Therefore, the Service is examining methods that could streamline and simplify the critical habitat determination and designation process. Therefore, we are re-examining the process whereby critical habitat is designated to make it a more streamlined and efficient tool to help conserve listed species. It also operates 66 national fish hatcheries and 78 ecological services field stations. The agency enforces Federal wildlife laws, administers the Endangered Species Act, manages migratory bird populations, restores nationally significant fisheries, conserves and restores wildlife habitat such as wetlands, and helps foreign governments with their conservation efforts. It also oversees the Federal Aid program that distributes hundreds of millions of dollars in excise taxes on fishing and hunting equipment to state wildlife agencies.
Critical habitat is a term used in the Endangered Species Act.
These areas do not necessarily have to be occupied by the species at the time of designation. An area designated as critical habitat is not a refuge or special conservation area. Listed species and their habitats are protected by the Endangered Species Act whether or not they are in an area designated as critical habitat. Federal agencies are required to consult with the Service on actions they carry out, fund, or authorize that might destroy or adversely modify critical habitat. Even when there is no critical habitat designation, Federal agencies must consult with the Service to ensure any action they carry out, fund, or authorize is not likely to jeopardize the continued existence of a listed species.