Feds Move to Save Kern Canyon and Relictual Slender Salamanders
Published Date: 7/7/2026
Proposed Rule
Summary
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is proposing to protect two special salamanders: the Kern Canyon slender salamander as threatened with extra protections, and the relictual slender salamander as endangered. They’re also setting aside important habitats to help these salamanders survive. People have until August 6, 2026, to share their thoughts, and these protections could affect local land use and conservation funding.
Analyzed Economic Effects
5 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 2 costs, 1 mixed.
Critical Habitat Designations in California
The Service proposes critical habitat for the Kern Canyon slender salamander (about 2,051 acres) and the relictual slender salamander (about 2,685 acres). Any Federal action that may affect designated critical habitat must comply with section 7 of the Endangered Species Act to ensure it will not destroy or adversely modify that habitat.
Final Listing and Habitat Boundaries Could Change
The Service states its final determinations may differ from the proposals: the Kern Canyon slender salamander could be listed as endangered instead of threatened, the relictual slender salamander could be listed as threatened instead of endangered, or either species could be not listed. Final critical habitat designations may add, remove, or exclude areas compared to the current proposals.
Exceptions for Fuels Management and Grazing
The proposed 4(d) rule would prohibit 'take' of the Kern Canyon slender salamander but explicitly except incidental take from fuels management and managed livestock grazing that follow established plans or best management practices. These exceptions apply on Federal lands (if complying with the Federal agency's standards) and on non-Federal lands when conducted under recognized plans or best practices.
Possible New Federal Permits on Private Lands
For activities on non-Federal lands that are not excepted under the 4(d) rule, the Service states there may be a new requirement for section 10 permits (including habitat conservation plan permits) which could replace some permitting currently required by California law in limited circumstances.
Agency Certifies Limited Small-Business Impact
Under the Regulatory Flexibility Act considerations for the 4(d) rule, the Service certifies that, if adopted as proposed, the rule would not have a significant economic impact on a substantial number of small entities and requests information to validate this conclusion.
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Key Dates
Department and Agencies
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