The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service erred in its public notification of an Endangered Species Act (Act) permit application by including reference to transporting of Mexican wolves to and from Vermejo Park Ranch on the New Mexico-Colorado border. The public notification was published in the Federal Register on January 15, 2015. The error is not reflected in the permit application itself; only in the public notification. A revised notice will be published in the Federal Register.
As the Service developed its recently finalized revised rule under which the Mexican wolf reintroduction is conducted in Arizona and New Mexico, it had considered a proposal to conduct experiential training for Mexican wolves on the half-million-acre Vermejo Park Ranch. Consideration of a program to hone captive-reared Mexican wolves’ wild-survival skills at the ranch were discontinued in order to focus on efforts that could contribute to the subspecies’ recovery south of Interstate 40.
A research and recovery permit under the Act is required to conduct activities with endangered or threatened species for scientific purposes, enhancement of survival or propagation, or interstate commerce. The Service invites public comment before issuing these permits.
The Service is seeking to renew its permit to allow for the continued management activities for the Mexican wolf (Canis lupis baileyi) within Arizona and New Mexico, including capturing wolves, administering health care, propagation, radio collaring, etc. The permit renewal application does not include experiential training for Mexican wolves at Vermejo.
The mission of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is working with others to conserve, protect, and enhance fish, wildlife, plants, and their habitats for the continuing benefit of the American people. We are both a leader and trusted partner in fish and wildlife conservation, known for our scientific excellence, stewardship of lands and natural resources, dedicated professionals, and commitment to public service. For more information on our work and the people who make it happen, visit www.fws.gov. Connect with our Facebook page at www.facebook.com/usfws, follow our tweets at www.twitter.com/usfwshq, watch our YouTube Channel at http://www.youtube.com/usfws and download photos from our Flickr page at http://www.flickr.com/photos/usfwshq.
Jeff Humphrey
Public Outreach Specialist
Fish and Wildlife Service
2321 West Royal Palm Road, Suite 103
Phoenix, Arizona 85021
602-242-0210 ext. 222