Proposed Loggerhead Sea Turtle Critical Habitat

Proposed Designation of Critical Habitat for the Northwest Atlantic Ocean Loggerhead Sea Turtle Distinct Population Segment (DPS)

Specific areas proposed for designation include 36 occupied marine areas within the range of the Northwest Atlantic Ocean DPS. These areas contain one or a combination of nearshore reproductive habitat, winter area, breeding areas, and migratory corridors.

We are also asking for comment on whether to include as critical habitat in the final rule some areas that contain foraging habitat and two large areas that contain Sargassum habitat.

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service addressed terrestrial areas (nesting beaches) in a separate document.

We are not proposing to designate critical habitat for the North Pacific Ocean DPS.

Comments

We are soliciting comments from the public on all aspects of the proposal, including information on the economic, national security, and other relevant impacts. We will consider additional information received prior to making a final designation.

Submit comments through November 29, 2013 (extended comment period).

Supporting Documents