Endangered and Threatened Species; Take of Anadromous Fish

Issuing agencies

Abstract

Notice is hereby given that NMFS has made a determination on a joint tribal and state resource management plan (RMP) pursuant to Limit 6 of the Endangered Species Act (ESA) section 4(d) and has issued a Final Environmental Assessment (EA) and FONSI addressing the effects of the 4(d) determination. The Tulalip Tribes and Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (collectively the co-managers) have submitted an RMP, in the form of a HGMP, to NMFS pursuant to limit 6 of the ESA 4(d) Rule for a summer steelhead hatchery program in the Skykomish River basin. The hatchery program is intended to contribute to fulfilling Federal tribal trust responsibilities and treaty rights guaranteed through treaties. It is also designed to contribute to the survival and recovery of Puget Sound steelhead and produce summer steelhead for sustainable fisheries. Before making its final determinations, NMFS solicited and took into account public comments on a proposed evaluation and pending determination (PEPD) document for the program. The determinations announced in this notice consist of NMFS' findings as to whether the HGMP submitted to NMFS addresses the criteria. NMFS also announces the availability of a Final EA and FONSI addressing the effects of the 4(d) determination.