USGS Seeks Feedback on Climate Center Surveys

2026-14299 — Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and Plants; Revised Designation of Critical Habitat for the Contiguous U.S. Distinct Population Segment of the Canada Lynx

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service updated the protected areas for the Canada lynx in Colorado, Idaho, Montana, and Washington, covering about 14,030 square miles. This change fixes past legal issues and helps keep the lynx’s home safe. The new rule starts on August 17, 2026, and may affect land use and conservation efforts in these states.

2026-14195 — Rescinding the Definition of “Harm” Under the Endangered Species Act

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration are wiping away the official definition of “harm” under the Endangered Species Act starting September 14, 2026. This change affects anyone involved in protecting endangered plants and animals by shifting how “harm” is understood and enforced. It’s a big move that could change how projects and protections are handled, but no new costs or deadlines are added right now.

2026-14052 — Natural Resource Damages for Hazardous Substances

The Department of the Interior is updating rules for handling natural resource damage claims caused by hazardous substances. These changes simplify procedures, fix confusing language, and remove outdated parts to make the process clearer and smoother. The new rules take effect on August 12, 2026, and there’s a chance to comment on info collection until then.

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.

2026-12734 — Oil and Gas Leasing

The Bureau of Land Management is updating its oil and gas leasing rules to make sure public lands are well cared for while supporting American energy. These changes affect companies leasing land for oil and gas, adjusting bond amounts and royalty rules, and aim to simplify the leasing process. You’ve got until August 24, 2026, to share your thoughts before the new rules take shape!

Previous: 2026-14448 — Notice of Application of Emergency Provision Under the Antarctic Conservation Act of 1978

The National Science Foundation announced that hazardous waste, including lithium batteries and fluorescent lights, will stay stored at McMurdo Station in Antarctica for over 15 months due to an emergency. This delay happened because the cargo ship couldn’t safely carry the waste in early 2026. The waste removal is now planned for the next cargo visit in January 2027, keeping everyone safe and the environment protected.

Next: 2026-14451 — Endangered and Threatened Species; Take of Anadromous Fish

The Idaho Department of Fish and Game and NOAA’s Northwest Fisheries Science Center want to keep running the Snake River Sockeye Salmon Hatchery Program to help endangered salmon. They’re asking for public feedback on their plan by August 17, 2026. This program, funded by Bonneville Power Administration, involves several groups working together to protect these fish and keep their numbers growing.