Comment from NewEarth Ecological Consulting

I support the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s proposed designation of critical habitat for the Mariana Islands species identified in Docket No. FWS-R1-ES-2024-0194. As a Certified Wildlife Biologist with more than 35 years of professional experience in wildlife conservation, habitat assessment, and environmental compliance, I believe the proposed designation is scientifically justified and consistent with the conservation purposes of the Endangered Species Act. Protecting the habitats and ecological features essential to these species is a necessary component of preventing further decline and promoting long-term recovery. The Mariana Islands contain unique native ecosystems and species found nowhere else in the world. Conserving the remaining habitat necessary for these listed species will help maintain biodiversity, ecological resilience, and the natural heritage of Guam and the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands. Based on the information provided by the Service, I support the proposed critical habitat designation and encourage its adoption. Thank you for the opportunity to provide comments.