Notice of Availability of the Draft Environmental Assessment and Land Protection Plan Proposed Establishment of Key Cave National Wildlife Refuge Lauderdale County, Alabama

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This notice advises the public that the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Southeast Region, proposes to establish a national wildlife refuge in the vicinity of Lauderdale County, Alabama. The purpose of the proposed refuge is to protect and manage up to 2,300 acres of land to ensure the biological integrity of Key Cave, which has been designated by the Service as critical habitat for the endangered Alabama cavefish and as a priority one maternity cave for the endangered gray bat. A Draft Environmental Assessment and Land Protection Plan for the proposed refuge has been developed by Service biologists in coordination with the Tennessee Valley authority, the State of Alabama, the Soil Conservation Service, The Conservation Fund, the Wildlife Enhancement Council, and Monsanto, Inc. The assessment considers the biological, environmental, and socioeconomic effects of establishing the refuge. The assessment also evaluates three alternative actions and their potential impacts on the environment. Written comments or recommendations concerning the proposal are welcomed and should be sent to the address below.