While the Information for Planning and Consultation (IPaC) system offers valuable resources for project planning, direct engagement with the United States Fish And Wildlife Service (USFWS) remains beneficial and sometimes necessary, especially for Federal agency actions. IPaC can suggest general project design recommendations, also known as conservation measures, to minimize potential environmental impacts. However, USFWS staff can provide more tailored and detailed advice specific to your project’s unique characteristics, such as scope, scale, and timing. This personalized guidance can be crucial for effective conservation.
IPaC Official Species Lists and When Further Contact is Necessary
An official species list obtained through IPaC is generally recognized by the USFWS as an official response under the Endangered Species Act (ESA). In most cases, if you believe the list is accurate, no further direct contact with a USFWS office is immediately required for ESA official species list purposes. This official document is readily accessible within IPaC and can be included in your project’s administrative records. However, for projects requiring evaluation under the Fish and Wildlife Coordination Act (FWCA) or the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), direct communication with your local USFWS field office is often still necessary. These acts often necessitate a deeper level of coordination and project-specific discussion beyond the automated IPaC species list.
Determination Keys and Streamlined Processes
For projects evaluated within IPaC using a determination key, further direct contact with the USFWS might not be needed. Technical Assistance letters generated from these determination keys are considered official USFWS correspondence. These letters, specific to your project, will clearly state whether additional communication with the USFWS is required. If the determination key process concludes that no further action is needed, you can proceed with your project with confidence, knowing you have fulfilled initial USFWS screening requirements.
Initiating ESA Section 7 Consultation with Consultation Package Builder
If your project has been assessed in IPaC utilizing the Consultation Package Builder, the next step involves formal consultation. You will need to download the generated analysis and submit it to your local USFWS Field Office to initiate consultation under Section 7 of the Endangered Species Act. Following submission, the local USFWS Field Office may request further information or have additional questions regarding your consultation package to ensure a thorough and effective consultation process. This direct interaction is a critical step in fulfilling ESA requirements for projects that may affect listed species or their habitats.
