Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and Plants; Proposed Designation of Critical Habitat for the Kootenai River Population of the White Sturgeon

Résumé

We, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, propose designation of critical habitat pursuant to the Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended, for the Kootenai River population of the white sturgeon (Acipenser transmontanus). We are proposing as critical habitat a total of 18 river kilometers (11.2 river miles) of the Kootenai River in Idaho. If this proposed action is finalized, Federal agencies proposing actions that may affect the area designated as critical habitat must consult with us on the effects of the proposed actions on critical habitat, pursuant to section 7(a)(2)of the Act. We solicit data and comments from the public on all aspects of this proposal, including data on the economic and other impacts of the proposed designation. We may revise this proposal to incorporate or address new information received during the comment period.