What is EPA’s process for protecting endangered and threatened species?
EPA’s risk assessment process for pesticides affords a level of protection to all populations of non-target species. Because endangered species need specific protection, EPA has developed risk assessment procedures to determine whether individuals of an endangered species have the potential to be harmed by a pesticides. When EPA determines a pesticide may harm an endangered species, it can either change the terms of the pesticide’s registration to prevent this harm from occurring, or in consultation with the Fish and Wildlife Service or National Marine Fisheries Service, develop appropriate mitigation measures. EPA issued a notice for public comment in December 2002, describing how it would implement any measures it deems necessary to protect a listed species. A final notice describing EPA’s implementation approach is anticipated to be issued in 2004. Further, on January 30, 2004 the Department of the Interior and the Department of Commerce, in cooperation with EPA and USDA, published
