Federal Register / Vol. 63, No. 92 / Wednesday, May 13, 1998 / Rules and Regulations 26517 upgrading is appropriate, based on the by appointment, during normal business terms reflect common usage). Krutzsch incremental benefits and costs and applicable hours at the U.S. Fish and Wildlife (1954) also provided a technical statutory criteria, the agency issues an NPRM Service’s Colorado Field Office, 755 description of the skull of Preble’s, proposing to upgrade the FMVSS to the level which can prove important to its of Country B’s std. If upgrading is not Parfet Street, Suite 361, Lakewood, appropriate, NHTSA considers issuing an Colorado. identification. NPRM proposing to add the requirements of FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: There is a similarity of appearance Country B’s std to the FMVSS as an LeRoy W. Carlson, Field Supervisor, between the Preble’s meadow jumping alternative compliance option. The proposal Colorado Field Office, U.S. Fish and mouse and Z. princeps, which also to add the compliance option would set forth Wildlife Service, P.O. Box 25486, occurs in portions of Colorado and the basis for the agency’s conclusion that Denver Federal Center, Denver, Wyoming. In general, Z. hudsonius may upgrading the FMVSS is inappropriate. be distinguished from Z. princeps by If NHTSA issues an NPRM, it would request Colorado 80225–0207 (telephone 303/ 275–2370). average external size and cranial size comment on the tentative determination and (Krutzsch 1954, Whitaker 1972). the proposed amendment. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: 3. Decision whether to issue a final rule. Preble’s may be distinguished from Z. Any final decision to make a determination Background princeps by a less pronounced mid- regarding relative benefits and functional The Preble’s meadow jumping mouse dorsal band, smaller average total equivalency and to amend the FMVSS will length, and a skull that is small and (Zapus hudsonius preblei) (Preble’s) is a be made in accordance with the process in light with a narrower braincase and small rodent in the family Zapodidae the flowchart and applicable law and only smaller molars (Fitzgerald et al. 1994). and is 1 of 12 recognized subspecies of after careful consideration and analysis of the Since coloration of the mid-dorsal band the species Z. hudsonius, the meadow public comments. and total length are not definitive jumping mouse (Krutzsch 1954, Issued on May 6, 1998. characteristics, skull measurements are Whitaker 1972, Hafner 1981). The Ricardo Martinez, most useful for positive identification. family Zapus consists of small to Administrator. Ranges of the Preble’s and Z. princeps medium-sized mice with long tails and [FR Doc. 98–12598 Filed 5–12–98; 8:45 am] are not known to overlap in Colorado long feet adapted for jumping. Krutzsch BILLING CODE 4910±59±P but the relationships between respective (1954) provided a revision of the ranges in Wyoming is less clear (Garber taxonomy of the genus Zapus in North 1995, Armstrong 1972). America and recognized three living DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR Krutzsch (1954) commented on the species, Z. hudsonius, Z. trinotatus, and presence of physical habitat barriers and Fish and Wildlife Service Z. princeps. As the most recent revision lack of known intergradation between of Z. hudsonius, this stands as the the Preble’s meadow jumping mouse, 50 CFR Part 17 authority for taxonomy. Fitzgerald et al. known only from eastern Colorado and (1994) described Z. hudsonius as RIN 1018±AE06 southeastern Wyoming, and other greyish to yellowish-brown in color identified subspecies of Z. hudsonius Endangered and Threatened Wildlife with an indistinct mid-dorsal band of ranging to the east and north. Among and Plants; Final Rule to List the darker hair and paler sides, large recognized subspecies, Krutzsch found Preble's Meadow Jumping Mouse as a hindlegs and hindfeet, and a sparsely that Preble’s most closely resembled Z. Threatened Species haired tail that accounts for more than campestris from northeastern Wyoming, 60 percent of the total length. but summarized differences in AGENCY: Fish and Wildlife Service, In his 1899 revision of North coloration and skull characteristics. Interior. American jumping mice, E. A. Preble Krutzsch concluded that considerable ACTION: Final rule. referred specimens of the meadow differences existed between Preble’s and jumping mouse from Colorado and related subspecies. In contrast, Jones SUMMARY: The U.S. Fish and Wildlife southeastern Wyoming to the subspecies (1981) studied specific and intraspecific Service determines the Preble’s meadow Z. h. campestris (Preble 1899, cited by relationships within Zapus and jumping mouse (Zapus hudsonius Krutzsch 1954). Krutzsch (1954) recognized no subspecies of Z. preblei) to be a threatened species described and named Z. h. preblei as hudsonius. Jones did, however cite that pursuant to the Endangered Species Act separate from Z. h. campestris, Z. hudsonius populations in Colorado (Act) of 1973, as amended. The Preble’s indicating as the holotype a specimen and southeastern Wyoming were meadow jumping mouse, a small rodent obtained by E. A. Preble in July 1895 apparently isolated from other in the family Zapodidae, is known to from Loveland, Larimer County, populations. Hafner et al. (1981) occur in seven counties in Colorado and Colorado. All records of Preble’s are described an additional subspecies Z. two counties in Wyoming. Historical from southeastern Wyoming and eastern hudsonius luteus present in New records document its former presence in Colorado. The coloration of Preble’s was Mexico and Arizona and differentiated additional counties in Colorado and described by Krutzsch (1954) as ‘‘color it from Preble’s. This subspecies was Wyoming. The Preble’s meadow dull, back from near Clay Color to near previously considered Z. princeps jumping mouse lives primarily in Tawny-Olive with a mixture of black luteus, a subspecies of the western heavily vegetated riparian habitats. hair forming poorly defined dorsal jumping mouse. Recently, Z. h. luteus Habitat loss and degradation caused by band; sides lighter than back from near was found in Las Animas County, agricultural, residential, commercial, Clay Color to near Cinnamon-Buff; Colorado (Riggs et al. 1997), the furthest and industrial development imperil its lateral line distinct and clear north that the subspecies has been continued existence. This action Ochraceous-Buff; belly white, recorded, but over 100 miles south of implements the protection of the Act for sometimes faint wash of clear the confirmed range of Preble’s in Preble’s meadow jumping mouse. Ochraceous-Buff; tail bicolored, Colorado. DATES: This rule is effective June 12, brownish to light brownish-black above, Results from genetic analysis of mice 1998. grayish-white to yellowish-white from Rocky Flats Environmental ADDRESSES: The complete file for this below’’ (capitalized color terms refer to Technology Site (Rocky Flats) in rule is available for public inspection, a scientific standard, while lower case Jefferson County, Colorado, Z. 26518 Federal Register / Vol. 63, No. 92 / Wednesday, May 13, 1998 / Rules and Regulations hudsonius from Minnesota and Indiana, mice from F.E. Warren Air Force Base, and habitat utilization have been and, Z. princeps from Colorado, Laramie County, Wyoming, were documented. Armstrong et al. (1997) provided clear evidence that the Rocky identified as Preble’s when they were and Shenk (in litt. 1998) have compiled Flats mice were of the species Z. trapped and later determined to be most summaries of information on Preble’s hudsonius. However, the analysis did similar to Z. princeps (Riggs et al. 1997). gleaned from recent studies. Data on the not provide a means of separating Hafner (1998) suggested that the timing of the initial breeding period and subspecies of Z. hudsonius (Bruce discrepancies in species associations time of hibernation of the Preble’s Wunder, Colorado State University, found in the analysis by Riggs et al. meadow jumping mouse have been pers. comm. 1996). Under a cost-sharing (1997) could be due to the specific DNA gathered by researchers at Rocky Flats agreement with the U.S. Fish and segment chosen for analysis, or to (PTI Environmental Services 1996a). Wildlife Service, the Colorado Division limited hybridization in areas where the The month of May marks the beginning of Wildlife supported genetic studies of two species’ ranges overlap. Riggs et al. of the active period for Preble’s, with Preble’s trapped in Colorado and (1997), Hafner (1998), Tanya Shenk May 5 the earliest capture date at Rocky Wyoming during the 1996 and 1997 (Colorado Division of Wildlife, in litt. Flats. Breeding probably occurs soon field seasons. Tissue samples from 1998), and David Armstrong (University after emergence. Adults begin presumed Preble’s trapped at 23 of Colorado, in litt. 1998) encouraged hibernation in early September, while locations in Colorado and 2 in Wyoming additional genetic and morphological juveniles enter hibernation from mid- were assessed, through mitochondrial investigations to further define September to late October. The latest DNA analysis, and compared to relationships among Zapus in the recorded date of capture of Preble’s at reference samples of Z. princeps and to region. Rocky Flats is October 27. Adults reach samples of Z. hudsonius from outside The Preble’s meadow jumping mouse approximately 20 percent body fat the known range of Preble’s. The has not been studied as extensively as before going into hibernation (Wunder analysis indicated that mice from other subspecies of Z. hudsonius have pers. com. 1997). Albany County, Wyoming (Medicine been studied elsewhere. Preble’s is Little information exists on Preble’s Bow National Forest) to western Las thought to be similar to other Z. meadow jumping mouse food Animas County, Colorado (San Isabel hudsonius in patterns of diet, behavior, preferences. It has been speculated that National Forest) formed a coherent breeding, and habitat utilization. In Preble’s may need an open water source genetic group (Riggs et al. 1997). The general, Z. hudsonius subsists on seeds, to fulfill dietary water requirements. report concluded that ‘‘data appear small fruits, fungi, and insects, and Armstrong et al. (1997) reported that consistent with the view that a hibernates from October to May trapping success in ephemeral drainages geographically contiguous set of (Whitaker 1972, Fitzgerald et al. 1994). decreased notably in late summer after populations previously recognized as It is adapted for digging, creates nests of creekflow ceased. Preble’s meadow jumping mouse has Preble’s meadow jumping mouse (Z. h. grasses, leaves, and woody material been shown to move a significant preblei) form a homogenous group several centimeters below the ground, distance along drainages but has not recognizably distinct from other nearby and is primarily nocturnal or been shown to cross dry uplands to populations and from geographically- crepuscular, but can be observed during reach adjacent drainages. A male adjacent species of the genus’’ (Riggs et daylight. During the breeding season Preble’s was recaptured 1.6 kilometers al. 1997). However, some specimens of (June to mid-August), females typically have 2 to 3 litters of 5 to 6 young per (km) (1 mile) (mi) upstream from a Z. hudsonius from outside the known litter (Quimby 1951, Fitzgerald et al. previous capture site and a female range of Preble’s, including Z. h. 1994). Z. hudsonius hibernates Preble’s captured 1.2 km (.75 mi) campestris from northern Wyoming, approximately 7 months of the year in downstream from a previous capture were indistinguishable from Preble’s an underground burrow that it excavates site (Thomas Ryon, PTI Environmental based on the analysis. Hafner (1998) itself (Quimby 1951, Whitaker 1963). Services, pers. com. 1998). reviewed the report cited above and Krutzsch (1954), Quimby (1951), and At Rocky Flats, the Preble’s meadow found no fault with the currently Armstrong (1972) agree that across its jumping mouse appears to be primarily accepted taxonomic relationship of the range, Z. hudsonius occurs mostly in dependent on riparian shrublands, and subspecies Z. h. preblei, Z. h. low undergrowth consisting of grasses, on mesic mixed grasslands that are campestris, and Z. h. luteus. He forbs (herbaceous plants other than adjacent to shrublands and in close commented that current recognition of grasses), or both, in open wet meadows proximity to streams (PTI these subspecies is appropriately based and riparian corridors, or where tall Environmental Services 1996b). Field on geographic variation of shrubs and low trees provide adequate studies at Rocky Flats led to the morphological traits and distribution. cover. In addition, Z. hudsonius prefers conclusion that Preble’s is typically Other conclusions of interest from the lowlands with medium to high moisture found in or near complex riparian Riggs et al. (1997) genetic study over drier uplands. Whitaker (1972) communities with multi-strata included a specimen from San Isabel concluded that Z. hudsonius avoids the woodland and herbaceous species National Forest, Las Animas County, sparse vegetation that is generally (Harrington et al. 1996). Capture Colorado, which was identified as Z. associated with low moisture habitats. locations were typically humid with princeps when it was collected, but was Fitzgerald et al. (1994) described Z. high litter content. In a spring 1996 later determined to be most similar to hudsonius as most common in lush study at Rocky Flats, all captures were Preble’s meadow jumping mouse. The vegetation along watercourses or in within 25 meters (m) (82 feet) (ft) of presence of Preble’s in Las Animas herbaceous understories in wooded streams, with 48 percent of captures County would significantly expand its areas. Tester et al. (1993) suggested that within 5 m (16 ft) of streams (PTI known range southward. Reexamination proximity to water may be the most Environmental Services 1996a). In the of this specimen confirmed diagnostic important factor influencing habitat same study, 90 percent of captures dentation of Z. princeps (Cheri Jones, selection and utilization by Z. occurred within 5 m (16 ft) of canopy Denver Museum of Natural History, in hudsonius. edge consisting of Salix exigua (coyote litt. 1998). A mouse from Lone Tree Some aspects of Preble’s meadow willow), Symphoricarpos occidentalis Creek, Weld County, Colorado, and six jumping mouse life history, behavior, (western snowberry), Prunus americana Federal Register / Vol. 63, No. 92 / Wednesday, May 13, 1998 / Rules and Regulations 26519

(choke cherry), and other species. irrigation ditch and in a mesic grassy Colorado Margins of artificial ponds at Rocky field on City of Boulder Open Space Recent (since 1992) presence of Flats are thought to be important land (Clint Miller, City of Boulder, in Preble’s meadow jumping mouse in foraging sites (Harrington et al. 1996). litt. 1996). Ensight Technical Services Colorado has been documented in seven Most successful capture sites at Rocky (1997) reported instances of Preble’s counties along the following Flats were in dense vegetation that meadow jumping mouse trapped at or watercourses and their tributaries: presented burrowing or nesting near sites of human alteration including South Boulder Creek and St. Vrain opportunities. Five nests were located ditches along roads and driveways, and Creek (Boulder County); Coal Creek, and in dense vegetation (Harrington et al. wetlands adjacent to highways. Meaney Ralston Creek, and Rock Creek, Walnut 1995). Based on a single underground et al. (1997) emphasized that vegetated Creek and Woman Creek at Rocky Flats hibernaculum, located through use of ditches may be a significant habitat for (Jefferson County); East Plum Creek, telemetry, upland habitats may be used Preble’s and may provide dispersal West Plum Creek, and Indian Creek for hibernation by Preble’s (Fred routes. (Douglas County); Monument Creek and Harrington, Pawnee Natural History Preble’s meadow jumping mouse may tributaries including West Monument Society, pers. comm. 1995). Robert never have been widespread in the Schorr (Colorado Natural Heritage Creek, Smith Creek, Beaver Creek, Pine period since western settlement. Creek, Jackson Creek, Dirty Woman Program, pers. com. 1997) reported four Armstrong (1972) described it as poorly apparent hibernacula located by Creek, and Cottonwood Creek (El Paso known in Colorado and apparently County); Lone Tree Creek (Weld telemetry from 7 m (23 ft) to 31 m (101 nowhere abundant. The known ft) from the creek bed of Monument County); Rabbit Creek and Lone Pine historical range of Preble’s may Creek (Larimer County); and, Running Creek, U.S. Air Force Academy, El Paso represent a relict of a more southern County, Colorado. All four hibernacula Creek (Elbert County). range of Z. hudsonius, occupied when A number of historical and recent appeared to be below Salix exigua. the climate was cooler and more damp Ryon (1996) reported that four of five records of Preble’s meadow jumping (Fitzgerald et al. 1994). The apparent mouse exist for Boulder County. A recent (1990 or later) Preble’s meadow local extirpation of Preble’s from jumping mouse capture sites he summary of past records and a report of historically occupied sites in Colorado evaluated in Colorado had five 1995 survey results was provided by and Wyoming, and the difficulty in structural habitat components: trees, tall Armstrong et al. (1996). In 1995, finding it in patches of apparently shrubs, short shrubs, herbaceous extensive surveys were conducted, adequate but fragmented habitat isolated vegetation, and ground cover. The fifth through a challenge grant cost-share by human land uses, suggests a decline site had few trees. In contrast, historical agreement with the Service, to in populations of Preble’s in recent capture sites where Ryon failed to determine the presence of Preble’s on decades. capture Preble’s generally lacked one or City of Boulder and Boulder County more of these components. Records for Preble’s meadow jumping Open Space lands supporting suitable Preble’s was captured along mouse define a range including Adams, habitat. Of 13 sites surveyed, Preble’s Monument Creek within the U.S. Air Arapahoe, Boulder, Denver, Douglas, El were captured from 2 sites, both along Force Academy lands primarily in Paso, Elbert, Jefferson, Larimer, and South Boulder Creek (Armstrong et al. densely vegetated riparian communities Weld Counties in Colorado; and Albany, 1996). In 1996, 3 Preble’s were captured where Salix spp., Symphoricarpos Laramie, Platte, Goshen, and Converse on City of Boulder Open Space along occidentalis, Populus angustifolia Counties in Wyoming (Krutzsch 1954, South Boulder Creek, during an (narrow-leaf cottonwood), and thick Compton and Hugie 1993). Historical extensive study of grassland grass understory were dominant (Corn sites in Colorado were further discussed biodiversity entailing 6,600 trapnights et al. 1995). Garber (1995) characterized by Meaney and Clippinger (1995), Ryon (one trap set for one night equals one capture sites along Lodgepole Creek, (1996), and Ryon and Harrington (1996). trapnight) of effort (Miller in litt. 1996). Albany County, Wyoming as moist areas Garber (1995) discussed historical sites Perhaps indicative of population near beaver ponds with dense sedges from Wyoming and suggested that some fluctuations, Carron Meaney (Denver and Salix sp. Ryon (1996) suggested that Zapus from Wyoming may have been Museum of Natural History, in litt. where Preble’s occupies habitat along misidentified. He indicated that based 1998) reported a total of 55 individual intermittent streams, adjacent wet on study skins alone (without skulls) Preble’s captured during 1997 studies meadows and seeps may be important positive identification was not possible. along South Boulder Creek. habitats in dry periods. Garber concluded that two specimens Meaney et al. (1996) reported Armstrong et al. (1997, p. 77) from the University of Wyoming capturing at least seven different described typical Preble’s meadow collection listed as Preble’s were Preble’s meadow jumping mice at a jumping mouse habitat as ‘‘well- probably Z. princeps, and that several Boulder County Open Space site on St. developed plains riparian vegetation specimens listed as Z. princeps are Vrain Creek, the only captures on five with relatively undisturbed grassland believed to be Preble’s. Boulder County sites they surveyed in and a water source in close proximity.’’ As one might expect, given the 1996. A 1997 survey failed to find Also noted was a preference for ‘‘dense intensity of recent surveys for Preble’s Preble’s on a site along St. Vrain Creek herbaceous vegetation consisting of a meadow jumping mouse, more near the 1996 capture site (Meaney et al. variety of grasses, forbs and thick individuals have been trapped in the 1997). However, 1997 surveys shrubs.’’ Meaney et al. (1997) suggested decade of the 1990’s than were conducted for the Colorado Department that Preble’s has a broader ecological documented prior to 1990. Preble’s is of Transportation along State Highway tolerance than previously thought and thought to currently exist in seven 36 at St. Vrain Creek, and at various while they require diverse vegetation counties in Colorado and two in wetland sites up to two miles south, and well developed cover, this can be Wyoming, but it is not known to be resulted in captures of Preble’s in six of met in a variety of circumstances. present in three other counties in seven locations (Ensight Technical Recent captures that were exceptions to Colorado and three counties in Services 1997). the typical habitat described include Wyoming where it was previously Annual studies have taken place at individuals found along a small documented. Rocky Flats since the discovery of the 26520 Federal Register / Vol. 63, No. 92 / Wednesday, May 13, 1998 / Rules and Regulations

Preble’s meadow jumping mouse there U.S. Air Force Academy lands along Preble’s at two locations in the in 1991 (Harrington et al. 1996). Recent Monument Creek while performing Lodgepole Creek drainage within the populations have been reported in all small mammal surveys in 1994. In Medicine Bow National Forest in four major drainages within the Rocky comprehensive 1995 studies, 67 Preble’s Albany County. The Colorado Natural Flats buffer zone. During the 1995 field were captured (Corn et al. 1995). Using Heritage Program surveyed for Preble’s season, 61 Preble’s were trapped at varying assumptions regarding trapping at Warren Air Force Base in 1996 and Rocky Flats, bringing the total number results and habitat available, total captured 8 apparent Preble’s (see of individual mice trapped since 1991 to population estimates for Air Force discussion of genetic studies by Riggs et 161 (Harrington pers. comm. 1995). Academy property of 308 and 449 al. 1997) in 2,200 trapnights of effort Estimated density of Preble’s in areas Preble’s were generated. These (Schuerman and Pague 1997). trapped during 1995 studies ranged up correspond to density estimates in Previous Federal Action to 36 per hectare (ha) (15 per acre (ac)). occupied habitat of 2.00 per ha (0.81 per Spring 1996 trapping studies at Rocky ac) and 2.92 per ha (1.18 per ac). The Service included the Preble’s Flats, designed to document emergence Twenty Preble’s were captured in 1996 meadow jumping mouse as a category 2 from hibernation, resulted in 29 on private land along Smith Creek, east candidate species in the 1985 Animal captures of Preble’s in 3,553 trapnights of the Air Force Academy (Meaney et al. Notice of Review (50 FR 37958) and (PTI Environmental Service 1996a). 1996). Trapping surveys submitted to retained that status in subsequent During summer 1996 studies at Rocky the Service in 1997 from sites of notices, published in the Federal Flats, 3,882 trapnights of effort resulted proposed construction documented Register on January 6, 1989 (54 FR 554), in capture of only 4 Preble’s (PTI Preble’s within the Monument Creek November 21, 1991 (56 FR 58810), and Environmental Service 1996b). drainage off of Air Force Academy November 15, 1994 (59 FR 58982). In During 1996 and 1997 the Colorado property at Monument Creek, Pine 1996 the Service discontinued the Natural Heritage Program reviewed Creek, Black Squirrel Creek, practice of maintaining a list of category numerous sites on Jefferson County Cottonwood Creek, and Dirty Woman 2 species and the Preble’s did not Open Space lands for potential presence Creek. Meaney et al. (1997) located appear in the February 28, 1996 (61 FR of Preble’s meadow jumping mouse and Preble’s within the Monument Creek 7596), Notice of Review. Category 2 trapped at eight sites. In 1996, Preble’s drainage on Beaver Creek. species were those species for which were captured on Jefferson County Open Meaney et al. (1997) reported an information in the Service’s possession Space land near the mouth of Coal improved ability to recognize suitable indicated that listing was possibly Creek Canyon, west of Rocky Flats habitat and, by targeting mostly small appropriate, but for which substantive (Fleming et al. 1996). In 1997, Preble’s drainages with dense vegetation, data on biological vulnerability and were captured at Ralston Creek (White captured Preble’s meadow jumping threats were not available to support a Ranch Park, Jefferson County Open mouse at 7 of 10 sites trapped, including proposed rule. Candidate species are Space) (Peterson 1997). sites in 3 counties not known to have currently defined as those species for In Douglas County, Preble’s meadow extant populations. Preble’s were which the Service has sufficient jumping mice were captured from a site captured at Rabbit Creek and Lone Pine information on file detailing biological on East Plum Creek, near Larkspur in Creek, within Cherokee Park State vulnerability and threats to support 1995 (Harrington 1995). Also in 1995, Wildlife Management Area, Larimer issuance of a proposed rule, but the Colorado Natural Heritage Program County. A single apparent Preble’s was issuance of the proposed rule is located Preble’s at two sites, one on East captured on private land along Lone precluded by other listing actions. Plum Creek and one on West Plum Tree Creek, Weld County (see On August 16, 1994, the Service Creek, Douglas County. Surveys in 1996 discussion of genetic studies by Riggs et received a petition from the Biodiversity (Meaney et al. 1996) located Preble’s at al. 1997). In Elbert County, a single Legal Foundation to list the Preble’s an additional site on West Plum Creek Preble’s was found at Hay Gulch, a meadow jumping mouse as endangered south of Sedalia, and at a Colorado tributary of Running Creek. Among sites or threatened throughout its range and Division of Wildlife property on Indian recommended for future surveys were to designate critical habitat within a Creek (a tributary to Plum Creek) south the confluence of Lone Tree Creek and reasonable amount of time following the of Louviers. In 1997 the Colorado the South Platte River (Weld County), listing. The petitioner submitted Natural Heritage Program identified, and Bijou Creek, Kiowa Creek, and information that Preble’s populations in through aerial photographs, 104 sites in Running Creek (Elbert County) (Meaney Colorado and Wyoming are imperiled the Plum Creek watershed in Douglas et al. 1997). by: ongoing and increasing urban, County that appeared to have suitable industrial, agricultural, ranching, and Preble’s habitat. Preble’s were captured Wyoming recreational development; ongoing and on 10 of 13 private land sites trapped. In Wyoming, Preble’s meadow increasing wetland/riparian habitat Use of a habitat relationships model jumping mouse has been recently destruction and/or modification; small provided an estimate of 30.6 miles of documented in two counties, along size of known populations; and occupied streamside habitat in the Crow Creek at F.E. Warren Air Force inadequacy or lack of governmental watershed (Chris Pague and Parker Base (Laramie County) and in the protection for the species and its Schuerman, The Nature Conservancy, in Lodgepole Creek drainage, within the habitats. litt. 1998). Meaney et al. (1997) captured Medicine Bow National Forest (Albany On March 15, 1995 (60 FR 13950), the Preble’s at two of three sites they County). The Wyoming Cooperative Service published notice of the 90-day trapped within the Plum Creek drainage Research Unit successfully captured two finding that the petition presented in 1997; Willow Creek in Roxborough Preble’s on F.E. Warren Air Force Base, substantial information indicating that State Park, and a site along East Plum Laramie County, in the 1995 field listing the Preble’s meadow jumping Creek currently being purchased by The season (Garber 1995). Garber conducted mouse may be warranted, and requested Conservation Fund. Preble’s surveys at four Wyoming sites comments and biological data on the In El Paso County, the Colorado during the 1995 field season. He was status of the mouse. On March 25, 1997, Natural Heritage Program discovered the unable to locate any Preble’s on F.E. the Service issued a 12 month finding Preble’s meadow jumping mouse on Warren Air Force Base, but did find on the petitioned action along with a Federal Register / Vol. 63, No. 92 / Wednesday, May 13, 1998 / Rules and Regulations 26521 proposed rule to list Preble’s as an two from Colorado. From Wyoming, should be throughly documented and endangered species and announced a three State agencies opposed the tissue samples should be obtained for 90-day public comment period (62 FR proposal (two of the three supported an future genetic analysis. 14093). On May 5, 1997, the Service extension) and one Wyoming agency Issue 3: Historical trapping records announced three public hearings neither supported nor opposed the support the contention that Preble’s regarding the proposed rule and proposed rule. From Colorado, one meadow jumping mouse has long been extended the comment period through agency opposed the proposal and a rare mammal and they provide a poor July 28, 1997 (62 FR 24387). The Service supported an extension and one neither baseline from which to measure current reopened the public comment period on supported nor opposed the proposed trends in populations. December 23, 1997, for a period of 30 rule. Of 128 comments by individuals or Response: Conclusions regarding the days, through January 22, 1998 (62 FR other groups, 29 supported the proposed status and trends of Preble’s made by 67041). rule, 74 opposed it, and 25 were neutral. the Service are based on the best Five stockgrowers or farm organizations available historical and recent Summary of Comments and provided comments opposing the population information on Preble’s, the Recommendations proposal. Five of six conservation or distribution of its preferred habitats, and In the March 25, 1997, proposed rule environmental groups supported the on the significant threats to these and associated notifications, and in proposal and one was neutral. habitats. While historical records come subsequent notices to extend or reopen Written comments and oral from diverse trapping efforts that rarely the public comment period, all statements presented at the public targeted Zapus, they document a former interested parties were requested to hearings and received during the presence in locations where Preble’s is submit factual reports or information comment periods are addressed in the not currently found. Recent surveys of that might contribute to the following summary. Comments of several historical sites have failed to development of a final rule. The public similar nature are grouped under a locate Preble’s. Loss of these comment period was extended through number of general issues. populations has been attributed to July 28, 1997 (62 FR 24387) and Issue 1: The Preble’s meadow jumping changes in habitat. reopened from December 23, 1997, mouse is not a valid subspecies since Issue 4: Comprehensive trapping through January 22, 1998 (62 FR 67041). genetic studies conducted to date have surveys throughout Preble’s meadow Various Federal and State agencies, not conclusively differentiated it from jumping mouse range are needed to county governments, scientific certain other subspecies of Z. ascertain its true status and distribution. organizations, and other interested hudsonius. Response: Existing data are sufficient parties were contacted and requested to Response: Preble’s is widely to determine the overall status of comment. Newspaper notices were recognized as a valid subspecies by the Preble’s. Additional trapping studies published in the Rocky Mountain News scientific community. Genetic studies will be conducted to better document (Denver, CO), the Colorado Springs point to an aggregate of similar Z. Preble’s status within certain portions of Gazette-Telegraph (CO), the Boulder hudsonius populations consistent with its range. Since 1992, numerous studies Daily Camera (CO), the Casper Star ecological, distributional, and have addressed the status and Tribune (WY), and the Wyoming Eagle morphological information on Preble’s distribution of Preble’s. Trapping Tribune (Cheyenne, WY), which invited (Z. h. preblei). studies supported by the Colorado general public comment and attendance Issue 2: Preble’s meadow jumping Division of Wildlife in 1995, 1996, and at public hearings. mouse identification in the field is not 1997 helped to document distribution of Public hearings were initiated by the possible because of the similarity Preble’s in Colorado. In 1997 alone, Service and held May 19, 1997, in between Preble’s and Z. princeps. more than 120 locations in Colorado Cheyenne, Wyoming; May 21, 1997, in Response: Field identification of were trapped, with a minimum of 400 Colorado Springs, Colorado; and May Zapus is difficult when attempted by trapnights of effort at each location. 22, 1997, in Denver, Colorado. Each individuals not thoroughly familiar with Limited access to private lands has hearing began with opening comments both species. To date, no overlap has hampered survey efforts at some by the Service followed by an been documented between the range of locations and will probably continue to opportunity for public comments. In Preble’s and the range of Z. princeps in do so in the future. Cheyenne, 8 people attended and 1 Boulder, Jefferson, Douglas, and El Paso Issue 5: Since Preble’s exists on some commented; in Colorado Springs 28 Counties in Colorado. These counties sites where grazing, mowing, and other attended and 8 commented; and in support the vast majority of currently human land uses occur, these activities Denver 27 attended and 4 commented. known Preble’s populations. Since the should not be considered threats. One hundred and thirty-eight written two species may coexist in portions of Response: Land uses that have a comments were received. Significant southeastern Wyoming, some historical dramatic adverse impact on habitats that issues are discussed below. Several records from Wyoming are difficult to the Preble’s meadow jumping mouse individuals or groups submitted confirm. Recent genetic studies may requires can present significant threats comments in both the original and the indicate some uncertainty regarding the to its existence. The relationships reopened comment periods, or during identity of apparent Preble’s trapped in between human land use and Preble’s hearings and later in writing. Senator Weld County, Colorado and Laramie populations are undoubtedly complex Craig Thomas of Wyoming opposed the County, Wyoming. However, and need further study. The manner, proposal. Two Federal agencies populations of Zapus that are consistent timing, and extent of grazing or mowing commented and opposed the proposal; morphologically and ecologically with may dictate what effects these activities the Department of Energy’s Rocky Flats Preble’s, will be considered Preble’s by have on Preble’s and its habitat. Field Office supported a 6-month the Service pending conclusive studies However, Preble’s do coexist in grazed extension of the proposed rule. The resolving the identities of the two areas such as the Medicine Bow Department of Energy’s Western Area species. Identification of any Zapus National Forest in Wyoming and Power Administration supported a captured in Weld County, Colorado (as Boulder Open Space lands in Colorado, threatened listing. Six State agencies well as in adjacent Larimer County, and some ranching and farming commented, four from Wyoming and Colorado) and in southeastern Wyoming practices are thought likely to be 26522 Federal Register / Vol. 63, No. 92 / Wednesday, May 13, 1998 / Rules and Regulations compatible with maintaining Preble’s Response: The Service is working Meadow Jumping Mouse Working populations. The Service believes that with the U.S. Air Force, the Department Group to determine how local best management ranching and farming of Energy, and the Forest Service to regulations and acquisition programs practices, which avoid adverse affects assure that conservation of Preble’s is can be used more effectively to protect on habitat characteristics, are carried out on all Federal lands on Preble’s and its habitat. compatible with many natural resource which it currently exists. While both the Issue 12: The Service should objectives. Air Force Academy and Rocky Flats designate critical habitat for Preble’s Issue 6: Water projects and irrigation support apparently stable populations of meadow jumping mouse. may be beneficial to the Preble’s Preble’s, these sites compose a small Response: The Service has meadow jumping mouse, since these fraction of the total Preble’s range. determined that designation of critical activities can create wetland habitat. Protection of these sites alone would not habitat will not provide additional Response: Preble’s seems largely alleviate the need for listing of Preble’s benefits beyond that achieved by the dependent on moist habitat with dense or achieve recovery. listing of Preble’s at this time (see the vegetation in or near riparian corridors. Issue 11: Local regulations exist that Critical Habitat section of this rule). The Effects of water projects on Preble’s and currently protect the Preble’s meadow Service could reevaluate designation of its habitat can vary greatly. Water jumping mouse and its habitat. critical habitat at some future time projects can effectively eliminate, Response: The Service has received should circumstances change and more degrade, or fragment Preble’s habitat. from the Colorado Department of becomes known about Preble’s, its However, activities that enhance and Natural Resources a summary of local habitat, and potential benefit to the extend such habitat can benefit Preble’s. regulations, incentive programs, species to be gained from designation of Issue 7: Trapping studies are a Colorado Water Conservation Board critical habitat. Issue 13: The Service should extend significant threat to Preble’s meadow instream flow decrees, and open space the proposed rule for a period of 6 jumping mouse. purchase programs that help protect habitats that support Preble’s. A variety months. Response: The scientific value of of regulations apply to activities in Response: The Service can only trapping studies will be measured riparian areas and, in effect, contribute extend a proposed rule when it finds against the threats such studies to conservation of Preble’s. However, that there is a substantial disagreement represent to Preble’s. The Service will few local ordinances currently provide among scientists knowledgeable about issue permits to qualified individuals direct protection of Preble’s or its the species regarding the sufficiency or conducting approved trapping studies habitat. Natural areas and wildlife accuracy of the data available relevant on Preble’s. While ‘‘live traps’’ are being habitat may be considered in zoning or to the listing. The Service finds no used, the Service is aware of a few development review, but most substantial disagreement among mortalities associated with recent ordinances will permit significant scientists knowledgeable about Preble’s trapping. Trapping techniques that best variance and provide for considerable that would serve as a basis for extension safeguard Preble’s will be required by latitude in interpretation. For example, of the proposed rule. the Service. construction within the 100-year Issue 14: The collaborative planning Issue 8: Predators may be a threat to floodplain may be tightly restricted by process for Preble’s meadow jumping the Preble’s meadow jumping mouse such measures, but the mowing, cutting, mouse conservation, initiated by the and should be controlled. or overgrazing of Preble’s habitat is State of Colorado, should be pursued as Response: While Preble’s has co- generally not addressed. The City of an alternative to listing. existed with a community of predators Boulder wetlands protection ordinance Response: Consistent with the spirit over time, little is known regarding the has a specific provision designed to and intent of the 1995 ‘‘Memorandum of effect of predators or competing species protect rare and declining species Agreement between the State of on Preble’s populations. Human including Preble’s. Fort Collins provides Colorado and the Department of Interior activities have undoubtably altered protection for ‘‘endangered species Concerning Programs to Manage predator populations. Human habitat’’ in development review, but Colorado’s Declining Native Species,’’ development may, for example, increase apparently does not address rare, the Service fully supports the numbers of great-horned owls and declining, or threatened species. collaborative planning process for raccoons. However, there is presently Incentives and purchase programs Preble’s conservation that is under way insufficient evidence to demonstrate contribute to riparian conservation but in Colorado. The intent of the that control of predators would benefit afford no direct legal protection for Memorandum of Agreement is to Preble’s. Preble’s. While often beneficial to facilitate and promote collaboration and Issue 9: Captive breeding and release, Preble’s, public acquisition of riparian cooperation in managing and conserving and relocation of the Preble’s meadow areas may, at times, result in increased fish and wildlife in Colorado. It was not jumping mouse should be used to human use incompatible with Preble’s. intended to serve as an alternative to stabilize populations and eliminate the The Service supports use of local land listing threatened or endangered species need for listing. use regulations to conserve Preble’s and as required by the Endangered Species Response: Scarcity of suitable habitat its habitat; however, the best measure of Act. The collaborative planning process presumably limits current Preble’s their past effectiveness in protecting includes stakeholders from local distribution. Maintenance of quality Preble’s is the success of these governments, the private sector, the habitat is the principal conservation regulations in maintaining the integrity State, and Federal agencies. This final goal. Relocation and reintroduction of of riparian systems within Preble’s rule to list Preble’s as a threatened Preble’s into unoccupied sites with range. Direct and secondary effects of species is not intended to discourage or suitable habitat may become a part of human activity continue to cause detract from this conservation effort; the future recovery of this species. alteration of riparian areas despite these however, the Service recognizes that it Issue 10: If the Preble’s meadow protections. The Service is currently will take time and commitment on the jumping mouse were protected on engaged in discussions with the part of numerous stakeholders for this Federal land there would be no need to Colorado Department of Natural process to achieve meaningful protect it on private land. Resources and the Colorado Preble’s protection of Preble’s. The Service Federal Register / Vol. 63, No. 92 / Wednesday, May 13, 1998 / Rules and Regulations 26523 believes that, ultimately, this process the species. Their comments have been currently available, the Service believes will produce a conservation plan and incorporated into the final rule as that Preble’s meadow jumping mouse implementation agreements that both appropriate and are summarized below. has undergone a decline in range and protect Preble’s and its habitat over the One reviewer provided a context for that populations within its remaining long term and will minimize regulatory species status over time scales reflecting range have been lost. Habitat loss and and economic effects of this listing. long-term climate change and effects of fragmentation resulting from human These products may form the basis of European settlement within Preble’s land uses have adversely impacted one or more Habitat Conservation Plans meadow jumping mouse range. The Preble’s populations, and continue to do or a rule prepared in accordance with same reviewer (citing a relative lack of so. Armstrong (in litt. 1997) concluded section 4(d) of the Endangered Species species-specific trapping efforts prior to that the meadow jumping mouse, in this Act. To this end, the Service is the 1990’s and geographical gaps in region as elsewhere, is a habitat providing financial support to help recent survey efforts) stated that while specialist, and that its specialized move this process forward. conclusions regarding recent Preble’s habitat is declining. As the summary Issue 15: Rodents are destructive and decline might be accurate, they were not below demonstrates, a variety of known carry disease. Listing the Preble’s strongly supported by capture data. The and potential threats to its habitat have meadow jumping mouse may impact reviewer suggested that examination of been documented. pest control and lead to disease or the adverse changes to the riparian The Colorado Natural Heritage increased crop losses. habitats required by Preble’s could Program ranks Preble’s meadow Response: Preble’s has not been provide additional insight to population jumping mouse as T2, imperiled implicated as a vector for human status and trends. globally, and S2, imperiled in Colorado; disease. Its rarity and dependence on The reviewers of the Preble’s meadow the Wyoming Natural Diversity database riparian and wetland areas minimize its jumping mouse information concluded ranks Preble’s as S1, critically imperiled potential as a pest. Pest control efforts that additional study of habitat in Wyoming (Schuerman and Pague within and around residences and other requirements and population biology 1997). buildings, and in crop fields when are needed to implement effective A study by Compton and Hugie carried out in accordance with pesticide conservation of Preble’s. Specifically, (1993), which was funded by the label restrictions, are unlikely to conflict the limited knowledge of hibernation Service, found it difficult to assess with Preble’s conservation. However, in habitat requirements was cited by two historical trends and current status of some cases the application or discharge reviewers. A better understanding of Preble’s meadow jumping mouse due to of agrichemicals, or other pollutants, Preble’s movement patterns was cited the scarcity of demographic data. Based and pesticides, onto plants, soil, ground by two reviewers as important. One on their review, they recommended that water, or other surfaces within areas reviewer emphasized that more Preble’s be federally listed as a that drain into streams occupied by information on Preble’s food habitats is threatened species. However, after a Preble’s may result in the deterioration needed. largely unsuccessful search for suitable of Preble’s habitat and cause harm to the All three reviewers discussed threats habitat in Wyoming and unsuccessful species. Use of such chemicals in to the Preble’s meadow jumping mouse. trapping surveys for Preble’s at five sites violation of label directions, or any use One reviewer suggested that known in southeastern Wyoming in 1993, they following Service notification that such populations at the Air Force Academy concluded that Preble’s might be use, application or discharge is likely to and Rocky Flats reflect the long-term extirpated from Wyoming (Compton and harm the species, would be evidence of protection of these sites from human Hugie 1994). Their revised unauthorized use, application or disturbance rather than presence of recommendation was that Preble’s be discharge. optimal Preble’s habitat. Another federally listed as an endangered reviewer concluded that currently only species. Peer Review two or three sites supporting Preble’s Since 1993, efforts to document In accordance with policy are adequately protected. Threats existing populations of Preble’s meadow promulgated July 1, 1994 (59 FR 34270), discussed by reviewers included jumping mouse have increased the Service solicited the expert opinions fragmentation of riparian corridors, commensurate with rising concern over of independent specialists regarding gravel mining, and alteration of water its status. Recent trapping efforts have pertinent scientific or commercial data regimes and the resulting effects on located Preble’s meadow jumping and assumptions relating to the riparian vegetation. mouse populations in some areas taxonomy, population models, and (Douglas, El Paso, and Elbert counties, supportive biological and ecological Summary of Factors Affecting the Colorado) where few or no historical information for species under Species records exist. However, recent trapping consideration for listing. The purpose of Section 4 of the Act and regulations has also failed to produce captures at such review is to ensure listing (50 CFR Part 424) promulgated to historical sites and sites with apparently decisions are based on scientifically implement the listing provisions of the suitable habitat within Preble’s sound data, assumptions, and analyses, Act set forth the procedures for adding historical range. Preble’s is not known including input of appropriate experts species to the Federal lists. A species to be currently present in Adams, and specialists. may be determined to be a threatened or Arapahoe, and Denver counties in The data and assumptions regarding endangered species due to one or more Colorado where it was historically the Preble’s meadow jumping mouse of the five factors described in section documented. were reviewed by three specialists. Peer 4(a)(1). These factors and their Ryon (1996, in litt. 1997) investigated reviewers were identified through application to the Preble’s meadow nine historical Preble’s meadow inquiries to research institutions, jumping mouse (Zapus hudsonius jumping mouse capture sites in six universities, and museums for preblei) are as follows: Colorado counties through trapping and individuals with recognized expertise A. The present or threatened site history. Ryon concluded that with the subject taxa. The reviewers destruction, modification, or Preble’s was absent at all nine sites and were asked to comment upon specific curtailment of its habitat or range. After related absence of Preble’s to changes in assumptions and conclusions regarding reviewing the best scientific data habitat (see also Ryon and Harrington 26524 Federal Register / Vol. 63, No. 92 / Wednesday, May 13, 1998 / Rules and Regulations

1996). Specific human activities approximately 15 trapping studies from Unfortunately, this area of development impacting habitat at these sites included El Paso County downstream of the corresponds almost directly to known real estate development, highway Cottonwood Creek and Monument Preble’s range. Fueled by human construction, stream alteration, and Creek confluence (on Monument Creek, population increases, an increase of 1 grazing. In addition, offsite impacts may Fountain Creek, and their tributaries) million people is estimated by 2020, have caused isolation of sites that failed to document Preble’s. Six of 7 development in this area continues at an rendered them unsuitable for Preble’s. successful Boulder County surveys were unprecedented rate. Ryon concluded that the range of near a 2-mile segment of State Highway Compton and Hugie (1993, 1994) Preble’s has decreased, especially 36 near Lyons (Ensight Technical cited human activities that have adjacent to or east of the Interstate Services 1997). Thirty-three 1997 adversely impacted Preble’s meadow Highway 25 urban corridor. surveys from Adams, Arapahoe, Denver, jumping mouse including: conversion of Extensive studies of public lands in Douglas, Larimer, and Weld counties grasslands to farms; livestock grazing; Boulder County in 1995 resulted in failed to locate Preble’s. Fragmentation water development and management capture of 23 Preble’s, on 2 of 13 sites and isolation of habitat have apparently practices; and residential and surveyed, in 17,800 trapnights of effort caused local extirpation of Preble’s in commercial development. They (Armstrong et al. 1996). Sites were highly developed areas. Shenk (in litt. mentioned the effects of urbanization selected, in part, based on documented 1998) suggested that development of the occurring from Colorado Springs, historical presence and perceived Denver metropolitan area has created a Colorado, to Cheyenne, Wyoming, as a quality of habitat. Among the authors’ north-south gap in Preble’s range. continuing threat to remaining conclusions were that Preble’s is not In contrast to surveys above at populations. Ryon (1995) commented abundant in the Colorado Piedmont of anticipated development sites, Meaney that recent capture sites he observed Boulder County and that suitable habitat et al. (1997) targeted likely Preble’s were on large, historically undisturbed appeared to be present on some sites meadow jumping mouse habitat lands supporting native plant where trapping was unsuccessful. throughout its known range and communities. Recent surveys for Preble’s meadow successfully trapped Preble’s at 7 of 10 Shenk (in litt. 1998) linked potential jumping mouse at certain other sites sites in 1997. Their results filled gaps threats to ecological requirements of with potential habitat in Colorado have regarding Preble’s status in north-central Preble’s meadow jumping mouse and been unsuccessful in documenting Colorado and suggest that their ability to suggested that factors which impacted presence. Surveys funded and carried identify Preble’s habitat has improved vegetation composition and structure, out by the Department of the Army at over their 1995 and 1996 efforts which riparian hydrology, habitat structure, the Army’s Fort Carson Military found Preble’s at 0 of 10 and 4 of 10 distribution, geomorphology, and Reservation in El Paso and Pueblo sites respectively. animal community composition must be counties resulted in no Preble’s captures While historical status in Wyoming is addressed in any conservation strategy. despite 3,311 trapnights of effort in less clear (Garber 1995), Preble’s Some researchers hypothesize that apparently suitable habitat (Bunn et al. meadow jumping mouse is not currently overgrazing by livestock may be an 1995). Private researchers and U.S. known from its former range in Albany, important cause of the decline of the Department of Agriculture Forest Goshen, and Natrona counties. Garber Preble’s meadow jumping mouse. Service personnel found no Preble’s in documented Preble’s persisting at only Compton and Hugie (1994) stated that in limited surveys of seemingly adequate two Wyoming sites, commented on the southeastern Wyoming almost all habitats within the Forest Service’s difficulty of capturing Preble’s at these private land of appropriate topography Pawnee National Grassland in northern sites, and concluded that substantial and hydrology to support Preble’s Weld County (Harrington pers. comm. additional work was needed to fully habitat was heavily grazed by livestock 1995). determine the status of Preble’s in and that overgrazing was the most Patterns of capture suggest that Wyoming. The Wyoming Game and Fish significant factor in reducing habitat for populations may fluctuate over time at Department (Bill Wichers in litt. 1997) Preble’s. While not mentioning grazing occupied sites (Shenk in litt. 1998). This concurred with the conclusion that specifically, the Wyoming Game and raises questions regarding security of Preble’s has likely been extirpated from Fish Commission (Wichers in litt. 1997) documented populations and most or all of its historical range in cited riparian degradation as the significance of unsuccessful trapping Wyoming. primary cause of Preble’s decline in reports. However, trapping surveys Trapping surveys provide evidence Wyoming and stated that the situation provide the best available information that the Preble’s meadow jumping would not improve without active regarding current status and distribution mouse has declined throughout portions management. Ryon (1996) cited of Preble’s. of its range. This decline and future livestock grazing as a contributor to lack Over 150 surveys for Preble’s meadow threats to existing Preble’s populations of structural habitat diversity he jumping mouse have been conducted in are linked to widespread habitat observed on historical Preble’s sites in recent years at locations where alteration. The Colorado Piedmont east Colorado. Two of the largest development is anticipated. In 1997, of the Front Range and adjacent areas of documented populations of Preble’s results of 104 Colorado surveys were southeastern Wyoming have changed exist on Federal properties (Rocky Flats submitted to the Service for proposed or from predominantly prairie habitat and the U.S. Air Force Academy) where potential development sites that intermixed with perennial and livestock grazing is excluded. supported potential Preble’s habitat. intermittent streams and associated The importance of ‘‘late season Nine of 35 surveys in El Paso County, riparian habitats, to a more agricultural obesity’’ (the buildup of fat reserves) in 7 of 19 in Boulder County, and 1 of 17 and urban setting with grazing, meadow jumping mice and its positive from Jefferson County documented residential, commercial, industrial, and correlation to hibernation survival, post- Preble’s presence. All successful recreational development. The Colorado hibernation development, and surveys in El Paso County were on Front Range urban corridor represents successful reproduction has been well Monument Creek and its tributaries only about 4 percent of the State’s land documented (Nichols and Conley 1982, upstream from (north of) downtown area but supports 80 percent of its Muchlinski 1980). Preble’s meadow Colorado Springs. In contrast, population (Wright 1993). jumping mice entering hibernation with Federal Register / Vol. 63, No. 92 / Wednesday, May 13, 1998 / Rules and Regulations 26525 low fat reserves are less likely to survive expressed concern over the hydrologic Preble’s or its habitat. At some historical the winter or to successfully breed the integrity of Monument Creek and its capture sites, habitat appears intact, but following spring. Late season grazing of tributaries because of activities isolation has probably rendered the sites Preble’s habitat, as well as mowing or upstream of the Air Force Academy. unsuitable for Preble’s (Ryon 1996). burning, could adversely affect Preble’s Flood control, through the placement of Roads, trails, or other linear by reducing the availability of food riprap and other structural stabilization development through Preble’s habitat resources essential for buildup of fat options, has been proposed on areas that may act as barriers to movement. Shenk reserves. support Preble’s, including portions of (1998) suggested that on a landscape City of Boulder Open Space lands Monument Creek and its tributaries. scale, maintenance of acceptable endured intensive grazing, farming, or While Rocky Flats supports one of the dispersal corridors linking patches of haying regimes until they became part largest known populations of Preble’s Preble’s habitat may be critical to its of the City of Boulder Open Space meadow jumping mouse and has served conservation. system. Grazing and haying continue on as a refuge for Preble’s, the future Development and heavy use of trails sites supporting the Preble’s meadow conservation of Preble’s at this site is within occupied Preble’s meadow jumping mouse, largely as land uncertain due to possible impacts to jumping mouse habitats may impact the management tools. Impacts of current occupied habitats. Without careful species by destroying its habitat, nests, management practices to Preble’s and planning, Preble’s meadow jumping and food resources, or by disrupting their habitats are largely unknown. mouse habitats at Rocky Flats could be behavior. Recreational trail systems The Preble’s meadow jumping mouse impacted by the Department of Energy’s have been established or are proposed has been documented to coexist on sites planned bioremediation (the along many riparian corridors within supporting grazing, including the detoxification of toxic substances using Preble’s range. Heavily used recreational Medicine Bow National Forest in biological agents) and hazardous trails currently exist on City of Boulder Wyoming and Plum Creek, Douglas contaminant cleanup, associated water Open Space lands, including sites that County, in Colorado. Armstrong et al. management practices designed to support Preble’s. A current study near a (1997) suggested that timing and contain hazardous materials spills and new paved trail along South Boulder intensity of grazing are probably prevent their migration offsite, and dam Creek is assessing impacts to a known important factors in maintaining safety and maintenance activities. An Preble’s population (Meaney in litt. Preble’s habitat and that maintenance of additional threat is potential disruption 1998). woody vegetative cover may be a key of the current hydrology by mining Habitat alteration may encourage consideration. operations. There are proposals to invasion of weeds. While little is known Human development has produced expand existing commercial sand and regarding impact of invasive, nonnative profound changes in the hydrology of gravel extraction and processing vegetation on Preble’s meadow jumping streams flowing east from the Colorado activities in the Rock Creek drainage mouse, Ryon (1996) expressed concern Front Range. Riparian habitat on which both outside and within the boundary of and Garber (1995) stated that this may the Preble’s meadow jumping mouse Rocky Flats. The Department of Energy represent one of the most serious depends is in turn dependent on surface does not control mineral rights on the problems facing the mouse. Corn et al. flows and groundwater. Water land in question. The Service is (1995) discussed both the problem of development and management in its currently working with the Department invasive weeds degrading Preble’s various forms can alter Preble’s meadow of Energy to provide permanent habitat and the potential problem of jumping mouse habitat, often, but not protection of Preble’s habitat at Rocky weed control programs removing cover always, with adverse impacts. Fitzgerald Flats. and thereby impacting Preble’s habitat. et al. (1994) stated that inundation of Alluvial aggregate extraction, often in In summary after reviewing the best riparian areas to create reservoirs had or near riparian habitats, continues to scientific data currently available, the decreased available Preble’s habitat. expand as development intensifies Service finds that Preble’s meadow Compton and Hugie (1993) concluded along the Colorado Front Range. Ryon jumping mouse has undergone a decline that management of water for (1996) and Armstrong et al. (1997) in range and that populations within its commercial and residential use tends to suggested that such mining can destroy remaining range have been lost. Habitat channelize and isolate water resources, and fragment Preble’s meadow jumping alteration, degradation, loss, and and has reduced in size and fragmented mouse habitat. Armstrong (in litt. 1997) fragmentation resulting from residential, riparian habitats used by Preble’s. They suggested that mining impacts are commercial, recreational, flood control found development of irrigated significant and, unlike some other and water development, and farmland had a negative impact on human uses, cause permanent changes agricultural and livestock grazing land Preble’s habitat, and that any habitat to Preble’s habitat. Mining also targets uses have adversely impacted and creation it produced was minimal. gravel deposits that may provide key fragmented Preble’s populations. However, Preble’s has been shown to hibernation sites. Significant threats to the continued use overgrown water conveyance Residential and commercial existence of Preble’s are also posed by ditches and pond edges and may use development, accompanied by highway hazardous materials, mining, and ditches for dispersal (Meaney et al. and bridge construction, and instream highway and bridge construction. This 1997, Shenk in litt. 1998). alterations to implement flood control, species is also highly susceptible to Water diversions and associated land directly remove Preble’s meadow localized extinction from naturally use changes can impact Preble’s jumping mouse habitat, or reduces, occurring events such as flooding, meadow jumping mouse habitat alters, fragments, and isolates habitat to predation, and disease outbreaks. directly, as well as through hydrologic the point where Preble’s meadow B. Overutilization for commercial, alterations to Preble’s habitat located jumping mouse can no longer persist. recreational, scientific, or educational downstream. While an integrated Corn et al. (1995) proposed that a 100 purposes. The Preble’s meadow jumping natural resource management plan at m (328 ft) buffer of unaltered habitat be mouse has no known commercial or the Air Force Academy includes established to protect the floodplain of recreational value. Scientific and specific provisions for Preble’s Monument Creek from a range of human educational collecting has not been conservation, Corn et al. (1995) activities that might adversely effect widespread over the past century. While 26526 Federal Register / Vol. 63, No. 92 / Wednesday, May 13, 1998 / Rules and Regulations the Service is aware of a small amount ‘‘species of special concern’’ in This effort is supported in part by of incidental mortality associated with Colorado; however, this is not a appropriations from Congress, recent scientific studies, this is not statutory designation. Preble’s is specifically for the Preble’s planning thought to present a threat to Preble’s currently under consideration for process. The Service is an active populations. endangered species designation in participant in this process and is fully C. Disease or predation. The Preble’s Colorado. In Wyoming, the Wyoming supportive of the goal of developing a meadow jumping mouse, as well as Game and Fish Department has Preble’s conservation plan and other native rodents, carries parasites classified Z. hudsonius as a nongame implementing agreements. However, and diseases that may reduce vigor, species protected under Wyoming Game there are no such plans or agreements curtail reproductive success, and cause and Fish Department Nongame Wildlife currently in place. The Service death. There is no evidence whether or Regulations promulgated by WF23–1– anticipates that this planning process not any epizootic disease has caused 103 and 23–1–302. This designation may lead to the creation of one or more significant impact to Preble’s. While protects Preble’s from takings and sales Habitat Conservation Plans or to the plague is regularly found in other rodent by only issuing permits for the purpose application of the Service’s species within Preble’s range, its impact of scientific collection. While the above discretionary rule-making authority to Preble’s populations is not known. regulations limit the taking of Preble’s, pursuant to section 4(d) of the Predation on the Preble’s meadow they provide no measures to protect the Endangered Species Act. jumping mouse has always existed as a species’ habitats. State listing E. Other natural or manmade factors naturally occurring association between encourages State agencies to allocate affecting its continued existence. Use of predator and prey. While evidence is funds and exercise authority to achieve pesticides and herbicides has scant, human development may have recovery, stimulate research, and allow undoubtably increased across known altered this relationship. Armstrong et redirection of priorities within State Preble’s meadow jumping mouse range al. (1996) recommended studies be natural resource departments. However, as human land use has intensified. conducted on influences of the without additional measures to protect These chemicals could directly poison suburban environment and associated habitat, such State laws are generally Preble’s or may be ingested through densities of species such as striped inadequate. contaminated food or water. Specific skunk (Mephitis mephitis), raccoon There are few regional or local laws, impacts to Preble’s from pesticides and (Procyon lotor), and the domestic cat regulations, or ordinances that herbicides are not currently known. (Felis catus) on Preble’s. Free-ranging specifically protect Preble’s meadow Intensive human development creates a domestic cats may locally present a jumping mouse or its habitat from range of additional environmental problem to Preble’s. Corn et al. (1995) inadvertent or intentional adverse impacts (including but not limited to recommended a 1.5 km (.9 mi) setback impacts. A myriad of local regulations, noise, and the degradation of air and of housing development from Preble’s incentive programs, and open space water quality) that could alter Preble’s habitat to exclude predation by ‘‘house programs exist, as documented in behavior, increase the levels of stress, cats.’’ As an alternative they suggested materials forwarded to the Service by and ultimately contribute to loss of a strict prohibition on free-ranging cats. the Colorado Department of Natural vigor or death of individuals, and More information is needed about the Resources. While certain regulations are extirpation of populations. effects from predation by domestic and designed to conserve wetlands or In summary, the Preble’s meadow feral cats, and perhaps dogs (Canis floodplains, it is unlikely that they jumping mouse, historically a rare familiaris), on Preble’s. effectively control land uses (grazing, mammal, has declined. Seven counties D. The inadequacy of existing mowing, cutting, burning) that may in Colorado and two in Wyoming are regulatory mechanisms. The decline of impact vegetation on which Preble’s known to support Preble’s populations. the Preble’s meadow jumping mouse is depends. Further, Preble’s may be Riparian habitats required to support partially due to the inherent weakness dependent on hibernacula sites outside Preble’s have been severely modified or or non-application of the existing laws the protected wetlands or floodplains. destroyed by human activities in many and regulations that could serve to Many existing local regulations create a areas east of the Colorado Front Range protect Preble’s and its habitat. Relevant process of site plan review which and in southeastern Wyoming. With Federal laws include the Clean Water ‘‘considers’’ or ‘‘encourages’’ current human population increases, the Act, Endangered Species Act, Federal conservation of wildlife, wetlands, and loss and modification of riparian habitat Power Act, Fish and Wildlife natural habitats. Effectiveness of local continues. Existing regulations have Coordination Act, Food Security Act, regulations in maintaining naturally proven to be inadequate to protect and National Environmental Policy Act. functioning riparian corridors may vary Preble’s, as witnessed by its apparent Federal regulations and policies have greatly depending on how these decline and the continued destruction limited protection authority and scope apparently flexible regulations are and modification of its habitats. for non-listed species. These statutes implemented. Beyond direct impact to The Service has carefully assessed the only recommend, not require, that Preble’s habitat, secondary impacts of best scientific and commercial projects carried out, funded, or development (increased recreational information available regarding the past, permitted by the Federal government use, altered flow regimes and present, and future threats faced by this attempt to mitigate impacts to species of groundwater levels, and increase in species in developing this rule. Based special concern due to scarcity or domestic predators) may not currently on this evaluation, the preferred action decline. be addressed at the local level. is to list the Preble’s meadow jumping Colorado Division of Wildlife Of note is the 1997 creation of a mouse as a threatened species. The Regulations (Chapter 10, Article IV) Preble’s Meadow Jumping Mouse Service has determined that the Preble’s classify Z. hudsonius as a ‘‘nongame’’ Working Group, organized by the meadow jumping mouse is likely to species. This designation means that Colorado Department of Natural become endangered within the permits must be obtained for take of Resources to initiate a collaborative foreseeable future throughout all or a Preble’s meadow jumping mouse related planning process designed to produce a significant portion of its range and to scientific, educational, or legally and scientifically sound therefore meets the requirements to be rehabilitation purposes. Preble’s is a approach to conservation of Preble’s. listed as threatened. Based on 1997 Federal Register / Vol. 63, No. 92 / Wednesday, May 13, 1998 / Rules and Regulations 26527 survey data, Preble’s is now known to lands and may affect activities on non- participation, in a project or activity. exist in several additional sites in Federal lands where such a Federal Four populations of the Preble’s Colorado. In addition, 1997 studies in nexus exists. Potential benefits of meadow jumping mouse are located on Douglas County, Colorado, suggest critical habitat designation derive from Federal lands administered by the U.S. substantial occupied habitat exists along section 7(a)(2) of the Act, which Forest Service, U.S. Air Force and the East Plum Creek and West Plum Creek. requires Federal agencies, in Department of Energy. These agencies For this reason, the Service believes that consultation with the Service, to ensure are aware of the species’ occurrence at a designation as threatened more that their actions are not likely to these sites and the requirement to accurately reflects the threats facing this jeopardize the continued existence of consult with the Service. The species than the endangered status that listed species or to result in the Department of Energy (DOE) at Rocky was identified in the March 25, 1997, destruction or adverse modification of Flats and the Air Force Academy have proposed rule. The Service knows of no critical habitat of such species. both been active in Preble’s meadow substantial disagreement among Critical habitat, by definition, applies jumping mouse survey, research and scientists knowledgeable about Preble’s only to Federal agency actions. 50 CFR conservation. The DOE continues to regarding the sufficiency or accuracy of 402.02 defines ‘‘jeopardize the study Preble’s at Rocky Flats, has the available data relevant to this continued existence of’’ as meaning to mapped occupied and potential habitat, determination, which would serve as a engage in an action that would and is developing a PMJM Protection basis for extension of the proposed rule. reasonably be expected, directly or Plan for the facility. The Air Force Critical habitat is not being proposed for indirectly, to reduce appreciably the Academy has been active in surveying the reasons stated below. likelihood of both the survival and for Preble’s and continues to support recovery of a listed species in the wild Critical Habitat research into habitat use including radio by reducing the reproduction, numbers, tracking of animals. Warren Air Force Critical habitat is defined in section 3 or distribution of that species. Both Base and the Forest Service have of the Act as: (i) the specific areas jeopardizing the continued existence of supported some survey work with within the geographical area occupied a species and adverse modification of additional work remaining to be by the species, at the time it is listed in critical habitat have similar standards accomplished. In each case these accordance with the Act, on which are and thus similar thresholds for violation facilities, Rocky Flats and the Air Force found those physical or biological of section 7 of the Act. In the section Academy, both of which support features (I) essential to the conservation 7(a)(2) consultation process, the important populations, are well aware of the species and (II) that may require jeopardy analysis focuses on potential of their responsibilities regarding special management considerations or effects on the species’ populations, section 7. The designation of critical protection; and, (ii) specific areas whereas the destruction or adverse habitat would provide no change in outside the geographical area occupied modification analysis focuses on habitat their present operations and impart no by a species at the time it is listed, upon value, specifically on those constituent additional benefit. Therefore, informing a determination that such areas are elements identified in the critical these agencies of the species location essential for the conservation of the habitat listing. and need to consult is unnecessary. species. ‘‘Conservation’’ means the use Common to both jeopardy and of all methods and procedures needed destruction or adverse modification Designation of critical habitat to bring the species to the point at biological opinions is the requirement provides no limitations or constraints which listing under the Act is no longer that the Service find an appreciable on private landowners if there is no necessary. effect on both the species’ survival and Federal nexus, and, as such, provides Section 4(a)(3) of the Act, as recovery. This is in contrast to the the species no benefit. Activities on amended, and implementing regulations public perception that the adverse private lands rarely have a federal (50 CFR 424.12) require that, to the modification standard sets a lower nexus. A Federal nexus may in some maximum extent prudent and threshold for violation of section 7 than cases be found for parcels of lands determinable, the Secretary designate that for jeopardy. Thus, Federal actions where there is an activity either funded, critical habitat at the time the species is satisfying the standard for adverse authorized or permitted by a Federal determined to be endangered or modification are nearly always found to agency. Under the Clean Water Act threatened. Service regulations (50 CFR also jeopardize the species concerned, section 404 a permit is required for any 424.12(a)(1)) state that designation of and the existence of designated critical activity resulting in the discharge of critical habitat is not prudent when one habitat does not materially affect the dredge and fill material from or both of the following situations exist: outcome of consultation. Biological jurisdictional waters. Generally such (1) The species is threatened by taking opinions that conclude that a Federal activities on small parcels of private or other human activity, and agency action is likely to adversely lands are excluded from individual identification of critical habitat can be modify critical habitat but is not likely permit requirements under the Corps expected to increase the degree of threat to jeopardize the species for which it is section 404 Nationwide Permit program. to the species, or (2) such designation of designated are extremely rare In all cases where there is a Federal critical habitat would not be beneficial historically; none have been issued in nexus to an activity occurring on private to the species. The Service finds that recent years. Thus, the Service believes lands, any underlying Federal action designation of critical habitat is not that, from a section 7 consultation (the issuance of a permit) triggering the prudent for Preble’s meadow jumping perspective, little or no additional standard for adverse modification mouse for the reasons described below. conservation benefit would be achieved would also be found to trigger the Critical habitat receives consideration for Preble’s meadow jumping mouse by jeopardy standard, with the existence of under section 7 of the Act with regard the designation of critical habitat. designated critical habitat not materially to actions carried out, authorized, or Additionally, designation of critical affecting the outcome of consultation. funded by a Federal agency (see habitat provides protection only on Therefore such designation of critical Available Conservation Measures Federal lands or on non-Federal lands habitat on balance would not afford the section). As such, designation of critical when there is Federal involvement, Preble’s meadow jumping mouse any habitat may affect activities on Federal through authorization or funding or additional benefit. 26528 Federal Register / Vol. 63, No. 92 / Wednesday, May 13, 1998 / Rules and Regulations

Expansive blocks of public lands of critical habitat would provide little The Preble’s meadow jumping mouse ensures that Federally sponsored different or greater benefit than that occurs on lands administered by the activities will receive the benefit of provided by the jeopardy standard U.S. Air Force, Department of Energy, section 7 consultation, regardless of under section 7 regulations, and that U.S. Forest Service, Colorado Division whether or not critical habitat is any minor benefits accruing from such of Wildlife, Colorado State Parks, designated. Protection of the habitat of designation are outweighed by its Boulder County, Jefferson County, City the species will also be addressed negative effects, the Service has of Boulder, and on private lands. For through the Act’s recovery process. determined that the designation of Federal lands where Preble’s occur, the Only through the recovery process will critical habitat for the Preble’s meadow Act would require the appropriate land a recovery plan be created that will jumping mouse is not prudent. management agency to evaluate prescribe specific management actions The Service will continue its efforts to potential impacts to Preble’s that may and the establishment of numerical obtain more information on Preble’s result from activities they authorize or population goals. In addition, the meadow jumping mouse biology and permit. The Act requires consultation landowners may choose to develop a ecology, including essential habitat under section 7 of the Act for activities habitat conservation plan through the characteristics, current and historical on Federal, State, county, or private section 10 permitting process that will distribution, and existing and potential lands, including tribal lands, that may manage for the conservation of the sites that can contribute to conservation impact the survival and recovery of species. Thus, protection of habitat can of the species. The information resulting Preble’s, if such activities are funded, be addressed through the recovery, from this effort will be used to identify authorized, carried out, or permitted by section 10 and section 7 consultation measures needed to achieve Federal agencies. The Federal agencies processes, and designation of critical conservation of the species, as defined that may be involved as a result of this habitat would afford the Preble’s under the Act. Such measures could proposed rule include the Service, meadow jumping mouse no additional include, but are not limited to, Department of Energy, Forest Service, benefit. development of conservation U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Natural Listing of the Preble’s meadow agreements with the States, other Resources Conservation Service, Bureau jumping mouse as a threatened species Federal agencies, local governments, of Land Management, Bureau of also publicizes the present vulnerability and private landowners and Reclamation, Department of the Army, of this species and, thus, can be organizations. Department of the Air Force, Office of reasonably expected to increase the Surface Mining, Western Area Power threat of vandalism or intentional Available Conservation Measures Administration, Rural Utilities Service, destruction of the species habitat. In Conservation measures provided to a Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, light of the vulnerability of this species species listed as endangered or Department of Housing and Urban to vandalism or the intentional threatened under the Act include Development, Federal Highway destruction of its habitat (for example recognition, recovery actions, Commission, and Environmental poisoning, lethal trapping, burning or requirements for Federal protection, and Protection Agency. Federally listing cutting of habitat), the designation of prohibitions against certain practices. Preble’s as a threatened species will critical habitat in and of itself and the Recognition through listing results in require these agencies to consider publication of maps providing its public awareness and conservation potential impacts to Preble’s prior to precise locations and descriptions of approval of any activity authorized or essential elements, as required for the actions by Federal, State, and local permitted by them (e.g., Clean Water designation of critical habitat, would agencies, private organizations, and Act’s section 404 permits, grazing reasonably be expected to increase the individuals. The Act provides for management, military maneuvers, degree of threat to the species and its possible land acquisition, cooperation bioremediation and hazardous materials habitat, increase the difficulties of law with the States, and requires that cleanup, mining permitting and enforcement, and further contribute to recovery actions be carried out for all expansion, highway construction, etc.). the decline of Preble’s. listed species. The protection required The Service acknowledges that of Federal agencies and the prohibitions Federal agency actions that may critical habitat may provide some minor against taking and harm are discussed, require consultation as described in the benefit in that it may identify areas in part, below. preceding paragraph include: removing, important to a species, call attention to Section 7(a) of the Act requires thinning or altering vegetation; those areas in special need of protection Federal agencies to evaluate their implementing livestock grazing and contribute a positive influence for actions with respect to any species that management that alters vegetation securing funding or land acquisitions, is proposed or listed as endangered or during warm seasons; construction of etc., if a parcel of land is designated as threatened, and with respect to its roads or access along or through critical habitat. However, in this case, critical habitat, if any is being riparian areas; channelization and other where identification of such areas is designated. Regulations implementing alteration of perennial and intermittent expected to exacerbate a potentially this interagency cooperation provision streams and their hydrological regimes serious additional threat (vandalism), of the Act are codified at 50 CFR part for flood control and other water information regarding the special needs 402. Section 7(a)(2) requires Federal management purposes; permanent and of the species for protection can be agencies to insure that activities they temporary damming of streams to create disseminated more effectively through authorize, fund, or carry out are not water storage reservoirs or deviate the alternative means, and such designation likely to jeopardize the continued stream’s course; human activities in or could also impart negative connotations existence of the species or destroy or near Preble’s meadow jumping mouse and dissuade people from participating adversely modify its critical habitat. If a habitats; construction of residential, in conservation activities simply Federal action may affect a listed commercial, and industrial because an area is designated critical species or its critical habitat, the developments, including roads, bridges, habitat. responsible Federal agency must enter public utilities and telephone lines, Therefore, because of the increased into formal consultation with the pipelines, and other structures; threat of taking, the fact that designation Service. bioremediation and hazardous materials Federal Register / Vol. 63, No. 92 / Wednesday, May 13, 1998 / Rules and Regulations 26529 management, containment, and cleanup (1) Activities authorized, funded, or injury death of Preble’s meadow efforts such as those at Rocky Flats; and, carried out by Federal agencies (e.g., jumping mice, or that modify the known sand and gravel and other types of grazing management, agricultural habitat of the species, thereby mining activities within or upstream of conversions, wetland and riparian significantly modifying essential Preble’s meadow jumping mouse habitat modification, flood and erosion behavioral patterns (e.g., plowing, habitats. control, mineral development, housing mowing, or cutting; conversion of wet The Act and implementing and commercial development, meadow or riparian habitats to regulations set forth a series of general recreational trail development, road and residential, commercial, industrial, prohibitions and exceptions that apply dam construction, hazardous material recreational areas, or cropland; to all listed wildlife. The prohibitions containment and cleanup activities, overgrazing; road and trail construction; codified at 50 CFR 17.21, in part, make prescribed burns, pest control activities, water development or impoundment; it illegal for any person subject to the pipelines or utility lines crossing mineral extraction or processing; off- jurisdiction of the United States to take riparian/wet meadow habitats, logging, highway vehicle use; and, hazardous (including harass, harm, pursue, hunt, military maneuvers and training) when material cleanup or bioremediation); shoot, wound, kill, trap, capture, or such activity is conducted in when such activities are not carried out collect; or attempt any of these), import accordance with any incidental take pursuant to either a section 10(a)(1)(B) or export, ship in interstate commerce statement prepared by the Service in permit issued by the Service; a in the course of commercial activity, or accordance with section 7 of the Act; protective regulation issued under sell or offer for sale in interstate or (2) Activities such as grazing section 4(d) necessary and advisable for foreign commerce any listed species. It management, flood and erosion control, the conservation of the species, or in also is illegal to possess, sell, deliver, agricultural conversions, wetland and accordance with any reasonable and carry, transport, or ship any such riparian habitat modification, mineral prudent measures given by the Service wildlife that has been taken illegally. development, housing and commercial under section 7(b)(4)(C)(ii) of the Act. Certain exceptions apply to agents of the development, road and dam (3) The application or discharge of Service and State conservation agencies. construction, recreational trail agrichemicals, or other pollutants, and Permits may be issued to carry out development, hazardous material pesticides, onto plants, soil, ground otherwise prohibited activities containment and cleanup activities, water, or other surfaces in violation of involving listed wildlife under certain prescribed burns, pest control activities, label directions, or any use following Service notification that such use, circumstances. Regulations governing pipelines or utility lines crossing application or discharge is likely to permits are codified at 50 CFR 17.22 riparian/wet meadow habitats, logging, harm the species; would be evidence of and 17.23. Such permits are available military maneuvers and training when unauthorized use, application or for scientific purposes, to enhance the such activity does not occur in habitats discharge. propagation or survival of the species, suitable for the survival and recovery of the Preble’s meadow jumping mouse, Questions regarding whether specific and/or incidental take in connection activities, such as changes in land use, with otherwise lawful activities. does not alter downstream hydrology or riparian habitat supporting Preble’s, and will constitute a violation of section 9 Information collections associated with should be directed to the Colorado Field these permits are approved under the does not result in actual death or injury to the species by significantly modifying Office (see ADDRESSES section). Paperwork Reduction Act, 44 U.S.C. The prohibition against intentional 3501 et seq., and assigned Office and essential behavioral patterns; (3) Within the hibernation period and and unintentional ‘‘take’’ of listed Management and Budget clearance outside denning areas, controlled burns species applies to all landowners number 1018–0094. For additional and mowing, or other activities that regardless of whether or not their lands information concerning these permits temporarily alter the Preble’s meadow are within designated critical habitat and associated requirements, see 50 CFR jumping mouse food sources. The (see 16 U.S.C. 1538(a)(1), 1532(1a) and 17.32. period when mowing and burning 50 CFR 17.3). Section 10(a)(1)(B) Requests for copies of the regulations activities would not impact the Preble’s authorizes the Service to issue permits regarding listed wildlife and inquiries meadow jumping mouse nourishment for the taking of listed species incidental about prohibitions and permits may be may vary at specific locations, but to otherwise lawful activities such as addresses to U.S. Fish and Wildlife would usually fall between October 15 agriculture, surface mining, and urban Service, P.O. Box 25486, Denver Federal and April 15 of every year; development. Take permits authorized Center, Denver, Colorado 80225 (4) Human recreational activities under section 9 must be supported by a (telephone 303/236–8155, Facsimile undertaken on foot or horseback at habitat conservation plan (HCP) under 303/236–8192). breeding, feeding, and hibernating sites section 10 that identifies conservation The Service adopted a policy on July that do not degrade Preble’s meadow measures that the permittee agrees to 1, 1994 (59 FR 34272), to identify to the jumping mouse habitat (e.g., waterfowl implement to conserve the species, maximum extent practicable at the time hunting, bird watching, sightseeing, usually on the permittee’s lands. The a species is listed, those activities that photography, camping, hiking); and, Service would approve an HCP, and would or would not constitute a (5) Application of pesticides in issue a section 10(a)(1)(B) permit only if violation of section 9 of the Act. The accordance with label instructions, in the plan would minimize and mitigate intent of this policy is to increase public areas that do not drain into Preble’s the impacts of the taking and would not awareness of the effect of the listing on meadow jumping mouse habitats. appreciably reduce the likelihood of the proposed and ongoing activities within Activities that the Service believes survival and recovery of that species in a species’ range. The Service believes could potentially result in a violation of the wild. that, based upon the best available section 9 include, but are not limited to: information, the following actions will (1) Unauthorized or unpermitted National Environmental Policy Act not result in a violation of section 9, collecting, handling, harassing, or taking The Service has determined that provided these activities are carried out of the species; Environmental Assessments and in accordance with existing regulations (2) Activities that directly or Environmental Impact Statements, as and permit requirements: indirectly result in the actual death or defined under the authority of the 26530 Federal Register / Vol. 63, No. 92 / Wednesday, May 13, 1998 / Rules and Regulations

National Environmental Policy Act of References Cited the Code of Federal Regulations, as 1969, need not be prepared in amended, as set forth below: connection with regulations adopted A complete list of all references cited pursuant to Section 4(a) of the Act. A is available upon request from the PART 17Ð[AMENDED] notice outlining the Service’s reasons Colorado Field Office (see ADDRESSES above). 1. The authority citation for part 17 for this determination was published in continues to read as follows: the Federal Register on October 25, Author. The primary author of this document is Peter Plage of the Colorado Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1361–1407; 16 U.S.C. 1983 (48 FR 49244). 1531–1544; 16 U.S.C. 4201–4245; Pub. L. 99– Field Office (see ADDRESSES section). Required Determinations 625, 100 Stat. 3500, unless otherwise noted. List of Subjects in 50 CFR Part 17 2. Section 17.11(h) is amended by The Service has examined this Endangered and threatened species, adding the following, in alphabetical regulation under the Paperwork order under Mammals, to the List of Reduction Act of 1995 and found it to Exports, Imports, Reporting and recordkeeping requirements, Endangered and Threatened Wildlife to contain no information collection read as follows: requirements. This rulemaking was not Transportation. subject to review by the Office of Regulation Promulgation § 17.11 Endangered and threatened Management and Budget under wildlife. Executive Order 12866. Accordingly, the Service amends part * * * * * 17, subchapter B of chapter I, title 50 of (h) * * *

Species Vertebrate popu- Historic range lation where endan- Status When listed Critical Special Common name Scientific name gered or threatened habitat rules

Mammals:

******* Mouse, Preble's Zapus hudsonius U.S.A. (CO, WY) ...... do ...... T 636 NA NA meadow preblei. jumping.

*******

Dated: May 8, 1998. John G. Rogers, Director, Fish and Wildlife Service. [FR Doc. 98–12828 Filed 5–12–98; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4310±55±P