Project Planning and Consultation

Section 7 of the Endangered Species Act (pdf 266KB) directs all federal agencies to use their existing authorities to conserve threatened and endangered species and, in consultation with the Service, to ensure that their actions do not jeopardize listed species or destroy or adversely modify critical habitat. Section 7 applies to the management of federal lands as well as other federal actions that may affect listed species, such as federal approval of private activities through the issuance of federal funding, permits, licenses, or other actions.

The following information is provided to assist you in determining whether consultation with the Service is necessary and, if so, the development of a complete initiation package (i.e., Biological Assessment / Biological Evaluation). Please consider this information carefully. A complete initiation package will expedite our review of your project and conclusion of the consultation process.

What is the difference between a Biological Assessment and a Biological Evaluation?

Outline of a Biological Assessment/Biological Evaluation [pdf version 18KB]

Contents of a Biological Assessment/Biological Evaluation [pdf version 39KB]

Common Flaws in Developing an Effect Determination [pdf version 26KB]

For additional information regarding the Interagency Coordination and Consultation process, please visit the Service's Consultation with Federal Agencies website.

Additional Information to Consider

The North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission has developed a Guidance Memorandum (pdf 720KB) to address and mitigate secondary and cumulative impacts to aquatic and terrestrial wildlife resources and water quality. We recommend you consider this document in the development of your project and in completing an initiation package for consultation.