This time, it's a proposal to allow federal agencies to decide unilaterally that a proposed project is not likely to adversely affect listed species -- no consultation with wildlife experts at the Fish & Wildlife Service (FWS) and the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) required. The proposed rule would replace the current requirement that federal agencies must consult with the FWS and NMFS to insure that an agency's actions do not jeopardize the existence of a species or adversely change or destroy its habitat.

Audubon and other conservation groups are mobilizing a full-scale effort to defeat this proposal. They have already joined with other groups in seeking an extension of the 30-day comment period, which is unreasonably short in light of the huge potential impact of the proposed change. Whether or not the comment period is extended beyond the September 15 due date, Audubon will be filing comments strongly opposing the proposal.

What can you do? Sign up for National Audubon Society action alerts (link below) so you can submit your own comment to the government. There is a short time to get as much public participation as possible, so your help is needed to spread the alert far and wide.

Sign up to take action.

For more, read the National Audubon Society press statement.