Endangered and Threatened Species; Take of Anadromous Fish
AI-generated summary for informational purposes only. Not legal advice. See the original source for the authoritative text.
This notification informs the public about a proposed hatchery plan to support salmon recovery in Washington's Skokomish River Basin. The NMFS plans to allow certain hatchery operations without violating endangered species protections, as these programs aim to help recover threatened salmon species. Public commentary on the proposal is open until May 13, 2026.
AI-generated summary. May contain errors. Refer to official sources for legal decisions.
Key Changes
- Proposes a hatchery plan to help salmon recovery in Skokomish River
- Allows certain hatchery operations without violating species protection laws
- Reopens public comment period on hatchery plan and evaluation
Obligations
What this law requires
Submit comments on the Proposed Evaluation and Pending Determination Documents (PEPD) via the Federal e-Rulemaking Portal (regulations.gov) using docket number NOAA-NMFS-2026-0925 by 5 p.m. Pacific time on May 13, 2026
Operate hatchery programs in the Skokomish River basin in compliance with an approved Hatchery and Genetics Management Plan (HGMP) submitted to NMFS under 50 CFR 223.203(b)
Ensure hatchery operations do not appreciably reduce the likelihood of survival and recovery of Hood Canal-Strait of Juan de Fuca summer chum salmon, Puget Sound Chinook salmon, or Puget Sound steelhead
Ensure hatchery operations do not modify or destroy critical habitat of Hood Canal-Strait of Juan de Fuca summer chum salmon, Puget Sound Chinook salmon, or Puget Sound steelhead
Develop and implement the HGMP jointly between the state and tribe, and obtain NMFS determination that the plan complies with the salmon and steelhead 4(d) rule (50 CFR 223.203(b))