Endangered and Threatened Species: Designation of Critical Habitat for 22 Species in the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands and the Territory of Guam

In Defense of Animals, an international nonprofit organization, submitted a letter and a petition signed by over 9,000 people expressing strong support for the proposed critical habitat designation for 22 species in Guam and the Northern Mariana Islands. They argue that protecting these habitats is essential for biodiversity, ecosystem health, and regional economic stability, and they specifically urge the Fish and Wildlife Service not to exclude 3,981 acres from the final designation.

The Center for Biological Diversity, a nonprofit environmental organization, strongly supports the finalization of the proposed critical habitat designation for 22 species in the Northern Mariana Islands and Guam. They urge the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to finalize the rule quickly without reducing the scope of the proposed areas, specifically opposing certain exclusions and requesting more robust analysis of climate change threats.

A certified wildlife biologist with over 35 years of experience supports the proposed designation of critical habitat for 22 species in Guam and the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands. The commenter argues that the designation is scientifically justified and essential for maintaining biodiversity and promoting long-term species recovery.

An individual who works with animals expresses support for the proposed critical habitat protections under the Endangered Species Act. They argue that robust protections are essential for species survival and warn that prioritizing development over environmental health leads to irreversible ecosystem decline.

The commenter, an ecologist and Associate Professor at Virginia Tech who also serves as a board member for a conservation nonprofit, supports the goal of designating critical habitat for Mariana Islands species. However, they urge the Service to extend the public comment period, conduct more in-person outreach, and refine the scientific accuracy of the proposed boundaries to ensure the rule doesn't inadvertently hinder conservation efforts.

Sabina Flores Perez, a Senator from Guam, supports the designation of critical habitat for 22 species but emphasizes the need for a holistic approach that addresses cumulative threats like climate change and military activity. She recommends integrating the designation into local land-use plans, prioritizing intact forests, and collaborating with local agencies to manage invasive species and wildfires.

Henry B. Lacey, an individual, supports the proposed designation of critical habitat for 22 species in Guam and the Northern Mariana Islands but argues that the rule needs to be strengthened. He requests more specific scientific findings, clearer boundary justifications, and more transparent evidence regarding the physical and biological features essential for species recovery.

An individual is urging the agency to protect various animal and plant species from destruction. They specifically request the designation of Critical Habitat for several species, including various types of snails, bats, and butterflies.

A private citizen expresses wholehearted support for the proposed rule to designate critical habitat for 22 species in Guam and the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands. The commenter urges the Fish and Wildlife Service to ensure the final boundaries specifically include limestone forests, coastal strands, and areas identified by local community members.

The commenter expresses full support for the proposal to designate critical habitat for 22 endangered species in the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands and Guam. They argue that protecting these habitats is essential for preserving biodiversity, supporting ecosystem resilience, and ensuring the long-term survival of species threatened by habitat loss and climate change.