Fish and Wildlife Service Finalizes Critical Habitat for Rusty Patched Bumble Bee

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has finalized a rule designating critical habitat for the rusty patched bumble bee. The designation covers approximately 1,534,951 acres across 621,172 hectares in 33 counties within six states. These areas are organized into 14 distinct units where the bee is known to live and requires specific protections.

Why it matters: This designation triggers a requirement for federal agencies to consult with the Fish and Wildlife Service before taking any action that might destroy or adversely modify these specific areas. For non-federal landowners, there is no new restriction on private land use unless a federal permit, funding, or license is involved. The primary effect is administrative, guiding how federal projects interact with this habitat.

Who it affects

• Federal agencies conducting projects in the designated counties that may impact bee habitat

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This summary is based on a final rule published by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service in the Federal Register; readers should consult the full text for legal details and maps before relying on this information.

Agency: Interior Department, Fish and Wildlife Service
Source: Federal Register — read the official document