[Federal Register Volume 85, Number 47 (Tuesday, March 10, 2020)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 13844-13856]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2020-04824]



[[Page 13844]]

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DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR

Fish and Wildlife Service

50 CFR Part 17

[Docket No. FWS-R4-ES-2019-0073; FXES11130900000-189-FF0932000]
RIN 1018-BB83


Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and Plants; Removing Lepanthes 
eltoroensis From the Federal List of Endangered and Threatened Plants

AGENCY: Fish and Wildlife Service, Interior.

ACTION: Proposed rule.

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SUMMARY: We, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, propose to remove 
Lepanthes eltoroensis (no common name), an orchid species from Puerto 
Rico, from the Federal List of Endangered and Threatened Plants (List) 
(i.e., to ``delist'' the species), due to recovery. This proposed 
action is based on a thorough review of the best available scientific 
and commercial data, which indicates that the threats to the species 
have been eliminated or reduced to the point that the species no longer 
meets the definition of an endangered or threatened species under the 
Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended (Act). We also announce the 
availability of a draft post-delisting monitoring (PDM) plan. We seek 
information, data, and comments from the public regarding this proposal 
and the draft PDM plan.

DATES: We will accept comments received or postmarked on or before May 
11, 2020. Comments submitted electronically using the Federal 
eRulemaking Portal (see ADDRESSES, below) must be received by 11:59 
p.m. Eastern Time on the closing date. We must receive requests for a 
public hearing, in writing, at the address shown in FOR FURTHER 
INFORMATION CONTACT by April 24, 2020.

ADDRESSES: Written comments: You may submit comments on this proposed 
rule and the draft PDM plan by one of the following methods:
    (1) Electronically: Go to the Federal eRulemaking Portal: http://www.regulations.gov. In the Search box, enter FWS-R4-ES-2019-0073, 
which is the docket number for this rulemaking. Then, click on the 
Search button. On the resulting page, in the Search panel on the left 
side of the screen, under the Document Type heading, click on the 
Proposed Rule box to locate this document. You may submit a comment by 
clicking on ``Comment Now!''
    (2) By hard copy: Submit by U.S. mail or hand-delivery to: Public 
Comments Processing, Attn: FWS-R4-ES-2019-0073, U.S. Fish and Wildlife 
Service, MS: JAO/1N, 5275 Leesburg Pike, Falls Church, VA 22041-3803.
    We request that you send comments only by the methods described 
above. We will post all comments on http://www.regulations.gov. This 
generally means that we will post any personal information you provide 
us (see Public Comments, below, for more information).
    Document availability: This proposed rule, the draft PDM plan, and 
supporting documents (including the species status assessment (SSA) 
report and references cited) are available at http://www.regulations.gov under Docket No. FWS-R4-ES-2019-0073 or at the 
Caribbean Ecological Services Field Office website at https://www.fws.gov/southeast/caribbean/.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Edwin Mu[ntilde]iz, Field Supervisor, 
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Caribbean Ecological Services Field 
Office. Physical address: Road 301, Km. 5.1, Boquer[oacute]n, Puerto 
Rico 00622. Mailing address: P.O. Box 49, Boquer[oacute]n, Puerto Rico 
00622. Telephone: (787) 851-7297. If you use a telecommunications 
device for the deaf (TDD), please call the Federal Relay Service at 
(800) 877- 8339 for TTY assistance 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: 

Information Requested

Public Comments

    We intend that any final action resulting from this proposed rule 
will be based on the best scientific and commercial data available and 
be as accurate and as effective as possible. The proposed rule serves 
as the notice of initiation and, if finalized, the final determination 
fulfills the requirements of a 5-year review. Therefore, we request 
comments or information from other concerned governmental agencies, the 
scientific community, industry, or any other interested parties 
concerning this proposed rule. Because we will consider all comments 
and information we receive during the comment period, our final 
determination may differ from this proposal. We particularly seek new 
information not already included in the species status assessment 
report concerning:
    (1) Information concerning the biology and ecology of Lepanthes 
eltoroensis;
    (2) New information on the historical and current status, range, 
distribution, and population size of L. eltoroensis;
    (3) Relevant data concerning any threats (or lack thereof) to L. 
eltoroensis, particularly any data on the possible effects of climate 
to this orchid as it relates to habitat;
    (4) The extent of protection and management that would be provided 
by the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico to L. eltoroensis as a delisted 
species;
    (5) Current or planned activities within the geographic range of L. 
eltoroensis that may negatively impact or benefit the species;
    (6) The draft PDM plan and the methods and approach detailed in it; 
and
    (7) Other relevant information the public believes we have not 
considered.
    Please include sufficient information with your submission (such as 
scientific journal articles or other publications) to allow us to 
verify any scientific or commercial information you include. All 
comments submitted electronically via http://www.regulations.gov will 
be presented on the website in their entirety as submitted. For 
comments submitted via hard copy, we will post your entire comment--
including your personal identifying information--on http://www.regulations.gov. You may request at the top of your document that 
we withhold personal information such as your street address, phone 
number, or email address from public review; however, we cannot 
guarantee that we will be able to do so.
    Comments and materials we receive, as well as supporting 
documentation we used in preparing this proposed rule, will be 
available for public inspection on http://www.regulations.gov, or by 
appointment, during normal business hours, at the U.S. Fish and 
Wildlife Service, Caribbean Ecological Services Field Office (see FOR 
FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT).
    Please note that submissions merely stating support for, or 
opposition to, the action under consideration without providing 
supporting information, although noted, will not be considered in 
making a determination, as section 4(b)(1)(A) of the Act (16 U.S.C. 
1531 et seq.) directs that determinations as to whether any species is 
an endangered or threatened species must be made ``solely on the basis 
of the best scientific and commercial data available.''

Public Hearing

    Section 4(b)(5) of the Act provides for a public hearing on this 
proposal, if requested. Requests must be received within 45 days after 
the date of publication of this proposed rule in the Federal Register 
(see DATES). Such requests must be sent to the address shown in FOR 
FURTHER INFORMATION

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CONTACT. We will schedule a public hearing on this proposal, if 
requested, and announce the date, time, and place of the hearing, as 
well as how to obtain reasonable accommodations, in the Federal 
Register and local newspapers at least 15 days before the hearing.

Peer Review

    In accordance with our joint policy on peer review published in the 
Federal Register on July 1, 1994 (59 FR 34270), and the Service's 
August 22, 2016, Director's Memo on the Peer Review Process, we sought 
the expert opinions of five appropriate and independent specialists 
regarding the species status assessment report for Lepanthes 
eltoroensis. These peer reviewers have expertise in L. eltoroensis or 
similar epiphytic orchid species' biology or habitat, or climate 
change. We received comments from one of the five peer reviewers. The 
purpose of peer review is to ensure that our decisions are based on 
scientifically sound data, assumptions, and analyses. The peer reviewer 
comments will be available along with other public comments in the 
docket for this proposed rule.

Species Status Assessment Report

    A team of Service biologists, in consultation with other species 
experts, prepared a species status assessment (SSA) report for 
Lepanthes eltoroensis. The SSA report represents a compilation of the 
best scientific and commercial data available concerning the status of 
the species, including the impacts of past, present, and future factors 
(both negative and beneficial) affecting the species. As stated above, 
we solicited independent peer review of the SSA report by five 
individuals with expertise in L. eltoroensis or similar epiphytic 
orchid species' biology or habitat, or climate change. The final SSA, 
which supports this proposed rule, was revised, as appropriate, in 
response to the comments and suggestions received from our peer 
reviewers. The SSA report and other materials relating to this proposal 
can be found on the Service's Southeast Region website at https://www.fws.gov/southeast/ and at http://www.regulations.gov under Docket 
No. FWS-R4-ES-2019-0073.

Background

Previous Federal Actions

    Lepanthes eltorensis (no common name) was originally recommended 
for Federal listing by the Smithsonian Institution (Ayensu and 
DeFilipps 1978). In 1980, we included the species among the plants 
being considered as endangered or threatened by the Service (45 FR 
82480), and subsequently included it in the annual Candidate Notice of 
Review from 1983 through 1989, determining that listing L. eltorensis 
was warranted but precluded by other pending listing actions of a 
higher priority. We published a final rule in the Federal Register 
listing L. eltoroensis as an endangered species on November 29, 1991 
(56 FR 60933). On July 15, 1996, we published the L. eltoroensis 
Recovery Plan (USFWS 1996). We completed a 5-year status review on 
August 24, 2015 (USFWS 2015). Although the review did not recommend we 
reclassify or delist this orchid, it did indicate that the species was 
showing substantial improvement and a reduced level of threats.

Species Information

    A thorough review of the taxonomy, life history, and ecology of 
Lepanthes eltoroensis is presented in the SSA report (Service 2019, 
entire), which is available at http://www.regulations.gov under Docket 
No. FWS-R4-ES-2019-0073, and summarized in this proposed rule.

Species Description

    Lepanthes eltoroensis is a member of a large genus of more than 800 
orchid species. Approximately 118 species in this genus are from the 
Caribbean and all but one are single-island endemics (Stimson 1969, p. 
332; Barre and Feldmann 1991, p. 11; Tremblay and Ackerman 1993, p. 
339; Luer 2014, p. 260). This species is a small, epiphytic orchid 
about 1.57 inches (in.) (4 centimeters (cm)) tall and is distinguished 
from other members of the genus by its obovate to oblanceolate leaves, 
ciliate sepals, and the length of the inflorescence (Vivaldi et al. 
1981, p. 26; Luer 2014, p. 260). The inflorescence is a long (0.03 in.; 
0.75 millimeters (mm)), peduncled raceme (flower cluster with flowers 
on separate short stalks) with reddish flowers. No more than two 
flowers are produced at the same time, and the flowers are open on the 
inflorescence for about 10 days (Mel[eacute]ndez-Ackerman and Tremblay 
2017, p. 1).

Life History

    For purposes of the SSA, we considered Lepanthes eltoroensis to be 
a single metapopulation, the individual trees that host the L. 
eltoroensis plants as subpopulations, and the host tree aggregates as 
patches (USFWS 2019, p. 16). A number of characteristics (see below) 
suggest that a metapopulation approach may be appropriate to understand 
orchid population dynamics (see USFWS 2019, pp. 14-15) and epiphytic 
species (Snall et al. 2003, p. 567; Snall et al. 2004, p. 758; Snall et 
al. 2005, pp. 209-210), like L. eltoroensis. Metapopulations are 
defined as a set of subpopulations with independent local dynamics 
occupying discrete patches (Hanski 1999, entire; Hanski and Gaggiotti 
2004, pp. 3-22), so that simultaneous extinction of all subpopulations 
is unlikely.
    Populations of Lepanthes orchids exhibit high variance in 
reproductive potential, high variance in mean reproductive lifespan 
(Tremblay 2000, pp. 264-265), and few adults per population (Tremblay 
1997a, p. 95). Less than 20 percent of individuals reproduce, and most 
subpopulations (60 percent of host trees) have fewer than 15 
individuals. In addition, the distribution of individuals (seedling, 
juvenile, and adults) varies enormously among trees and is skewed 
towards few individuals per tree (Tremblay and Velazquez-Castro 2009, 
p. 214). The lifespan of L. eltoroensis can reach 30 to 50 years 
(Tremblay 1996, pp. 88-89, 114). However, the mean is 5.2 years, with 
an average percent mortality of 10 percent per year, although this 
varies greatly among life stages. Survival increases as individual 
orchids reach later life stages, but fewer plants reach adulthood and 
have the opportunity to contribute offspring to the next generation 
(Tremblay 2000, p. 265; Rosa-Fuentes and Tremblay 2007, p. 207). 
Because distribution of the species is within a protected national 
forest, access to moss, dispersal ability, reproductive success, and 
lifespan influence survivorship more than other potential human-induced 
threats (Tremblay 2000, p. 265; Rosa-Fuentes and Tremblay 2007, p. 
207).
    The reproductive success of Lepanthes eltoroensis subpopulations is 
highly sensitive to temporal variation in environmental conditions 
(Tremblay and Hutchings 2002, entire). Further, reproductive success of 
L. eltoroensis, as in most orchids, is pollinator-limited (Tremblay et 
al. 2005, p. 6). This obligate cross-pollinated species (Tremblay et 
al. 2006, p. 78) uses a deceptive pollination system, typically 
characterized by very few reproductive events (~ less than 20 percent 
chance; Tremblay et al. 2005, p. 12). Although we do not know the 
pollinator for L. eltoroensis, elsewhere fungus gnats visit Lepanthes 
orchids (Blanco and Barboza 2005, p. 765) and pollinate by 
pseudocopulation; therefore, it is likely fungus gnats are a pollinator 
for L. eltoroensis. Fungus gnats do not travel far--perhaps tens of 
meters or even a few hundred meters (Ackerman 2018)--limiting pollen 
dispersal for L.

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eltoroensis. Most L. eltoroensis pollination occurs among individuals 
within a host tree, resulting in high inbreeding and low genetic 
variability (Tremblay and Ackerman 2001, pp. 55-58). The seeds of L. 
eltoroensis are wind-dispersed and require a mycorrhizal association 
for germination and survival until plants start photosynthesis 
(Tremblay and Ackerman 2001, p. 55; Tremblay 2008, p. 85).

Distribution and Abundance

    Lepanthes eltoroensis is endemic to El Yunque National Forest (El 
Yunque), Puerto Rico. It is restricted to one general area within the 
Sierra Palm, Palo Colorado, and dwarf forests of the El Toro and Trade 
Winds trails (USFWS 2015, p. 5) at elevations above 2,461 feet (750 
meters) (USFWS 1996, p. 2). At the time of listing, the species 
consisted of an estimated 140 individual plants. Since then, surveys 
have located additional individuals and subpopulations (groups of L. 
etoroensis on the same host tree) resulting in a much greater estimate 
of individuals than at the time of listing. Surveys for L. eltoroensis 
have been infrequent, sparse, and done with varying spatial spread and 
methodology, making the results difficult to compare over time (USFWS 
2019, pp. 34-52). However, partial surveys conducted periodically from 
2000 to 2018 have found greater numbers of L. eltoroensis (USFWS 2019, 
pp. 49-50). In addition, surveys conducted between 2000 and 2005 
indicated the subpopulations surveyed along El Toro Trail and Trade 
Winds Trail were relatively stable over the 5-year period (USFWS 2019, 
p. 39). The best available metapopulation estimate is 3,000 individual 
plants (Tremblay 2008, p. 90; USFWS 2015, p. 5). Overall, data 
collected for the SSA did not indicate a general pattern of population 
decline, but rather natural fluctuations (USFWS 2019, p. 52).
    The metapopulation estimate was made prior to Category 5 Hurricane 
Maria making landfall on Puerto Rico in 2017. A post-hurricane partial 
survey along the El Toro Trail was completed in 2018, and found 641 
total plants, including over 300 that had not been previously 
identified (Mel[eacute]ndez-Ackerman 2018, pers. comm.). We note that 
this was only a partial survey; there has never been a complete census 
of the entire metapopulation because most of the areas off the two main 
trails (El Toro and Trade Winds) are dangerous and inaccessible. 
However, the forest types Lepanthes eltoroensis is most affiliated 
with--Palo Colorado, Sierra Palm, and Dwarf Forest--cover over 13,000 
acres (ha) within the El Yunque (USFWS 2019, p. 8). Given the amount of 
unreachable habitat that has not been surveyed, all estimates are 
likely to underestimate the true abundance of the species (USFWS 2019, 
p. 50). Surveys of habitat outside traditional population sites (on or 
just off trails) could result in discovery of additional plants 
(Tremblay 2008, p. 90; USFWS 2019, pp. 18, 50, 73). In addition, since 
the time of listing, the species has faced multiple strong hurricanes 
(Hugo, Georges, Hortense, Irma, and Maria), and we currently know of 
more individuals than at the time of listing, indicating the species' 
abundance has remained stable (with all age classes represented and in 
good health) despite such events, and the species has the ability to 
recover from stochastic disturbances (USFWS 2019, pp. 51-52). 
Therefore, although the species and its habitat were harmed by the 
recent hurricanes (namely Maria), the previous estimate of 3,000 
individual plants is still our best estimate.

Habitat

    Lepanthes eltoroensis occurs on moss-covered trunks (i.e., host 
trees) within upper elevation cloud forests in the Sierra Palm, Palo 
Colorado, and Dwarf Forest associations of El Yunque (Luer 2014, p. 
260; Ewel and Whitmore 1973, pp. 41-49), where humidity ranges from 90 
to 100 percent, and cloud cover is continuous, particularly during the 
evening hours (55 FR 41248; October 10, 1990). Important habitat 
components seem to be elevation, adequate temperature and moisture 
regimes, open/semi-open gaps in the canopy, and presence of moss.

Regulatory and Analytical Framework

Regulatory Framework

    Section 4 of the Act (16 U.S.C. 1533) and its implementing 
regulations (50 CFR part 424) set forth the procedures for determining 
whether a species is an ``endangered species'' or a ``threatened 
species.'' The Act defines an endangered species as a species that is 
``in danger of extinction throughout all or a significant portion of 
its range,'' and a threatened species as a species that is ``likely to 
become an endangered species within the foreseeable future throughout 
all or a significant portion of its range.'' The Act requires that we 
determine whether any species is an ``endangered species'' or a 
``threatened species'' because of any of the following factors:
    (A) The present or threatened destruction, modification, or 
curtailment of its habitat or range;
    (B) Overutilization for commercial, recreational, scientific, or 
educational purposes;
    (C) Disease or predation;
    (D) The inadequacy of existing regulatory mechanisms; or
    (E) Other natural or manmade factors affecting its continued 
existence.
    These factors represent broad categories of natural or human-caused 
actions or conditions that could have an effect on a species' continued 
existence. In evaluating these actions and conditions, we look for 
those that may have a negative effect on individuals of the species, as 
well as other actions or conditions that may ameliorate any negative 
effects or may have positive effects.
    We use the term ``threat'' to refer in general to actions or 
conditions that are known to or are reasonably likely to negatively 
affect individuals of a species. The term ``threat'' includes actions 
or conditions that have a direct impact on individuals (direct 
impacts), as well as those that affect individuals through alteration 
of their habitat or required resources (stressors). The term ``threat'' 
may encompass--either together or separately--the source of the action 
or condition or the action or condition itself.
    However, the mere identification of any threat(s) does not 
necessarily mean that the species meets the statutory definition of an 
``endangered species'' or a ``threatened species.'' In determining 
whether a species meets either definition, we must evaluate all 
identified threats by considering the expected response by the species, 
and the effects of the threats--in light of those actions and 
conditions that will ameliorate the threats--on an individual, 
population, and species level. We evaluate each threat and its expected 
effects on the species, then analyze the cumulative effect of all of 
the threats on the species as a whole. We also consider the cumulative 
effect of the threats in light of those actions and conditions that 
will have positive effects on the species--such as any existing 
regulatory mechanisms or conservation efforts. The Secretary determines 
whether the species meets the definition of an ``endangered species'' 
or a ``threatened species'' only after conducting this cumulative 
analysis and describing the expected effect on the species now and in 
the foreseeable future.
    The Act does not define the term ``foreseeable future,'' which 
appears in the statutory definition of ``threatened species.'' Our 
implementing regulations at 50 CFR 424.11(d) set forth a framework for 
evaluating the foreseeable

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future on a case-by-case basis. The term foreseeable future extends 
only so far into the future as the Services can reasonably determine 
that both the future threats and the species' responses to those 
threats are likely. In other words, the foreseeable future is the 
period of time in which we can make reliable predictions. ``Reliable'' 
does not mean ``certain''; it means sufficient to provide a reasonable 
degree of confidence in the prediction. Thus, a prediction is reliable 
if it is reasonable to depend on it when making decisions.
    It is not always possible or necessary to define foreseeable future 
as a particular number of years. Analysis of the foreseeable future 
uses the best scientific and commercial data available and should 
consider the timeframes applicable to the relevant threats and to the 
species' likely responses to those threats in view of its life-history 
characteristics. Data that are typically relevant to assessing the 
species' biological response include species-specific factors such as 
lifespan, reproductive rates or productivity, certain behaviors, and 
other demographic factors.

Analytical Framework

    We completed a comprehensive assessment of the biological status of 
Lepanthes eltoroensis and prepared a report of the assessment (SSA 
report), which provides a thorough account of the species' overall 
viability using conservation biology principles of resiliency, 
redundancy, and representation (collectively, the ``3Rs''). We define 
viability here as the ability of the species to persist over the long 
term and, conversely, to avoid extinction. We have used the SSA 
report's assessment of L. eltoroensis' current and potential future 
conditions, based on the factors influencing the species and framed in 
the context of the 3Rs, to inform our understanding of risk to the 
species and our determination whether L. eltoroensis continues to meet 
the definition of an endangered species, whether it meets the 
definition of a threatened species, or whether it does not meet the 
definition of either an endangered species or a threatened species (see 
Determination, below). In this discussion, we summarize the conclusions 
of that assessment, which can be accessed at http://www.regulations.gov 
under Docket No. FWS-R4-ES-2019-0073.
    Lepanthes eltoroensis was listed as an endangered species in 1991, 
due to its rarity (Factor E), its restricted distribution (Factor E), 
forest management practices (Factor A), impacts from hurricane damage 
(Factor E), and collection (Factor B) (56 FR 60933, November 29, 1991, 
p. 56 FR 60935). The most important factor affecting L. eltoroensis at 
that time was its limited distribution. Additionally, its rarity made 
the species vulnerable to impacts from hurricanes, such as unfavorable 
microclimatic conditions resulting from numerous canopy gaps. Because 
so few individuals were known to occur, the risk of extinction was 
considered to be extremely high (56 FR 60933, November 29, 1991, p. 56 
FR 60935).

Summary of Biological Status and Threats

    In this section, we review the biological condition of the species 
and its resources, and the influence to assess the species' overall 
viability and the risks to that viability.

Risk Factors for Lepanthes eltoroensis

Forest Management Practices
    At the time of listing (1991), El Yunque management practices such 
as establishment and maintenance of plantations, selective cutting, 
trail maintenance, and shelter construction were considered threats to 
Lepanthes eltoroensis (56 FR 60933, November 29, 1991, p. 56 FR 60935). 
The Recovery Plan further indicated that destruction and modification 
of habitat might be the most significant factors affecting the number 
of individuals and distribution of the species (USFWS 1996, p. 5).
    Since the species was listed, several laws have been enacted that 
provide protections to this species. In 1999, Commonwealth Law No. 241 
(New Wildlife Law of Puerto Rico or Nueva Ley de Vida Silvestre de 
Puerto Rico) was enacted to protect, conserve, and enhance native and 
migratory wildlife species. This law requires authorization from the 
Puerto Rico Department of Natural and Environmental Resources (PRDNER) 
Secretary for any action that may affect the habitat of any species. 
Furthermore, part of El Yunque (including the habitat where Lepanthes 
eltoroensis is currently known to occur) was congressionally designated 
as the El Toro Wilderness in 2005, to preserve its natural conditions, 
including species like L. eltoroensis, inhabiting the area (Caribbean 
National Forest Act of 2005 (Pub. L. 109-118); the Wilderness Act (16 
U.S.C. 1131 et seq.); U.S. Forest Service (USFS) 2016, p. 32). The El 
Toro Wilderness consists of undeveloped USFS lands and is managed to 
preserve its natural conditions without any permanent improvements or 
human habitation (USFS 2016, p. 32). All known populations of L. 
eltoroensis occur within this wilderness area.
    Scientists who have conducted research on Lepanthes eltoroensis do 
not consider destruction, curtailment, or modification of this species' 
habitat to be a factor threatening this species (Ackerman 2007, pers. 
comm.). In 2019, the USFS finalized a revised land and resources 
management plan to guide the general direction of El Yunque for the 
next 15 years. This plan specifically includes a set of standards and 
guidelines to protect the natural resources within the El Toro 
Wilderness, including listed species. Standards specific to the El Toro 
Wilderness include no salvaging of timber, no issuing permits for 
collection of plants or plant material unless for a scientific purpose, 
no new special-use permits for facilities or occupancy, managing 
recreation to minimize the number of people on the trails, and no 
construction of new trails (USFS 2019, pp. 1, 32-35). Standards and 
guidelines for at-risk (including listed) species detailed in the plan 
include not allowing collection of orchids unless approved for 
scientific purposes and making sure forest management activities are 
consistent with recovery plans (USFS 2019, p. 62). Implementation of 
management practices in El Yunque has also improved; there is no 
selective cutting, and maintenance is minimal as both El Toro and Trade 
Winds trails receive few visitors. Mostly researchers and forest 
personnel use El Toro and Trade Winds trails; therefore, few human 
encounters are expected (USFS 2016, p. 32). Additionally, the USFS 
coordinates with the Service to avoid or minimize impacts to a number 
of other federally listed species (e.g., Elfin-woods warbler, Ilex 
sintenisii) that co-occur within the same areas a L. eltoroensis as 
part of their management practices in accordance with section 7 of the 
Act.
    There is no evidence suggesting current forest management practices 
are negatively affecting the species or its specialized habitat 
(adequate temperature and moisture regimes, and presence of moss) 
(USFWS 2019, p. 24). Furthermore, based on existing laws, we expect El 
Yunque will remain permanently protected as a nature reserve and be 
managed for conservation. Therefore, we no longer consider forest 
management practices or destruction and modification of habitat to be 
threats to the species.
Hurricanes
    The extremely restricted distribution of Lepanthes eltoroensis 
makes it particularly vulnerable to large-scale

[[Page 13848]]

disturbances, such as hurricanes and tropical storms, which frequently 
affect islands of the Caribbean (NOAA 2018, unpaginated). Due to its 
geographic location, hurricanes are more frequent in the northeastern 
quadrant of Puerto Rico, where El Yunque is located (White et al. 2014, 
p. 30). Current global climate models are rather poor in simulating 
tropical cyclones; however, the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate 
Change's climate simulations suggest that the Caribbean will experience 
a decrease in tropical cyclone frequency, but an increase in the 
frequency of the most intense events (PRCC 2013, p. 10; USFWS 2019, p. 
56).
    Cloud forests, where this species occurs, are much taller than 
other vegetation and are higher in elevation, making them more exposed 
and more easily affected by high winds and in need of more time to 
recover post-disturbance (Hu and Smith 2018, p. 827). Heavy rains and 
winds associated with tropical storms and hurricanes cause tree 
defoliation, habitat modification due to falling of trees, and 
landslides (Lugo 2008, p. 368). Surveys conducted along El Toro Trail 
following Hurricane Maria in 2018 focused on assessing the impacts to 
the species and its host trees (subpopulations). Nineteen host trees 
were not found and assumed to be lost due to the hurricane. An 
additional nine host trees were found knocked down. In total, 641 
plants, including seedlings, juveniles, and reproductive and non-
reproductive adults, were found; 322 were found on previously marked 
host trees (including 191 individuals on those host trees that were 
knocked to the ground), and 319 were new individuals not previously 
surveyed (Melendez-Ackerman 2018, pers. comm.). Given that Lepanthes 
eltoroensis does not persist on felled or dead trees (Ben[iacute]tez 
and Tremblay 2003, pp. 67-69), we assume many of these 191 individuals 
(approximately 30 percent of individuals found) will not survive, 
resulting in the loss of those individuals from the metapopulation. 
However, based on previous efforts, we know individual plants can be 
moved to new host trees and do quite well, highlighting the feasibility 
of relocation to increase the species' long-term viability in the 
context of severe hurricanes such as Hurricane Maria. University of 
Puerto Rico researchers translocated some of these 191 individuals, but 
because the translocations occurred months after the hurricane, we do 
not expect survival to be as high as if it had occurred immediately 
after the hurricane. Furthermore, this species has persisted from past 
hurricane events without active management of translocating species 
from felled host trees.
    In addition, associated microclimate changes resulting from downed 
trees and landslides after severe storms (e.g., increased light 
exposure, reduction in relative humidity) may negatively affect the 
growth rate of Lepanthes eltoroensis populations (Tremblay 2008, pp. 
89-90). Following Hurricane Georges in 1998, non-transplanted 
populations of L. eltoroensis had negative growth rates, while groups 
of plants that were transplanted to better habitats within the forest 
had positive growth rates (Benitez-Joubert and Tremblay 2003, pp. 67-
69). Furthermore, based on data on related species, L. eltoroensis 
growth rates may be negatively affected by excess light from gaps 
caused by felled trees during hurricanes (Fernandez et al. 2003, p. 
76).
    The inherently low redundancy (the ability of a species to 
withstand catastrophic events) of Lepanthes eltoroensis due to its 
limited range makes hurricanes and tropical storms a primary risk 
factor. However, given the observed stable trend from past surveys and 
recent partial surveys in 2018 (USFWS 2019, pp. 39, 45-48), it appears 
that the species has the ability to recover from normal stochastic 
disturbances (USFWS 2019, pp. 51-52). Additionally, relocation has 
proven to be a viable conservation strategy for this species 
(Ben[iacute]tez and Tremblay 2003, pp. 67-69). Relocating plants from 
fallen trees to standing trees following hurricane events results in 
higher survival of those transplanted individuals. This management 
strategy can improve and maximize species' survival and reproductive 
success after hurricane events (Ben[iacute]tez and Tremblay 2003, pp. 
67-69; Tremblay 2008, pp. 83-90). Following this recommendation, after 
Hurricane Maria, researchers from the University of Puerto Rico 
translocated some L. eltoroensis individuals along the El Toro trail. 
These individuals are currently being monitored to assess survival. In 
addition, since L. elotoroensis is part of the USDA Forest Service's 
``Plant Species of Conservation Interest of El Yunque'' (USFS 2018, p. 
37) and is included in the 2016 revised Land and Resource Management 
Plan that details a management concept focused on conservation, 
particularly to protect unique ecological resources (USFS 2016, p.1), 
the USFS will continue to implement conservation actions, such as 
habitat protection, enhancement, and relocation of L. eltoroensis 
individuals following hurricanes as deemed necessary.
Collection
    Collection for commercial or recreational purposes eliminated one 
population of Lepanthes eltoroensis prior to listing under the Act (56 
FR 60933; November 29, 1991). The rarity of the species made the loss 
of even a few individuals a critical loss to the species as a whole.
    The USFS regulations in title 36 of the Code of Federal Regulations 
at part 261, section 261.9 (36 CFR 261.9) prohibit collection of listed 
plant species in wilderness areas. Additionally, since the species was 
listed under the Act in 1991, other laws have been enacted that provide 
protections to the species from collection or removal. Commonwealth Law 
No. 241 (New Wildlife Law of Puerto Rico or Nueva Ley de Vida Silvestre 
de Puerto Rico), enacted in 1999, protects, conserves, and enhances 
native and migratory wildlife species. Specifically, Article 5 of this 
law prohibits collection and hunting of wildlife species, including 
plants within the jurisdiction of Puerto Rico without a permit from the 
PRDNER Secretary. In 2004, Lepanthes eltoroensis was included in the 
list of protected species of Regulation 6766 (Reglamento 6766 para 
Regir el Manejo de las Especies Vulnerables y en Peligro de 
Extinci[oacute]n en el Estado Libre Asociado de Puerto Rico), which 
governs the management of endangered and threatened species within the 
Commonwealth of Puerto Rico. Article 2.06 of this regulation prohibits 
collecting, cutting, and removing, among other activities, listed plant 
individuals within the jurisdiction of Puerto Rico. L. eltoroensis will 
likely remain protected under Commonwealth laws and regulations even 
after it is delisted from the ESA. Commonwealth Regulation 6766 
provides protection to species that are not federally listed or that 
have been removed from the ESA, and the species will remain protected 
under the Wilderness provisions from the 2016 revised Land and Resource 
Management Plan for El Yunque (USFS 2016, entire). According to this 
plan, any influences by humans on the natural process that take place 
in the wilderness area will be to protect threatened and endangered 
species in addition to human life (USFS 2016, p. 33). As such, the 
standards of the plan include conducting wildlife and plant habitat/
population surveys and monitoring in a manner compatible with the goals 
and objectives of wilderness (USFS 2016, p. 34). Additional protection 
measures include not issuing forest product permits for collection of 
plants or plant material in wilderness areas (unless for scientific and

[[Page 13849]]

educational purposes and approved by the forest biologist/ecologist), 
and management strategies to design, construct, and maintain trails to 
the appropriate trail standard in order to meet wilderness standards 
protections (USFS 2016, p. 34).
    Despite the one documented instance of collection, the threat of 
collection is low, given that few people venture into the El Toro 
Wilderness (Tremblay 2007, pers. comm.) and that the small size (less 
than 2 in. (4 cm) tall) and inconspicuousness of this species makes it 
easy to overlook (Ackerman 2007, pers. comm.; Tremblay 2007, pers. 
comm.). Additionally, this species is not used for commercial or 
recreational purposes and is not considered to have ornamental value 
(USFWS 2015, p. 8). Thus, there is no evidence that collection is 
currently impacting Lepanthes eltoroensis (USFWS 2019, p. 24) or likely 
to do so in the future.
Small Population Size and Low Reproduction
    The smaller the population, the greater the probability that 
fluctuations in population size from stochastic variation (e.g., 
reproduction and mortality) will lead to extirpation. There are also 
genetic concerns with small populations, including reduced availability 
of compatible mates, genetic drift, and inbreeding depression. Small 
subpopulations of Lepanthes eltoroensis are particularly vulnerable to 
stochastic events, thus contributing to lower species' viability (USFWS 
2019, p. 24).
    Lepanthes eltoroensis may experience declining growth related to 
the distribution of individuals among host trees and demographic 
processes (e.g., reproductive success, survival), which can be 
negatively influenced by environmental and catastrophic risks (USFWS 
2019, p. 25). Fruit production is limited; therefore, opportunities for 
establishment are limited. Less than 20 percent of individuals 
reproduce, and most subpopulations (60 percent of host trees) have 
fewer than 15 individuals. In addition, the distribution of individuals 
(seedling, juvenile, and adults) varies enormously among trees and is 
skewed towards few individuals per tree (Tremblay and Velazquez-Castro 
2009, p. 214). Despite small subpopulations of L. eltoroensis with 
limited distribution and naturally limited fruit production, this 
species has continued to persist even after regular exposure to 
disturbances. In addition, we now estimate the species population to be 
3,000 individuals, which is a significant increase from the 140 
individuals known at the time of listing. Therefore, the species' 
vulnerability to extinction is reduced.
Genetic Risks
    The main genetic risk factor for the species is low genetic 
variability. The effective population size (number of individuals in a 
population who contribute offspring to the next generation) ranges from 
3 to 9 percent of the standing population (number of individuals in a 
population) (Tremblay and Ackerman 2001, entire). In other words, for 
every 100 adults, maybe 9 will transfer genes to the next generation. 
In addition, although Lepanthes eltoroensis can survive for up to 50 
years, most seedlings and juveniles die (Tremblay 2000, p. 264). 
Therefore, very few individuals are responsible for the majority of 
seed production, decreasing the genetic diversity as a whole in 
subpopulations (Mel[eacute]ndez-Ackerman and Tremblay 2017, pp. 5-6).
    There is evidence for low gene flow in the species. Estimated gene 
flow in Lepanthes eltoroensis is less than two effective migrants per 
generation (the effective generation of the orchid) (Tremblay and 
Ackerman 2001, p. 54). This implies that most mating is among 
individuals within a host tree, potentially resulting in high 
inbreeding, low genetic variability, and inbreeding depression 
(Tremblay and Ackerman 2001, pp. 55-58). Low genetic diversity may be 
reflected in reduced genetic and environmental plasticity, and thus, 
low ability to adapt to environmental changes. If there are high rates 
of inbreeding, this could lead to inbreeding depression, and could have 
profound long-term negative impacts to the viability of the species 
(USFWS 2019, pp. 28-29). However, the species is likely an obligate 
cross-pollinated species (Tremblay et al. 2006, p. 78), which is a 
mechanism to reduce inbreeding. Additionally, this species has 
demonstrated the ability to adapt to changing environmental conditions 
(i.e., natural disturbances) over time (USFWS 2019, p. 54).
Effects of Climate Change
    The average temperatures at El Yunque have increased over the past 
30 years (Jennings et al. 2014, p. 4; Khalyani et al. 2016, p. 277). 
Climate projections indicate a 4.6 to 9 degrees Celsius ([deg]C) (8.2 
to 16.2 degrees Fahrenheit ([deg]F)) temperature increase for Puerto 
Rico from 1960-2099 (Khalyani et al. 2016, p. 275). Additionally, 
projections indicate a decrease in precipitation and acceleration of 
the hydrological cycles resulting in wet and dry extremes (Jennings et 
al. 2014, p. 4; Cashman et al. 2010, pp. 52-54). In one downscaled 
model, precipitation is projected to decrease faster in wetter regions 
like the Luquillo Mountains, where El Yunque is located, and the 
central mountains of Puerto Rico (Khalyani et al. 2016, p. 274). In 
contrast, ongoing research suggests higher elevations may have a 
buffering effect on declining trends in precipitation (Bowden 2018, 
pers. comm.; USFWS 2019, pp.65-66). Downscaled modeling for Puerto Rico 
was based on three Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change global 
emissions scenarios from the CMIP3 data set: mid-high (A2), mid-low 
(A1B), and low (B2) (Khalyani et al. 2016, p. 267). Under all of these 
scenarios, emissions increase, precipitation declines, temperature and 
total dry days increase, and subtropical rain and wet forests are lost, 
while all wet and moist forest types decrease in Puerto Rico; the 
differences in the scenarios depends on the extent of these changes and 
the timing of when they are predicted to occur (USFWS 2019, p.67).
    The most important potential risk to Lepanthes eltoroensis is the 
projected shift of the life zones of Puerto Rico from humid to drier. 
This includes changes in relative area and distribution pattern of the 
life zones, and the disappearance of humid life zones (Khalyani et al. 
2016, p. 275). Decreased rainfall in northeastern Puerto Rico (i.e., El 
Yunque) can cause migration, distribution changes, and potential 
extirpation of many species that depend on the unique environmental 
conditions of the rain forest (Weaver and Gould 2013, p. 62). These 
projections may have direct implications for L. eltoroensis because the 
acreage of the lower montane wet forest life zone it occupies could 
decrease, resulting in less habitat available for the species. 
Epiphytes like L. eltoroensis could experience moisture stress due to 
higher temperatures and less cloud cover with a rising cloud base, 
affecting their growth and flowering (Nadkarni and Solano 2002, p. 
584). Due to its specialized ecological requirements and restricted 
distributions within the dwarf forest, L. eltoroensis could be more 
adversely impacted by the effects of climate change than other species 
with wider distribution (e.g., lower elevation species) and greater 
plasticity, thus, reducing its viability. Predictions of life zone 
changes are not expected to affect resiliency of L. eltoroensis until 
after mid-century, and predictions out to 2100 vary in severity of 
impact (USFWS 2019, p.69).
    Another potential risk to Lepanthes eltoroensis is the increase in

[[Page 13850]]

catastrophic hurricanes resulting from climate change. The persistence 
of L. eltoroensis through repeated past hurricanes and other storms 
suggests it has the ability to recover and adapt from disturbances, and 
relocation of individuals from blown-down host trees further 
accelerates the recovery of the species post-hurricane (USFWS 2019, p. 
73). In fact, ongoing monitoring show an initial positive population 
growth rate of L. eltoroensis despite the loss of host trees following 
hurricane Mar[iacute]a (Melendez-Ackerman 2019, pers. comm.).
    Overall we anticipate the range of Lepanthes eltoroensis to 
contract due to changes in climatic variables leading to loss of wet 
and tropical montane habitats, potentially exacerbated by an increase 
in the frequency and severity of hurricanes by the end of the century 
(2100). However, surveys outside of the areas where the species is 
traditionally searched, along with an associated habitat model, would 
help better predict the future viability of L. eltoroensis (USFWS 2019, 
p. 73). Although changes to precipitation and drought, temperature, and 
life zones are expected to occur on Puerto Rico, over the next 20 to 30 
years they are not predicted to be substantial. Modeling shows dramatic 
changes to Puerto Rico through 2100, the divergence in these 
projections increases dramatically after mid-century, making 
projections beyond 20 to 30 years more uncertain (Khalyani et al. 2016, 
p. 275). Moreover, L. eltoroensis is found in a protected area where 
synergistically damaging forest management practices are unlikely to 
occur, and there is the requirement for implementation of conservation 
management practices to mitigate negative impacts such as those caused 
by hurricanes.
Summary of Current Condition
    Viability is defined as the ability of the species to sustain 
populations in the wild over time. To assess the viability of Lepanthes 
eltoroensis, we used the three conservation biology principles of 
resiliency, representation, and redundancy (Shaffer and Stein 2000, pp. 
306-310). Briefly, resiliency supports the ability of the species to 
withstand environmental and demographic stochasticity (for example, wet 
or dry, warm or cold years); representation supports the ability of the 
species to adapt over time to long-term changes in the environment (for 
example, climate changes); and redundancy supports the ability of the 
species to withstand catastrophic events (for example, droughts, 
hurricanes). In general, the more redundant and resilient a species is 
and the more representation it has, the more likely it is to sustain 
populations over time, even under changing environmental conditions.
Resiliency
    Factors that influence the resiliency of Lepanthes eltoroensis 
include abundance and growth trends within host trees, and habitat 
factors such as elevation, slope, aspect, precipitation, temperature, 
canopy cover, and presence of moss, mycorrhizal fungi, and pollinators. 
Influencing those factors are elements of L. eltoroensis' ecology that 
determine whether populations can grow to maximize habitat occupancy, 
thereby increasing resiliency. Stochastic factors that have the 
potential to affect L. eltoroensis include impacts to its habitat from 
hurricanes and effects of climate change (i.e., changes in temperature 
and precipitation regimes). Beneficial factors that influence 
resiliency include the protected status of the species' habitat, as the 
known range of the species is entirely within the El Toro Wilderness 
and therefore protected from human-induced habitat loss and collection.
    The best available surveys of Lepanthes eltoroensis found that the 
number of individuals is greater than at the time of listing (Tremblay 
2008, p. 90), approximately 3,000 individual plants. The distribution 
of L. eltoroensis has not been investigated outside of traditional 
areas (i.e., just off El Toro and Trade Wind Trails); however, some 
researchers suggest that additional populations may occur within 
suitable habitat outside El Toro Trail. In fact, additional individuals 
have been found near, but outside El Toro Trail (Tremblay 2008, p. 90). 
Assuming a metapopulation size of 3,000 individuals, and observed 
stable subpopulations from past surveys (including recent partial 
surveys in 2018), this suggests the species has the ability to recover 
from normal stochastic disturbances; thus, we consider the species to 
be moderately resilient.
Representation
    We lack genetic and ecological diversity data to characterize 
representation for Lepanthes eltoroensis. In the absence of species-
specific genetic and ecological diversity information, we typically 
evaluate representation based on the extent and variability of habitat 
characteristics across the geographical range. Because the species does 
not appear to have much physiological flexibility, given that it has a 
rather restricted distribution (cloud forests on ridges), 
representative units were not delineated for this species. Available 
data suggest that conditions are present for genetic drift and 
inbreeding (Tremblay 1997a, p. 92). However, the effect of a genetic 
drift on the species into the future is uncertain, and the most updated 
L. eltoroensis information shows that the species has the ability to 
adapt to changing environmental conditions (i.e., natural disturbances) 
over time. Furthermore, some of the factors that we concluded would 
reduce representation at the time of listing, such as habitat 
destruction and collection, are no longer acting as stressors upon the 
species. Finally, because the population is significantly larger than 
was known at the time of listing, representation has improved.
Redundancy
    Redundancy for Lepanthes eltoroensis is the total number and 
resilience of subpopulations and their distribution across the species' 
range. This species is endemic to El Yunque, and it has not been 
introduced elsewhere. Despite the presence of multiple subpopulations 
(i.e., host trees), these subpopulations are located within a narrow/
restricted range at El Toro Wilderness Area and are all exposed to 
similar specific habitat and environmental conditions. Population 
surveys by Mel[eacute]ndez-Ackerman et al. (2018) accounted for at 
least 61 host trees or subpopulations prior to hurricane Maria. Of 
these, Mel[eacute]ndez-Ackerman et al. (2018) were not able to locate 
19 host trees following the hurricane, and studies are ongoing to 
determine the species response from the disturbance. Although 
redundancy is inherently low due to the narrow range the species 
inhabits, it has persisted despite past natural disturbances (i.e., 
hurricanes, tropical storms, etc.), and is considered more abundant 
within its habitat than previously documented.

Projected Future Status

    Lepanthes eltoroensis only occurs within the protected El Yunque 
lands where stressors--including forest management practices, urban 
development surrounding El Yunque, and overcollection--are not expected 
to be present or are expected to remain relatively stable and unlikely 
to affect the species in the future. Because L. eltoroensis occurs on 
protected lands managed by the USFS, it will benefit from their ongoing 
conservation practices, which include the relocation of plants from 
fallen host trees after a hurricane as deemed necessary, to alleviate 
the negative impacts of these storm events. The effect of genetic drift 
on the species into the future is uncertain, but L. eltoroensis has 
thus far

[[Page 13851]]

demonstrated the ability to adapt to changing environmental conditions 
(i.e., natural disturbances) over time (USFWS 2019, pp. 51-52). The 
primary stressor affecting the future condition of L. eltoroensis is 
current and ongoing climate change stressors (Mel[eacute]ndez-Ackerman 
and Tremblay 2017, p. 1) and the associated shifts in rainfall, 
temperature, and storm intensities. These stressors account for 
indirect and direct effects at some level to all life stages and across 
the species' range.
    All of these climate change stressors are predicted to result in 
shifts in the distribution of life zones present on Puerto Rico, with 
some of the most dramatic impacts predicted to occur in the latter half 
of the century in the tropical and subtropical wet forests in which the 
species resides (USFWS 2019, p. 57). Key life-history factors that make 
this species vulnerable to climate change stressors are its restricted 
range within the tropical and subtropical wet forests within El Yunque 
and low subpopulation sizes (USFWS 2015, pp. 7-10). Given the 
relatively low genetic and environmental plasticity of the species, it 
potentially does not have the capacity to adapt to these predicted 
conditions (USFWS 2019, p. 52).
    To examine the potential future condition of Lepanthes eltoroensis, 
we used three future scenarios based on climate change predictions for 
Puerto Rico (Khalyani et al. 2016, entire), which used global emission 
scenarios (mid-high (A2), mid-low (A1B), and low (B1) (Nakicenovic and 
Swart 2000, entire)) to capture a range of possible scenarios. Our 
assessment of future viability includes qualitative descriptions of the 
likely impacts of climate change under the above three scenarios from 
the literature, and is intended to capture the uncertainty in the 
species' response to climate stressors, and the lack of information on 
abundance and growth rates.

Climate Change Predictions

    Projections out to the year 2100 predict increases in temperature 
and decreases in precipitation, particularly in wetter regions like El 
Yunque (Khalyani et al. 2016, pp. 274-275). However, divergence in 
temperature and precipitation projections increases dramatically after 
mid-century, depending on the scenario (Khalyani et al. 2016, p. 275; 
USFWS 2019, pp. 59-62), making projections beyond 20 to 30 years 
uncertain. Given the average lifespan of the species (approximately 5 
years), a period of 20 to 30 years allows for multiple generations and 
detection of any population changes. Additionally, the species has been 
listed for close to 30 years, so we have a baseline to understand how 
populations have performed in that period. Therefore, the ``foreseeable 
future'' used in this determination is 20 to 30 years.
Precipitation and Drought
    In general, projections show similar patterns of changes in 
precipitation and drought intensity and extremes, although total 
changes were greater for the A2 scenario (Khalyani et al. 2016, pp. 
272-273, 274; USFWS 2019, pp. 59-60). Under scenarios A2, A1B, and B1, 
annual precipitation is projected to decrease by 510 to 916 millimeters 
(mm) (20 to 36 in.), 354 to 842 mm (14 to 33 in.), and 312 to 619 mm 
(12 to 24 in.), respectively, by 2100. Current annual precipitation in 
Puerto Rico averages 745 to 4,346 mm (29 to 171 in.). However, 
differences in precipitation between the three scenarios were greater 
after the mid-century (Khalyani et al. 2016, p. 274). Before then 
decreases in rainfall are expected to be far less; rainfall decreases 
are expected to be 0.0012 to 0.0032 mm per day per year through 2050 
(PRCC 2013, p. 7). Additionally, for all three climate scenarios, 
significant decreases in precipitation for the northern wet forests are 
not predicted until after 2040 (USFWS 2019, p. 60). Furthermore, the 
U.S. Geological Survey projection for Puerto Rico predicts an overall 
drying of the island and a reduction in extreme rainfall occurrence; 
however, this model suggests higher elevations, like those supporting 
L. eltoroensis, may have a buffering effect on declining trends in 
precipitation (Bowden 2018, pers. comm.). Therefore, precipitation 
declines are not likely to occur in the area supporting L. eltoroensis 
during the foreseeable future. On the other hand, drought intensity 
increased steadily under all three scenarios, but with a gradual 
increase in drought extremes (Khalyani et al. 2016, pp. 274-275). This 
increase is linear for all three scenarios.
Temperature
    By 2100, all three scenarios predict increases in temperature with 
increases of 7.5-9.0 [deg]C (13.5-16.2 [deg]F), 6.4-7.6 [deg]C (11.5-
13.4 [deg]F), and 4.6-5.4 [deg]C (8.3-9.7 [deg]F) under the A2, A1B, 
and B1 scenarios, respectively (Khalyani et al. 2016, p. 275). However, 
like with precipitation, projected increases in temperature are not 
substantial until after 2040. Projections show only a 0.8 [deg]C (1.4 
[deg]F) increase by mid-century under all three scenarios. These 
scenarios differentiate the most from each other in later time 
intervals (after 2040) (Khalyani et al. 2016, pp. 275, 277). However, 
we are not aware of any information that would indicate these air 
temperature increases will influence formation of the cloud cover over 
El Yunque, which could in turn impact interior temperatures and 
humidity of the forest, where Lepanthes eltoroensis is found.
Life Zones
    Dramatic changes are projected in the life zone distributions in 
Puerto Rico, although the changes vary by life zone and are predicted 
to be much more significant after mid-century. Because life zones are 
derived from climate variables (e.g., precipitation and temperature), 
general changes in life zone distribution are similar to changes in 
climatic variables. For example, annual precipitation changes will 
result in shifts from rain, wet and moist zones to drier zones 
(Khalyani et al. 2016, p. 275), and changes in temperature will result 
in changes from subtropical to tropical. In general, decreasing trends 
were observed in the areas of wet and moist zones, while increasing 
trends were observed in dry zones under all three scenarios (Khalyani 
et al. 2016, pp. 275, 279). Under all scenarios, loss of subtropical 
rain and wet forests are observed, although decreasing trends were 
observed in the area of wet and moist zones, while increasing trends 
were observed in the areas of dry zones in all three scenarios. 
Additionally, the loss of wet and moist zones in the northeastern 
mountain area that supports Lepanthes eltoroensis is not predicted to 
be substantial, and the area remains relatively stable until after 2040 
(USFWS 2019 p. 69). This may be due to possible buffering effects of 
elevation across the island.
    In summary, changes to precipitation and drought, temperature, and 
life zones are expected to occur on Puerto Rico, but over the next 20 
to 30 years, they are not predicted to be substantial. Although 
modeling shows changes to Puerto Rico through 2100, the divergence in 
these projections increases dramatically after mid-century, making 
projections beyond 20 to 30 years more uncertain.
    These projected changes may have direct or at least indirect 
effects on Lepanthes eltoroensis; however, viability of the species 
under all scenarios is expected to remain stable within the foreseeable 
future (USFWS 2019, p. 71). Potential direct effects include a reduced 
number of seedlings as the number of dry days increase, a reduced 
number of fruits as minimum average temperature increases, and a 
reduced number of adults as maximum temperature increases (Olaya-Arenas 
et

[[Page 13852]]

al. 2011, p. 2042). Additionally, projected changes in hurricane 
frequencies (and associated habitat changes) may negatively affect the 
growth rate of L. eltoroensis populations (Tremblay 2008, pp. 89-90) 
due to increases in light penetration from defoliation. Indirect 
effects are related to potential changes in moss cover and composition 
due to temperature and precipitation changes. Data from related species 
showed that orchid density, growth, and establishment were positively 
associated with moss species richness (Crain 2012, pp. 15-16; Garcia-
Cancel et al. 2013, p. 6). Therefore, a change in forest temperature 
and humidity could affect the establishment and distribution of moss 
and, thus, L. eltoroensis (USFWS 2019, p. 11).
    Persistence of the species through repeated past hurricanes and 
other storms suggests the species has the ability to recover and adapt 
from disturbances, and relocation of individuals from blown-down host 
trees further accelerates the recovery of the species post-hurricane. 
In fact, many researchers at El Yunque have concluded that hurricanes 
are the main organizing force of the forests (USFWS 2019, p. 71). The 
forests go through a cycle that averages 60 years, starting with great 
impact by winds and rain of a hurricane, and then 60 years of regrowth 
(Lugo 2008, p. 371). In those 60 years of regrowth, complete changes in 
the species that dominate the landscape can occur. Although the 
hurricane appears destructive, it can be constructive because it makes 
the area more productive--it rejuvenates the forest (USFWS 2019, p. 
71). Currently, El Yunque is at the initial phase of early succession 
following Hurricane Maria (2017), which produced severe tree mortality 
and defoliation, including Lepanthes eltoroensis host trees.
    In general, we anticipate the range of the species may contract 
somewhat due to changes in climatic variables, although the loss of wet 
and moist zones in the northeastern mountain area that supports 
Lepanthes eltoroensis is not predicted to be substantial by mid-century 
(USFWS 2019, p. 66). The range contraction may be exacerbated by an 
increase in the frequency and severity of hurricanes. However, as the 
species occurs within El Yunque, synergistic negative effects of 
development and deleterious forest management practices are unlikely 
threats to the species in the future. Currently, L. eltoroensis and its 
habitat at the El Yunque are protected by Congressional designation of 
El Toro Wilderness Area (Forest Plan 2016, p. 32), thus precluding 
human disturbance. Because the El Yunque management plan includes a set 
of standards and guidelines to protect the natural resources within the 
El Toro Wilderness, including other co-occurring federally listed 
species (e.g., Ilex sintenisii and Ternstroemia luquillensis) (USFS 
2019, pp. 1, 32-35), the Service anticipates continued implementation 
of conservation and management practices to improve the habitat of all 
species within the area, including actions to mitigate hurricane 
impacts.

Future Viability

Resiliency
    Under all future scenarios, resiliency is projected to remain 
moderate through at least the next 20 to 30 years. As mentioned above, 
there is very little projected contraction of the wet and moist forests 
within this timeframe. Although increasing catastrophic hurricanes are 
possible, relocation of plants can ameliorate some of these impacts.
Redundancy
    Redundancy is expected to remain stable under all scenarios for the 
next 20 to 30 years, although this prediction is uncertain given the 
very limited range of the species and the lack of knowledge about the 
full extent of the species' range (i.e., no surveys conducted off the 
two main trails). However, Lepanthes eltoroensis has persisted through 
catastrophic events in the past, and we expect it to persist into the 
foreseeable future.
Representation
    Because the species does not appear to have much physiological 
flexibility, given that it has a rather restricted distribution, 
representative units were not delineated for this species. The current 
condition of low genetic and environmental diversity, and little 
breadth to rely on if some plants are lost, is expected to continue 
under all scenarios, at least through the next 20 to 30 years. 
Available data suggest that conditions are present for genetic drift 
and inbreeding. However, Lepanthes eltoroensis has demonstrated the 
ability to adapt to changing environmental conditions (i.e., natural 
disturbances) over time.

Recovery and Recovery Plan Implementation

    Section 4(f) of the Act directs us to develop and implement 
recovery plans for the conservation and survival of endangered and 
threatened species unless we determine that such a plan will not 
promote the conservation of the species. Recovery plans are not 
regulatory documents. Rather, they are intended to establish goals for 
long-term conservation of a listed species and define criteria that are 
designed to indicate when the threats facing a species have been 
removed or reduced to such an extent that the species may no longer 
need the protections of the Act. Recovery plans also provide guidance 
to our Federal, State, and other governmental and nongovernmental 
partners on methods to minimize threats to listed species.
    There are many paths to accomplishing recovery of a species, and 
recovery may be achieved without all criteria being fully met. For 
example, one or more criteria may have been exceeded while other 
criteria may not have been accomplished or become obsolete, yet the 
Service may judge that, overall, the threats have been minimized 
sufficiently, and the species is robust enough, to reclassify the 
species from endangered to threatened or perhaps delist the species. In 
other cases, recovery opportunities may be recognized that were not 
known at the time the recovery plan was finalized. These opportunities 
may be used instead of methods identified in the recovery plan.
    Likewise, information on the species that was not known at the time 
the recovery plan was finalized may become available. The new 
information may change the extent that criteria need to be met for 
recognizing recovery of the species. Recovery of species is a dynamic 
process requiring adaptive management that may, or may not, fully 
follow the guidance provided in a recovery plan.
    The following discussion provides a brief review of recovery 
planning and implementation for Lepanthes eltoroensis, as well as an 
analysis of the recovery criteria and goals as they relate to 
evaluating the status of this orchid.
    The Lepanthes eltoroensis Recovery Plan was approved on July 15, 
1996. The objective of the Recovery Plan is to provide direction for 
reversing the decline of this orchid and for restoring the species to a 
self-sustaining status, thereby permitting eventual removal from the 
Federal List of Endangered and Threatened Plants (USFWS 1996, p. 8). 
However, the Recovery Plan provides only criteria for reclassifying the 
species from endangered to threatened (``downlisting''). The specific 
criteria are: (1) Prepare and implement an agreement between the 
Service and the USFS concerning the protection of L. eltoroensis within 
El Yunque, and (2) establish new populations capable of self-
perpetuation within protected areas (USFWS 1996, p. 8). The plan also

[[Page 13853]]

includes the following recovery actions intended to address threats to 
the species:
    (1) Prevent further habitat loss and population decline;
    (2) Continue to gather information on the species' distribution and 
abundance;
    (3) Conduct research;
    (4) Establish new populations; and
    (5) Refine recovery criteria.
    The following discussion provides specific details for each of 
these actions and the extent to which the recovery criteria have been 
met.

Recovery Action 1: Prevent Further Habitat Loss and Population Decline

    This action has been met. In the past, the species' primary threat 
was identified as destruction and modification of habitat associated 
with forest management practices (e.g., establishment and maintenance 
of plantations, selective cutting, trail maintenance, and shelter 
construction; 56 FR 60933, November 29, 1991). As described above under 
``Forest Management Practices,'' the best available data indicates that 
forest management practices are no longer negatively affecting 
Lepanthes eltoroensis. Furthermore, the area where the species is found 
is within a protected area (El Yunque), part of which is the El Toro 
Wilderness designated in 2005, where the land is managed to preserve 
its natural conditions and species like L. eltoroensis (USFS 2016, p. 
32). We expect this wilderness area will remain permanently protected 
as a nature reserve and be managed for conservation. Additionally, 
because this area is within a National Forest, the National Forest 
Management Act of 1976 (16 U.S.C. 1600 et seq.), requires El Yunque to 
develop management plans. As noted above, El Yunque plan specifically 
includes a set of standards and guidelines to protect the natural 
resources within the El Toro Wilderness. Moreover, Federal agencies are 
mandated to carry out programs for the conservation of endangered 
species under section 7 of the Act to ensure that any action 
authorized, funded, or carried out by a Federal agency is not likely to 
jeopardize the continued existence of a federally listed species. The 
USFS continually consults with the Service to avoid and minimize 
impacts to listed species and their habitat at El Yunque. L. 
eltoroensis shares habitat with other federally listed species (e.g., 
Ilex sintenisii, Ternstroemia luquillensis, and Elfin-woods warbler); 
thus, the USFS will continue to consult with the Service on projects 
that could affect listed species in this area. Additionally, since the 
species was listed in 1991, many more individuals have been found and 
observed growth has been stable with no documented decline in the 
population.

Recovery Action 2: Continue To Gather Information on the Species' 
Distribution and Abundance

    This action has been met. Since the species was listed in 1991, 
several surveys for Lepanthes eltoroensis have been conducted. Although 
these surveys have been infrequent, sparse, and done with varying 
spatial spread and methodology, making the results difficult to compare 
over time, even partial surveys have found greater numbers of L. 
eltoroensis. Surveys have indicated stable growth rates. While the best 
available estimate of the metapopulation is 3,000 individuals, surveys 
likely underestimate the species' true abundance as suitable habitat 
off the two main trails are dangerous and mostly inaccessible, 
preventing additional surveys. Surveys of habitat outside traditional 
population sites may result in additional individuals.

Recovery Action 3: Conduct Research

    This action has been met; however we continue to conduct research 
on the species. Information has been collected throughout the years on 
the distribution and dispersion patterns of Lepanthes eltoroensis 
(Tremblay 1997a, pp. 85-96), variance in floral morphology (Tremblay 
1997b, pp. 38-45), and genetic differentiation (Tremblay and Ackerman 
2001, pp. 47-62). In 2016, the Service and the PRDNER provided funding 
to researchers at the University of Puerto Rico to evaluate the current 
population status of L. eltoroensis and model its demographic variation 
in response to climatic variability (i.e., temperature and relative 
humidity). This study is an effort to evaluate the influence that 
climate change will have on the persistence of this species in its 
environment. Results are anticipated to be available later in 2020 and 
will be factored into our final determination on this proposed rule. 
Data gathered during this project will also be used to characterize the 
microhabitat variation between areas with and without L. eltoroensis 
and develop a habitat selection model to evaluate the relationship 
between the presence and absence of plants and landscape-level 
variables such as elevation, forest type, aspect, and temperature. 
Additionally, these data will allow for development of a monitoring 
infrastructure to model the demographic responses of L. eltoroensis to 
climate variation. This research will update the distribution and 
status of L. eltoroensis within El Yunque, and assess natural threats, 
particularly climate change, affecting these populations. However, the 
best available data indicates that the species is projected to remain 
viable, and the results of the additional surveys, while helpful 
information, is not required.

Recovery Action 4: Establish New Populations

    This action has not been met but is no longer necessary. At the 
time of listing, only 140 plants were thought to exist; we now estimate 
a population size of 3,000 individuals. The 2015 5-year status review 
of Lepanthes eltoroensis states that the action to establish new 
populations is not necessary at this time for the recovery of the 
species because additional sub-populations and individuals have been 
found since the species was listed (USFWS 2015, p. 5). Additionally, 
relocation of plants from fallen trees onto standing trees following 
hurricane events was found to be an effective management strategy to 
improve and maximize survival and reproductive success (Ben[iacute]tez 
and Tremblay 2003, pp. 67-69).

Recovery Action 5: Refine Recovery Criteria

    This action has not been met but will no longer be necessary. The 
Recovery Plan states that as additional information on Lepanthes 
eltoroensis is gathered, it will be necessary to better define, and 
possibly modify, recovery criteria. Based on the information compiled 
in the SSA (USFWS 2019, entire) this orchid is projected to remain 
viable over time, such that it may no longer meet the definition of an 
endangered or threatened species (see Determination).

Recovery Criterion 1: Prepare and Implement and Agreement Between the 
Service and the USFS Concerning the Protection of Lepanthes eltoroensis 
Within El Yunque

    This criterion has been partially met. Although there is not a 
specific agreement between the Service and the USFS concerning the 
protection of Lepanthes eltoroensis, the intent of this criterion--to 
provide long-term protection for the species--has been met. Existing 
populations and the species' habitat are protected. As stated before, 
this orchid species occurs within the El Toro Wilderness area where 
habitat destruction or modification is no longer considered a threat to 
the species or its habitat. The implementation of management practices 
in the forest has improved, no selective cutting is

[[Page 13854]]

conducted, and the USFS coordinates with the Service to avoid impacts 
to listed species as part of their management practices. Because this 
species overlaps with other listed species, the USFS will continue to 
consult on projects that may affect this area. Furthermore, 
Commonwealth laws and regulations protect the species' habitat as well 
as the species from collection and removal. There is no evidence that 
L. eltoroensis or its habitat is being negatively impacted; therefore, 
a formal agreement between the Service and the USFS is not necessary 
for protecting this species.

Recovery Criterion 2: Establish New Populations Capable of Self-
Perpetuation Within Protected Areas

    As stated under Recovery Action 4, we have found that the action to 
establish new populations is not necessary at this time for the 
recovery of the species because additional sub-populations and 
individuals have been found since the species was listed (USFWS 2015, 
p. 5). Additionally, relocation of plants is an effective management 
strategy to improve and maximize survival and reproductive success, as 
has been demonstrated after hurricane events (Ben[iacute]tez and 
Tremblay 2003, pp. 67-69).

Summary

    The Recovery Plan for Lepanthes eltoroensis provided direction for 
reversing the decline of this species, thereby informing when the 
species may be delisted. The Recovery Plan outlined two criteria for 
reclassifying the species from endangered to threatened: (1) Prepare 
and implement an agreement between the Service and the USFS concerning 
the protection of L. eltoroensis within El Yunque, and (2) establish 
new populations capable of self-perpetuation within protected areas. 
Both of these criteria have been partially met or are no longer 
considered necessary. This species is protected by Commonwealth law and 
regulations, and will continue to be should the species no longer 
require Federal protection, and occurs within a protected wilderness 
area that will remain protected and managed using techniques that are 
beneficial for this and other co-occurring federally listed species. 
There is no evidence that L. eltoroensis or its habitat is being 
negatively impacted by forest management activities or will be in the 
future. Additionally, the designation of wilderness where the species 
occurs has eliminated the need for a formal agreement between the 
Service and the USFS to protect this species. Since the species was 
listed under the Act and the Recovery Plan was written, additional 
plants have been found; therefore, establishment of new populations is 
not necessary at this time for recovery. Additionally, the five 
recovery actions intended to address threats to the species have all 
been either met or determined to no longer be necessary for recovery.

Determination of Status of Lepanthes eltoroensis

    Section 4 of the Act (16 U.S.C. 1533), and its implementing 
regulations (50 CFR part 424), set forth the procedures for determining 
whether a species meets the definition of ``endangered species'' or 
``threatened species.'' The Act defines an ``endangered species'' as a 
species that is in danger of extinction throughout all or a significant 
portion of its range, and a ``threatened species'' as a species that is 
likely to become an endangered species within the foreseeable future 
throughout all or a significant portion of its range. The Act requires 
that we determine whether a species meets the definition of 
``endangered species'' or ``threatened species'' because of any of the 
following factors: (A) The present or threatened destruction, 
modification, or curtailment of its habitat or range; (B) 
overutilization for commercial, recreational, scientific, or 
educational purposes; (C) disease or predation; (D) the inadequacy of 
existing regulatory mechanisms; or (E) other natural or manmade factors 
affecting its continued existence.

Status Throughout All of Its Range

    After evaluating threats to the species and assessing the 
cumulative effect of the threats under the section 4(a)(1) factors, we 
note that more individuals are known to occur than at the time of 
listing. Additionally, the best metapopulation estimate of 3,000 
individuals is likely an underestimate, as not all potential habitat 
has been surveyed. Despite the effects of a small population size, 
continued limited distribution, and evidence of low gene flow (Factor 
E), the species has persisted and adapted to changing environmental 
conditions. Forest management practices (Factor A) and collection 
(Factor B) are not currently a threat to this species, nor are they 
anticipated to negatively affect Lepanthes eltoroensis in the future. 
Although hurricanes (Factor E) have the potential to negatively impact 
growth rates and survival of L. eltoroensis, observed stable 
subpopulations, even after recent severe hurricanes, indicate this 
species has the ability to recover from these natural disturbances. 
Additionally, relocation of plants is a viable management strategy that 
can improve and maximize survival and reproduction success. The 
greatest threat to the future of L. eltoroensis is current and ongoing 
effects of climate change factors (Factor E); however, while changes to 
precipitation and drought, temperature, and life zones are expected to 
occur on Puerto Rico, within the foreseeable future, they are not 
predicted to be substantial, and the viability of the species is 
expected to remain stable. We anticipate small population dynamics 
(Factor E) will continue to be a concern, as there is already evidence 
of genetic drift, but L.eltoroensis has demonstrated the ability to 
adapt to changing environmental conditions over time at population 
levels lower than they are currently or projected to be in the future.
    The species was originally listed as an endangered species due to 
its rarity, restricted distribution, specialized habitat, and 
vulnerability to habitat destruction or modification, as well as 
because of collection for commercial/recreational uses. We find that 
these threats are no longer affecting the status of the species as they 
have been minimized or eliminated. Partial surveys over the past 18 
years, including surveys following two strong hurricanes in 2018, 
indicate there are more individuals than known at the time of listing, 
and the population appears to be relatively stable. Surveys are limited 
to detections right on the trails, or a very short distance from the 
trails. Habitat that has not or cannot be surveyed may hold additional 
subpopulations; therefore, surveys likely underestimate the true 
abundance of this species. The habitat at El Yunque, where the species 
occurs, is a designated wilderness area, and managed for its natural 
conditions; therefore, habitat modification or destruction is not a 
current threat. In addition, collection is prohibited under USFS 
regulations, and there is no indication this is a current threat to the 
species. Persistence of the species through repeated past strong 
hurricanes indicates the species has the ability to recover and adapt 
from disturbances. Furthermore, relocation of individuals from felled 
trees further accelerates the recovery of the species post-hurricane. 
While a narrow endemic, the species has continued to exist across its 
historical range with all life stages represented and in good health. 
While projections predict increasing temperatures and decreasing

[[Page 13855]]

precipitation over time into the future, projected impacts to the 
species' habitat (e.g., life zone changes) are not expected to be 
significant within the foreseeable future (USFWS 2019, p. 69). Recent, 
yet unpublished downscaled climate modelling (Bowden 2018, pers. comm.) 
indicates that higher elevation areas, like those supporting L. 
eltoroensis, may be buffered from the more generally predicted level of 
precipitation changes. This species has also demonstrated the ability 
to adapt to changes in its environment. Since the species was listed, 
warming temperatures have been documented and precipitation levels have 
decreased, yet the species has persisted. Additionally, following 
strong hurricanes that affected the species' habitat, abundance has 
remained stable, with all age classes represented and in good health. 
While suitable habitat conditions for the species may contract some 
over the foreseeable future, the species is likely to continue to 
maintain close to current levels of resiliency, redundancy, and 
representation. We conclude that there are no existing or potential 
threats that, either alone or in combination with others (i.e., forest 
management practices, climate change, and hurricane damage), are likely 
to cause the species' viability to decline. Thus, after assessing the 
best available data, we conclude that L. eltoroensis is not in danger 
of extinction throughout its range (i.e., meets the definition of an 
endangered species) or likely to become so within the foreseeable 
future (i.e., meets the definition of a threatened species).

Status Throughout a Significant Portion of Its Range

    Under the Act and our implementing regulations, a species may 
warrant listing if it is in danger of extinction or likely to become so 
within the foreseeable future throughout all or a significant portion 
of its range.
    Having determined that Lepanthes eltoroensis is not in danger of 
extinction or likely to become so within the foreseeable future 
throughout all of its range, we now consider whether it may be in 
danger of extinction or likely to become so within the foreseeable 
future in a significant portion of its range. The range of a species 
can theoretically be divided into portions in an infinite number of 
ways, so we first screen the potential portions of the species' range 
to determine if there are any portions that warrant further 
consideration. To do the ``screening'' analysis, we ask whether there 
are portions of the species' range for which there is substantial 
information indicating that: (1) The portion may be significant; and 
(2) the species may be, in that portion, either in danger of extinction 
or likely to become so in the foreseeable future. For a particular 
portion, if we cannot answer both questions in the affirmative, then 
that portion does not warrant further consideration and the species 
does not warrant listing because of its status in that portion of its 
range. Conversely, we emphasize that answering both of these questions 
in the affirmative is not a determination that the species is in danger 
of extinction or likely to become so in the foreseeable future 
throughout a significant portion of its range--rather, it is a step in 
determining whether a more detailed analysis of the issue is required.
    If we answer these questions in the affirmative, we then conduct a 
more thorough analysis to determine whether the portion does indeed 
meet both of the ``significant portion of its range'' prongs: (1) The 
portion is significant; and (2) the species is, in that portion, either 
in danger of extinction or likely to become so in the foreseeable 
future. Confirmation that a portion does indeed meet one of these 
prongs does not create a presumption, prejudgment, or other 
determination as to whether the species is an endangered species or 
threatened species. Rather, we must then undertake a more detailed 
analysis of the other prong to make that determination. Only if the 
portion does indeed meet both prongs would the species warrant listing 
because of its status in a significant portion of its range.
    We evaluated the range of the Lepanthes eltoroensis to determine if 
any area may be a significant portion of the range. The species is a 
narrow endemic that functions as a single, contiguous population (with 
a metapopulation structure) and occurs within a very small area (El 
Yunque, Puerto Rico). Every threat to the species in any portion of its 
range is a threat to the species throughout all of its range, and so 
the species has the same status under the Act throughout its narrow 
range. Therefore, we conclude, based on this screening analysis, that 
the species is not in danger of extinction or likely to become so in 
the foreseeable future in any significant portion of its range. Our 
conclusion--that we do not undertake additional analysis if we 
determine that the species has the same status under the Act throughout 
its narrow range--is consistent with the courts' holdings in Desert 
Survivors v. Department of the Interior, No. 16-cv-01165-JCS, 2018 WL 
4053447 (N.D. Cal. Aug. 24, 2018); Center for Biological Diversity v. 
Jewell, 248 F. Supp. 3d, 946, 959 (D. Ariz. 2017); and Center for 
Biological Diversity v. Everson, 2020 WL 437289 (D.D.C. Jan. 28, 2020).

Determination of Status

    Our review of the best available scientific and commercial data 
indicates that Lepanthes eltoroensis does not meet the definition of an 
endangered species or a threatened species in accordance with sections 
3(6) and 3(20) of the Act. Therefore, we propose to remove this species 
from the Federal List of Endangered and Threatened Plants.

Effects of This Proposed Rule

    This proposal, if made final, would revise 50 CFR 17.12(h) to 
remove Lepanthes eltoroensis from the Federal List of Endangered and 
Threatened Plants. Therefore, revision of the species' recovery plan is 
not necessary. The prohibitions and conservation measures provided by 
the Act, particularly through sections 7 and 9, would no longer apply 
to this species. Federal agencies would no longer be required to 
consult with the Service under section 7 of the Act in the event that 
activities they authorize, fund, or carry out may affect L. 
eltoroensis. There is no critical habitat designated for this species.

Post-Delisting Monitoring

    Section 4(g)(1) of the Act requires us to monitor for not less than 
5 years the status of all species that are delisted due to recovery. 
Post-delisting monitoring refers to activities undertaken to verify 
that a species delisted due to recovery remains secure from the risk of 
extinction after the protections of the Act no longer apply. The 
primary goal of PDM is to monitor the species to ensure that its status 
does not deteriorate, and if a decline is detected, to take measures to 
halt the decline so that proposing it as an endangered or threatened 
species is not again needed. If at any time during the monitoring 
period data indicate that protective status under the Act should be 
reinstated, we can initiate listing procedures, including, if 
appropriate, emergency listing. At the conclusion of the monitoring 
period, we will review all available information to determine if 
relisting, the continuation of monitoring, or the termination of 
monitoring is appropriate.
    Section 4(g) of the Act explicitly requires that we cooperate with 
the States in development and implementation of PDM programs. However, 
we remain ultimately responsible for compliance with section 4(g) and, 
therefore, must remain actively engaged in all phases of PDM. We also 
seek active participation of other

[[Page 13856]]

entities that are expected to assume responsibilities for the species' 
conservation after delisting. The Service is currently coordinating 
with PRDNER and USFS on the completion of the PDM.
    We have prepared a draft PDM plan for the orchid, Lepanthes 
eltoroensis. The plan is designed to detect substantial declines in the 
species, with reasonable certainty and precision, or an increase in 
threats. The plan:
    (1) Summarizes the species' status at the time of proposed 
delisting;
    (2) Defines thresholds or triggers for potential monitoring 
outcomes and conclusions;
    (3) Lays out frequency and duration of monitoring;
    (4) Articulates monitoring methods, including sampling 
considerations;
    (5) Outlines data compilation and reporting procedures and 
responsibilities; and
    (6) Proposes a PDM implementation schedule, funding, and 
responsible parties.
    Concurrent with this proposed delisting rule, we announce the 
availability of the draft PDM plan for public review at http://www.regulations.gov under Docket No. FWS-R4-ES-2019-0073. The plan can 
also be viewed in its entirety at https://www.fws.gov/southeast/caribbean/. Copies can also be obtained from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife 
Service, Caribbean Ecological Services Field Office (see FOR FURTHER 
INFORMATION CONTACT). We seek information, data, and comments from the 
public regarding Lepanthes eltoroensis and the PDM plan. We are also 
seeking peer review of the draft PDM plan during this proposed rule's 
comment period. We anticipate finalizing this plan, considering all 
public and peer review comments, prior to making a final determination 
on the proposed delisting rule.

Required Determinations

Clarity of the Rule

    We are required by Executive Orders 12866 and 12988 and by the 
Presidential Memorandum of June 1, 1998, to write all rules in plain 
language. This means that each rule we publish must:
    (1) Be logically organized;
    (2) Use the active voice to address readers directly;
    (3) Use clear language rather than jargon;
    (4) Be divided into short sections and sentences; and
    (5) Use lists and tables wherever possible.
    If you feel that we have not met these requirements, send us 
comments by one of the methods listed in ADDRESSES. To better help us 
revise the rule, your comments should be as specific as possible. For 
example, you should tell us the numbers of the sections or paragraphs 
that are unclearly written, which sections or sentences are too long, 
the sections where you feel lists or tables would be useful, etc.

National Environmental Policy Act (42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq.)

    We determined that we do not need to prepare an environmental 
assessment or an environmental impact statements, as defined under the 
authority of the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (42 U.S.C. 
4321 et seq.), in connection with regulations adopted pursuant to 
section 4(a) of the Endangered Species Act. We published a notice 
outlining our reasons for this determination in the Federal Register 
October 25, 1983 (48 FR 49244).

Government-to-Government Relationship With Tribes

    In accordance with the President's memorandum of April 29, 1994 
(Government-to-Government Relations with Native American Tribal 
Governments; 59 FR 22951), Executive Order 13175 (Consultation and 
Coordination With Indian Tribal Governments), and the Department of the 
Interior's manual at 512 DM 2, we readily acknowledge our 
responsibility to communicate meaningfully with recognized Federal 
Tribes on a government-to-government basis. We have determined that 
there are no tribal interests affected by this proposal.

References Cited

    A complete list of references cited in this rulemaking is available 
on the internet at http://www.regulations.gov under Docket No. FWS-R4-
ES-2019-0073 and upon request from the Caribbean Ecological Services 
Field Office (see FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT).

Authors

    The primary authors of this proposed rule are the staff members of 
the Service's Species Assessment Team and the Caribbean Ecological 
Services Field Office.

List of Subjects in 50 CFR Part 17

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

Proposed Regulation Promulgation

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

PART 17--ENDANGERED AND THREATENED WILDLIFE AND PLANTS

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

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


Sec.  17.12   [Amended]

0
2. Amend Sec.  17.12(h) by removing the entry for ``Lepanthes 
eltoroensis'' under FLOWERING PLANTS from the List of Endangered and 
Threatened Plants.

    Dated: January 23, 2020.
Aurelia Skipwith,
Director, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.
[FR Doc. 2020-04824 Filed 3-9-20; 8:45 am]
 BILLING CODE 4333-15-P