Date: 5/3/25 10:06 am From: <tess...> Subject: [cayugabirds-l] [labird] Proposed change to definition of "harm" under the Endangered Species Act
Since the following has the potential to considerably change birds and birdwatching, I wanted to bring it to the attention of list serve members. I am not advocating any action or position, simply offering it for your consideration.
The federal government is proposing to significantly limit the Endangered Species Act's power to preserve crucial habitats by changing the definition of "harm." The proposed rule change would continue to ban actions that directly hurt or kill wildlife, but explicitly removes habitat modification from being considered "harm" for purposes of the Act. If the change is adopted, it will make it easier to log, mine, and build on lands that presently are protected as essential for endangered species to thrive. The official summary of the actual changes, along with the explanation for why the government feels they are appropriate and links to the various changes proposed, can be found at https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2025/04/17/2025-06746/rescinding-the-definition-of-harm-under-the-endangered-species-act . Comments in support of or opposition to the proposed changes can be made online through May 19 at the same URL <https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2025/04/17/2025-06746/rescinding-the-definition-of-harm-under-the-endangered-species-act>. You do not need to be a scholar or scientist or lawyer to comment, your opinion matters just as a citizen. All comments are registered and must be considered. (Of course, comments by scholars, scientists, and lawyers are welcome, too.)
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