This is an overview of the species status assessment (SSA) framework, which is an analytical approach developed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to deliver foundational science information for all Endangered Species Act decisions. The overview will cover the basic concepts and minimum requirements of an SSA and will show you how to diagnose the level of complexity and expertise required to complete an SSA. Although the overview won’t cover technical methods in detail, it will introduce the participant to some of the tools and resources available to conduct SSA's with an emphasis on those of low to moderate complexity.

Course Objectives:

Upon completion, the participant will be able to:

• Understand where an SSA fits within an Endangered Species Act decision process;
• Understand the basic concepts and minimum requirements of an SSA;
• Diagnose the level of complexity and expertise needed to complete an SSA;
• Know where to find tools and resources to conduct an SSA;
• Know the additional training and support available to assist with conducting or managing an SSA.

Target Audience:

Fish and Wildlife Service, Endangered Species Act practitioners