Protected Resources Division
provides program oversight, regional policy direction and guidance on conservation of at-risk anadromous, estuarine and marine fishes, marine mammals, and their habitats. This includes assisting with species status reviews to determine their condition and making recommendations on whether Endangered Species Act (ESA) listings are warranted; designating critical habitat for listed species; evaluating and defining protective regulations to conserve listed species; and coordinating conservation programs. The division provides technical support and national policy guidance for ESA and Marine Mammal Protection Act (MMPA) programs and negotiations; and reviews and provides policy guidance on protected resources research programs. This division holds public meetings and promotes education and outreach activities to enhance understanding of ESA and MMPA issues. Protected Resources is responsible for activities regulated by the MMPA. Division staff members work out of the Northwest Region’s Seattle and Portland offices.
