Currently, only two of the ten positions have been filled. The expectation is the positions will assist with transportation needs including review of biological assessments, permit streamlining, and development of programmatics. Brian Hasselbach informed the group of a request to evaluate the option of prioritizing the biological assessments submitted to NMFS for review. It has been suggested that we evaluate the potential for a prioritization system. Brian requested assistance from the group in identifying criteria with which to prioritize project BAs.
Input is welcome from all agencies.
At the last EI Committee meeting, a request was made to check on the possibilities for streamlining the species listings request process. The listings are very general and will require some work on the local agency's part in determining and justifying the presence and absence of species, but this is an option for obtaining the listings. The Committee expressed some concern at the lack of participation and representation in the programmatic efforts. It is unclear at this point in time, how the Services anticipate dealing with the potentially large volume of negotiations for the programmatics. Batching continues to be a viable option for the BAs.