Fish and Wildlife Seeks Input on Recovery Permits

2026-12955 — Process for Authorizing Seasonal Migratory Game Bird Hunting

The Fish and Wildlife Service is changing how it approves seasonal migratory game bird hunting. Instead of making new rules every year, they’ll issue a hunting plan every three years, updating it sooner if needed. This will save time and money, help States, Tribes, and hunters, and keep bird populations safe.

2026-12951 — Process for Authorizing Seasonal Migratory Game Bird Hunting

The Fish and Wildlife Service is changing how it approves seasonal migratory game bird hunting. Instead of yearly rules, they’ll issue a hunting plan every three years but still decide harvest levels annually. This new process saves time and money, helps States and Tribes, and kicks in August 25, 2026—unless big objections come in by July 27.

2026-10846 — Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and Plants; Designation of Critical Habitat for the Rusty Patched Bumble Bee

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is officially protecting over 1.5 million acres of land across six states to save the rusty patched bumble bee, a once-common pollinator now endangered. Starting July 1, 2026, this critical habitat designation will help keep these bees buzzing by limiting harmful activities in these areas. Landowners and communities in 33 counties should get ready for new rules that support bee recovery without heavy costs.

2026-08146 — Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and Plants; Designation of Critical Habitat for the Rayed Bean, Sheepnose, Snuffbox, and Spectaclecase Mussels

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is officially protecting over 3,800 river miles across 17 states as critical habitat for four endangered freshwater mussels: rayed bean, sheepnose, snuffbox, and spectaclecase. This means these rivers will get special care to help these mussels survive and thrive. The new protections start May 27, 2026, and could affect activities near these waters, encouraging conservation efforts without heavy costs.

2026-05678 — Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and Plants; Designation of Critical Habitat for 22 Species in the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands and the Territory of Guam

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service wants to protect 22 special plants and animals in Guam and the Northern Mariana Islands by marking nearly 60,000 acres as critical habitat. This means these areas will get extra care to help these species survive and thrive. People can share their thoughts by June 22, 2026, and an economic report is ready to show how this might affect local communities.

2026-12578 — Definition of Shellfish; Inclusion of Cephalopods

Starting July 23, 2026, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is updating the definition of shellfish to officially include squid, octopus, cuttlefish, and other cephalopods—even though they don’t have traditional shells. This change clears up confusion, matches modern science and business, and makes regulations simpler for fishermen and seafood sellers. No extra costs, just a smarter way to protect and manage these sea creatures!

Previous: 2026-13052 — New Postal Products

The Postal Service has asked for approval to add or change special deals for competitive mail services. This affects businesses and customers who use these services, possibly offering new options or better prices soon. The public can comment before the Postal Regulatory Commission makes a final decision, so keep an eye out for updates and deadlines!

Next: 2026-13055 — Takes of Marine Mammals Incidental to Specified Activities; Taking Marine Mammals Incidental to Turnagain Marine Construction's Douglas Island Cruise Ship Terminal Near Juneau, Alaska

Turnagain Marine Construction wants permission to accidentally disturb marine mammals while building a new cruise ship terminal near Juneau, Alaska. The government is asking for public feedback before deciding on two one-year permits and possible renewals. Comments are open until July 29, 2026, so speak up if you care about sea life and construction plans!