What methodology was used to develop the draft economic analysis?
To determine the economic impact resulting from the designation of critical habitat for the five carbonate plants, EPS first reviewed the critical habitat Units and developed a comprehensive list of all possible Federal nexuses for lands included in each of the Units. A Federal nexus exists when an action is undertaken, authorized, permitted, or funded by a Federal agency, regardless of ownership of the land. Under section 7 of the Act, if a Federal agency determines an action may affect a federally listed species or its designated critical habitat, it must consult with the Service.
