Proposed Rule to List Lesser Prairie-Chicken

Last month, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service issued a proposal to list two populations of the lesser prairie-chicken (LEPC) under the Endangered Species Act (ESA). LEPC first became a candidate species in 1998 and has been variously listed or under review since that time.

The current proposal to list the species defines two distinct population segments for the bird. The northern segment, proposed as threatened, includes portions of the northeast Texas panhandle, western Oklahoma, western Kansas, and eastern Colorado. The southern segment, proposed as endangered, includes portions of western panhandle of Texas and eastern New Mexico. The Service has determined designation of critical habitat is prudent, but not determinable at this time. Comments on the proposed listings are due on August 2, 2021.

Westward biologists have extensive experience assisting a wide range of clients in planning for development within habitat for the LEPC and are certified Technical Service Providers for the Lesser Prairie-Chicken Range-wide Conservation Plan. We can assist in site selection, review of current holdings, participation in the conservation plans, and overall conservation planning for your current and future projects. If you are planning a new development, expansion of an existing facility, or have any other questions, shoot us an email at ecology@westwardenv.com.