---
kind: "section"
citation: "16 U.S.C. § 1533"
title: "16"
title_heading: "Conservation"
number: "1533"
heading: "Determination of endangered species and threatened species"
release: "119-102"
date: "2026-07-12"
url: "https://uscodex.org/usc/16/1533"
units:
  - "Chapter 35 — Endangered Species"
---

# §1533. Determination of endangered species and threatened species

- (a) **Generally—**
  - (1) The [Secretary](/usc/16/1532.md?p=15) shall by regulation promulgated in accordance with [subsection (b)](#b) determine whether any [species](/usc/16/1532.md?p=16) is an [endangered species](/usc/16/1532.md?p=6) or a [threatened species](/usc/16/1532.md?p=20) because of any of the following factors:
    - (A) the present or threatened destruction, modification, or curtailment of its habitat or range;
    - (B) overutilization for commercial, recreational, scientific, or educational purposes;
    - (C) disease or predation;
    - (D) the inadequacy of existing regulatory mechanisms; or
    - (E) other natural or manmade factors affecting its continued existence.
  - (2) With respect to any [species](/usc/16/1532.md?p=16) over which program responsibilities have been vested in the [Secretary](/usc/16/1532.md?p=15) of Commerce pursuant to Reorganization Plan Numbered 4 of 1970—
    - (A) in any case in which the [Secretary](/usc/16/1532.md?p=15) of Commerce determines that such [species](/usc/16/1532.md?p=16) should—
      - (i) be listed as an [endangered species](/usc/16/1532.md?p=6) or a [threatened species](/usc/16/1532.md?p=20), or
      - (ii) be changed in status from a [threatened species](/usc/16/1532.md?p=20) to an [endangered species](/usc/16/1532.md?p=6),

      he shall so inform the [Secretary](/usc/16/1532.md?p=15) of the Interior; who shall list such [species](/usc/16/1532.md?p=16) in accordance with this section;

    - (B) in any case in which the [Secretary](/usc/16/1532.md?p=15) of Commerce determines that such [species](/usc/16/1532.md?p=16) should—
      - (i) be removed from any list published pursuant to [subsection (c)](#c) of this section, or
      - (ii) be changed in status from an [endangered species](/usc/16/1532.md?p=6) to a [threatened species](/usc/16/1532.md?p=20),

      he shall recommend such action to the [Secretary](/usc/16/1532.md?p=15) of the Interior, and the [Secretary](/usc/16/1532.md?p=15) of the Interior, if he concurs in the recommendation, shall implement such action; and

    - (C) the [Secretary](/usc/16/1532.md?p=15) of the Interior may not list or remove from any list any such [species](/usc/16/1532.md?p=16), and may not change the status of any such [species](/usc/16/1532.md?p=16) which are listed, without a prior favorable determination made pursuant to this section by the [Secretary](/usc/16/1532.md?p=15) of Commerce.
  - (3)
    - (A) The [Secretary](/usc/16/1532.md?p=15), by regulation promulgated in accordance with [subsection (b)](#b) and to the maximum extent prudent and determinable—
      - (i) shall, concurrently with making a determination under [paragraph (1)](#a-1) that a [species](/usc/16/1532.md?p=16) is an [endangered species](/usc/16/1532.md?p=6) or a [threatened species](/usc/16/1532.md?p=20), designate any habitat of such [species](/usc/16/1532.md?p=16) which is then considered to be [critical habitat](/usc/16/1532.md?p=5-A); and
      - (ii) may, from time-to-time thereafter as appropriate, revise such designation.
    - (B)
      - (i) The [Secretary](/usc/16/1532.md?p=15) shall not designate as [critical habitat](/usc/16/1532.md?p=5-A) any lands or other geographical [areas](/usc/16/539m–1.md?p=1-A) owned or controlled by the Department of Defense, or designated for its use, that are subject to an integrated natural resources [management plan](/usc/16/544.md?p=k) prepared under [section 670a of this title](/usc/16/670a.md), if the [Secretary](/usc/16/1532.md?p=15) determines in writing that such plan provides a benefit to the [species](/usc/16/1532.md?p=16) for which [critical habitat](/usc/16/1532.md?p=5-A) is proposed for designation.
      - (ii) Nothing in this paragraph affects the requirement to consult under [section 1536(a)(2) of this title](/usc/16/1536.md?p=a-2) with respect to an agency action (as that term is defined in that section).
      - (iii) Nothing in this paragraph affects the obligation of the Department of Defense to comply with [section 1538 of this title](/usc/16/1538.md), including the prohibition preventing extinction and [taking](/usc/16/3102.md?p=18) of [endangered species](/usc/16/1532.md?p=6) and [threatened species](/usc/16/1532.md?p=20).
- (b) **Basis for determinations—**
  - (1)
    - (A) The [Secretary](/usc/16/1532.md?p=15) shall make determinations required by [subsection (a)(1)](#a-1) solely on the basis of the best scientific and commercial data available to him after conducting a review of the status of the [species](/usc/16/1532.md?p=16) and after [taking](/usc/16/3102.md?p=18) into account those efforts, if any, being made by any [State](/usc/16/1532.md?p=17) or foreign nation, or any political [subdivision](/usc/16/539m–1.md?p=15) of a [State](/usc/16/1532.md?p=17) or foreign nation, to protect such [species](/usc/16/1532.md?p=16), whether by predator control, protection of habitat and food supply, or other [conservation](/usc/16/1532.md?p=3) practices, within any [area](/usc/16/539m–1.md?p=1-A) under its jurisdiction; or on the high seas.
    - (B) In carrying out this section, the [Secretary](/usc/16/1532.md?p=15) shall give consideration to [species](/usc/16/1532.md?p=16) which have been—
      - (i) designated as requiring protection from unrestricted commerce by any foreign nation, or pursuant to any international agreement; or
      - (ii) identified as in danger of extinction, or likely to become so within the foreseeable future, by any [State agency](/usc/16/1532.md?p=18) or by any agency of a foreign nation that is responsible for the [conservation](/usc/16/1532.md?p=3) of [fish or wildlife](/usc/16/1532.md?p=8) or [plants](/usc/16/1532.md?p=14).
  - (2) The [Secretary](/usc/16/1532.md?p=15) shall designate [critical habitat](/usc/16/1532.md?p=5-A), and make revisions thereto, under [subsection (a)(3)](#a-3) on the basis of the best scientific data available and after [taking](/usc/16/3102.md?p=18) into consideration the economic impact, the impact on national security, and any other relevant impact, of specifying any particular [area](/usc/16/539m–1.md?p=1-A) as [critical habitat](/usc/16/1532.md?p=5-A). The [Secretary](/usc/16/1532.md?p=15) may exclude any [area](/usc/16/539m–1.md?p=1-A) from [critical habitat](/usc/16/1532.md?p=5-A) if he determines that the benefits of such exclusion outweigh the benefits of specifying such [area](/usc/16/539m–1.md?p=1-A) as part of the [critical habitat](/usc/16/1532.md?p=5-A), unless he determines, based on the best scientific and commercial data available, that the failure to designate such [area](/usc/16/539m–1.md?p=1-A) as [critical habitat](/usc/16/1532.md?p=5-A) will result in the extinction of the [species](/usc/16/1532.md?p=16) concerned.
  - (3)
    - (A) To the maximum extent practicable, within 90 days after receiving the petition of an interested [person](/usc/16/1532.md?p=13) under [section 553(e) of title 5](/usc/5/553.md?p=e), to add a [species](/usc/16/1532.md?p=16) to, or to remove a [species](/usc/16/1532.md?p=16) from, either of the lists published under [subsection (c)](#c), the [Secretary](/usc/16/1532.md?p=15) shall make a finding as to whether the petition presents substantial scientific or commercial information indicating that the petitioned action may be warranted. If such a petition is found to present such information, the [Secretary](/usc/16/1532.md?p=15) shall promptly commence a review of the status of the [species](/usc/16/1532.md?p=16) concerned. The [Secretary](/usc/16/1532.md?p=15) shall promptly publish each finding made under this subparagraph in the Federal Register.
    - (B) Within 12 months after receiving a petition that is found under [subparagraph (A)](#b-3-A) to present substantial information indicating that the petitioned action may be warranted, the [Secretary](/usc/16/1532.md?p=15) shall make one of the following findings:
      - (i) The petitioned action is not warranted, in which case the [Secretary](/usc/16/1532.md?p=15) shall promptly publish such finding in the Federal Register.
      - (ii) The petitioned action is warranted, in which case the [Secretary](/usc/16/1532.md?p=15) shall promptly publish in the Federal Register a general notice and the complete text of a proposed regulation to implement such action in accordance with [paragraph (5)](#b-5).
      - (iii) The petitioned action is warranted, but that—
        - (I) the immediate proposal and timely promulgation of a final regulation implementing the petitioned action in accordance with paragraphs [(5)](#b-5) and [(6)](#b-6) is precluded by pending proposals to determine whether any [species](/usc/16/1532.md?p=16) is an [endangered species](/usc/16/1532.md?p=6) or a [threatened species](/usc/16/1532.md?p=20), and
        - (II) expeditious progress is being made to add qualified [species](/usc/16/1532.md?p=16) to either of the lists published under [subsection (c)](#c) and to remove from such lists [species](/usc/16/1532.md?p=16) for which the protections of this chapter are no longer necessary,

        in which case the [Secretary](/usc/16/1532.md?p=15) shall promptly publish such finding in the Federal Register, together with a description and evaluation of the reasons and data on which the finding is based.

    - (C)
      - (i) A petition with respect to which a finding is made under [subparagraph (B)(iii)](#b-3-B-iii) shall be treated as a petition that is resubmitted to the [Secretary](/usc/16/1532.md?p=15) under [subparagraph (A)](#b-3-A) on the date of such finding and that presents substantial scientific or commercial information that the petitioned action may be warranted.
      - (ii) Any negative finding described in [subparagraph (A)](#b-3-A) and any finding described in subparagraph [(B)(i)](#b-3-B-i) or (iii) shall be subject to judicial review.
      - (iii) The [Secretary](/usc/16/1532.md?p=15) shall implement a system to monitor effectively the status of all [species](/usc/16/1532.md?p=16) with respect to which a finding is made under [subparagraph (B)(iii)](#b-3-B-iii) and shall make prompt use of the authority under paragraph 7[^1] to prevent a significant risk to the well being of any such [species](/usc/16/1532.md?p=16).
    - (D)
      - (i) To the maximum extent practicable, within 90 days after receiving the petition of an interested [person](/usc/16/1532.md?p=13) under [section 553(e) of title 5](/usc/5/553.md?p=e), to revise a [critical habitat](/usc/16/1532.md?p=5-A) designation, the [Secretary](/usc/16/1532.md?p=15) shall make a finding as to whether the petition presents substantial scientific information indicating that the revision may be warranted. The [Secretary](/usc/16/1532.md?p=15) shall promptly publish such finding in the Federal Register.
      - (ii) Within 12 months after receiving a petition that is found under [clause (i)](#b-3-D-i) to present substantial information indicating that the requested revision may be warranted, the [Secretary](/usc/16/1532.md?p=15) shall determine how he intends to proceed with the requested revision, and shall promptly publish notice of such intention in the Federal Register.
  - (4) Except as provided in paragraphs (5) and (6) of this subsection, the provisions of [section 553 of title 5](/usc/5/553.md) (relating to rulemaking procedures), shall apply to any regulation promulgated to carry out the purposes of this chapter.
  - (5) With respect to any regulation proposed by the [Secretary](/usc/16/1532.md?p=15) to implement a determination, designation, or revision referred to in subsection [(a)(1)](#a-1) or (3), the [Secretary](/usc/16/1532.md?p=15) shall—
    - (A) not less than 90 days before the effective date of the regulation—
      - (i) publish a general notice and the complete text of the proposed regulation in the Federal Register, and
      - (ii) give actual notice of the proposed regulation (including the complete text of the regulation) to the [State agency](/usc/16/1532.md?p=18) in each [State](/usc/16/1532.md?p=17) in which the [species](/usc/16/1532.md?p=16) is believed to occur, and to each county, or equivalent jurisdiction in which the [species](/usc/16/1532.md?p=16) is believed to occur, and invite the comment of such agency, and each such jurisdiction, thereon;
    - (B) insofar as practical, and in cooperation with the Secretary of State, give notice of the proposed regulation to each foreign nation in which the [species](/usc/16/1532.md?p=16) is believed to occur or whose citizens harvest the [species](/usc/16/1532.md?p=16) on the high seas, and invite the comment of such nation thereon;
    - (C) give notice of the proposed regulation to such professional scientific organizations as he deems appropriate;
    - (D) publish a summary of the proposed regulation in a newspaper of general circulation in each [area](/usc/16/539m–1.md?p=1-A) of the [United States](/usc/16/1532.md?p=21) in which the [species](/usc/16/1532.md?p=16) is believed to occur; and
    - (E) promptly hold one public hearing on the proposed regulation if any [person](/usc/16/1532.md?p=13) files a request for such a hearing within 45 days after the date of publication of general notice.
  - (6)
    - (A) Within the one-year period beginning on the date on which general notice is published in accordance with [paragraph (5)(A)(i)](#b-5-A-i) regarding a proposed regulation, the [Secretary](/usc/16/1532.md?p=15) shall publish in the Federal Register—
      - (i) if a determination as to whether a [species](/usc/16/1532.md?p=16) is an [endangered species](/usc/16/1532.md?p=6) or a [threatened species](/usc/16/1532.md?p=20), or a revision of [critical habitat](/usc/16/1532.md?p=5-A), is involved, either—
        - (I) a final regulation to implement such determination,
        - (II) a final regulation to implement such revision or a finding that such revision should not be made,
        - (III) notice that such one-year period is being extended under [subparagraph (B)(i)](#b-6-B-i), or
        - (IV) notice that the proposed regulation is being withdrawn under [subparagraph (B)(ii)](#b-6-B-ii), together with the finding on which such withdrawal is based; or
      - (ii) subject to [subparagraph (C)](#b-6-C), if a designation of [critical habitat](/usc/16/1532.md?p=5-A) is involved, either—
        - (I) a final regulation to implement such designation, or
        - (II) notice that such one-year period is being extended under such subparagraph.
    - (B)
      - (i) If the [Secretary](/usc/16/1532.md?p=15) finds with respect to a proposed regulation referred to in [subparagraph (A)(i)](#b-6-A-i) that there is substantial disagreement regarding the sufficiency or accuracy of the available data relevant to the determination or revision concerned, the [Secretary](/usc/16/1532.md?p=15) may extend the one-year period specified in [subparagraph (A)](#b-6-A) for not more than six months for purposes of soliciting additional data.
      - (ii) If a proposed regulation referred to in [subparagraph (A)(i)](#b-6-A-i) is not promulgated as a final regulation within such one-year period (or longer period if extension under [clause (i)](#b-6-B-i) applies) because the [Secretary](/usc/16/1532.md?p=15) finds that there is not sufficient evidence to justify the action proposed by the regulation, the [Secretary](/usc/16/1532.md?p=15) shall immediately withdraw the regulation. The finding on which a withdrawal is based shall be subject to judicial review. The [Secretary](/usc/16/1532.md?p=15) may not propose a regulation that has previously been withdrawn under this clause unless he determines that sufficient new information is available to warrant such proposal.
      - (iii) If the one-year period specified in [subparagraph (A)](#b-6-A) is extended under [clause (i)](#b-6-B-i) with respect to a proposed regulation, then before the close of such extended period the [Secretary](/usc/16/1532.md?p=15) shall publish in the Federal Register either a final regulation to implement the determination or revision concerned, a finding that the revision should not be made, or a notice of withdrawal of the regulation under [clause (ii)](#b-6-B-ii), together with the finding on which the withdrawal is based.
    - (C) A final regulation designating [critical habitat](/usc/16/1532.md?p=5-A) of an [endangered species](/usc/16/1532.md?p=6) or a [threatened species](/usc/16/1532.md?p=20) shall be published concurrently with the final regulation implementing the determination that such [species](/usc/16/1532.md?p=16) is endangered or threatened, unless the [Secretary](/usc/16/1532.md?p=15) deems that—
      - (i) it is essential to the [conservation](/usc/16/1532.md?p=3) of such [species](/usc/16/1532.md?p=16) that the regulation implementing such determination be promptly published; or
      - (ii) [critical habitat](/usc/16/1532.md?p=5-A) of such [species](/usc/16/1532.md?p=16) is not then determinable, in which case the [Secretary](/usc/16/1532.md?p=15), with respect to the proposed regulation to designate such habitat, may extend the one-year period specified in [subparagraph (A)](#b-6-A) by not more than one additional year, but not later than the close of such additional year the [Secretary](/usc/16/1532.md?p=15) must publish a final regulation, based on such data as may be available at that time, designating, to the maximum extent prudent, such habitat.
  - (7) Neither paragraph (4), (5), or (6) of this subsection nor [section 553 of title 5](/usc/5/553.md) shall apply to any regulation issued by the [Secretary](/usc/16/1532.md?p=15) in regard to any emergency posing a significant risk to the well-being of any [species](/usc/16/1532.md?p=16) of [fish or wildlife](/usc/16/1532.md?p=8) or [plants](/usc/16/1532.md?p=14), but only if—
    - (A) at the time of publication of the regulation in the Federal Register the [Secretary](/usc/16/1532.md?p=15) publishes therein detailed reasons why such regulation is necessary; and
    - (B) in the case such regulation applies to resident [species](/usc/16/1532.md?p=16) of [fish or wildlife](/usc/16/1532.md?p=8), or [plants](/usc/16/1532.md?p=14), the [Secretary](/usc/16/1532.md?p=15) gives actual notice of such regulation to the [State agency](/usc/16/1532.md?p=18) in each [State](/usc/16/1532.md?p=17) in which such [species](/usc/16/1532.md?p=16) is believed to occur.

    Such regulation shall, at the discretion of the [Secretary](/usc/16/1532.md?p=15), [take](/usc/16/1532.md?p=19) effect immediately upon the publication of the regulation in the Federal Register. Any regulation promulgated under the authority of this paragraph shall cease to have force and effect at the close of the 240-day period following the date of publication unless, during such 240-day period, the rulemaking procedures which would apply to such regulation without regard to this paragraph are complied with. If at any time after issuing an emergency regulation the [Secretary](/usc/16/1532.md?p=15) determines, on the basis of the best appropriate data available to him, that substantial evidence does not exist to warrant such regulation, he shall withdraw it.

  - (8) The publication in the Federal Register of any proposed or final regulation which is necessary or appropriate to carry out the purposes of this chapter shall include a summary by the [Secretary](/usc/16/1532.md?p=15) of the data on which such regulation is based and shall show the relationship of such data to such regulation; and if such regulation designates or revises [critical habitat](/usc/16/1532.md?p=5-A), such summary shall, to the maximum extent practicable, also include a brief description and evaluation of those activities (whether public or private) which, in the opinion of the [Secretary](/usc/16/1532.md?p=15), if undertaken may adversely modify such habitat, or may be affected by such designation.
- (c) **Lists—**
  - (1) The [Secretary](/usc/16/1532.md?p=15) of the Interior shall publish in the Federal Register a list of all [species](/usc/16/1532.md?p=16) determined by him or the [Secretary](/usc/16/1532.md?p=15) of Commerce to be [endangered species](/usc/16/1532.md?p=6) and a list of all [species](/usc/16/1532.md?p=16) determined by him or the [Secretary](/usc/16/1532.md?p=15) of Commerce to be [threatened species](/usc/16/1532.md?p=20). Each list shall refer to the [species](/usc/16/1532.md?p=16) contained therein by scientific and common name or names, if any, specify with respect to each such [species](/usc/16/1532.md?p=16) over what portion of its range it is endangered or threatened, and specify any [critical habitat](/usc/16/1532.md?p=5-A) within such range. The [Secretary](/usc/16/1532.md?p=15) shall from time to time revise each list published under the authority of this subsection to reflect recent determinations, designations, and revisions made in accordance with subsections [(a)](#a) and [(b)](#b).
  - (2) The [Secretary](/usc/16/1532.md?p=15) shall—
    - (A) conduct, at least once every five years, a review of all [species](/usc/16/1532.md?p=16) included in a list which is published pursuant to [paragraph (1)](#c-1) and which is in effect at the time of such review; and
    - (B) determine on the basis of such review whether any such [species](/usc/16/1532.md?p=16) should—
      - (i) be removed from such list;
      - (ii) be changed in status from an [endangered species](/usc/16/1532.md?p=6) to a [threatened species](/usc/16/1532.md?p=20); or
      - (iii) be changed in status from a [threatened species](/usc/16/1532.md?p=20) to an [endangered species](/usc/16/1532.md?p=6).

    Each determination under [subparagraph (B)](#c-2-B) shall be made in accordance with the provisions of subsections [(a)](#a) and [(b)](#b).

- (d) **Protective regulations—** Whenever any [species](/usc/16/1532.md?p=16) is listed as a [threatened species](/usc/16/1532.md?p=20) pursuant to [subsection (c)](#c) of this section, the [Secretary](/usc/16/1532.md?p=15) shall issue such regulations as he deems necessary and advisable to provide for the [conservation](/usc/16/1532.md?p=3) of such [species](/usc/16/1532.md?p=16). The [Secretary](/usc/16/1532.md?p=15) may by regulation prohibit with respect to any [threatened species](/usc/16/1532.md?p=20) any act prohibited under [section 1538(a)(1) of this title](/usc/16/1538.md?p=a-1), in the case of [fish or wildlife](/usc/16/1532.md?p=8), or [section 1538(a)(2) of this title](/usc/16/1538.md?p=a-2), in the case of [plants](/usc/16/1532.md?p=14), with respect to [endangered species](/usc/16/1532.md?p=6); except that with respect to the [taking](/usc/16/3102.md?p=18) of resident [species](/usc/16/1532.md?p=16) of [fish or wildlife](/usc/16/1532.md?p=8), such regulations shall apply in any [State](/usc/16/1532.md?p=17) which has entered into a cooperative agreement pursuant to [section 1535(c) of this title](/usc/16/1535.md?p=c) only to the extent that such regulations have also been adopted by such [State](/usc/16/1532.md?p=17).
- (e) **Similarity of appearance cases—** The [Secretary](/usc/16/1532.md?p=15) may, by regulation of commerce or [taking](/usc/16/3102.md?p=18), and to the extent he deems advisable, treat any [species](/usc/16/1532.md?p=16) as an [endangered species](/usc/16/1532.md?p=6) or [threatened species](/usc/16/1532.md?p=20) even though it is not listed pursuant to this section if he finds that—
  - (A) such [species](/usc/16/1532.md?p=16) so closely resembles in appearance, at the point in question, a [species](/usc/16/1532.md?p=16) which has been listed pursuant to such section that enforcement personnel would have substantial difficulty in attempting to differentiate between the listed and unlisted [species](/usc/16/1532.md?p=16);
  - (B) the effect of this substantial difficulty is an additional threat to an endangered or [threatened species](/usc/16/1532.md?p=20); and
  - (C) such treatment of an unlisted [species](/usc/16/1532.md?p=16) will substantially facilitate the enforcement and further the policy of this chapter.
- (f) **Recovery plans—**
  - (1) The [Secretary](/usc/16/1532.md?p=15) shall develop and implement plans (hereinafter in this subsection referred to as “recovery plans”) for the [conservation](/usc/16/1532.md?p=3) and survival of [endangered species](/usc/16/1532.md?p=6) and [threatened species](/usc/16/1532.md?p=20) listed pursuant to this section, unless he finds that such a plan will not promote the [conservation](/usc/16/1532.md?p=3) of the [species](/usc/16/1532.md?p=16). The [Secretary](/usc/16/1532.md?p=15), in developing and implementing recovery plans, shall, to the maximum extent practicable—
    - (A) give priority to those [endangered species](/usc/16/1532.md?p=6) or [threatened species](/usc/16/1532.md?p=20), without regard to taxonomic classification, that are most likely to benefit from such plans, particularly those [species](/usc/16/1532.md?p=16) that are, or may be, in conflict with construction or other development [projects](/usc/16/410r–5.md?p=c-4) or other forms of economic activity;
    - (B) incorporate in each plan—
      - (i) a description of such site-specific management actions as may be necessary to achieve the plan’s goal for the [conservation](/usc/16/1532.md?p=3) and survival of the [species](/usc/16/1532.md?p=16);
      - (ii) objective, measurable criteria which, when met, would result in a determination, in accordance with the provisions of this section, that the [species](/usc/16/1532.md?p=16) be removed from the list; and
      - (iii) estimates of the time required and the cost to carry out those measures needed to achieve the plan’s goal and to achieve intermediate steps toward that goal.
  - (2) The [Secretary](/usc/16/1532.md?p=15), in developing and implementing recovery plans, may procure the services of appropriate public and private agencies and institutions, and other qualified [persons](/usc/16/1532.md?p=13). Recovery teams appointed pursuant to this subsection shall not be subject to chapter 10 of title 5.
  - (3) The [Secretary](/usc/16/1532.md?p=15) shall report every two years to the Committee on Environment and Public Works of the Senate and the Committee on Merchant Marine and Fisheries of the House of Representatives on the status of efforts to develop and implement recovery plans for all [species](/usc/16/1532.md?p=16) listed pursuant to this section and on the status of all [species](/usc/16/1532.md?p=16) for which such plans have been developed.
  - (4) The [Secretary](/usc/16/1532.md?p=15) shall, prior to final approval of a new or revised recovery plan, provide public notice and an opportunity for public review and comment on such plan. The [Secretary](/usc/16/1532.md?p=15) shall consider all information presented during the public comment period prior to approval of the plan.
  - (5) Each [Federal agency](/usc/16/1532.md?p=7) shall, prior to implementation of a new or revised recovery plan, consider all information presented during the public comment period under [paragraph (4)](#f-4).
- (g) **Monitoring—**
  - (1) The [Secretary](/usc/16/1532.md?p=15) shall implement a system in cooperation with the [States](/usc/16/544.md?p=r) to monitor effectively for not less than five years the status of all [species](/usc/16/1532.md?p=16) which have recovered to the point at which the measures provided pursuant to this chapter are no longer necessary and which, in accordance with the provisions of this section, have been removed from either of the lists published under [subsection (c)](#c).
  - (2) The [Secretary](/usc/16/1532.md?p=15) shall make prompt use of the authority under paragraph 7[^1] of [subsection (b)](#b) of this section to prevent a significant risk to the well being of any such recovered [species](/usc/16/1532.md?p=16).
- (h) **Agency guidelines; publication in Federal Register; scope; proposals and amendments: notice and opportunity for comments—** The [Secretary](/usc/16/1532.md?p=15) shall establish, and publish in the Federal Register, agency guidelines to insure that the purposes of this section are achieved efficiently and effectively. Such guidelines shall include, but are not limited to—
  - (1) procedures for recording the receipt and the disposition of petitions submitted under [subsection (b)(3)](#b-3) of this section;
  - (2) criteria for making the findings required under such subsection with respect to petitions;
  - (3) a ranking system to assist in the identification of [species](/usc/16/1532.md?p=16) that should receive priority review under [subsection (a)(1)](#a-1) of this section; and
  - (4) a system for developing and implementing, on a priority basis, recovery plans under [subsection (f)](#f) of this section.

  The [Secretary](/usc/16/1532.md?p=15) shall provide to the public notice of, and opportunity to submit written comments on, any guideline (including any amendment thereto) proposed to be established under this subsection.

- (i) **Submission to State agency of justification for regulations inconsistent with State agency’s comments or petition—** If, in the case of any regulation proposed by the [Secretary](/usc/16/1532.md?p=15) under the authority of this section, a [State agency](/usc/16/1532.md?p=18) to which notice thereof was given in accordance with [subsection (b)(5)(A)(ii)](#b-5-A-ii) files comments disagreeing with all or part of the proposed regulation, and the [Secretary](/usc/16/1532.md?p=15) issues a final regulation which is in conflict with such comments, or if the [Secretary](/usc/16/1532.md?p=15) fails to adopt a regulation pursuant to an action petitioned by a [State agency](/usc/16/1532.md?p=18) under [subsection (b)(3)](#b-3), the [Secretary](/usc/16/1532.md?p=15) shall submit to the [State agency](/usc/16/1532.md?p=18) a written justification for his failure to adopt regulations consistent with the agency’s comments or petition.

## Footnotes

[^1]: So in original. Probably should be paragraph “(7)”.

## Source credit

(Pub. L. 93–205, § 4, Dec. 28, 1973, 87 Stat. 886; Pub. L. 94–359, § 1, July 12, 1976, 90 Stat. 911; Pub. L. 95–632, §§ 11, 13, Nov. 10, 1978, 92 Stat. 3764, 3766; Pub. L. 96–159, § 3, Dec. 28, 1979, 93 Stat. 1225; Pub. L. 97–304, § 2(a), Oct. 13, 1982, 96 Stat. 1411; Pub. L. 100–478, title I, §§ 1002–1004, Oct. 7, 1988, 102 Stat. 2306, 2307; Pub. L. 108–136, div. A, title III, § 318, Nov. 24, 2003, 117 Stat. 1433; Pub. L. 117–286, § 4(a)(113), Dec. 27, 2022, 136 Stat. 4318.)

## Notes

### Editorial Notes

### References in Text

Reorganization Plan Numbered 4 of 1970, referred to in subsec. (a)(2), is Reorg. Plan No. 4 of 1970, eff. Oct. 3, 1970, 35 F.R. 15627, 84 Stat. 2090, which is set out in the Appendix to Title 5, Government Organization and Employees.

This chapter, referred to in subsecs. (b)(4), (8), (e)(C), and (g)(1), was in the original “this Act”, meaning Pub. L. 93–205, Dec. 28, 1973, 81 Stat. 884, known as the Endangered Species Act of 1973, which is classified principally to this chapter. This chapter, referred to in subsec. (b)(3)(B)(iii)(II), was in the original “the Act” and was translated as if it read “this Act”, to reflect the probable intent of Congress. For complete classification of this Act to the Code, see Short Title note set out under section 1531 of this title and Tables.

### Amendments

2022—Subsec. (f)(2). Pub. L. 117–286 substituted “chapter 10 of title 5.” for “the Federal Advisory Committee Act.”

2003—Subsec. (a)(3). Pub. L. 108–136, § 318(a), designated existing provisions as subpar. (A), redesignated former subpars. (A) and (B) as cls. (i) and (ii), respectively, and added subpar. (B).

Subsec. (b)(2). Pub. L. 108–136, § 318(b), inserted “the impact on national security,” after “the economic impact,”.

1988—Subsec. (b)(3)(C)(iii). Pub. L. 100–478, § 1002(a), added subcl. (iii).

Subsec. (e). Pub. L. 100–478, § 1002(b), substituted “regulation of commerce or taking,” for “regulation,” in introductory provisions.

Subsec. (f). Pub. L. 100–478, § 1003, amended subsec. (f) generally. Prior to amendment, subsec. (f) read as follows: “The Secretary shall develop and implement plans (hereinafter in this subsection referred to as ‘recovery plans’) for the conservation and survival of endangered species and threatened species listed pursuant to this section, unless he finds that such a plan will not promote the conservation of the species. The Secretary, in developing and implementing recovery plans (1) shall, to the maximum extent practicable, give priority to those endangered species or threatened species most likely to benefit from such plans, particularly those species that are, or may be, in conflict with construction or other developmental projects or other forms of economic activity, and (2) may procure the services of appropriate public and private agencies and institutions, and other qualified persons. Recovery teams appointed pursuant to this subsection shall not be subject to the Federal Advisory Committee Act.”

Subsecs. (g) to (i). Pub. L. 100–478, § 1004, added subsec. (g) and redesignated former subsecs. (g) and (h) as (h) and (i), respectively.

1982—Subsec. (a)(1). Pub. L. 97–304, § 2(a)(1)(B), (D), inserted “promulgated in accordance with subsection (b)” after “shall by regulation” in introductory provisions preceding subpar. (A), and struck out provision following subpar. (E), which directed the Secretary, at the time regulations were proposed, to specify any habitat of a species considered to be a critical habitat but that such specification of critical habitats not apply to species listed prior to Nov. 10, 1978.

Subsec. (a)(1)(A). Pub. L. 97–304, § 2(a)(1)(A), redesignated subpar. (1) as (A).

Subsec. (a)(1)(B). Pub. L. 97–304, § 2(a)(1)(A), (C), redesignated subpar. (2) as (B) and substituted “recreational,” for “sporting,”.

Subsec. (a)(1)(C) to (E). Pub. L. 97–304, § 2(a)(1)(A), redesignated subpars. (3), (4), and (5) as (C), (D), and (E), respectively.

Subsec. (a)(3). Pub. L. 97–304, § 2(a)(1)(E), added par. (3).

Subsec. (b). Pub. L. 97–304, § 2(a)(2), completely revised subsec. (b) by, among other changes, requiring the Secretary to base determinations regarding the listing or delisting of species “solely” on the basis of the best scientific and commercial data available, streamlining the listing process by reducing the time periods for rulemaking, consolidating public meetings and hearing requirements, and establishing virtually identical procedures for the listing and delisting of species and for the designation of critical habitat, and altering the evidentiary standard which petitioners must satisfy to warrant a status review of the species proposed for listing or delisting.

Subsec. (c)(1). Pub. L. 97–304, § 2(a)(3)(A), struck out “, and from time to time he may by regulation revise,” after “Federal Register” and inserted at end “The Secretary shall from time to time revise each list published under the authority of this subsection to reflect recent determinations, designations, and revisions made in accordance with subsections (a) and (b).”

Subsec. (c)(2). Pub. L. 97–304, § 2(a)(3)(B), (C), redesignated par. (4) as (2). Former par. (2), directing the Secretary, within 90 days of the receipt of the petition of an interested person under section 553(e) of title 5, to conduct and publish in the Federal Register a review of the status of any listed or unlisted species proposed to be removed from or added to either of the lists published pursuant to paragraph (1) of this subsection, but only if he made and published a finding that such person had presented substantial evidence which in his judgment warranted such a review, was struck out.

Subsec. (c)(3). Pub. L. 97–304, § 2(a)(3)(B), struck out par. (3) which had provided that any list in effect on Dec. 27, 1973, of species of fish or wildlife determined by the Secretary of the Interior, pursuant to the Endangered Species Conservation Act of 1969, to be threatened with extinction be republished to conform to the classification for endangered species or threatened species, as the case might be, provided for in this chapter, but until such republication, any such species so listed was to be deemed an endangered species within the meaning of this chapter, and that the republication of any species pursuant to this paragraph did not require public hearing or comment under section 553 of title 5.

Subsec. (c)(4). Pub. L. 97–304, § 2(a)(3)(C), redesignated par. (4) as (2).

Subsec. (d). Pub. L. 97–304, § 2(a)(4)(A), substituted “section 1535(c) of this title” for “section 1535(a) of this title”.

Subsec. (f). Pub. L. 97–304, § 2(a)(4)(B), (C), (D), redesignated subsec. (g) as (f) and substituted “recovery plans (1) shall, to the maximum extent practicable, give priority to those endangered species or threatened species most likely to benefit from such plans, particularly those species that are, or may be, in conflict with construction or other developmental projects or other forms of economic activity, and (2)” for “recovery plans,”. Former subsec. (f), relating to the promulgation of regulations, was struck out.

Subsec. (g). Pub. L. 97–304, § 2(a)(4)(C), (E), redesignated subsec. (h) as (g), substituted reference to subsection (b)(3) of this section for reference to subsection (c)(2) of this section in par. (1), substituted “under subsection (a)(1) of this section” for “for listing” in par. (3), and substituted “subsection (f) of this section” for “subsection (g) of this section” in par. (4). Former subsec. (g) redesignated (f).

Subsec. (h). Pub. L. 97–304, § 2(a)(4)(C), (F), added subsec. (h) and redesignated former subsec. (h) as (g).

1979—Subsec. (b)(1). Pub. L. 96–159, § 3(1), required the Secretary’s determinations to be preceded with a review of the status of the species.

Subsec. (f)(2)(B)(i). Pub. L. 96–159, § 3(2), required publication of summary of text rather than of the complete text of proposed regulation specifying any critical habitat and inclusion of a map of the proposed critical habitat.

Subsec. (f)(2)(B)(iv)(II). Pub. L. 96–159, § 3(3), substituted “if requested within 15 days after the date on which the public meeting is conducted,” for “if requested,”.

Subsec. (f)(2)(C). Pub. L. 96–159, § 3(4), (5), inserted in introductory text “, subsection (b)(4) of this section,”; and in cl. (ii), included reference to significant risk to wellbeing of any species of plants, inserted in item (II) reference to regulation applicable to resident species of plants, extended the statutory period to a “240-day period” from a “120-day period”, and provided for withdrawal of an emergency regulation without substantial evidence to warrant it, respectively.

Subsec. (h). Pub. L. 96–159, § 3(6), added subsec. (h).

1978—Subsec. (a)(1). Pub. L. 95–632, § 11(1), inserted provision requiring the Secretary, at the time a regulation is proposed, to specify by regulation any habitat of the species involved which is considered a critical habitat providing the species was listed subsequent to Nov. 10, 1978.

Subsec. (b)(4). Pub. L. 95–632, § 11(7), added par. (4).

Subsec. (c)(1). Pub. L. 95–632, § 11(2), struck out “and shall” after “if any” and inserted “, and specify any critical habitat within such range” after “endangered or threatened”.

Subsec. (c)(2). Pub. L. 95–632, § 11(6), substituted “within 90 days of the receipt of” for “upon” and “conduct and publish in the Federal Register a review of the status of” for “conduct a review of” and inserted a provision requiring that the review and findings be made and published prior to initiation of any procedures under subsec. (b)(1) of this section.

Subsec. (c)(4). Pub. L. 95–632, § 11(3), added par. (4).

Subsec. (f)(2)(A). Pub. L. 95–632, § 11(4)(A), substituted “Except as provided in subparagraph (B), in” for “In”.

Subsec. (f)(2)(B), (C). Pub. L. 95–632, § 11(4)(B), (C), added subpar. (B), redesignated former subpar. (B) as (C), and as so redesignated, substituted “Neither subparagraph (A) or (B)” for “Neither subparagraph (A)”.

Subsec. (f)(3). Pub. L. 95–632, § 13, substituted “a summary by the Secretary of the data on which such regulation is based and shall show the relationship of such data to such regulations” for “a statement by the Secretary of the facts on which such regulation is based and the relationship of such facts to such regulation”.

Subsec. (f)(4), (5). Pub. L. 95–632, § 11(4)(D), added pars. (4) and (5).

Subsec. (g). Pub. L. 95–632, § 11(5), added subsec. (g).

1976—Subsec. (f)(2)(B)(ii). Pub. L. 94–359 substituted “subsection (b)(1)(A)” for “subsection (b)(A), (B), and (C)”.

### Statutory Notes and Related Subsidiaries

### Effective Date of 1982 Amendment

Pub. L. 97–304, § 2(b), Oct. 13, 1982, 96 Stat. 1416, provided that: Any petition filed under section 4(c)(2) of the Endangered Species Act of 1973 [subsec. (c)(2) of this section] (as in effect on the day before the date of the enactment of this Act [Oct. 13, 1982]) and any regulation proposed under section 4(f) of such Act of 1973 [subsec. (f) of this section] (as in effect on such day) that is pending on such date of enactment [Oct. 13, 1982] shall be treated as having been filed or proposed on such date of enactment under section 4(b) of such Act of 1973 [subsec. (b) of this section] (as amended by subsection (a)); and the procedural requirements specified in such section 4(b) [subsec. (b) of this section] (as so amended) regarding such petition or proposed regulation shall be deemed to be complied with to the extent that like requirements under such section 4 [this section] (as in effect before the date of the enactment of this Act) were complied with before such date of enactment. Any regulation proposed after, or pending on, the date of the enactment of this Act [Oct. 13, 1982] to designate critical habitat for a species that was determined before such date of enactment to be endangered or threatened shall be subject to the procedures set forth in section 4 of such Act of 1973 [this section] (as amended by subsection (a)) for regulations proposing revisions to critical habitat instead of those for regulations proposing the designation of critical habitat. Any list of endangered species or threatened species (as in effect under section 4(c) of such Act of 1973 [subsec. (c) of this section] on the day before the date of the enactment of this Act [Oct. 13, 1982]) shall remain in effect unless and until determinations regarding species and designations and revisions of critical habitats that require changes to such list are made in accordance with subsection (b)(5) of such Act of 1973 [subsec. (b)(5) of this section] (as added by subsection (a)). Section 4(a)(3)(A) of such Act of 1973 [subsec. (a)(3)(A) of this section] (as added by subsection (a)) shall not apply with respect to any species which was listed as an endangered species or a threatened species before November 10, 1978.”

### Abolition of House Committee on Merchant Marine and Fisheries

Committee on Merchant Marine and Fisheries of House of Representatives abolished and its jurisdiction transferred by House Resolution No. 6, One Hundred Fourth Congress, Jan. 4, 1995. Committee on Merchant Marine and Fisheries of House of Representatives treated as referring to Committee on Resources of House of Representatives in case of provisions relating to fisheries, wildlife, international fishing agreements, marine affairs (including coastal zone management) except for measures relating to oil and other pollution of navigable waters, or oceanography by section 1(b)(3) of Pub. L. 104–14, set out as a note preceding section 21 of Title 2, The Congress. Committee on Resources of House of Representatives changed to Committee on Natural Resources of House of Representatives by House Resolution No. 6, One Hundred Tenth Congress, Jan. 5, 2007.