When are compatibility determinations required for refuge management activities implemented through an HMP?
We require compatibility determinations for any management activity on a national wildlife refuge resulting in generation of a commodity that we sell for income or revenue or trade for goods or services, as defined in 603 FW 2 as “refuge management economic activities.” Examples include farming, grazing, haying, and timber harvesting. We do not require compatibility determinations for habitat management activities that do not result in generation of a commodity. We do not require compatibility determinations for habitat management activities described in an HMP unless the HMP proposes a habitat management activity not addressed in the CCP. If the proposed habitat management strategy results in an economic benefit for the refuge and is not part of the CCP, a revision of the CCP must occur prior to inclusion into, and approval of, the HMP. If a CCP is not completed, we require compatibility determinations for any refuge management economic activity.
