Habitat Conservation on the West Coast
The survival of protected species requires healthy habitat. The Endangered Species Act and Magnuson-Stevens Act direct NOAA Fisheries to protect, conserve, and restore freshwater and marine habitats. Quality habitat provides food, protection, and safe areas for spawning and rearing. It includes specific features, like water bodies and vegetation. Degradation of habitat can limit species' survival and undermine the integrity of the ecosystem.
Through our authorities, NOAA Fisheries reviews federal proposals for land and water development to make sure the activities do not further degrade habitat or protected species. We also support restoration actions to improve habitat quality through technical assistance and funding. With support of our partners, we are working on hundreds of projects to protect and restore vital habitat for salmon and steelhead, marine mammals, and other aquatic species.
Habitat Protection
Floodplains
- West Coast Floodplains
- Overview of Oregon FEMA Biological Opinion
- FAQs: Oregon FEMA Biological Opinion
- Biological Opinion for FEMA's National Flood Insurance Program in Oregon
- RPA only: Biological Opinion for FEMA's National Flood Insurance Program in Oregon
Resources
Turbidity Best Management Practices Flowchart
San Francisco Bay Light Monitoring Protocol
Decision Key for EFH Consultations for Overwater Structures
Northwest Fish Passage & Screening Criteria (2011)
California Fish Passage & Screening Criteria (1997)
California Eelgrass Mitigation Policy
Complying with the Endangered Species Act
River Restoration Analysis Tool (River RAT)
Streamlining Project Approval through programmatic consultation
Beaver Restoration Guidebook: Working with Beavers to Restore Habitat