title                 Actions                    FR Pages
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
10/24/2014........................  Threatened Species     Final Listing         79 FR 6367-63748.
                                     Status for Dakota      Endangered and
                                     Skipper and            Threatened.
                                     Endangered Species
                                     Status for Poweshiek
                                     Skipperling.
11/20/2014........................  Threatened Species     Final Listing         79 FR 69192-69310.
                                     Status for Gunnison    Threatened.
                                     sage-grouse.
12/11/2014........................  Threatened Species     Final Listing         79 FR 73706-73748.
                                     Status for the Rufa    Threatened.
                                     Red Knot.
12/31/2014........................  90-day finding on      90-day petition       79 FR 78775-78778.
                                     Monarch Butterfly      finding Substantial.
                                     and California
                                     Gnatcatcher.
4/2/2015..........................  Threatened Species     Final Listing         80 FR 17974-18033.
                                     Status for the         Threatened.
                                     Northern Long-eared
                                     Bat with 4(d) Rule.
4/7/2015..........................  Endangered Species     12-month petition     80 FR 18711-18739.
                                     Status for the Big     finding Warranted
                                     Sandy Crayfish and     Proposed Listing
                                     the Guyandotte River   Endangered.
                                     Crayfish.
4/7/2015..........................  12-Month Finding on a  12-month petition     80 FR 18742-18772.
                                     Petition To List       finding Not
                                     Humboldt Marten as     warranted.
                                     an Endangered or
                                     Threatened Species.
4/10/2015.........................  90-Day Findings on     90-day petition       80 FR 19259-19263.
                                     Ten Petitions (Clear   finding Substantial.
                                     Lake hitch, Mojave
                                     shoulderband snail,
                                     Northern spotted
                                     owl, Relict dace,
                                     San Joaquin Valley
                                     giant flower-loving
                                     fly, Western pond
                                     turtle, Yellow-
                                     cedar, Egyptian
                                     tortoise, Golden
                                     conure, Long-tailed
                                     chinchilla).
4/23/2015.........................  Withdrawal of the      Proposed Rule         80 FR 22828-22866.
                                     Proposed Rule To       Withdrawal.
                                     List the Bi-State
                                     Distinct Population
                                     Segment of Greater
                                     Sage-Grouse and
                                     Designate Critical
                                     Habitat.
6/23/2015.........................  12-Month Finding on a  12-month petition     80 FR 35916-35931.
                                     Petition to List       finding Not
                                     Leona's Little Blue    warranted.
                                     Butterfly as
                                     Endangered or
                                     Threatened.

[[Page 80592]]

 
6/30/2015.........................  90-day petition        90-day petition       80 FR 37568- 37579
                                     findings on 31         finding Substantial
                                     species.               and not substantial
                                                            (not substantial
                                                            for Gray Wolf, Blue
                                                            Ridge gray-cheeked
                                                            salamander,
                                                            California giant
                                                            salamander, Caddo
                                                            Mountain
                                                            salamander,
                                                            Colorado checkered
                                                            whiptail, the DPS
                                                            of Wild Horse,
                                                            Olympic torrent
                                                            salamander, Pigeon
                                                            Mountain
                                                            salamander,
                                                            Weller's salamander
                                                            and wingtail
                                                            crayfish;
                                                            substantial for
                                                            alligator snapping
                                                            turtle,
                                                            Apalachicola
                                                            kingsnake, Arizona
                                                            toad, Blanding's
                                                            turtle, Cascade
                                                            Caverns salamander,
                                                            Cascades frog,
                                                            Cedar Key mole
                                                            skink, foothill
                                                            yellow-legged frog,
                                                            gopher frog, green
                                                            salamander,
                                                            Illinois chorus
                                                            frog, Kern Canyon
                                                            slender salamander,
                                                            Key ringneck snake,
                                                            Oregon slender
                                                            salamander,
                                                            Relictual slender
                                                            salamander, Rim
                                                            Rock crowned snake,
                                                            Rio Grande cooter,
                                                            silvery phacelia,
                                                            spotted turtle,
                                                            southern hog-nosed
                                                            snake, and western
                                                            spadefoot toad).
9/15/2015.........................  12-Month Finding on a  12-month petition     80 FR 55286-55304.
                                     Petition to List the   finding Not
                                     New England            warranted Notice
                                     Cottontail as an       candidate removal.
                                     Endangered or
                                     Threatened Species.
9/15/2015.........................  Threatened Species     Proposed Listing      80 FR 55304-55321.
                                     Status for             Threatened.
                                     Platanthera
                                     integrilabia (White
                                     Fringeless Orchid).
9/18/2015.........................  90-Day Findings on 25  90-day petition       80 FR 56423- 56432.
                                     Petitions.             finding Substantial
                                                            and not substantial
                                                            (not substantial
                                                            for Cahaba
                                                            pebblesnail and the
                                                            Stephens' kangaroo
                                                            rat; substantial
                                                            for Blue Calamintha
                                                            bee, California
                                                            spotted owl,
                                                            Cascade torrent
                                                            salamander,
                                                            Columbia torrent
                                                            salamander, Florida
                                                            pine snake, Inyo
                                                            Mountains
                                                            salamander, Kern
                                                            Plateau salamander,
                                                            lesser slender
                                                            salamander,
                                                            limestone
                                                            salamander,
                                                            northern bog
                                                            lemming, Panamint
                                                            alligator lizard,
                                                            Peaks of Otter
                                                            salamander, rusty-
                                                            patched bumblebee,
                                                            Shasta salamander,
                                                            short-tailed snake,
                                                            southern rubber
                                                            boa, regal
                                                            fritillary, Tinian
                                                            monarch, tricolored
                                                            blackbird, tufted
                                                            puffin, Virgin
                                                            River spinedace,
                                                            wood turtle, and
                                                            the Yuman desert
                                                            fringe-toed lizard).
9/29/2015.........................  Endangered Species     Proposed Listing      80 FR 58535-58567.
                                     Status for             Endangered and
                                     Chamaecrista lineata   Threatened.
                                     var. keyensis (Big
                                     Pine Partridge Pea),
                                     Chamaesyce deltoidea
                                     ssp. serpyllum
                                     (Wedge Spurge), and
                                     Linum arenicola
                                     (Sand Flax), and
                                     Threatened Species
                                     Status for
                                     Argythamnia
                                     blodgettii
                                     (Blodgett's
                                     Silverbush).
9/30/2015.........................  Endangered Status for  Proposed Listing      80 FR 58820-58909.
                                     49 Species from the    Endangered.
                                     Hawaiian Islands.
9/30/2015.........................  Threatened Species     Proposed Listing      80 FR 58688-58701.
                                     Status for the         Threatened.
                                     Eastern Massasauga
                                     Rattlesnake.
9/30/2015.........................  Threatened Species     Proposed Listing      80 FR 58674-58688.
                                     Status for the Elfin-  Threatened.
                                     woods Warbler with
                                     4(d) Rule.
10/1/2015.........................  Endangered Status for  Final Listing         80 FR 59423-59497.
                                     16 Species and         Endangered and
                                     Threatened Status      Threatened.
                                     for 7 Species in
                                     Guam and the
                                     Commonwealth of the
                                     Northern Mariana
                                     Islands.
10/2/2015.........................  12-Month Finding on a  12-month petition     80 FR 59857-59942.
                                     Petition to List       finding Not
                                     Greater Sage-grouse    warranted Notice
                                     (Centrocercus          Candidate removal.
                                     urophasianus) as an
                                     Endangered or
                                     Threatened Species.
10/6/2015.........................  12-Month Finding on a  12-month petition     80 FR 60321-60335.
                                     Petition to List the   finding Not
                                     Sonoran Desert         warranted Notice
                                     Tortoise as an         Candidate removal.
                                     Endangered or
                                     Threatened Species.
10/6/2015.........................  Proposed Threatened    Proposed Listing      80 FR 60335-60348.
                                     Species Status for     Threatened.
                                     Suwannee
                                     Moccasinshell.
10/6/2015.........................  Endangered Species     Final Listing         80 FR 60439-60465.
                                     Status for             Endangered.
                                     Trichomanes
                                     punctatum ssp.
                                     floridanum (Florida
                                     Bristle Fern.

[[Page 80593]]

 
10/6/2015.........................  Threatened Species     Final Listing         80 FR 60467-60489.
                                     Status for Black       Threatened.
                                     Pinesnake With 4(d)
                                     Rule.
10/7/2015.........................  Threatened Species     Proposed Listing      80 FR 60753-60783.
                                     Status for the         Threatened.
                                     Headwater Chub and a
                                     Distinct Population
                                     Segment of the
                                     Roundtail Chub.
10/8/2015.........................  12-Month Findings on   12-month petition     80 FR 60834-60850.
                                     Petitions To List 19   finding Not
                                     Species as             warranted Notice
                                     Endangered or          Candidate removal.
                                     Threatened Species.
10/8/2015.........................  12-Month Finding on a  12-month petition     80 FR 60989-61028.
                                     Petition To List       finding Not
                                     Sierra Nevada Red      warranted and
                                     Fox as an Endangered   warranted but
                                     or Threatened Specie.  precluded.
10/8/2015.........................  Threatened Species     Proposed Listing      80 FR 60961-60988.
                                     Status for the         Threatened.
                                     Kentucky Arrow
                                     Darter.
10/13/2015........................  Proposed Endangered    Proposed Listing      80 FR 61567-61607.
                                     Status for Five        Endangered.
                                     Species from
                                     American Samoa.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Our expeditious progress also included work on listing actions that 
we funded in previous fiscal years and in FY 2015, but did not complete 
in FY 2015. For these species, we have completed the first step, and 
have been working on the second step, necessary for adding species to 
the Lists. These actions are listed below. All the actions in the table 
are being conducted under a deadline set by a court through a court 
order or settlement agreement with the exception of the 90-day petition 
finding for the Miami tiger beetle.

    Actions Funded in Previous FYs and FY 2015 But Not Yet Completed
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                 Species                               Action
------------------------------------------------------------------------
           Actions Subject to Court Order/Settlement Agreement
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Washington ground squirrel...............  Proposed listing.
Xantus's murrelet........................  Proposed listing.
Four Florida plants (Florida pineland      Proposed listing.
 crabgrass, Florida prairie clover,
 pineland sandmat, and Everglades bully).
Black warrior waterdog...................  Proposed listing.
Black mudalia............................  Proposed listing.
Highlands tiger beetle...................  Proposed listing.
Sicklefin redhorse.......................  Proposed listing.
Texas hornshell..........................  Proposed listing.
Guadalupe fescue.........................  Proposed listing.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                  Actions Subject to Statutory Deadline
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Miami Tiger Beetle.......................  90-day petition finding.
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    We also funded work on resubmitted petitions findings for 56 
candidate species (species petitioned prior to the last CNOR). We did 
not include an updated assessment form as part of our resubmitted 
petition findings for the 56 candidate species for which we are 
preparing either proposed listing determinations or not warranted 12-
month findings. However, for the resubmitted petition findings, in the 
course of preparing proposed listing determinations or 12-month not 
warranted findings, we continue to monitor new information about their 
status so that we can make prompt use of our authority under section 
4(b)(7) in the case of an emergency posing a significant risk to the 
well-being of any of these candidate species; see summaries below 
regarding publication of these determinations (these species will 
remain on the candidate list until a proposed listing rule is 
published). Because the majority of these petitioned species were 
already candidate species prior to our receipt of a petition to list 
them, we had already assessed their status using funds from our 
Candidate Conservation Program, so we continue to monitor the status of 
these species through our Candidate Conservation Program. The cost of 
updating the species assessment forms and publishing the joint 
publication of the CNOR and resubmitted petition findings is shared 
between the Listing Program and the Candidate Conservation Program.
    During FY 2015, we also funded work on resubmitted petition 
findings for petitions to uplist three listed species (one grizzly bear 
population, Delta smelt, and Sclerocactus brevispinus (Pariette 
cactus)), for which we had previously received a petition and made a 
warranted-but-precluded finding.
    Another way that we have been expeditious in making progress to add 
qualified species to the Lists is that we have endeavored to make our 
listing actions as efficient and timely as possible, given the 
requirements of the relevant law and regulations and constraints 
relating to workload and personnel. We are continually considering ways 
to streamline processes or achieve economies of scale, such as by 
batching related actions together. Given our limited budget for 
implementing section 4 of the ESA, these efforts also contribute 
towards finding that we are making expeditious progress to add 
qualified species to the Lists.
    Although we have not been able to resolve the listing status of 
many of the candidates, we continue to contribute to

[[Page 80594]]

the conservation of these species through several programs in the 
Service. In particular, the Candidate Conservation Program, which is 
separately budgeted, focuses on providing technical expertise for 
developing conservation strategies and agreements to guide voluntary 
on-the-ground conservation work for candidate and other at-risk 
species. The main goal of this program is to address the threats facing 
candidate species. Through this program, we work with our partners 
(other Federal agencies, State agencies, Tribes, local governments, 
private landowners, and private conservation organizations) to address 
the threats to candidate species and other species at risk. We are 
currently working with our partners to implement voluntary conservation 
agreements for more than 110 species covering 6.1 million acres of 
habitat. In some instances, the sustained implementation of 
strategically designed conservation efforts have culminated in making 
listing unnecessary for species that are candidates for listing or for 
which listing has been proposed (see http://ecos.fws.gov/tess_public/reports/non-listed-species-precluded-from-listing-due-to-conservation-report).

Findings for Petitioned Candidate Species

    Below are updated summaries for petitioned candidates for which we 
published findings under section 4(b)(3)(B). In accordance with section 
4(b)(3)(C)(i), we treat any petitions for which we made warranted-but-
precluded 12-month findings within the past year as having been 
resubmitted on the date of the warranted-but-precluded finding. We are 
making continued warranted-but-precluded 12-month findings on the 
petitions for these species (for 12-month findings on resubmitted 
petitions for species that we determined no longer meet the definition 
of ``endangered species'' or ``threatened species,'' see summaries 
above under Candidate Removals).

Mammals

    Pe[ntilde]asco least chipmunk (Tamias minimus atristria)--The 
following summary is based on information contained in our files. 
Pe[ntilde]asco least chipmunk is endemic to the White Mountains, Otero 
and Lincoln Counties, and the Sacramento Mountains, Otero County, New 
Mexico. The Pe[ntilde]asco least chipmunk historically had a broad 
distribution throughout the Sacramento Mountains within ponderosa pine 
forests. The last verification of persistence of the Sacramento 
Mountains population of Pe[ntilde]asco least chipmunk was in 1966, and 
the subspecies appears to be extirpated from the Sacramento Mountains. 
The only remaining known distribution of the least chipmunk is 
restricted to open, high-elevation talus slopes within a subalpine 
grassland that is located in the Sierra Blanca area of the White 
Mountains in Lincoln and Otero Counties, New Mexico.
    The Pe[ntilde]asco least chipmunk faces threats from present or 
threatened destruction, modification, and curtailment of its habitat 
from the alteration or loss of mature ponderosa pine forests in one of 
the two historically occupied areas. The documented decline in occupied 
localities, in conjunction with the small numbers of individuals 
captured, is linked to widespread habitat alteration. Moreover, the 
highly fragmented nature of its distribution is a significant 
contributor to the vulnerability of this subspecies and increases the 
likelihood of very small, isolated populations being extirpated. As a 
result of this fragmentation, even if suitable habitat exists (or is 
restored) in the Sacramento Mountains, the likelihood of natural 
recolonization of historical habitat or population expansion from the 
White Mountains is extremely remote. Considering the high magnitude and 
immediacy of these threats to the subspecies and its habitat, and the 
vulnerability of the White Mountains population, we conclude that the 
least chipmunk is in danger of extinction throughout all of its known 
range now or in the foreseeable future.
    The one known remaining extant population of Pe[ntilde]asco least 
chipmunk in the White Mountains is particularly susceptible to 
extinction as a result of small, reduced population sizes and its 
isolation. Because of the reduced population size and lack of 
contiguous habitat adjacent to the extant White Mountains population, 
even a small impact on the White Mountains could have a very large 
impact on the status of the species as a whole. As a result of its 
restricted range, apparent small population size, and fragmented 
historical habitat, the White Mountains population is inherently 
vulnerable to extinction due to effects of small population sizes 
(e.g., loss of genetic diversity). These impacts are likely to be seen 
in the population at some point in the foreseeable future, but do not 
appear to be affecting this population currently, as it appears to be 
stable at this time. Therefore, we conclude that the threats to this 
population are of high magnitude, but not imminent. Therefore, we 
assign an LPN of 6 to the subspecies.
    Washington ground squirrel (Urocitellus washingtoni)--We continue 
to find that listing this species is warranted but precluded as of the 
date of publication of this notice. However, we are working on a 
thorough review of all available data and expect to publish either a 
proposed listing rule or a 12-month not warranted finding prior to 
making the next annual resubmitted petition 12-month finding. In the 
course of preparing a proposed listing rule or not warranted petition 
finding, we are continuing to monitor new information about this 
species' status so that we can make prompt use of our authority under 
section 4(b)(7) in the case of an emergency posing a significant risk 
to the species.
    Red tree vole, north Oregon coast DPS (Arborimus longicaudus)--The 
following summary is based on information contained in our files and in 
our initial warranted-but-precluded finding, published in the Federal 
Register on October 13, 2011 (76 FR 63720). Red tree voles are small, 
mouse-sized rodents that live in conifer forests and spend almost all 
of their time in the tree canopy. They are one of the few animals that 
can persist on a diet of conifer needles, which is their principal 
food. Red tree voles are endemic to the humid, coniferous forests of 
western Oregon (generally west of the crest of the Cascade Range) and 
northwestern California (north of the Klamath River). The north Oregon 
coast DPS of the red tree vole comprises that portion of the Oregon 
Coast Range from the Columbia River south to the Siuslaw River. Red 
tree voles demonstrate strong selection for nesting in older conifer 
forests, which are now relatively rare across the range of the DPS; 
they avoid nesting in younger forests.
    Although data are not available to rigorously assess population 
trends, information from retrospective surveys indicates red tree voles 
have declined in the range of the DPS and are largely absent in areas 
where they were once relatively abundant. Older forests that provide 
habitat for red tree voles are limited and highly fragmented, while 
ongoing forest practices in much of the population's range maintain the 
remnant patches of older forest in a highly fragmented and isolated 
condition. Modeling indicates that 11 percent of the range currently 
contains tree vole habitat, largely restricted to the 22 percent of the 
population's range that is under Federal ownership.
    Existing regulatory mechanisms on State and private lands are 
inadequate to prevent continued harvest of forest stands at a scale and 
extent that would be meaningful for conserving red tree

[[Page 80595]]

voles. Biological characteristics of red tree voles, such as small home 
ranges, limited dispersal distances, and low reproductive potential, 
limit their ability to persist in areas of extensive habitat loss and 
alteration. These biological characteristics also make it difficult for 
the tree voles to recolonize isolated habitat patches. Due to the 
species' reduced distribution, the red tree vole is vulnerable to 
random environmental disturbances that may remove or further isolate 
large blocks of already limited habitat, and to extirpation from such 
factors as lack of genetic variability, inbreeding depression, and 
demographic stochasticity. Although the entire population is 
experiencing threats, the impact is less pronounced on Federal lands, 
where much of the red tree vole habitat remains. Hence, the magnitude 
of these threats is moderate to low. The threats are imminent because 
habitat loss and reduced distribution are currently occurring within 
the range of the DPS. Therefore, we have retained an LPN of 9 for this 
DPS.
    Pacific walrus (Odobenus rosmarus divergens)--The following 
information is based on information in our files and our warranted-but-
precluded 12-month petition finding published on February 10, 2011 (76 
FR 7634). The Pacific walrus uses sea ice over the continental shelf 
waters of the northern Bering and Chukchi Seas for a number of 
important behaviors. Sea ice is optimal habitat for females and young 
animals year round, but most males remain in the Bering Sea even when 
ice is absent. Unlike seals, which can remain in the water for extended 
periods, walrus must haul out onto ice or land periodically to rest. 
The Pacific walrus is a traditional and important source of food and 
products to native Alaskans, especially those living on Saint Lawrence 
Island, and to native Russians.
    Annually, females and young animals, as well as some males, migrate 
up to 1,500 km (932 mi) between winter breeding areas in the sub-Arctic 
(northern Bering Sea) and summer foraging areas in the Chukchi Sea. 
Historically, the females and calves remained on pack ice over the 
continental shelf of the Chukchi Sea throughout the summer, using it as 
a platform for resting after making shallow foraging dives for 
invertebrates on the sea floor. Sea ice also provides isolation from 
disturbance and predators. Since 1979, the extent of summer Arctic sea 
ice has declined. The lowest records of minimum sea ice extent occurred 
from 2007 to 2014. Based on the best scientific information available, 
we anticipate that sea ice will retreat northward off the Chukchi 
continental shelf for 1 to 5 months every year in the foreseeable 
future.
    When ice in the Chukchi Sea melts beyond the limits of the 
continental shelf (and the ability of the walrus to obtain food), 
thousands of female and young walruses congregate at coastal haulouts. 
Although coastal haulouts have historically provided a place to rest, 
the aggregation of so many animals at this time of year has increased 
in the last 7 years. Not only are the number of animals more 
concentrated at coastal haulouts than on widely dispersed sea ice, but 
also the probability of disturbance from humans and terrestrial animals 
is much higher. Disturbances at coastal haulouts can cause stampedes, 
leading to mortalities and injuries. In addition, there is also concern 
that the concentration of animals will cause local prey depletion, 
leading to longer foraging trips, increased energy costs, and potential 
effects on female condition and calf survival. These effects may lead 
to a population decline.
    We recognize that Pacific walruses face additional stressors from 
ocean warming, ocean acidification, disease, oil and gas exploration 
and development, increased shipping, commercial fishing, and 
subsistence harvest, but subsistence harvest is the only threat that 
could contribute to finding the species to be in danger of extinction 
throughout all or a significant portion of its range, or likely to 
become so in the foreseeable future. We found that subsistence harvest 
will contribute to putting the species in danger of extinction if the 
population declines but harvest levels remain the same. Because the 
threat of sea ice loss is not having significant population-level 
effects currently, but is projected to, we determined that the 
magnitude of this threat is moderate, not high. Because both the loss 
of sea ice habitat and the ongoing practice of subsistence harvest are 
presently occurring, these threats are imminent. Thus, we assigned an 
LPN of 9 to this subspecies.

Birds

    Spotless crake, American Samoa DPS (Porzana tabuensis)--We continue 
to find that listing this species is warranted but precluded as of the 
date of publication of this notice. However, we are working on a 
thorough review of all available data and expect to publish either a 
proposed listing rule or a 12-month not warranted finding prior to 
making the next annual resubmitted petition 12-month finding. In the 
course of preparing a proposed listing rule or not warranted petition 
finding, we are continuing to monitor new information about this 
species' status so that we can make prompt use of our authority under 
section 4(b)(7) in the case of an emergency posing a significant risk 
to the species.
    Xantus's murrelet (Synthliboramphus hypoleucus)--We continue to 
find that listing this species is warranted but precluded as of the 
date of publication of this notice. However, we are working on a 
thorough review of all available data and expect to publish either a 
proposed listing rule or a 12-month not warranted finding prior to 
making the next annual resubmitted petition 12-month finding. In the 
course of preparing a proposed listing rule or not warranted petition 
finding, we are continuing to monitor new information about this 
species' status so that we can make prompt use of our authority under 
section 4(b)(7) in the case of an emergency posing a significant risk 
to the species.
    Red-crowned parrot (Amazona viridigenalis)--The following summary 
is based on information contained in the notice of 12-month finding 
(October 6, 2011, 76 FR 62016), scientific reports, journal articles, 
and newspaper articles, and also, to a large extent, on communication 
with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service), Gulf Coast Prairie 
Landscape Conservation Cooperative, Texas Parks and Wildlife 
Department, The Nature Conservancy, Rio Grande Joint Venture, World 
Birding Center, University of Texas-Brownsville, and Rio Grande Birding 
Festival biologists. Currently, there are no changes to the range or 
distribution of the red-crowned parrot. The red-crowned parrot is 
nonmigratory, and occurs in fragmented isolated habitat in the Mexican 
States of Veracruz, San Luis Potosi, Nuevo Leon, Tamaulipas, and 
northeast Queretaro. In the United States, it occurs in the State of 
Texas, in Mission, McAllen, Pharr, and Edinburg in Hidalgo County, and 
in Brownsville, Los Fresnos, San Benito, and Harlingen in Cameron 
County. Feral populations may also exist in southern California, Puerto 
Rico, Hawaii, and Florida, and escaped birds have been reported in 
central Texas. The species is nomadic during the winter (nonbreeding) 
season when large flocks range widely to forage, moving tens of 
kilometers during a single flight in Mexico.
    As of 2004, half of the native population is believed to be found 
in the United States. Within Texas, the species is thought to move 
between urban areas in search of food and other available resources. 
The results of two seasons of monitoring the species' use of 
revegetated habitat, native habitat, and urban habitats within the Rio 
Grande

[[Page 80596]]

corridor found that the red-crowned parrot occurred exclusively in 
urban habitats in the Texas Lower Rio Grande Valley during the breeding 
season. Systematic annual monitoring of red-crowned parrot populations 
in the Lower Rio Grande Valley, Texas, has not been undertaken, 
although there are numerous reported sightings and anecdotal 
observations of the bird and its behavior, abundance, nesting, or 
threats. An iNaturalist project was created for the parrot in early 
2015, as an initial step in developing an annual monitoring program 
that will gather data on distribution, numbers, nesting, and foraging 
habitat from academics, conservation organizations, and citizen 
scientists. Monitoring efforts for the red-crowned parrot in Mexico are 
unknown, although a proposal has been developed to create a 
conservation plan and begin a monitoring program in central Tamaulipas 
(if funding is found).
    Conservation efforts include a project that was initiated by the 
Service and the Rio Grande Joint Venture in the Lower Rio Grande Valley 
to understand and compare how birds are using revegetated tracts of 
land versus native refuge tracts and urban habitats, including the 
effect of previous flooding and projections of how climate change may 
affect the distribution of birds in the Lower Rio Grande Valley. A 
final report for this project showed red-crowned parrots using only 
urban habitats during the breeding season, but it is hoped that some of 
the revegetation efforts, as well as conservation of existing native 
tracts of land, will provide habitat in the future once the trees have 
matured. Because loss of nesting habitat is a concern for the species 
in southern Texas, two projects, one in Weslaco and one in Harlingen, 
Texas, were initiated in 2011, to provide nest boxes in palms for the 
red-crowned parrot. As of March 2013, these nest sites had not been 
used, although red-crowned parrots had actively traveled throughout the 
area during the prior spring, summer, and fall months.
    The primary threats within Mexico and Texas remain habitat 
destruction and modification from logging, deforestation, conversion of 
suitable habitat, and urbanization, as well as trapping and illegal 
trade of the parrots. Multiple laws and regulations have been passed to 
control illegal trade, but they are not adequately enforced. In 
addition, existing regulations do not adequately address the habitat 
threats to the species. Thus, the inadequacy of existing regulations 
and their enforcement continue to threaten the red-crowned parrot. 
However, at least four city ordinances have been established in South 
Texas prohibiting malicious acts (injury, mortality) to birds and their 
habitat. A new effort in 2015 is under way to gain recognition for the 
species as indigenous in Texas; a classification that would afford 
State protection. Disease and predation still do not threaten the 
species. Pesticide exposure is not known to affect the red-crowned 
parrot. Threats to the species are extensive and are imminent and, 
therefore, we have determined that a LPN of 2 remains appropriate for 
the species.
    Sprague's pipit (Anthus spragueii)--We continue to find that 
listing this species is warranted but precluded as of the date of 
publication of this notice. However, we are working on a thorough 
review of all available data and expect to publish either a proposed 
listing rule or a 12-month not warranted finding prior to making the 
next annual resubmitted petition 12-month finding. In the course of 
preparing a proposed listing rule or not warranted petition finding, we 
are continuing to monitor new information about this species' status so 
that we can make prompt use of our authority under section 4(b)(7) in 
the case of an emergency posing a significant risk to the species.

Reptiles

    Louisiana pine snake (Pituophis ruthveni)--We continue to find that 
listing this species is warranted but precluded as of the date of 
publication of this notice. However, we are working on a thorough 
review of all available data and expect to publish either a proposed 
listing rule or a 12-month not warranted finding prior to making the 
next annual resubmitted petition 12-month finding. In the course of 
preparing a proposed listing rule or not warranted petition finding, we 
are continuing to monitor new information about this species' status so 
that we can make prompt use of our authority under section 4(b)(7) in 
the case of an emergency posing a significant risk to the species.
    Gopher tortoise, eastern population (Gopherus polyphemus)--The 
following summary is based on information in our files. The gopher 
tortoise is a large, terrestrial, herbivorous turtle that reaches a 
total length up to 15 inches (in) (38 centimeters (cm)), and typically 
inhabits the sandhills, pine/scrub oak uplands, and pine flatwoods 
associated with the longleaf pine (Pinus palustris) ecosystem. A 
fossorial animal, the gopher tortoise is usually found in areas with 
well-drained, deep, sandy soils; open tree canopy; and diverse, 
abundant herbaceous groundcover.
    The gopher tortoise ranges from extreme southern South Carolina 
south through peninsular Florida, and west through southern Georgia, 
Florida, southern Alabama, and Mississippi, into extreme southeastern 
Louisiana. The eastern population of the gopher tortoise in South 
Carolina, Florida, Georgia, and Alabama (east of the Mobile and 
Tombigbee Rivers) is a candidate species; the western population of 
gopher tortoise--which is found in Alabama (west of the Mobile and 
Tombigbee Rivers), Mississippi, and Louisiana--is federally listed as 
threatened.
    The primary threat to the gopher tortoise is habitat fragmentation, 
destruction, and modification (either deliberately or from 
inattention), including conversion of longleaf pine forests to 
incompatible silvicultural or agricultural habitats, urbanization, 
shrub and hardwood encroachment (mainly from fire exclusion or 
insufficient fire management), construction of solar farms, and 
establishment and spread of invasive species. Other threats include 
disease, predation (mainly on nests and young tortoises), and 
inadequate regulatory mechanisms, specifically those needed to protect 
and enhance relocated tortoise populations in perpetuity. The magnitude 
of threats to the eastern population of gopher tortoise is moderate to 
low, since the population extends over a broad geographic area and 
conservation measures are in place in some areas. However, since the 
eastern population is currently being affected by a number of threats, 
including destruction and modification of its habitat, disease, 
predation, exotics, and inadequate regulatory mechanisms, these threats 
are imminent. Thus, we have continued to assign a LPN of 8 for this 
species.
    Sonoyta mud turtle (Kinosternon sonoriense longifemorale)--We 
continue to find that listing this species is warranted but precluded 
as of the date of publication of this notice. However, we are working 
on a thorough review of all available data and expect to publish either 
a proposed listing rule or a 12-month not warranted finding prior to 
making the next annual resubmitted petition 12-month finding. In the 
course of preparing a proposed listing rule or not warranted petition 
finding, we are continuing to monitor new information about this 
species' status so that we can make prompt use of our authority under 
section 4(b)(7) in the case of an emergency posing a significant risk 
to the species.

[[Page 80597]]

Amphibians

    Relict leopard frog (Lithobates onca)--We continue to find that 
listing this species is warranted but precluded as of the date of 
publication of this notice. However, we are working on a thorough 
review of all available data and expect to publish either a proposed 
listing rule or a 12-month not warranted finding prior to making the 
next annual resubmitted petition 12-month finding. In the course of 
preparing a proposed listing rule or not warranted petition finding, we 
are continuing to monitor new information about this species' status so 
that we can make prompt use of our authority under section 4(b)(7) in 
the case of an emergency posing a significant risk to the species.
    Striped newt (Notophthalmus perstriatus)--The following summary is 
based on information contained in our files. The striped newt is a 
small salamander that inhabits ephemeral ponds surrounded by upland 
habitats of high pine, scrubby flatwoods, and scrub. Longleaf pine-
turkey oak stands with intact ground cover containing wiregrass are the 
preferred upland habitat for striped newts, followed by scrub, then 
flatwoods. Life-history stages of the striped newt are complex, and 
include the use of both aquatic and terrestrial habitats throughout 
their life cycle. Striped newts are opportunistic feeders that prey on 
a variety of items such as frog eggs, worms, snails, fairy shrimp, 
spiders, and insects (adult and larvae) that are of appropriate size. 
They occur in appropriate habitats from the Atlantic Coastal Plain of 
southeastern Georgia to the north-central peninsula of Florida and 
through the Florida panhandle into portions of southwest Georgia, 
upward to Taylor County in western Georgia. Prior to 2014, there was 
thought to be a 125-km (78-mi) separation between the western and 
eastern portions of the striped newt's range. However, the discovery of 
five adult striped newts in Taylor County, Florida, represents a 
significant possible range connection. In addition to the newts 
discovered in Taylor County, Florida, researchers also discovered 15 
striped newts (14 paedomorphs and 1 non-gilled adult) in a pond in 
Osceola County, Florida, which represents a significant range extension 
to the south.
    The historical range of the striped newt was likely similar to the 
current range. However, loss of native longleaf habitat, fire 
suppression, and the natural patchy distribution of upland habitats 
used by striped newts have resulted in fragmentation of existing 
populations. Other threats to the species include disease, drought, and 
inadequate regulatory mechanisms. Overall, the magnitude of the threats 
is moderate and imminent. Therefore, we assigned a LPN of 8 to the 
newt. However, due to recent information that suggests the striped newt 
is likely extirpated from Apalachicola National Forest, the LPN may 
warrant changing to a lower number in the future.
    Berry Cave salamander (Gyrinophilus gulolineatus)--The following 
summary is based on information in our files. The Berry Cave salamander 
is recorded from Berry Cave in Roane County; from Mud Flats, Aycock 
Spring, Christian, Meades Quarry, Meades River, Fifth, and The Lost 
Puddle caves in Knox County; from Blythe Ferry Cave in Meigs County; 
and from an unknown cave in Athens, McMinn County, Tennessee. In May of 
2014, the species was also discovered in an additional cave, Small 
Cave, in McMinn County. These cave systems are all located within the 
Upper Tennessee River and Clinch River drainages. Viable populations 
are known to occur in Berry and Mudflats caves.
    Ongoing threats to Berry Cave salamanders include lye leaching in 
the Meades Quarry Cave as a result of past quarrying activities, the 
possible development of a roadway with potential to impact the recharge 
area for the Meades Quarry Cave system, urban development in Knox 
County, water quality impacts despite existing State and Federal laws, 
and hybridization between spring salamanders and Berry Cave salamanders 
in Meades Quarry Cave. These threats, coupled with confined 
distribution of the species and apparent low population densities, are 
all factors that leave the Berry Cave salamander vulnerable to 
extirpation. We have determined that the Berry Cave salamander faces 
ongoing, and therefore imminent. The threats to the salamander are 
moderate in magnitude because, although some of the threats to the 
species are widespread, the salamander still occurs in several 
different cave systems, and existing populations appear stable. We 
continue to assign this species a LPN of 8.
    Black Warrior waterdog (Necturus alabamensis)--We continue to find 
that listing this species is warranted but precluded as of the date of 
publication of this notice. However, we are working on a thorough 
review of all available data and expect to publish either a proposed 
listing rule or a 12-month not warranted finding prior to making the 
next annual resubmitted petition 12-month finding. In the course of 
preparing a proposed listing rule or not warranted petition finding, we 
are continuing to monitor new information about this species' status so 
that we can make prompt use of our authority under section 4(b)(7) in 
the case of an emergency posing a significant risk to the species.

Fishes

    Arkansas darter (Etheostoma cragini)--We continue to find that 
listing this species is warranted but precluded as of the date of 
publication of this notice. However, we are working on a thorough 
review of all available data and expect to publish either a proposed 
listing rule or a 12-month not warranted finding prior to making the 
next annual resubmitted petition 12-month finding. In the course of 
preparing a proposed listing rule or not warranted petition finding, we 
are continuing to monitor new information about this species' status so 
that we can make prompt use of our authority under section 4(b)(7) in 
the case of an emergency posing a significant risk to the species.
    Pearl darter (Percina aurora)--We continue to find that listing 
this species is warranted but precluded as of the date of publication 
of this notice. However, we are working on a thorough review of all 
available data and expect to publish either a proposed listing rule or 
a 12-month not warranted finding prior to making the next annual 
resubmitted petition 12-month finding. In the course of preparing a 
proposed listing rule or not warranted petition finding, we are 
continuing to monitor new information about this species' status so 
that we can make prompt use of our authority under section 4(b)(7) in 
the case of an emergency posing a significant risk to the species.
    Sicklefin redhorse (Moxostoma sp.)--We continue to find that 
listing this species is warranted but precluded as of the date of 
publication of this notice. However, we are working on a thorough 
review of all available data and expect to publish either a proposed 
listing rule or a 12-month not warranted finding prior to making the 
next annual resubmitted petition 12-month finding. In the course of 
preparing a proposed listing rule or not warranted petition finding, we 
are continuing to monitor new information about this species' status so 
that we can make prompt use of our authority under section 4(b)(7) in 
the case of an emergency posing a significant risk to the species.
    Longfin smelt (Spirinchus thaleichthys), Bay-Delta DPS-- The 
following summary is based on information contained in our files and 
the petition we received on August 8, 2007. On April 2, 2012 (77 FR 
19756), we determined that the longfin smelt

[[Page 80598]]

San Francisco Bay-Delta distinct population segment (Bay-Delta DPS) was 
warranted for listing as an endangered or threatened species under the 
ESA. Longfin smelt measure 9-11 cm (3.5-4.3 in) standard length. 
Longfin smelt are considered pelagic and anadromous, although anadromy 
in longfin smelt is poorly understood, and certain populations in other 
parts of the species' range are not anadromous and complete their 
entire life cycle in freshwater lakes and streams. Longfin smelt 
usually live for 2 years, spawn, and then die, although some 
individuals may spawn as 1- or 3-year-old fish before dying. In the 
Bay-Delta, longfin smelt are believed to spawn primarily in freshwater 
in the lower reaches of the Sacramento River and San Joaquin River.
    Longfin smelt numbers in the Bay-Delta have declined significantly 
since the 1980s. Abundance indices derived from the Fall Midwater Trawl 
(FMWT), Bay Study Midwater Trawl (BSMT), and Bay Study Otter Trawl 
(BSOT) all show marked declines in Bay-Delta longfin smelt populations 
from 2002 to 2012. Longfin smelt abundance over the last decade is the 
lowest recorded in the 40-year history of CDFG's FMWT monitoring 
surveys.
    The primary threat to the DPS is from reduced freshwater flows. 
Freshwater flows, especially winter-spring flows, are significantly 
correlated with longfin smelt abundance --longfin smelt abundance is 
lower when winter-spring flows are lower. The long-term decline in 
abundance of longfin smelt in the Bay-Delta has been partially 
attributed to reductions in food availability and disruptions of the 
Bay-Delta food web caused by establishment of the nonnative overbite 
clam and likely by increasing ammonium concentrations. The threats 
remain high in magnitude, since they pose a significant risk to the DPS 
throughout its range. The threats are ongoing, and thus are imminent. 
Thus, we are maintaining an LPN of 3 for this population.

Clams

    Texas fatmucket (Lampsilis bracteata)--The following summary is 
based on information contained in our files. The Texas fatmucket is a 
large, elongated freshwater mussel that is endemic to central Texas. 
Its shell can be moderately thick, smooth, and rhomboidal to oval in 
shape. Its external coloration varies from tan to brown with continuous 
dark brown, green-brown, or black rays, and internally it is pearly 
white, with some having a light salmon tint. This species historically 
occurred throughout the Colorado and Guadalupe-San Antonio River basins 
but is now known to occur only in nine streams within these basins in 
very limited numbers. All existing populations are represented by only 
one or two individuals and are not likely to be stable or recruiting.
    The Texas fatmucket is primarily threatened by habitat destruction 
and modification from impoundments, which scour river beds, thereby 
removing mussel habitat; decrease water quality; modify stream flows; 
and prevent fish host migration and distribution of freshwater mussels. 
This species is also threatened by sedimentation, dewatering, sand and 
gravel mining, and chemical contaminants. Additionally, these threats 
may be exacerbated by the current and projected effects of climate 
change, population fragmentation and isolation, and the anticipated 
threat of nonnative species. Threats to the Texas fatmucket and its 
habitat are not being adequately addressed through existing regulatory 
mechanisms. Because of the limited distribution of this endemic species 
and its lack of mobility, these threats are likely to result in the 
extinction of the Texas fatmucket in the foreseeable future.
    The threats to the Texas fatmucket are high in magnitude, because 
habitat loss and degradation from impoundments, sedimentation, sand and 
gravel mining, and chemical contaminants are widespread throughout the 
range of the Texas fatmucket and profoundly affect its survival and 
recruitment. These threats are exacerbated by climate change, which 
will increase the frequency and magnitude of droughts. Remaining 
populations are small, isolated, and highly vulnerable to stochastic 
events, which could lead to extirpation or extinction. These threats 
are imminent because they are ongoing and will continue in the 
foreseeable future. Habitat loss and degradation have already occurred 
and will continue as the human population continues to grow in central 
Texas. Texas fatmucket populations are very small and vulnerable to 
extirpation, which increases the species' vulnerability to extinction. 
Based on imminent, high-magnitude threats, we maintained an LPN of 2 
for the Texas fatmucket.
    Texas fawnsfoot (Truncilla macrodon)--The following summary is 
based on information contained in our files. The Texas fawnsfoot is a 
small, relatively thin-shelled freshwater mussel that is endemic to 
central Texas. Its shell is long and oval, generally free of external 
sculpturing, with external coloration that varies from yellowish- or 
orangish-tan, brown, reddish-brown, to smoky-green with a pattern of 
broken rays or irregular blotches. The internal color is bluish-white 
or white and iridescent posteriorly. This species historically occurred 
throughout the Colorado and Brazos River basins and is now known from 
only five locations. The Texas fawnsfoot has been extirpated from 
nearly all of the Colorado River basin and from much of the Brazos 
River basin. Of the populations that remain, only three are likely to 
be stable and recruiting; the remaining populations are disjunct and 
restricted to short stream reaches.
    The Texas fawnsfoot is primarily threatened by habitat destruction 
and modification from impoundments, which scour river beds, thereby 
removing mussel habitat; decrease water quality; modify stream flows; 
and prevent fish host migration and distribution of freshwater mussels, 
as well as by sedimentation, dewatering, sand and gravel mining, and 
chemical contaminants. Additionally, these threats may be exacerbated 
by the current and projected effects of climate change, population 
fragmentation and isolation, and the anticipated threat of nonnative 
species. Threats to the Texas fawnsfoot and its habitat are not being 
adequately addressed through existing regulatory mechanisms. Because of 
the limited distribution of this endemic species and its lack of 
mobility, these threats are likely to result in the extinction of the 
Texas fawnsfoot in the foreseeable future.
    The threats to the Texas fawnsfoot are high in magnitude. Habitat 
loss and degradation from impoundments, sedimentation, sand and gravel 
mining, and chemical contaminants are widespread throughout the range 
of the Texas fawnsfoot and profoundly affect its survival and 
recruitment. These threats are exacerbated by climate change, which 
will increase the frequency and magnitude of droughts. Remaining 
populations are small, isolated, and highly vulnerable to stochastic 
events. These threats are imminent because they are ongoing and will 
continue in the foreseeable future. Habitat loss and degradation has 
already occurred and will continue as the human population continues to 
grow in central Texas. The small Texas fawnsfoot populations are at 
risk of extirpation, which increases the species' vulnerability to 
extinction. Based on imminent, high-magnitude threats, we assigned the 
Texas fawnsfoot an LPN of 2.
    Texas hornshell (Popenaias popei)--We continue to find that listing 
this species is warranted but precluded as of the date of publication 
of this notice.

[[Page 80599]]

However, we are working on a thorough review of all available data and 
expect to publish either a proposed listing rule or a 12-month not 
warranted finding prior to making the next annual resubmitted petition 
12-month finding. In the course of preparing a proposed listing rule or 
not warranted petition finding, we are continuing to monitor new 
information about this species' status so that we can make prompt use 
of our authority under section 4(b)(7) in the case of an emergency 
posing a significant risk to the species.
    Golden orb (Quadrula aurea)--The following summary is based on 
information contained in our files. The golden orb is a small, round-
shaped freshwater mussel that is endemic to central Texas. This species 
historically occurred throughout the Nueces-Frio and Guadalupe-San 
Antonio River basins and is now known from only nine locations in four 
rivers. The golden orb has been eliminated from nearly the entire 
Nueces-Frio River basin. Four of these populations appear to be stable 
and are reproducing, and the remaining five populations are small and 
isolated and show no evidence of recruitment. It appears that the 
populations in the middle Guadalupe and lower San Marcos Rivers are 
likely connected. The remaining extant populations are highly 
fragmented and restricted to short reaches.
    The golden orb is primarily threatened by habitat destruction and 
modification from impoundments, which scour river beds, thereby 
removing mussel habitat; decrease water quality; modify stream flows; 
and prevent fish host migration and distribution of freshwater mussels. 
The species is also threatened by sedimentation, dewatering, sand and 
gravel mining, and chemical contaminants. Additionally, these threats 
may be exacerbated by the current and projected effects of climate 
change, population fragmentation and isolation, and the anticipated 
threat of nonnative species. Threats to the golden orb and its habitat 
are not being adequately addressed through existing regulatory 
mechanisms. Because of the limited distribution of this endemic species 
and its lack of mobility, these threats are likely to result in the 
golden orb becoming in danger of extinction in the foreseeable future.
    The threats to the golden orb are moderate in magnitude. Although 
habitat loss and degradation from impoundments, sedimentation, sand and 
gravel mining, and chemical contaminants are widespread throughout the 
range of the golden orb and are likely to be exacerbated by climate 
change, which will increase the frequency and magnitude of droughts, 
four large populations remain, including one that was recently 
discovered, suggesting that the threats are not high in magnitude. The 
threats from habitat loss and degradation are imminent because habitat 
loss and degradation have already occurred and will likely continue as 
the human population continues to grow in central Texas. The three 
smaller golden orb populations are vulnerable to extirpation, which 
increases the species' vulnerability to extinction. Based on imminent, 
moderate threats, we maintain an LPN of 8 for the golden orb.
    Smooth pimpleback (Quadrula houstonensis)--The following summary is 
based on information contained in our files. The smooth pimpleback is a 
small, round-shaped freshwater mussel that is endemic to central Texas. 
This species historically occurred throughout the Colorado and Brazos 
River basins and is now known from only nine locations. The smooth 
pimpleback has been eliminated from nearly the entire Colorado River 
and all but one of its tributaries, and has been limited to the central 
and lower Brazos River drainage. Five of the populations are 
represented by no more than a few individuals and are small and 
isolated. Six of the existing populations appear to be relatively 
stable and recruiting.
    The smooth pimpleback is primarily threatened by habitat 
destruction and modification from impoundments, which scour river beds, 
thereby removing mussel habitat; decrease water quality; modify stream 
flows; and prevent fish host migration and distribution of freshwater 
mussels. The species is also threatened by sedimentation, dewatering, 
sand and gravel mining, and chemical contaminants. Additionally, these 
threats may be exacerbated by the current and projected effects of 
climate change, population fragmentation, and isolation, and the 
anticipated threat of nonnative species. Threats to the smooth 
pimpleback and its habitat are not being adequately addressed through 
existing regulatory mechanisms. Because of the limited distribution of 
this endemic species and its lack of mobility, these threats are likely 
to result in the smooth pimpleback becoming in danger of extinction in 
the foreseeable future.
    The threats to the smooth pimpleback are moderate in magnitude. 
Although habitat loss and degradation from impoundments, sedimentation, 
sand and gravel mining, and chemical contaminants are widespread 
throughout the range of the smooth pimpleback and may be exacerbated by 
climate change, which will increase the frequency and magnitude of 
droughts, several large populations remain, including one that was 
recently discovered, suggesting that the threats are not high in 
magnitude. The threats from habitat loss and degradation are imminent 
because they have already occurred and will continue as the human 
population continues to grow in central Texas. Several smooth 
pimpleback populations are quite small and vulnerable to extirpation, 
which increases the species' vulnerability to extinction. Based on 
imminent, moderate threats, we maintain an LPN of 8 for the smooth 
pimpleback.
    Texas pimpleback (Quadrula petrina)--The following summary is based 
on information contained in our files. The Texas pimpleback is a large 
freshwater mussel that is endemic to central Texas. This species 
historically occurred throughout the Colorado and Guadalupe-San Antonio 
River basins, but it is now known to only occur in four streams within 
these basins. Only two populations (Concho River and San Saba River) 
appear large enough to be stable with recruitment, although evidence of 
recruitment is limited in the Concho River population. The remaining 
two populations are represented by one or two individuals and are 
highly disjunct.
    The Texas pimpleback is primarily threatened by habitat destruction 
and modification from impoundments, which scour river beds, thereby 
removing mussel habitat; decrease water quality; modify stream flows; 
and prevent fish host migration and distribution of freshwater mussels. 
This species is also threatened by sedimentation, dewatering, sand and 
gravel mining, and chemical contaminants. Additionally, these threats 
may be exacerbated by the current and projected effects of climate 
change (which will increase the frequency and magnitude of droughts), 
population fragmentation and isolation, and the anticipated threat of 
nonnative species. Threats to the Texas pimpleback and its habitat are 
not being adequately addressed through existing regulatory mechanisms. 
Because of the limited distribution of this endemic species and its 
lack of mobility, these threats are likely to result in the Texas 
pimpleback becoming in danger of extinction in the foreseeable future.
    The threats to the Texas pimpleback are high in magnitude, because 
habitat loss and degradation from impoundments, sedimentation, sand and 
gravel mining, and chemical contaminants are widespread

[[Page 80600]]

throughout the entire range of the Texas pimpleback and profoundly 
affect its survival and recruitment. The only remaining populations are 
small, isolated, and highly vulnerable to stochastic events, which 
could lead to extirpation or extinction. The threats are imminent 
because habitat loss and degradation have already occurred and will 
continue as the human population continues to grow in central Texas. 
Based on imminent, high-magnitude threats, we assigned the Texas 
pimpleback an LPN of 2.

Snails

    Black mudalia (Elimia melanoides)--We continue to find that listing 
this species is warranted but precluded as of the date of publication 
of this notice. However, we are working on a thorough review of all 
available data and expect to publish either a proposed listing rule or 
a 12-month not warranted finding prior to making the next annual 
resubmitted petition 12-month finding. In the course of preparing a 
proposed listing rule or not warranted petition finding, we are 
continuing to monitor new information about this species' status so 
that we can make prompt use of our authority under section 4(b)(7) in 
the case of an emergency posing a significant risk to the species.
    Magnificent ramshorn (Planorbella magnifica)--Magnificent ramshorn 
is the largest North American air-breathing freshwater snail in the 
family Planorbidae. It has a discoidal (i.e., coiling in one plane), 
relatively thin shell that reaches a diameter commonly exceeding 35 mm 
and heights exceeding 20 mm. The great width of its shell, in relation 
to the diameter, makes it easily identifiable at all ages. The shell is 
brown colored (often with leopard like spots) and fragile, thus 
indicating it is adapted to still or slow flowing aquatic habitats. The 
magnificent ramshorn is believed to be a southeastern North Carolina 
endemic. The species is known from only four sites in the lower Cape 
Fear River Basin in North Carolina. Although the complete historical 
range of the species is unknown, the size of the species and the fact 
that it was not reported until 1903 suggest that the species may have 
always been rare and localized.
    Salinity and pH are major factors limiting the distribution of the 
magnificent ramshorn, as the snail prefers freshwater bodies with 
circumneutral pH (i.e., pH within the range of 6.8-7.5). While members 
of the family Planorbidae are hermaphroditic, it is currently unknown 
whether magnificent ramshorns self-fertilize their eggs, mate with 
other individuals of the species, or both. Like other members of the 
Planorbidae family, the magnificent ramshorn is believed to be 
primarily a vegetarian, feeding on submerged aquatic plants, algae, and 
detritus.
    While several factors have likely contributed to the possible 
extirpation of the magnificent ramshorn in the wild, the primary 
factors include loss of habitat associated with the extirpation of 
beavers (and their impoundments) in the early 20th century, increased 
salinity and alteration of flow patterns, and increased input of 
nutrients and other pollutants. The magnificent ramshorn appears to be 
extirpated from the wild due to habitat loss and degradation resulting 
from a variety of human-induced and natural factors. The only known 
surviving individuals of the species are presently being held and 
propagated at a private residence, a lab at North Carolina (NC) State 
University's Veterinary School, and the NC Wildlife Resources 
Commission's Watha State Fish Hatchery. While efforts have been made to 
restore habitat for the magnificent ramshorn at one of the sites known 
to have previously supported the species, all of the sites continue to 
be affected or threatened by the same factors (i.e., salt water 
intrusion and other water quality degradation, nuisance aquatic plant 
control, storms, sea level rise, etc.) believed to have resulted in 
extirpation of the species from the wild. Currently, only three captive 
populations exist: A single robust captive population of the species 
comprised of approximately 900+ adults, one with approximately 200+ 
adults, and one population of 50+ small individuals. Although the 
robust captive population of the species has been maintained since 
1993, a single catastrophic event, such as a severe storm, disease, or 
predator infestation affecting this captive population, could result in 
the near extinction of the species. Therefore, we assigned an LPN of 2 
to this species.
    Huachuca springsnail (Pyrgulopsis thompsoni)--We continue to find 
that listing this species is warranted but precluded as of the date of 
publication of this notice. However, we are working on a thorough 
review of all available data and expect to publish either a proposed 
listing rule or a 12-month not warranted finding prior to making the 
next annual resubmitted petition 12-month finding. In the course of 
preparing a proposed listing rule or not warranted petition finding, we 
are continuing to monitor new information about this species' status so 
that we can make prompt use of our authority under section 4(b)(7) in 
the case of an emergency posing a significant risk to the species.

Insects

    Hermes copper butterfly (Lycaena hermes)--Hermes copper butterfly 
primarily occurs in San Diego County, California, and a few records of 
the species have been documented in Baja California, Mexico. The 
species inhabits coastal sage scrub and southern mixed chaparral and is 
dependent on its larval host plant, Rhamnus crocea (spiny redberry), to 
complete its lifecycle. Adult Hermes copper butterflies lay single eggs 
on spiny redberry stems where they hatch and feed until pupation occurs 
at the base of the plant. Hermes copper butterflies have one flight 
period occurring in mid-May to early-July, depending on weather 
conditions and elevation. We estimate there were at least 59 known 
separate historical populations throughout the species' range since the 
species was first described. Of the 59 known Hermes copper butterfly 
populations, 21 are extant, 27 are believed to have been extirpated, 
and 11 are of unknown status.
    Primary threats to Hermes copper butterfly are megafires (large 
wildfires), and small and isolated populations. Secondary threats 
include increased wildfire frequency that results in habitat loss, and 
combined impacts of existing development, possible future (limited) 
development, existing dispersal barriers, and fragmentation of habitat. 
Hermes copper butterfly occupies scattered areas of sage scrub and 
chaparral habitat in an arid region susceptible to wildfires of 
increasing frequency and size. The likelihood that individuals of the 
species will be burned as a result of catastrophic wildfires, combined 
with the isolation and small size of extant populations makes Hermes 
copper butterfly particularly vulnerable to population extirpation 
rangewide. Overall, the threats that Hermes copper butterfly faces are 
high in magnitude because the major threats (particularly mortality due 
to wildfire and increased wildfire frequency) occur throughout all of 
the species' range and are likely to result in mortality and 
population-level impacts to the species. The threats are nonimminent 
overall because the impact of wildfire to Hermes copper butterfly and 
its habitat occurs on a sporadic basis and we do not have the ability 
to predict when wildfires will occur. This species faces high-magnitude 
nonimminent threats; therefore, we assigned this species a LPN of 5.
    Puerto Rican harlequin butterfly (Atlantea tulita)--The following

[[Page 80601]]

summary is based on information in our files and in the petition we 
received on February 29, 2009. The Puerto Rican harlequin butterfly is 
endemic to Puerto Rico, and one of the four species endemic to the 
Greater Antilles within the genus Atlantea. This species occurs within 
the subtropical moist forest life zone in the northern karst region 
(i.e., the municipality of Quebradillas) of Puerto Rico, and in the 
subtropical wet forest (i.e., Maricao Commonwealth Forest, municipality 
of Maricao). The Puerto Rican harlequin butterfly has only been found 
utilizing Oplonia spinosa (prickly bush) as its host plant (i.e., plant 
used for laying the eggs, also serves as a food source for development 
of the larvae).
    The primary threats to the Puerto Rican harlequin butterfly are 
development, habitat fragmentation, and other natural or manmade 
factors such as human-induced fires, use of herbicides and pesticides, 
vegetation management, and climate change. These factors would 
substantially affect the distribution and abundance of the species, as 
well as its habitat. In addition, the lack of effective enforcement 
makes the existing policies and regulations inadequate for the 
protection of the species' habitat. These threats are imminent because 
known populations occur in areas that are subject to development, 
increased traffic, and increased road maintenance and construction. The 
threats are high in magnitude, because they cause direct population-
level impacts during all life stages. These threats are expected to 
continue and potentially increase in the foreseeable future. Therefore, 
we assign a LPN of 2 to the Puerto Rican harlequin butterfly.
    Clifton Cave beetle (Pseudanophthalmus caecus)--We continue to find 
that listing this species is warranted but precluded as of the date of 
publication of this notice. However, we are working on a thorough 
review of all available data and expect to publish either a proposed 
listing rule or a 12-month not warranted finding prior to making the 
next annual resubmitted petition 12-month finding. In the course of 
preparing a proposed listing rule or not warranted petition finding, we 
are continuing to monitor new information about this species' status so 
that we can make prompt use of our authority under section 4(b)(7) in 
the case of an emergency posing a significant risk to the species.
    Icebox Cave beetle (Pseudanophthalmus frigidus)--We continue to 
find that listing this species is warranted but precluded as of the 
date of publication of this notice. However, we are working on a 
thorough review of all available data and expect to publish either a 
proposed listing rule or a 12-month not warranted finding prior to 
making the next annual resubmitted petition 12-month finding. In the 
course of preparing the proposed listing rule or not-warranted finding, 
we are continuing to monitor new information about this species' status 
so that we can make prompt use of our authority under section 4(b)(7) 
in the case of an emergency posing a significant risk to the species.
    Louisville Cave beetle (Pseudanophthalmus troglodytes)--We continue 
to find that listing this species is warranted but precluded as of the 
date of publication of this notice. However, we are working on a 
thorough review of all available data and expect to publish either a 
proposed listing rule or a 12-month not warranted finding prior to 
making the next annual resubmitted petition 12-month finding. In the 
course of preparing a proposed listing rule or not warranted petition 
finding, we are continuing to monitor new information about this 
species' status so that we can make prompt use of our authority under 
section 4(b)(7) in the case of an emergency posing a significant risk 
to the species.
    Tatum Cave beetle (Pseudanophthalmus parvus)--We continue to find 
that listing this species is warranted but precluded as of the date of 
publication of this notice. However, we are working on a thorough 
review of all available data and expect to publish either a proposed 
listing rule or a 12-month not warranted finding prior to making the 
next annual resubmitted petition 12-month finding. In the course of 
preparing a proposed listing rule or not warranted petition finding, we 
are continuing to monitor new information about this species' status so 
that we can make prompt use of our authority under section 4(b)(7) in 
the case of an emergency posing a significant risk to the species.
    Rattlesnake-master borer moth (Papaipema eryngii)--Rattlesnake-
master borer moths are obligate residents of undisturbed prairie 
remnants, savanna, and pine barrens that contain their only food 
plant--rattlesnake-master (Eryngium yuccifolium). The rattlesnake-
master borer moth is known from 16 sites in 5 States: Illinois, 
Arkansas, Kentucky, Oklahoma, and North Carolina. Currently 12 of the 
sites contain extant populations, 3 contain populations with unknown 
status, and 1 contains a population that is considered extirpated.
    Although the rattlesnake-master plant is widely distributed across 
26 States and is a common plant in remnant prairies, it is a 
conservative species, meaning it is not found in disturbed areas, and 
occurs in low densities. The habitat range for the rattlesnake-master 
borer moth is very narrow and appears to be limiting for the species. 
The ongoing effects of habitat loss, fragmentation, degradation, and 
modification from agriculture, development, flooding, invasive species, 
and secondary succession have resulted in fragmented populations and 
population declines. Rattlesnake-master borer moths are affected by 
habitat fragmentation and population isolation. Almost all of the sites 
with extant populations of the rattlesnake-master borer moth are 
isolated from one another, with the populations in Kentucky, North 
Carolina, and Oklahoma occurring within a single site for each State, 
thus precluding recolonization from other populations. These small, 
isolated populations are likely to become unviable over time due to 
lower genetic diversity which reduces their ability to adapt to 
environmental change, effects of stochastic events, and inability to 
recolonize areas where they are extirpated.
    Rattlesnake-master borer moths have life-history traits that make 
them more susceptible to outside stressors. They are univoltine (having 
a single flight per year), do not disperse widely, and are monophagous 
(have only one food source). The life history of the species makes it 
particularly sensitive to fire, which is the primary practice used in 
prairie management. The species is only safe from fire once it bores 
into the root of the host plant, which makes adult, egg, and first 
larval stages subject to mortality during prescribed burns and 
wildfires. Fire and grazing cause direct mortality to the moth and 
destroy food plants if the intensity, extent, or timing is not 
carefully managed. Although fire management is a threat to the species, 
lack of management is also a threat, and at least one site has become 
extirpated likely because of the succession to woody habitat. The 
species is sought after by collectors and the host plant is very easy 
to identify, making the moth susceptible to collection, and thus many 
sites are kept undisclosed to the public.
    Existing regulatory mechanisms provide protection for 12 of the 16 
sites containing rattlesnake-master borer moth populations. Illinois' 
endangered species statute provides regulatory mechanisms to protect 
the species from potential impacts from actions such as development and 
collection on the 10 Illinois sites; however, illegal

[[Page 80602]]

collections of the species have occurred at two sites. A permit is 
required for collection by site managers within the sites in North 
Carolina and Oklahoma. The rattlesnake-master borer moth is also listed 
as endangered in Kentucky by the State's Nature Preserves Commission; 
however, at this time the Kentucky legislature has not enacted any 
statute that provides legal protection for species that are State 
listed as threatened or endangered. There are no statutory mechanisms 
in place to protect the populations in North Carolina, Arkansas, or 
Oklahoma.
    Some threats that the rattlesnake-master moth faces are high in 
magnitude, such as habitat conversion and fragmentation, and population 
isolation. These threats with the highest magnitude occur in many of 
the populations throughout the species' range, but although they are 
likely to affect each population at some time, they are not likely to 
affect all of the populations at any one time. Other threats, such as 
agricultural and nonagricultural development, mortality from 
implementation of some prairie management tools (such as fire), 
flooding, succession, and climate change, are of moderate to low 
magnitude. For example, the life history of rattlesnake-master borer 
moths makes them highly sensitive to fire, which can cause mortality of 
individuals through most of the year and can affect entire populations. 
Conversely, complete fire suppression can also be a threat to 
rattlesnake-master borer moths as prairie habitat declines and woody or 
invasive species become established such that the species' only food 
plant is not found in disturbed prairies. Although these threats can 
cause direct and indirect mortality of the species, they are of 
moderate or low magnitude because they affect only some populations 
throughout the range and to varying degrees. Overall, the threats are 
moderate. The threats are imminent because they are ongoing; every 
known population of rattlesnake-master borer moth has at least one 
ongoing threat, and some have several working in tandem. Thus, we 
assigned a LPN of 8 to this species.
    Stephan's riffle beetle (Heterelmis stephani)--We continue to find 
that listing this species is warranted but precluded as of the date of 
publication of this notice. However, we are working on a thorough 
review of all available data and expect to publish either a proposed 
listing rule or a 12-month not warranted finding prior to making the 
next annual resubmitted petition 12-month finding. In the course of 
preparing a proposed listing rule or not warranted petition finding, we 
are continuing to monitor new information about this species' status so 
that we can make prompt use of our authority under section 4(b)(7) in 
the case of an emergency posing a significant risk to the species.
    Arapahoe snowfly (Arsapnia arapahoe)--The following summary is 
based on information contained in our files. This insect is a winter 
stonefly associated with clean, cool, running waters. Adult snowflies 
emerge in late winter from the space underneath stream ice. Until 2013, 
the Arapahoe snowfly had been confirmed in only two streams (Elkhorn 
Creek and Young Gulch), both of which are small tributaries of the 
Cache la Poudre River in the Roosevelt National Forest, Larimer County, 
Colorado. However, the species has not been identified in Young Gulch 
since 1986; it is likely that either the habitat became unsuitable or 
other unknown causes extirpated the species. Habitats at Young Gulch 
were further degraded by the High Park Fire in 2012, and potentially by 
a flash flood disaster in September 2013. New surveys completed in 2013 
and 2014 identified the Arapahoe snowfly in seven new localities, 
including Elkhorn Creek, Sheep Creek (a tributary of the Big Thompson 
River), Central Gulch (a tributary of Saint Vrain Creek), and Bummer's 
Gulch, Martin Gulch, and Bear Canyon Creek (tributaries of Boulder 
Creek in Boulder County). However, numbers of specimens collected at 
each location were extremely low. These new locations occur on Forest 
Service land, Boulder County Open Space, and private land. We note that 
the scientific name for Arapahoe snowfly has changed from Capnia 
arapahoe to Arsapnia arapahoe due to recent genetic analyses.
    Climate change is a threat to the Arapahoe snowfly, and modifies 
its habitats by reducing snowpacks, altering streamflows, increasing 
water temperatures, fostering mountain pine beetle outbreaks, and 
increasing the frequency of destructive wildfires. Limited dispersal 
capabilities, a restricted range, dependence on pristine habitats, and 
a small population size make the Arapahoe snowfly vulnerable to 
demographic stochasticity, environmental stochasticity, and random 
catastrophes. Furthermore, regulatory mechanisms appear inadequate to 
reduce these threats, which may act cumulatively to affect the species. 
The threats to the Arapahoe snowfly are high in magnitude because they 
occur throughout the species' limited range. However, the threats are 
nonimminent. While limited dispersal capabilities, restricted range, 
dependence on pristine habitats, and small population size are 
characteristics that make this species vulnerable to stochastic events 
and catastrophic events (and potential impacts from climate change), 
these events are not currently occurring and increased temperatures 
will adversely affect the species in the future. Therefore, we have 
assigned the Arapahoe snowfly an LPN of 5.
    Meltwater lednian stonefly (Lednia tumana)--The following summary 
is based on information contained in our files and in the petition we 
received on July 30, 2007. This species is an aquatic insect in the 
order Plecoptera (stoneflies). Stoneflies are primarily associated with 
clean, cool streams and rivers. Eggs and nymphs (juveniles) of the 
meltwater lednian stonefly are found in high-elevation alpine and 
subalpine streams, most typically in locations closely linked to 
glacial runoff. The species is generally restricted to streams with 
mean summer water temperature less than 10 [deg]C (50[emsp14][deg]F). 
The only known meltwater lednian stonefly occurrences are within 
Glacier National Park (NP), Montana.
    Climate change, and the associated effects of glacier loss (with 
glaciers predicted to be gone by 2030)-- including reduced streamflows, 
and increased water temperatures--are expected to significantly reduce 
the occurrence of populations and extent of suitable habitat for the 
species in Glacier NP. In addition, the existing regulatory mechanisms 
are not adequate to address these environmental changes due to global 
climate change. We determined that the meltwater lednian stonefly was a 
candidate for listing in a warranted-but-precluded 12-month petition 
finding published on April 5, 2011 (76 FR 18684). We have assigned the 
species an LPN of 5, based on three criteria: (1) The high magnitude of 
threat, which is projected to substantially reduce the amount of 
suitable habitat relative to the species' current range; (2) the low 
immediacy of the threat based on the lack of documented evidence that 
climate change is affecting stonefly habitat; and (3) the taxonomic 
status of the species, which is a full species.
    Highlands tiger beetle (Cicindela highlandensis)--We continue to 
find that listing this species is warranted but precluded as of the 
date of publication of this notice. However, we are working on a 
thorough review of all available data and expect to publish either a 
proposed listing rule or a 12-month not warranted finding prior to 
making the next annual resubmitted petition 12-

[[Page 80603]]

month finding. In the course of preparing a proposed listing rule or 
not warranted petition finding, we are continuing to monitor new 
information about this species' status so that we can make prompt use 
of our authority under section 4(b)(7) in the case of an emergency 
posing a significant risk to the species.

Flowering Plants

    Artemisia borealis var. wormskioldii (northern wormwood)--We 
continue to find that listing this species is warranted but precluded 
as of the date of publication of this notice. However, we are working 
on a thorough review of all available data and expect to publish either 
a proposed listing rule or a 12-month not warranted finding prior to 
making the next annual resubmitted petition 12-month finding. In the 
course of preparing a proposed listing rule or not warranted petition 
finding, we are continuing to monitor new information about this 
species' status so that we can make prompt use of our authority under 
section 4(b)(7) in the case of an emergency posing a significant risk 
to the species.
    Astragalus microcymbus (Skiff milkvetch)--The following summary is 
based on information contained in our files and in the petition we 
received on July 30, 2007. Skiff milkvetch is a perennial forb that 
dies back to the ground every year. It has a very limited range and a 
spotty distribution within Gunnison and Saguache Counties in Colorado, 
where it is found in open, park-like landscapes in the sagebrush-steppe 
ecosystem on rocky or cobbly, moderate-to-steep slopes of hills and 
draws.
    The most significant threats to skiff milkvetch are recreation, 
roads, trails, and habitat fragmentation and degradation. Existing 
regulatory mechanisms are not adequate to protect the species from 
these threats. Recreational impacts are likely to increase, given the 
close proximity of skiff milkvetch to the town of Gunnison and the 
increasing popularity of mountain biking, motorcycling, and all-terrain 
vehicles. Furthermore, the Hartman Rocks Recreation Area draws users, 
and contains over 40 percent of the skiff milkvetch units. Other 
threats to the species include residential and urban development; 
livestock, deer, and elk use; climate change; increasing periodic 
drought; nonnative, invasive cheatgrass; and wildfire. The threats to 
skiff milkvetch are moderate in magnitude, because, while serious and 
occurring rangewide, they do not collectively result in population 
declines on a short time scale. The threats are imminent, because the 
species is currently facing them in many portions of its range. 
Therefore, we have assigned skiff milkvetch an LPN of 8.
    Astragalus schmolliae (Chapin Mesa milkvetch)--The following 
summary is based on information provided by Mesa Verde National Park 
and Colorado Natural Heritage Program, contained in our files, and in 
the petition we received on July 30, 2007. Chapin Mesa milkvetch is a 
narrow endemic perennial plant that grows in the mature pinyon-juniper 
woodland of mesa tops on Chapin Mesa in the Mesa Verde National Park 
and in the adjoining Ute Mountain Ute Tribal Park in southern Colorado. 
The species was previously known by the common name Schmoll's 
milkvetch, but we have adopted the newly accepted common name Chapin 
Mesa milkvetch in this document.
    The most significant threats to the species are degradation of 
habitat by fire, followed by invasion by nonnative cheatgrass and 
subsequent increase in fire frequency. These threats currently affect 
about 40 percent of the species' entire known range. Cheatgrass is 
likely to increase given its rapid spread and persistence in habitat 
disturbed by wildfires, fire and fuels management, development of 
infrastructure, and the inability of land managers to control it on a 
landscape scale. Other threats to Chapin Mesa milkvetch include fires, 
fire break clearings, and drought, and existing regulatory mechanisms 
are not adequate to address these threats. The threats to the species 
overall are imminent and moderate in magnitude, because the species is 
currently facing them in many portions of its range, but the threats do 
not collectively result in population declines on a short time scale. 
Therefore, we have assigned Chapin Mesa milkvetch an LPN of 8.
    Boechera pusilla (Fremont County rockcress)--The following summary 
is based on information in our files and in the petition received on 
July 24, 2007. Fremont County rockcress is a perennial herb that 
occupies sparsely vegetated, coarse granite soil pockets in exposed 
granite-pegmatite outcrops, with slopes generally less than 10 degrees, 
at an elevation between 2,438 and 2,469 m (8,000 and 8,100 ft). The 
only known population of Fremont County rockcress is located in Wyoming 
on lands administered by the Bureau of Land Management in the southern 
foothills of the Wind River Range. The population is made up of at 
least 8 subpopulations. Fremont County rockcress is likely restricted 
in distribution by the limited occurrence of pegmatite (a very coarse-
grained rock formed from magma or lava) in the area. The specialized 
habitat requirements of Fremont County rockcress have allowed the plant 
to persist without competition from other herbaceous plants or 
sagebrush-grassland species that are present in the surrounding 
landscape.
    Fremont County rockcress has a threat that is not identified, but 
that is indicated by the small and overall declining population size. 
Although the threat is not fully understood, we know it exists as 
indicated by the declining population. The overall population size may 
be declining from a variety of unknown causes, with drought or disease 
possibly contributing to the trend. The downward trend may have been 
leveled off somewhat recently, but without improved population numbers, 
the species may reach a population level at which other stressors 
become threats. We are unable to determine how climate change may 
affect the species in the future. To the extent that we understand the 
species, other potential habitat-related threats have been removed 
through the implementation of Federal regulatory mechanisms and 
associated actions. Overutilization, predation, and the inadequacy of 
regulatory mechanisms are not viewed as threats to the species. The 
threats that Fremont County rockcress faces are moderate in magnitude, 
primarily because of the recent leveling off of the population decline. 
The threat to Fremont County rockcress is imminent, because we have 
evidence that the species is currently facing a threat indicated by a 
reduced population size. The threat appears to be ongoing, although we 
are unsure of the extent and timing of its effects on the species. 
Thus, we have assigned B. pusilla an LPN of 8.
    Chamaesyce deltoidea ssp. pinetorum (Pineland sandmat)--We continue 
to find that listing this species is warranted but precluded as of the 
date of publication of this notice. However, we are working on a 
thorough review of all available data and expect to publish either a 
proposed listing rule or a 12-month not warranted finding prior to 
making the next annual resubmitted petition 12-month finding. In the 
course of preparing a proposed listing rule or not warranted petition 
finding, we are continuing to monitor new information about this 
species' status so that we can make prompt use of our authority under 
section 4(b)(7) in the case of an emergency posing a significant risk 
to the species.
    Chorizanthe parryi var. fernandina (San Fernando Valley 
spineflower)--We continue to find that listing this species is 
warranted but precluded as of the date of publication of this notice. 
However, we are working on a thorough

[[Page 80604]]

review of all available data and expect to publish either a proposed 
listing rule or a 12-month not warranted finding prior to making the 
next annual resubmitted petition 12-month finding. In the course of 
preparing a proposed listing rule or not warranted petition finding, we 
are continuing to monitor new information about this species' status so 
that we can make prompt use of our authority under section 4(b)(7) in 
the case of an emergency posing a significant risk to the species.
    Cirsium wrightii (Wright's marsh thistle)--The following summary is 
based on information from the 12-month warranted-but-precluded finding 
published November 4, 2010 (75 FR 67925), as well as any new 
information gathered since then. Wright's marsh thistle is a flowering 
plant in the sunflower family. It is prickly with short black spines 
and a 3-to 8-foot (ft) (0.9-to 2.4-meter (m)) single stalk covered with 
succulent leaves. Flowers are white to pale pink in areas of the 
Sacramento Mountains, but are vivid pink in all the Pecos Valley 
locations. There are eight general confirmed locations of Wright's 
marsh thistle in New Mexico: Santa Rosa, Guadalupe County; Bitter Lake 
National Wildlife Refuge, Chaves County; Blue Spring, Eddy County; La 
Luz Canyon, Karr Canyon, Silver Springs, and Tularosa Creek, Otero 
County; and Alamosa Creek, Socorro County. Wright's marsh thistle has 
been extirpated from all previously known locations in Arizona, and was 
misidentified and likely not ever present in Texas. The status of the 
species in Mexico is uncertain, with few verified collections.
    Wright's marsh thistle faces threats primarily from natural and 
human-caused modifications of its habitat due to ground and surface 
water depletion, drought, invasion of Phragmites australis, and from 
the inadequacy of existing regulatory mechanisms. The species occupies 
relatively small areas of seeps, springs, and wetland habitat in an 
arid region plagued by drought and ongoing and future water withdrawals 
in the surrounding watershed. The species' highly specific requirements 
of saturated soils with surface or subsurface water flow make it 
particularly vulnerable.
    Long-term drought, in combination with ground and surface water 
withdrawal, pose a current and future threat to Wright's marsh thistle 
and its habitat. In addition, we expect that these threats will likely 
intensify in the foreseeable future. However, the threats are moderate 
in magnitude because the majority of the threats (habitat loss and 
degradation due to alteration of the hydrology of its rare wetland 
habitat), while serious and occurring rangewide, do not at this time 
collectively and significantly adversely affect the species at a 
population level. All of the threats are ongoing and therefore 
imminent. Thus, we continue to assign an LPN of 8 to Wright's marsh 
thistle.
    Dalea carthagenensis ssp. floridana (Florida prairie-clover)--We 
continue to find that listing this species is warranted but precluded 
as of the date of publication of this notice. However, we are working 
on a thorough review of all available data and expect to publish either 
a proposed listing rule or a 12-month not warranted finding prior to 
making the next annual resubmitted petition 12-month finding. In the 
course of preparing a proposed listing rule or not warranted petition 
finding, we are continuing to monitor new information about this 
species' status so that we can make prompt use of our authority under 
section 4(b)(7) in the case of an emergency posing a significant risk 
to the species.
    Dichanthelium hirstii (Hirst Brothers' panic grass)--See above 
summary under Listing Priority Changes in Candidates.
    Digitaria pauciflora (Florida pineland crabgrass)--We continue to 
find that listing this species is warranted but precluded as of the 
date of publication of this notice. However, we are working on a 
thorough review of all available data and expect to publish either a 
proposed listing rule or a 12-month not warranted finding prior to 
making the next annual resubmitted petition 12-month finding. In the 
course of preparing a proposed listing rule or not warranted petition 
finding, we are continuing to monitor new information about this 
species' status so that we can make prompt use of our authority under 
section 4(b)(7) in the case of an emergency posing a significant risk 
to the species.
    Eriogonum soredium (Frisco buckwheat)--The following summary is 
based on information in our files and the petition we received on July 
30, 2007. Frisco buckwheat is a narrow endemic perennial plant 
restricted to soils derived from Ordovician limestone outcrops. The 
range of the species is less than 5 sq mi (13 sq km), with four known 
populations. All four populations occur exclusively on private lands in 
Beaver County, Utah, and each population occupies a very small area 
with high densities of plants. Available population estimates are 
highly variable and inaccurate due to the limited access for surveys 
associated with private lands.
    The primary threat to Frisco buckwheat is habitat destruction from 
precious metal and gravel mining. Mining for precious metals 
historically occurred within the vicinity of all four populations. 
Three of the populations are currently in the immediate vicinity of 
active limestone quarries. Ongoing mining in the species' habitat has 
the potential to extirpate one population in the near future and 
extirpate all populations in the foreseeable future. Ongoing 
exploration for precious metals and gravel indicate that mining will 
continue, but it will take time for the mining operations to be put 
into place. This will result in the loss and fragmentation of Frisco 
buckwheat populations over a longer time scale. Other threats to the 
species include nonnative species in conjunction with surface 
disturbance from mining activities. Existing regulatory mechanisms are 
inadequate to protect the species from these threats. Vulnerabilities 
of the species include small population size and climate change. The 
threats that Frisco buckwheat faces are moderate in magnitude, because 
while serious and occurring rangewide, the threats do not significantly 
reduce populations on a short time scale. The threats are imminent, 
because three of the populations are currently in the immediate 
vicinity of active limestone quarries. Therefore, we have assigned 
Frisco buckwheat an LPN of 8.
    Festuca ligulata (Guadalupe fescue)--We continue to find that 
listing this species is warranted but precluded as of the date of 
publication of this notice. However, we are working on a thorough 
review of all available data and expect to publish either a proposed 
listing rule or a 12-month not warranted finding prior to making the 
next annual resubmitted petition 12-month finding. In the course of 
preparing a proposed listing rule or not warranted petition finding, we 
are continuing to monitor new information about this species' status so 
that we can make prompt use of our authority under section 4(b)(7) in 
the case of an emergency posing a significant risk to the species.
    Lepidium ostleri (Ostler's peppergrass)--The following summary is 
based on information in our files and the petition we received on July 
30, 2007. Ostler's peppergrass is a long-lived perennial herb in the 
mustard family that grows in dense, cushion-like tufts. Ostler's 
peppergrass is a narrow endemic restricted to soils derived from 
Ordovician limestone outcrops. The range of the species is less than 5 
sq mi (13 sq km), with only four known populations. All four 
populations occur exclusively on private lands in the southern San 
Francisco Mountains of

[[Page 80605]]

Beaver County, Utah. Available population estimates are highly variable 
and inaccurate due largely to the limited access for surveys associated 
with private lands.
    The primary threat to Ostler's peppergrass is habitat destruction 
from precious metal and gravel mining. Mining for precious metals 
historically occurred within the vicinity of all four populations. 
Three of the populations are currently in the immediate vicinity of 
active limestone quarries, but mining is only currently occurring in 
the area of one population. Ongoing mining in the species' habitat has 
the potential to extirpate one population in the future. Ongoing 
exploration for precious metals and gravel indicate that mining will 
continue, but will take time for the mining operations to be put into 
place. This will result in the loss and fragmentation of Ostler's 
peppergrass populations over a longer time scale. Other threats to the 
species include nonnative species, vulnerability associated with small 
population size, and climate change. Existing regulatory mechanisms are 
inadequate to protect the species from these threats. The threats that 
Ostler's peppergrass faces are moderate in magnitude, because, while 
serious and occurring rangewide, the threats do not collectively result 
in significant population declines on a short time scale. The threats 
are imminent because the species is currently facing them across its 
entire range. Therefore, we have assigned Ostler's peppergrass an LPN 
of 8.
    Pinus albicaulis (whitebark pine)--See above summary under Listing 
Priority Changes in Candidates.
    Solanum conocarpum (marron bacora)--The following summary is based 
on information in our files and in the petition we received on November 
21, 1996. Solanum conocarpum is a dry-forest shrub in the island of St. 
John, U.S. Virgin Islands. Its current distribution includes eight 
localities in the island of St. John, each ranging from 1 to 144 
individuals. The species has been reported to occur on dry, poor soils. 
It can be locally abundant in exposed topography on sites disturbed by 
erosion, areas that have received moderate grazing, and around 
ridgelines as an understory component in diverse woodland communities. 
A habitat suitability model suggests that the vast majority of Solanum 
conocarpum habitat is found in the lower elevation coastal scrub 
forest. Efforts have been conducted to propagate the species to enhance 
natural populations, and planting of seedlings has been conducted in 
the island of St. John.
    Solanum conocarpum is threatened by the lack of natural 
recruitment, absence of dispersers, fragmented distribution, lack of 
genetic variation, climate change, and habitat destruction or 
modification by exotic mammal species. These threats are evidenced by 
the reduced number of individuals, low number of populations, and lack 
of connectivity between populations. Overall, the threats are of high 
magnitude because they are leading to population declines for a species 
that already has low population numbers and fragmented distribution; 
the threats are also ongoing and therefore imminent. Therefore, we 
assigned a LPN of 2 to Solanum conocarpum.
    Streptanthus bracteatus (bracted twistflower)--The following 
summary is based on information obtained from our files, on-line 
herbarium databases, surveys and monitoring data, seed collection data, 
and scientific publications. Bracted twistflower, an annual herbaceous 
plant of the Brassicaceae (mustard family), is endemic to a small 
portion of the Edwards Plateau of Texas. The Texas Natural Diversity 
Database, as revised on April 12, 2012, lists 16 element occurrences 
(EOs; i.e., populations) that were documented from 1989 to 2010 in five 
counties. Currently, nine EOs remain with intact habitat, two EOs are 
partially intact, two are on managed rights-of-way, and three sites 
have been developed and the populations are presumed extirpated. Only 
seven of the nine intact EOs and portions of two EOs are in protected 
natural areas. Four extant EOs are vulnerable to development and other 
impacts. Five EOs have been partially or completely developed, 
including two EOs that were destroyed in 2012 and 2013, respectively.
    The continued survival of bracted twistflower is imminently 
threatened by habitat destruction from urban development, severe 
herbivory from dense herds of white-tailed deer and other herbivores, 
and the increased density of woody plant cover. Additional ongoing 
threats include erosion and trampling from foot and mountain-bike 
trails, a pathogenic fungus of unknown origin, and inadequate 
protection by existing regulations. Furthermore, due to the small size 
and isolation of remaining populations, and lack of gene flow between 
them, several populations are now inbred and may have insufficient 
genetic diversity for long-term survival. Bracted twistflower 
populations often occur in habitats that also support the endangered 
golden-cheeked warbler, but the two species may require different 
vegetation management. Bracted twistflower is potentially threatened by 
as-yet unknown impacts of climate change. The Service has established a 
voluntary memorandum of agreement with Texas Parks and Wildlife 
Department, the City of Austin, Travis County, the Lower Colorado River 
Authority, and the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center to protect 
bracted twistflower and its habitats on tracts of Balcones Canyonlands 
Preserve. Overall, the threats to bracted twistflower are of moderate 
magnitude because most of the populations occur on protected land where 
the threats will be managed through the MOA. The threats are ongoing 
and, therefore, imminent. We maintain a LPN of 8 for this species.
    Trifolium friscanum (Frisco clover)--The following summary is based 
on information in our files and the petition we received on July 30, 
2007. Frisco clover is a narrow endemic perennial herb found only in 
Utah, with five known populations restricted to sparsely vegetated, 
pinion-juniper sagebrush communities and shallow, gravel soils derived 
from volcanic gravels, Ordovician limestone, and dolomite outcrops. The 
majority (68 percent) of Frisco clover plants occur on private lands, 
with the remaining plants found on Federal and State lands.
    On the private and State lands, the most significant threat to 
Frisco clover is habitat destruction from mining for precious metals 
and gravel. Active mining claims, recent prospecting, and an increasing 
demand for precious metals and gravel indicate that mining in Frisco 
clover habitats will increase in the foreseeable future, likely 
resulting in the loss of large numbers of plants. Other threats to 
Frisco clover include nonnative, invasive species in conjunction with 
surface disturbance from mining activities. Existing regulatory 
mechanisms are inadequate to protect the species from these threats. 
Vulnerabilities of the species include small population size and 
climate change. The threats to Frisco clover are moderate in magnitude 
because, while serious and occurring rangewide, they are not acting 
independently or cumulatively to have a highly significant negative 
impact on its survival or reproductive capacity. For example, although 
mining for precious metals and gravel historically occurred throughout 
Frisco clover's range, and mining operations may eventually expand into 
occupied habitats, there are no active mines within the immediate 
vicinity of any known population. The threats are imminent because the 
species is currently facing them across

[[Page 80606]]

its entire range. Therefore, we have assigned Frisco clover an LPN of 
8.

Petitions To Reclassify Species Already Listed

    We previously made warranted-but-precluded findings on three 
petitions seeking to reclassify threatened species to endangered 
status. The taxa involved in the reclassification petitions are one 
population of the grizzly bear (Ursus arctos horribilis), delta smelt 
(Hypomesus transpacificus), and Sclerocactus brevispinus (Pariette 
cactus). Because these species are already listed under the ESA, they 
are not candidates for listing and are not included in Table 1. 
However, this notice and associated species assessment forms or 5-year 
review documents also constitute the findings for the resubmitted 
petitions to reclassify these species. Our updated assessments for 
these species are provided below. We find that reclassification to 
endangered status for one grizzly bear ecosystem population, delta 
smelt, and Sclerocactus brevispinus are all currently warranted but 
precluded by work identified above (see Findings for Petitioned 
Candidate Species, above). One of the primary reasons that the work 
identified above is considered to have higher priority is that the 
grizzly bear population, delta smelt, and Sclerocactus brevispinus are 
currently listed as threatened, and therefore already receive certain 
protections under the ESA. In accordance with our regulations at 50 CFR 
17.31 and 50 CFR 17.71, respectively, these wildlife and plant species 
are protected by the take prohibitions under section 9. It is therefore 
unlawful for any person, among other prohibited acts, to take (i.e., to 
harass, harm, pursue, hunt, shoot, wound, kill, trap, capture, or 
collect, or attempt to engage in such activity) any of these wildlife 
species. In addition, it is unlawful under section 9 for any person, 
among other prohibited acts, to remove or reduce to possession any of 
these listed plants from an area under Federal jurisdiction (50 CFR 
17.61). Other protections that apply to these threatened species even 
before we complete proposed and final reclassification rules include 
those under section 7(a)(2) of the ESA, whereby Federal agencies must 
insure that any action they authorize, fund, or carry out is not likely 
to jeopardize the continued existence of any endangered or threatened 
species.
    Grizzly bear (Ursus arctos horribilis)--North Cascades ecosystem 
population (Region 6)--Since 1990, we have received and reviewed five 
petitions requesting a change in status for the North Cascades grizzly 
bear population (55 FR 32103, August 7, 1990; 56 FR 33892, July 24, 
1991; 57 FR 14372, April 20, 1992; 58 FR 43856, August 18, 1993; 63 FR 
30453, June 4, 1998). In response to these petitions, we determined 
that grizzly bears in the North Cascade ecosystem warrant a change to 
endangered status. In 2015, we continue to find that reclassifying this 
population as endangered is warranted but precluded, and we continue to 
assign a LPN of 3 for the uplisting of the North Cascades population 
based on high magnitude threats, including very small population size, 
incomplete habitat protection measures (motorized access management), 
and population fragmentation resulting in genetic isolation. The 
threats are high in magnitude because the limiting factor for this 
population is human-caused mortality and extremely small population 
size and as human populations continue to grow, it is inevitable that 
this will put additional pressures on grizzly bear populations. The 
threats are ongoing, and thus imminent. However, higher priority 
listing actions, including court-approved settlements, court-ordered 
and statutory deadlines for petition findings and listing 
determinations, emergency listing determinations, and responses to 
litigation, continue to preclude reclassifying grizzly bears in this 
ecosystem. Furthermore, proposed rules to reclassify threatened species 
to endangered are a lower priority than listing currently unprotected 
species (i.e., candidate species), since species currently listed as 
threatened are already afforded the protection of the ESA and the 
implementing regulations. We continue to monitor this population and 
will change its status or implement an emergency uplisting if 
necessary. In 2014, the National Park Service and the Service initiated 
an environmental impact statement process to evaluate recovery options 
in the North Cascades. We expect it to take 3 years to complete and 
evaluate a variety of alternatives, including population augmentation.
    Delta smelt (Hypomesus transpacificus) (Region 8) (see 75 FR 17667, 
April 7, 2010, for additional information on why reclassification to 
endangered is warranted but precluded)--The following summary is based 
on information contained in our files. In April 2010, we completed a 
12-month finding for delta smelt in which we determined that a change 
in status from threatened to endangered was warranted, although 
precluded by other high priority listing actions. The primary rationale 
for reclassifying delta smelt from threatened to endangered was the 
significant declines in delta smelt abundance that have occurred since 
2001. Delta smelt abundance, as indicated by the Fall Mid-Water Trawl 
survey, was exceptionally low between 2004 and 2010, increased during 
the wet year of 2011, and decreased again to a very a low levels in 
2012, 2013 and 2014.
    The primary threats to the delta smelt are direct entrainments by 
State and Federal water export facilities, summer and fall increases in 
salinity and water clarity resulting from decreases in freshwater flow 
into the estuary, and effects from introduced species. Ammonia in the 
form of ammonium may also be a significant threat to the survival of 
the delta smelt. Additional potential threats are predation by striped 
and largemouth bass and inland silversides, contaminants, and small 
population size. Existing regulatory mechanisms have not proven 
adequate to halt the decline of delta smelt since the time of listing 
as a threatened species.
    However, higher-priority listing actions, including court-approved 
settlements, court-ordered and statutory deadlines for petition 
findings and listing determinations, emergency listing determinations, 
and responses to litigation, continue to preclude reclassifying the 
delta smelt. Furthermore, proposed rules to reclassify threatened 
species to endangered are a lower priority than listing currently 
unprotected species (i.e., candidate species), since species currently 
listed as threatened are already afforded the protection of the ESA and 
the implementing regulations.
    As a result of our analysis of the best available scientific and 
commercial data, we have retained the recommendation of uplisting the 
delta smelt to an endangered species with a LPN of 2, based on high 
magnitude and imminent threats. The magnitude of the threats is high, 
because the threats occur rangewide and result in mortality or 
significantly reduce the reproductive capacity of the species and they 
are, in some cases (i.e., nonnative species), considered irreversible. 
Threats are imminent because they are ongoing.
    Sclerocactus brevispinus (Pariette cactus) (Region 6) (see 72 FR 
53211, September 18, 2007, and the species assessment form (see 
ADDRESSES) for additional information on why reclassification to 
endangered is warranted but precluded)--Pariette cactus is restricted 
to clay badlands of the Uinta geologic formation in the

[[Page 80607]]

Uinta Basin of northeastern Utah. The species is restricted to one 
population with an overall range of approximately 16 mi by 5 mi in 
extent. The species' entire population is within a developed and 
expanding oil and gas field. The location of the species' habitat 
exposes it to destruction from road, pipeline, and well-site 
construction in connection with oil and gas development. The species 
may be collected as a specimen plant for horticultural use. 
Recreational off-road vehicle use and livestock trampling are 
additional potential threats. The species is currently federally listed 
as threatened (44 FR 58868, October 11, 1979; 74 FR 47112, September 
15, 2009). The threats are of a high magnitude, because any one of the 
threats has the potential to severely affect the survival of this 
species, a narrow endemic with a highly limited range and distribution. 
Threats are ongoing and, therefore, are imminent. Thus, we assigned an 
LPN of 2 to this species for uplisting. However, higher-priority 
listing actions, including court-approved settlements, court-ordered 
and statutory deadlines for petition findings and listing 
determinations, emergency listing determinations, and responses to 
litigation, continue to preclude reclassifying the Pariette cactus. 
Furthermore, proposed rules to reclassify threatened species to 
endangered are a lower priority than listing currently unprotected 
species (i.e., candidate species), since species currently listed as 
threatened are already afforded the protection of the ESA and the 
implementing regulations.

Current Notice of Review

    We gather data on plants and animals native to the United States 
that appear to merit consideration for addition to the Lists of 
Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and Plants (Lists). This notice 
identifies those species that we currently regard as candidates for 
addition to the Lists. These candidates include species and subspecies 
of fish, wildlife, or plants, and DPSs of vertebrate animals. This 
compilation relies on information from status surveys conducted for 
candidate assessment and on information from State Natural Heritage 
Programs, other State and Federal agencies, knowledgeable scientists, 
public and private natural resource interests, and comments received in 
response to previous notices of review.
    Tables 1 and 2 list animals arranged alphabetically by common names 
under the major group headings, and list plants alphabetically by names 
of genera, species, and relevant subspecies and varieties. Animals are 
grouped by class or order. Plants are subdivided into two groups: (1) 
Flowering plants and (2) ferns and their allies. Useful synonyms and 
subgeneric scientific names appear in parentheses with the synonyms 
preceded by an ``equals'' sign. Several species that have not yet been 
formally described in the scientific literature are included; such 
species are identified by a generic or specific name (in italics), 
followed by ``sp.'' or ``ssp.'' We incorporate standardized common 
names in these notices as they become available. We sort plants by 
scientific name due to the inconsistencies in common names, the 
inclusion of vernacular and composite subspecific names, and the fact 
that many plants still lack a standardized common name.
    Table 1 lists all candidate species, plus species currently 
proposed for listing under the ESA. We emphasize that in this notice we 
are not proposing to list any of the candidate species; rather, we will 
develop and publish proposed listing rules for these species in the 
future. We encourage State agencies, other Federal agencies, and other 
parties to give consideration to these species in environmental 
planning.
    In Table 1, the ``category'' column on the left side of the table 
identifies the status of each species according to the following codes:

PE--Species proposed for listing as endangered. Proposed species are 
those species for which we have published a proposed rule to list as 
endangered or threatened in the Federal Register. This category does 
not include species for which we have withdrawn or finalized the 
proposed rule.
PT--Species proposed for listing as threatened.
PSAT--Species proposed for listing as threatened due to similarity 
of appearance.
C--Candidates: Species for which we have on file sufficient 
information on biological vulnerability and threats to support 
proposals to list them as endangered or threatened. Issuance of 
proposed rules for these species is precluded at present by other 
higher priority listing actions. This category includes species for 
which we made a 12-month warranted-but-precluded finding on a 
petition to list. We made new findings on all petitions for which we 
previously made ``warranted-but-precluded'' findings. We identify 
the species for which we made a continued warranted-but-precluded 
finding on a resubmitted petition by the code ``C*'' in the category 
column (see the Findings for Petitioned Candidate Species section 
for additional information).

    The ``Priority'' column indicates the LPN for each candidate 
species, which we use to determine the most appropriate use of our 
available resources. The lowest numbers have the highest priority. We 
assign LPNs based on the immediacy and magnitude of threats, as well as 
on taxonomic status. We published a complete description of our listing 
priority system in the Federal Register (48 FR 43098, September 21, 
1983).
    The third column, ``Lead Region,'' identifies the Regional Office 
to which you should direct information, comments, or questions (see 
addresses under Request for Information at the end of the SUPPLEMENTARY 
INFORMATION section).
    Following the scientific name (fourth column) and the family 
designation (fifth column) is the common name (sixth column). The 
seventh column provides the known historical range for the species or 
vertebrate population (for vertebrate populations, this is the 
historical range for the entire species or subspecies and not just the 
historical range for the distinct population segment), indicated by 
postal code abbreviations for States and U.S. territories. Many species 
no longer occur in all of the areas listed.
    Species in Table 2 of this notice are those we included either as 
proposed species or as candidates in the previous CNOR (published 
December 5, 2014, at 79 FR 72450) that are no longer proposed species 
or candidates for listing. Since December 5, 2014, we listed 31 
species, withdrew 1 species from proposed status, and removed 23 
species from the candidate list. The first column indicates the present 
status of each species, using the following codes (not all of these 
codes may have been used in this CNOR):

E--Species we listed as endangered.
T--Species we listed as threatened.
Rc--Species we removed from the candidate list, because currently 
available information does not support a proposed listing.
Rp--Species we removed from the candidate list, because we have 
withdrawn the proposed listing.

    The second column indicates why the species is no longer a 
candidate or proposed species, using the following codes (not all of 
these codes may have been used in this CNOR):

A--Species that are more abundant or widespread than previously 
believed and species that are not subject to the degree of threats 
sufficient that the species is a candidate for listing (for reasons 
other than that conservation efforts have removed or reduced the 
threats to the species).
F--Species whose range no longer includes a U.S. territory.
I--Species for which the best available information on biological 
vulnerability and threats is insufficient to support a conclusion 
that the species is a threatened species or an endangered species.

[[Page 80608]]

L--Species we added to the Lists of Endangered and Threatened 
Wildlife and Plants.
M--Species we mistakenly included as candidates or proposed species 
in the last notice of review.
N--Species that are not listable entities based on the ESA's 
definition of ``species'' and current taxonomic understanding.
U--Species that are not subject to the degree of threats sufficient 
to warrant issuance of a proposed listing and therefore are not 
candidates for listing, due, in part or totally, to conservation 
efforts that remove or reduce the threats to the species.
X--Species we believe to be extinct.

    The columns describing lead region, scientific name, family, common 
name, and historical range include information as previously described 
for Table 1.

Request for Information

    We request you submit any further information on the species named 
in this notice as soon as possible or whenever it becomes available. We 
are particularly interested in any information:
    (1) Indicating that we should add a species to the list of 
candidate species;
    (2) Indicating that we should remove a species from candidate 
status;
    (3) Recommending areas that we should designate as critical habitat 
for a species, or indicating that designation of critical habitat would 
not be prudent for a species;
    (4) Documenting threats to any of the included species;
    (5) Describing the immediacy or magnitude of threats facing 
candidate species;
    (6) Pointing out taxonomic or nomenclature changes for any of the 
species;
    (7) Suggesting appropriate common names; and
    (8) Noting any mistakes, such as errors in the indicated historical 
ranges.
    Submit information, materials, or comments regarding a particular 
species to the Regional Director of the Region identified as having the 
lead responsibility for that species. The regional addresses follow:

Region 1. Hawaii, Idaho, Oregon, Washington, American Samoa, Guam, and 
Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands. Regional Director (TE), 
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Eastside Federal Complex, 911 NE. 11th 
Avenue, Portland, OR 97232-4181 (503/231-6158).
Region 2. Arizona, New Mexico, Oklahoma, and Texas. Regional Director 
(TE), U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, 500 Gold Avenue SW., Room 4012, 
Albuquerque, NM 87102 (505/248-6920).
Region 3. Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Ohio, 
and Wisconsin. Regional Director (TE), U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, 
5600 American Blvd. West, Suite 990, Bloomington, MN 55437-1458 (612/
713-5334).
Region 4. Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, 
Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Puerto Rico, 
and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Regional Director (TE), U.S. Fish and 
Wildlife Service, 1875 Century Boulevard, Suite 200, Atlanta, GA 30345 
(404/679-4156).
Region 5. Connecticut, Delaware, District of Columbia, Maine, Maryland, 
Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Rhode 
Island, Vermont, Virginia, and West Virginia. Regional Director (TE), 
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, 300 Westgate Center Drive, Hadley, MA 
01035-9589 (413/253-8615).
Region 6. Colorado, Kansas, Montana, Nebraska, North Dakota, South 
Dakota, Utah, and Wyoming. Regional Director (TE), U.S. Fish and 
Wildlife Service, P.O. Box 25486, Denver Federal Center, Denver, CO 
80225-0486 (303/236-7400).
Region 7. Alaska. Regional Director (TE), U.S. Fish and Wildlife 
Service, 1011 East Tudor Road, Anchorage, AK 99503-6199 (907/786-3505).
Region 8. California and Nevada. Regional Director (TE), U.S. Fish and 
Wildlife Service, 2800 Cottage Way, Suite W2606, Sacramento, CA 95825 
(916/414-6464).

    We will provide information received to the Region having lead 
responsibility for each candidate species mentioned in the submission. 
We will likewise consider all information provided in response to this 
CNOR in deciding whether to propose species for listing and when to 
undertake necessary listing actions (including whether emergency 
listing under section 4(b)(7) of the ESA is appropriate). Information 
and comments we receive will become part of the administrative record 
for the species, which we maintain at the appropriate Regional Office.

Public Availability of Comments

    Before including your address, phone number, email address, or 
other personal identifying information in your submission, be advised 
that your entire submission--including your personal identifying 
information--may be made publicly available at any time. Although you 
can ask us in your submission to withhold from public review your 
personal identifying information, we cannot guarantee that we will be 
able to do so.

Authority

    This notice is published under the authority of the Endangered 
Species Act of 1973, as amended (16 U.S.C. 1531 et seq.).

    Dated: December 15, 2015.
Stephen Guertin,
Acting Director, Fish and Wildlife Service.

                            Table 1--Candidate Notice of Review (Animals and Plants)
          [Note: See end of SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION for an explanation of symbols used in this table]
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
           Status
-----------------------------  Lead region    Scientific name       Family        Common name       Historical
   Category       Priority                                                                            range
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                     MAMMALS
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
PE...........  3............  R1...........  Emballonura       Emballonuridae.  Bat, Pacific     U.S.A. (AS),
                                              semicaudata                        sheath-tailed    Fiji,
                                              semicaudata.                       (American        Independent
                                                                                 Samoa DPS).      Samoa, Tonga,
                                                                                                  Vanuatu.
C*...........  6............  R2...........  Tamias minimus    Sciuridae......  Chipmunk,        U.S.A. (NM).
                                              atristriatus.                      Pe[ntilde]asco
                                                                                 least.

[[Page 80609]]

 
PT...........  6............  R8...........  Martes pennanti.  Mustelidae.....  Fisher (west     U.S.A. (CA, CT,
                                                                                 coast DPS).      IA, ID, IL,
                                                                                                  IN, KY, MA,
                                                                                                  MD, ME, MI,
                                                                                                  MN, MT, ND,
                                                                                                  NH, NJ, NY,
                                                                                                  OH, OR, PA,
                                                                                                  RI, TN, UT,
                                                                                                  VA, VT, WA,
                                                                                                  WI, WV, WY),
                                                                                                  Canada.
C*...........  3............  R8...........  Vulpes vulpes     Canidae........  Fox, Sierra      U.S.A. (CA,
                                              necator.                           Nevada red       OR).
                                                                                 (Sierra Nevada
                                                                                 DPS).
C*...........  5............  R1...........  Urocitellus       Sciuridae......  Squirrel,        U.S.A. (WA,
                                              washingtoni.                       Washington       OR).
                                                                                 ground.
C*...........  9............  R1...........  Arborimus         Cricetidae.....  Vole, Red        U.S.A. (OR).
                                              longicaudus.                       (north Oregon
                                                                                 coast DPS).
C*...........  9............  R7...........  Odobenus          Odobenidae.....  Walrus, Pacific  U.S.A. (AK),
                                              rosmarus                                            Russian
                                              divergens.                                          Federation
                                                                                                  (Kamchatka and
                                                                                                  Chukotka).
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                      BIRDS
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
C*...........  3............  R1...........  Porzana           Rallidae.......  Crake, spotless  U.S.A. (AS),
                                              tabuensis.                         (American        Australia,
                                                                                 Samoa DPS).      Fiji,
                                                                                                  Independent
                                                                                                  Samoa,
                                                                                                  Marquesas,
                                                                                                  Philippines,
                                                                                                  Society
                                                                                                  Islands,
                                                                                                  Tonga.
PE...........  9............  R1...........  Gallicolumba      Columbidae.....  Ground-dove,     U.S.A. (AS),
                                              stairi.                            friendly         Independent
                                                                                 (American        Samoa.
                                                                                 Samoa DPS).
PE...........  2............  R1...........  Gymnomyza         Meliphagidae...  Ma'oma'o.......  U.S.A. (AS),
                                              samoensis.                                          Independent
                                                                                                  Samoa.
C*...........  5............  R8...........  Synthliboramphus  Alcidae........  Murrelet,        U.S.A. (CA),
                                              hypoleucus.                        Xantus's.        Mexico.
C*...........  2............  R2...........  Amazona           Psittacidae....  Parrot, red-     U.S.A. (TX),
                                              viridigenalis.                     crowned.         Mexico.
C*...........  8............  R6...........  Anthus spragueii  Motacillidae...  Pipit,           U.S.A. (AR, AZ,
                                                                                 Sprague's.       CO, KS, LA,
                                                                                                  MN, MS, MT,
                                                                                                  ND, NE, NM,
                                                                                                  OK, SD, TX),
                                                                                                  Canada,
                                                                                                  Mexico.
PE...........  3............  R1...........  Oceanodroma       Hydrobatidae...  Storm-petrel,    U.S.A. (HI),
                                              castro.                            band-rumped      Atlantic
                                                                                 (Hawaii DPS).    Ocean, Ecuador
                                                                                                  (Galapagos
                                                                                                  Islands),
                                                                                                  Japan.
PT...........  11...........  R4...........  Dendroica         Emberizidae....  Warbler, elfin-  U.S.A. (PR).
                                              angelae.                           woods.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                    REPTILES
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
PT...........  8............  R3...........  Sistrurus         Viperidae......  Massasauga (=    U.S.A. (IA, IL,
                                              catenatus.                         rattlesnake),    IN, MI, MN,
                                                                                 eastern.         MO, NY, OH,
                                                                                                  PA, WI),
                                                                                                  Canada.
C*...........  5............  R4...........  Pituophis         Colubridae.....  Snake,           U.S.A. (LA,
                                              ruthveni.                          Louisiana pine.  TX).
C*...........  8............  R4...........  Gopherus          Testudinidae...  Tortoise,        U.S.A. (AL, FL,
                                              polyphemus.                        gopher           GA, LA, MS,
                                                                                 (eastern         SC).
                                                                                 population).
C*...........  6............  R2...........  Kinosternon       Kinosternidae..  Turtle, Sonoyta  U.S.A. (AZ),
                                              sonoriense                         mud.             Mexico.
                                              longifemorale.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                   AMPHIBIANS
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
C*...........  8............  R8...........  Lithobates onca.  Ranidae........  Frog, relict     U.S.A. (AZ, NV,
                                                                                 leopard.         UT).
C*...........  8............  R4...........  Notophthalmus     Salamandridae..  Newt, striped..  U.S.A. (FL,
                                              perstriatus.                                        GA).
C*...........  8............  R4...........  Gyrinophilus      Plethodontidae.  Salamander,      U.S.A. (TN).
                                              gulolineatus.                      Berry Cave.
C............  3............  R2...........  Hyla wrightorum.  Hylidae........  Treefrog,        U.S.A. (AZ),
                                                                                 Arizona          Mexico
                                                                                 (Huachuca/       (Sonora).
                                                                                 Canelo DPS).
C*...........  2............  R4...........  Necturus          Proteidae......  Waterdog, black  U.S.A. (AL).
                                              alabamensis.                       warrior
                                                                                 (=Sipsey Fork).
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                     FISHES
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
PT...........  8............  R2...........  Gila nigra......  Cyprinidae.....  Chub, headwater  U.S.A. (AZ,
                                                                                                  NM).

[[Page 80610]]

 
PT...........  9............  R2...........  Gila robusta....  Cyprinidae.....  Chub, roundtail  U.S.A. (AZ, CO,
                                                                                 (Lower           NM, UT, WY).
                                                                                 Colorado River
                                                                                 Basin DPS).
C*...........  11...........  R6...........  Etheostoma        Percidae.......  Darter,          U.S.A. (AR, CO,
                                              cragini.                           Arkansas.        KS, MO, OK).
PE...........  2............  R5...........  Crystallaria      Percidae.......  Darter, diamond  U.S.A. (KY, OH,
                                              cincotta.                                           TN, WV).
PT...........  2............  R4...........  Etheostoma        Percidae.......  Darter,          U.S.A. (KY).
                                              spilotum.                          Kentucky arrow.
C*...........  8............  R4...........  Percina aurora..  Percidae.......  Darter, Pearl..  U.S.A. (LA,
                                                                                                  MS).
C*...........  5............  R4...........  Moxostoma sp....  Catostomidae...  Redhorse,        U.S.A. (GA, NC,
                                                                                 sicklefin.       TN).
C*...........  3............  R8...........  Spirinchus        Osmeridae......  Smelt, longfin   U.S.A. (AK, CA,
                                              thaleichthys.                      (San Francisco   OR, WA),
                                                                                 Bay-Delta DPS).  Canada.
PSAT.........  N/A..........  R1...........  Salvelinus malma  Salmonidae.....  Trout, Dolly     U.S.A. (AK,
                                                                                 Varden.          WA), Canada,
                                                                                                  East Asia.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                      CLAMS
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
C*...........  2............  R2...........  Lampsilis         Unionidae......  Fatmucket,       U.S.A. (TX).
                                              bracteata.                         Texas.
C*...........  2............  R2...........  Truncilla         Unionidae......  Fawnsfoot,       U.S.A. (TX).
                                              macrodon.                          Texas.
C*...........  8............  R2...........  Popenaias popei.  Unionidae......  Hornshell,       U.S.A. (NM,
                                                                                 Texas.           TX), Mexico.
PT...........  --...........  R4...........  Medionidus        Unionidae......  Moccasinshell,   U.S.A. (FL,
                                              walkeri.                           Suwannee.        GA).
C*...........  8............  R2...........  Quadrula aurea..  Unionidae......  Orb, golden....  U.S.A. (TX).
C*...........  8............  R2...........  Quadrula          Unionidae......  Pimpleback,      U.S.A. (TX).
                                              houstonensis.                      smooth.
C*...........  2............  R2...........  Quadrula petrina  Unionidae......  Pimpleback,      U.S.A. (TX).
                                                                                 Texas.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                     SNAILS
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
C*...........  8............  R4...........  Elimia            Pleuroceridae..  Mudalia, black.  U.S.A. (AL).
                                              melanoides.
C*...........  2............  R4...........  Planorbella       Planorbidae....  Ramshorn,        U.S.A. (NC).
                                              magnifica.                         magnificent.
PE...........  2............  R1...........  Eua zebrina.....  Partulidae.....  Snail, no        U.S.A. (AS).
                                                                                 common name.
PE...........  2............  R1...........  Ostodes           Potaridae......  Snail, no        U.S.A. (AS).
                                              strigatus.                         common name.
C*...........  11...........  R2...........  Pyrgulopsis       Hydrobiidae....  Springsnail,     U.S.A. (AZ),
                                              thompsoni.                         Huachuca.        Mexico.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                     INSECTS
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
PE...........  2............  R1...........  Hylaeus           Colletidae.....  Bee, Hawaiian    U.S.A. (HI).
                                              anthracinus.                       yellow-faced.
PE...........  2............  R1...........  Hylaeus           Colletidae.....  Bee, Hawaiian    U.S.A. (HI).
                                              assimulans.                        yellow-faced.
PE...........  2............  R1...........  Hylaeus facilis.  Colletidae.....  Bee, Hawaiian    U.S.A. (HI).
                                                                                 yellow-faced.
PE...........  2............  R1...........  Hylaeus hilaris.  Colletidae.....  Bee, Hawaiian    U.S.A. (HI).
                                                                                 yellow-faced.
PE...........  2............  R1...........  Hylaeus kuakea..  Colletidae.....  Bee, Hawaiian    U.S.A. (HI).
                                                                                 yellow-faced.
PE...........  2............  R1...........  Hylaeus           Colletidae.....  Bee, Hawaiian    U.S.A. (HI).
                                              longiceps.                         yellow-faced.
PE...........  2............  R1...........  Hylaeus mana....  Colletidae.....  Bee, Hawaiian    U.S.A. (HI).
                                                                                 yellow-faced.
C*...........  5............  R8...........  Lycaena hermes..  Lycaenidae.....  Butterfly,       U.S.A. (CA).
                                                                                 Hermes copper.
C*...........  2............  R4...........  Atlantea tulita.  Nymphalidae....  Butterfly,       U.S.A. (PR).
                                                                                 Puerto Rican
                                                                                 harlequin.
C*...........  5............  R4...........  Pseudanophthalmu  Carabidae......  Cave beetle,     U.S.A. (KY).
                                              s caecus.                          Clifton.
C*...........  5............  R4...........  Pseudanophthalmu  Carabidae......  Cave beetle,     U.S.A. (KY).
                                              s frigidus.                        icebox.
C*...........  5............  R4...........  Pseudanophthalmu  Carabidae......  Cave beetle,     U.S.A. (KY).
                                              s troglodytes.                     Louisville.
C*...........  5............  R4...........  Pseudanophthalmu  Carabidae......  Cave beetle,     U.S.A. (KY).
                                              s parvus.                          Tatum.
PE...........  8............  R1...........  Megalagrion       Coenagrionidae.  Damselfly,       U.S.A. (HI).
                                              xanthomelas.                       orangeblack
                                                                                 Hawaiian.
C*...........  8............  R3...........  Papaipema         Noctuidae......  Moth,            U.S.A. (AR, IL,
                                              eryngii.                           rattlesnake-     KY, NC, OK).
                                                                                 master borer.
C*...........  11...........  R2...........  Heterelmis        Elmidae........  Riffle beetle,   U.S.A. (AZ).
                                              stephani.                          Stephan's.
C*...........  5............  R6...........  Arsapnia          Capniidae......  Snowfly,         U.S.A. (CO).
                                              (=Capnia)                          Arapahoe.
                                              arapahoe.

[[Page 80611]]

 
C*...........  5............  R6...........  Lednia tumana...  Nemouridae.....  Stonefly,        U.S.A. (MT).
                                                                                 meltwater
                                                                                 lednian.
C*...........  5............  R4...........  Cicindela         Cicindelidae...  Tiger beetle,    U.S.A. (FL).
                                              highlandensis.                     highlands.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                   CRUSTACEANS
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
C............  8............  R5...........  Stygobromus       Crangonyctidae.  Amphipod,        U.S.A. (DC).
                                              kenki.                             Kenk's.
PE...........  .............  R5...........  Cambarus          Cambaridae.....  Crayfish, Big    U.S.A. (KY, VA,
                                              callainus.                         Sandy.           WV).
PE...........  .............  R5...........  Cambarus          Cambaridae.....  Crayfish,        U.S.A. (WV).
                                              veteranus.                         Guyandotte
                                                                                 River.
PE...........  5............  R1...........  Procaris          Procarididae...  Shrimp,          U.S.A. (HI).
                                              hawaiana.                          anchialine
                                                                                 pool.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                FLOWERING PLANTS
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
PT...........  11...........  R4...........  Argythamnia       Euphorbiaceae..  Silverbush,      U.S.A. (FL).
                                              blodgettii.                        Blodgett's.
C*...........  3............  R1...........  Artemisia         Asteraceae.....  Wormwood,        U.S.A. (OR,
                                              borealis var.                      northern.        WA).
                                              wormskioldii.
C*...........  8............  R6...........  Astragalus        Fabaceae.......  Milkvetch,       U.S.A. (CO).
                                              microcymbus.                       skiff.
C*...........  8............  R6...........  Astragalus        Fabaceae.......  Milkvetch,       U.S.A. (CO).
                                              schmolliae.                        Chapin Mesa.
C*...........  8............  R6...........  Boechera          Brassicaceae...  Rockcress,       U.S.A. (WY).
                                              (Arabis)                           Fremont County
                                              pusilla.                           or small.
PE...........  2............  R1...........  Calamagrostis     Poaceae........  Reedgrass, Maui  U.S.A. (HI).
                                              expansa.
PE...........  9............  R4...........  Chamaecrista      Fabaceae.......  Pea, Big Pine    U.S.A. (FL).
                                              lineata var.                       partridge.
                                              keyensis.
C*...........  12...........  R4...........  Chamaesyce        Euphorbiaceae..  Sandmat,         U.S.A. (FL).
                                              deltoidea                          pineland.
                                              pinetorum.
PE...........  9............  R4...........  Chamaesyce        Euphorbiaceae..  Spurge, wedge..  U.S.A. (FL).
                                              deltoidea
                                              serpyllum.
C*...........  6............  R8...........  Chorizanthe       Polygonaceae...  Spineflower,     U.S.A. (CA).
                                              parryi var.                        San Fernando
                                              fernandina.                        Valley.
C*...........  8............  R2...........  Cirsium wrightii  Asteraceae.....  Thistle,         U.S.A. (AZ,
                                                                                 Wright's.        NM), Mexico.
PE...........  2............  R1...........  Cyanea            Campanulaceae..  No common name.  U.S.A. (HI).
                                              kauaulaensis.
PE...........  2............  R1...........  Cyperus           Cyperaceae.....  No common name.  U.S.A. (HI).
                                              neokunthianus.
PE...........  2............  R1...........  Cyrtandra         Gesneriaceae...  Haiwale........  U.S.A. (HI).
                                              hematos.
C*...........  3............  R4...........  Dalea             Fabaceae.......  Prairie-clover,  U.S.A. (FL).
                                              carthagenensis                     Florida.
                                              var. floridana.
C*...........  2............  R5...........  Dichanthelium     Poaceae........  Panic grass,     U.S.A. (DE, GA,
                                              hirstii.                           Hirst            NC, NJ).
                                                                                 Brothers'.
C*...........  5............  R4...........  Digitaria         Poaceae........  Crabgrass,       U.S.A. (FL).
                                              pauciflora.                        Florida
                                                                                 pineland.
C*...........  8............  R6...........  Eriogonum         Polygonaceae...  Buckwheat,       U.S.A. (UT).
                                              soredium.                          Frisco.
PE...........  2............  R1...........  Exocarpos         Santalaceae....  Heau...........  U.S.A. (HI).
                                              menziesii.
PE...........  2............  R1...........  Festuca           Poaceae........  No common name.  U.S.A. (HI).
                                              hawaiiensis.
C*...........  11...........  R2...........  Festuca ligulata  Poaceae........  Fescue,          U.S.A. (TX),
                                                                                 Guadalupe.       Mexico.
PE...........  2............  R1...........  Gardenia remyi..  Rubiaceae......  Nanu...........  U.S.A. (HI).
PE...........  3............  R1...........  Joinvillea        Joinvilleaceae.  Ohe............  U.S.A. (HI).
                                              ascendens
                                              ascendens.
PE...........  2............  R1...........  Kadua             Rubiaceae......  Kampuaa........  U.S.A. (HI).
                                              (=Hedyotis)
                                              fluviatilis.
PE...........  2............  R1...........  Kadua haupuensis  Rubiaceae......  No common name.  U.S.A. (HI).
PE...........  2............  R1...........  Labordia          Loganiaceae....  No common name.  U.S.A. (HI).
                                              lorenciana.
PE...........  2............  R1...........  Lepidium          Brassicaceae...  Anaunau........  U.S.A. (HI).
                                              orbiculare.
C*...........  8............  R6...........  Lepidium ostleri  Brassicaceae...  Peppergrass,     U.S.A. (UT).
                                                                                 Ostler's.
PE...........  --...........  R1...........  Lepidium          Brassicaceae...  Peppergrass,     U.S.A. (ID).
                                              papilliferum.                      slickspot.
PE...........  5............  R4...........  Linum arenicola.  Linaceae.......  Flax, sand.....  U.S.A. (FL).
PE...........  2............  R1...........  Myrsine           Myrsinaceae....  Kolea..........  U.S.A. (HI).
                                              fosbergii.
PE...........  2............  R1...........  Nothocestrum      Solanaceae.....  Aiea...........  U.S.A. (HI).
                                              latifolium.
PE...........  2............  R1...........  Ochrosia          Apocynaceae....  Holei..........  U.S.A. (HI).
                                              haleakalae.
PE...........  2............  R1...........  Phyllostegia      Lamiaceae......  No common name.  U.S.A. (HI).
                                              brevidens.
PE...........  2............  R1...........  Phyllostegia      Lamiaceae......  No common name.  U.S.A. (HI).
                                              helleri.
PE...........  2............  R1...........  Phyllostegia      Lamiaceae......  No common name.  U.S.A. (HI).
                                              stachyoides.
C*...........  8............  R6...........  Pinus albicaulis  Pinaceae.......  Pine, whitebark  U.S.A. (CA, ID,
                                                                                                  MT, NV, OR,
                                                                                                  WA, WY),
                                                                                                  Canada (AB,
                                                                                                  BC).
PT...........  8............  R4...........  Platanthera       Orchidaceae....  Orchid, white    U.S.A. (AL, GA,
                                              integrilabia.                      fringeless.      KY, MS, NC,
                                                                                                  SC, TN, VA).
PE...........  2............  R1...........  Portulaca         Portulacaceae..  Ihi............  U.S.A. (HI).
                                              villosa.
PE...........  2............  R1...........  Pritchardia       Arecaceae......  Loulu (=Loulu    U.S.A. (HI).
                                              bakeri.                            lelo).

[[Page 80612]]

 
PE...........  3............  R1...........  Pseudognaphalium  Asteraceae.....  Enaena.........  U.S.A. (HI).
                                              (=Gnaphalium)
                                              sandwicensium
                                              var.
                                              molokaiense.
PE...........  2............  R1...........  Ranunculus        Ranunculaceae..  Makou..........  U.S.A. (HI).
                                              hawaiensis.
PE...........  2............  R1...........  Ranunculus        Ranunculaceae..  Makou..........  U.S.A. (HI).
                                              mauiensis.
PE...........  2............  R1...........  Sanicula          Apiaceae.......  No common name.  U.S.A. (HI).
                                              sandwicensis.
PE...........  2............  R1...........  Santalum          Santalaceae....  Iliahi.........  U.S.A. (HI).
                                              involutum.
PE...........  3............  R1...........  Schiedea diffusa  Caryophyllaceae  No common name.  U.S.A. (HI).
                                              ssp. diffusa.
PE...........  2............  R1...........  Schiedea          Caryophyllaceae  Maolioli.......  U.S.A. (HI).
                                              pubescens.
PE...........  2............  R1...........  Sicyos            Cucurbitaceae..  Anunu..........  U.S.A. (HI).
                                              lanceoloideus.
PE...........  2............  R1...........  Sicyos            Cucurbitaceae..  Anunu..........  U.S.A. (HI).
                                              macrophyllus.
C............  12...........  R4...........  Sideroxylon       Sapotaceae.....  Bully,           U.S.A. (FL).
                                              reclinatum                         Everglades.
                                              austrofloridens
                                              e.
C*...........  2............  R4...........  Solanum           Solanaceae.....  Bacora, marron.  U.S.A. (PR).
                                              conocarpum.
PE...........  8............  R1...........  Solanum nelsonii  Solanaceae.....  Popolo.........  U.S.A. (HI).
PE...........  3............  R1...........  Stenogyne kaalae  Lamiaceae......  No common name.  U.S.A. (HI).
                                              ssp. sherffii.
C*...........  8............  R2...........  Streptanthus      Brassicaceae...  Twistflower,     U.S.A. (TX).
                                              bracteatus.                        bracted.
C*...........  8............  R6...........  Trifolium         Fabaceae.......  Clover, Frisco.  U.S.A. (UT).
                                              friscanum.
PE...........  2............  R1...........  Wikstroemia       Thymelaceae....  Akia...........  U.S.A. (HI).
                                              skottsbergiana.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                FERNS AND ALLIES
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
PE...........  2............  R1...........  Asplenium         Aspleniaceae...  No common name.  U.S.A. (HI).
                                              diellaciniatum.
PE...........  8............  R1...........  Cyclosorus        Thelypteridacea  Kupukupu         U.S.A. (HI).
                                              boydiae.          e.               makalii.
PE...........  2............  R1...........  Deparia kaalaana  Athyraceae.....  No common name.  U.S.A. (HI).
PE...........  3............  R1...........  Dryopteris        Dryopteridaceae  Hohiu..........  U.S.A. (HI).
                                              glabra var.
                                              pusilla.
PE...........  3............  R1...........  Hypolepis         Dennstaedtiacea  Olua...........  U.S.A. (HI).
                                              hawaiiensis       e.
                                              var. mauiensis.
PE...........  2............  R1...........  Huperzia (=       Lycopodiaceae..  No common name.  U.S.A. (HI).
                                              Phlegmariurus)
                                              stemmermanniae.
PE...........  3............  R1...........  Microlepia        Dennstaedtiacea  No common name.  U.S.A. (HI).
                                              strigosa var.     e.
                                              mauiensis (=
                                              Microlepia
                                              mauiensis).
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                Table 2--Animals and Plants Formerly Candidates or Formerly Proposed for Listing
          [Note: See end of SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION for an explanation of symbols used in this table]
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
           Status
----------------------------- Lead region   Scientific name       Family          Common name       Historical
     Code          Expl.                                                                              range
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                     MAMMALS
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
T............  L............  R3.........  Myotis            ................  Bat, northern     U.S.A. (AL, AR,
                                            septentrionalis.                    long-eared.       CT, DE, DC,
                                                                                                  FL, GA, IL,
                                                                                                  IN, IA, KS,
                                                                                                  KY, LA, ME,
                                                                                                  MD, MA, MI,
                                                                                                  MN, MS, MO,
                                                                                                  MT, NE, NH,
                                                                                                  NJ, NY, NC,
                                                                                                  ND, OH, OK,
                                                                                                  PA, RI, SC,
                                                                                                  SD, TN, VT,
                                                                                                  VA, WV, WI,
                                                                                                  WY); Canada
                                                                                                  (AB, BC, LB,
                                                                                                  MB, NB, NF,
                                                                                                  NS, NT, ON,
                                                                                                  PE, QC, SK,
                                                                                                  YT).
E............  L............  R1.........  Emballonura       Emballonuridae..  Bat, Pacific      U.S.A. (GU,
                                            semicaudata                         sheath-tailed     CNMI).
                                            rotensis.                           (Mariana
                                                                                Islands
                                                                                subspecies).
Rc...........  U............  R5.........  Sylvilagus        Leporidae.......  Cottontail, New   U.S.A. (CT, MA,
                                            transitionalis.                     England.          ME, NH, NY,
                                                                                                  RI, VT).
Rc...........  U............  R1.........  Urocitellus       Sciuridae.......  Squirrel,         U.S.A. (ID).
                                            endemicus.                          Southern Idaho
                                                                                ground.

[[Page 80613]]

 
E............  L............  R2.........  Canis lupus       Canidae.........  Wolf, Mexican     U.S.A. (AZ,
                                            baileyi.                            gray.             NM).
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                      BIRDS
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
T............  L............  R5.........  Calidris canutus  Scolopacidae....  Knot, red.......  U.S.A.
                                            rufa.                                                 (Atlantic
                                                                                                  coast),
                                                                                                  Canada, South
                                                                                                  America.
Rc...........  U............  R6.........  Centrocercus      Phasianidae.....  Sage-grouse,      U.S.A. (AZ, CA,
                                            urophasianus.                       greater.          CO, ID, MT,
                                                                                                  ND, NE, NV,
                                                                                                  OR, SD, UT,
                                                                                                  WA, WY),
                                                                                                  Canada (AB,
                                                                                                  BC, SK).
Rp...........  U............  R8.........  Centrocercus      Phasianidae.....  Sage-grouse,      U.S.A. (AZ, CA,
                                            urophasianus.                       greater (Bi-      CO, ID, MT,
                                                                                State DPS).       ND, NE, NV,
                                                                                                  OR, SD, UT,
                                                                                                  WA, WY),
                                                                                                  Canada (AB,
                                                                                                  BC, SK).
Rc...........  N............  R1.........  Centrocercus      Phasianidae.....  Sage-grouse,      U.S.A. (AZ, CA,
                                            urophasianus.                       greater           CO, ID, MT,
                                                                                (Columbia Basin   ND, NE, NV,
                                                                                DPS).             OR, SD, UT,
                                                                                                  WA, WY),
                                                                                                  Canada (AB,
                                                                                                  BC, SK).
E............  L............  R6.........  Centrocercus      Phasianidae.....  Sage-grouse,      U.S.A. (AZ, CO,
                                            minimus.                            Gunnison.         NM, UT).
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                    REPTILES
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
E............  L............  R1.........  Emoia slevini...  Scincidae.......  Skink, Slevin's   U.S.A. (Guam,
                                                                                (Guali'ek Halom   Mariana
                                                                                Tano).            Islands).
T............  L............  R4.........  Pituophis         Colubridae......  Snake, black      U.S.A. (AL, LA,
                                            melanoleucus                        pine.             MS).
                                            lodingi.
Rc...........  A............  R2.........  Gopherus          Testudinidae....  Tortoise,         U.S.A. (AZ, CA,
                                            morafkai.                           Sonoran desert.   NV, UT).
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                   AMPHIBIANS
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Rc...........  U............  R8.........  Rana              Ranidae.........  Frog, Columbia    U.S.A. (AK, ID,
                                            luteiventris.                       spotted (Great    MT, NV, OR,
                                                                                Basin DPS).       UT, WA, WY),
                                                                                                  Canada (BC).
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                     FISHES
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Rc...........  A............  R4.........  Etheostoma        Percidae........  Darter,           U.S.A. (KY,
                                            sagitta.                            Cumberland        TN).
                                                                                arrow.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                     SNAILS
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
E............  L............  R1.........  Samoana fragilis  Partulidae......  Snail, fragile    U.S.A. (GU,
                                                                                tree.             MP).
E............  L............  R1.........  Partula           Partulidae......  Snail, Guam tree  U.S.A. (GU).
                                            radiolata.
E............  L............  R1.........  Partula gibba...  Partulidae......  Snail, Humped     U.S.A. (GU,
                                                                                tree.             MP).
E............  L............  R1.........  Partula           Partulidae......  Snail,            U.S.A. (MP).
                                            langfordi.                          Langford's tree.
Rc...........  U............  R2.........  Pyrgulopsis       Hydrobiidae.....  Springsnail,      U.S.A. (AZ).
                                            morrisoni.                          Page.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                     INSECTS
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
E............  L............  R1.........  Hypolimnas        Nymphalidae.....  Butterfly,        U.S.A. (GU,
                                            octucula                            Mariana eight-    MP).
                                            mariannensis.                       spot.
E............  L............  R1.........  Vagrans egistina  Nymphalidae.....  Butterfly,        U.S.A. (GU,
                                                                                Mariana           MP).
                                                                                wandering.
Rc...........  A............  R4.........  Glyphopsyche      Limnephilidae...  Caddisfly,        U.S.A. (TN).
                                            sequatchie.                         Sequatchie.
Rc...........  A............  R4.........  Pseudanophthalmu  Carabidae.......  Cave beetle,      U.S.A. (TN).
                                            s insularis.                        Baker Station
                                                                                (= insular).
Rc...........  A............  R4.........  Pseudanophthalmu  Carabidae.......  Cave beetle,      U.S.A. (TN).
                                            s colemanensis.                     Coleman.
Rc...........  A............  R4.........  Pseudanophthalmu  Carabidae.......  Cave beetle,      U.S.A. (TN).
                                            s fowlerae.                         Fowler's.
Rc...........  A............  R4.........  Pseudanophthalmu  Carabidae.......  Cave beetle,      U.S.A. (TN).
                                            s tiresias.                         Indian Grave
                                                                                Point (=
                                                                                Soothsayer).
Rc...........  A............  R4.........  Pseudanophthalmu  Carabidae.......  Cave beetle,      U.S.A. (TN).
                                            s inquisitor.                       inquirer.

[[Page 80614]]

 
Rc...........  A............  R4.........  Pseudanophthalmu  Carabidae.......  Cave beetle,      U.S.A. (TN).
                                            s paulus.                           Noblett's.
E............  L............  R1.........  Ischnura luta...  Coenagrionidae..  Damselfly, Rota   U.S.A. (Mariana
                                                                                blue.             Islands).
Rc...........  U............  R8.........  Ambrysus          Naucoridae......  Naucorid bug (=   U.S.A. (CA).
                                            funebris.                           Furnace Creek),
                                                                                Nevares Spring.
T............  L............  R3.........  Hesperia dacotae  Hesperiidae.....  Skipper, Dakota.  U.S.A. (MN, IA,
                                                                                                  IL, SD, ND),
                                                                                                  Canada.
E............  L............  R3.........  Oarisma           Hesperiidae.....  Skipperling,      U.S.A. (IA, IL,
                                            poweshiek.                          Poweshiek.        IN, MI, MN,
                                                                                                  ND, SD, WI),
                                                                                                  Canada (MB).
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                   CRUSTACEANS
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Rc...........  I............  R1.........  Metabetaeus       Alpheidae.......  Shrimp,           U.S.A. (HI).
                                            lohena.                             anchialine pool.
Rc...........  I............  R1.........  Palaemonella      Palaemonidae....  Shrimp,           U.S.A. (HI).
                                            burnsi.                             anchialine pool.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                FLOWERING PLANTS
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Rc...........  U............  R8.........  Abronia alpina..  Nyctaginaceae...  Sand-verbena,     U.S.A. (CA).
                                                                                Ramshaw Meadows.
Rc...........  U............  R6.........  Astragalus        Fabaceae........  Milkvetch, Goose  U.S.A. (ID, NV,
                                            anserinus.                          Creek.            UT).
Rc...........  A............  R6.........  Astragalus        Fabaceae........  Milkvetch,        U.S.A. (CO).
                                            tortipes.                           Sleeping Ute.
E............  L............  R1.........  Bulbophyllum      Orchidaceae.....  Cebello           U.S.A. (Guam,
                                            guamense.                           halumtano.        Mariana
                                                                                                  Islands).
Rc...........  U............  R8.........  Calochortus       Liliaceae.......  Mariposa lily,    U.S.A. (CA,
                                            persistens.                         Siskiyou.         OR).
T............  L............  R1.........  Cycas             Cycadaceae......  Fadang..........  U.S.A. (Guam,
                                            micronesica.                                          Mariana
                                                                                                  Islands).
E............  L............  R1.........  Dendrobium        Orchidaceae.....  No common name..  U.S.A. (Guam,
                                            guamens.                                              Mariana
                                                                                                  Islands).
E............  L............  R1.........  Eugenia bryanii.  Myrtaceae.......  No common name..  U.S.A. (Guam).
E............  L............  R1.........  Hedyotis          Rubiaceae.......  Paudedo.........  U.S.A. (Guam).
                                            megalantha.
E............  L............  R1.........  Heritiera         Malvaceae.......  Ufa-halomtano...  U.S.A. (Guam,
                                            longipetiolata.                                       Mariana
                                                                                                  Islands).
E............  L............  R1.........  Maesa walkeri...  Primulaceae.....  No common name..  U.S.A. (Guam,
                                                                                                  Mariana
                                                                                                  Islands).
E............  L............  R1.........  Nervilia          Orchidaceae.....  No common name..  U.S.A. (Guam,
                                            jacksoniae.                                           Mariana
                                                                                                  Islands).
E............  L............  R1.........  Phyllanthus       Phyllanthaceae..  No common name..  U.S.A. (Guam).
                                            saffordii.
E............  L............  R1.........  Psychotria        Rubiaceae.......  Aplokating-       U.S.A. (Guam).
                                            malaspinae.                         palaoan.
Rc...........  U............  R8.........  Rorippa           Brassicaceae....  Cress, Tahoe      U.S.A. (CA,
                                            subumbellata.                       yellow.           NV).
E............  L............  R1.........  Solanum guamense  Solanaceae......  Bereng-henas      U.S.A. (Guam,
                                                                                halomtano.        Mariana
                                                                                                  Islands).
E............  L............  R1.........  Tinospora         Menispermaceae..  No common name..  U.S.A (Guam).
                                            homosepala.
T............  L............  R1.........  Tabernaemontana   Apocynaceae.....  No common name..  U.S.A. (Guam,
                                            rotensis.                                             Mariana
                                                                                                  Islands).
E............  L............  R1.........  Tuberolabium      Orchidaceae.....  No common name..  U.S.A. (Guam,
                                            guamense.                                             Mariana
                                                                                                  Islands).
                                                FERNS AND ALLIES
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
E............  L............  R4.........  Trichomanes       Hymenophyllaceae  Florida bristle   U.S.A. (FL).
                                            punctatum                           fern.
                                            floridanum.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

[FR Doc. 2015-32284 Filed 12-23-15; 8:45 am]
 BILLING CODE 4310-55-P