After years of analyses and consideration, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) has officially assigned endangered status for six species of freshwater mussels and threatened status for one species in Central Texas under the Endangered Species Act of 1973.
THESE SPECIES INCLUDE:
• Guadalupe Fatmucket (Lampsilis bergmanni) – Endangered
• Texas Fatmucket (Lampsilis bracteata) – Endangered
• Guadalupe Orb (Cyclonaias necki) – Endangered
• Texas Pimpleback (Cyclonaias (=Quadrula) petrina) – Endangered
• Balcones Spike (Fusconaia (=Quincuncina) iheringi) – Endangered
• False Spike (Fusconaia (=Quincuncina) mitchelli) – Endangered
• Texas Fawnsfoot (Truncilla macrodon) – Threatened (with 4[d] Rule)
Additionally, critical habitat has been designated for all seven species, covering approximately 1,577.5 river miles (2,538.7 kilometers) across 31 counties in Texas. The ruling will officially take effect July 4, 2024, imposing new regulatory requirements that will affect projects throughout Central Texas.
The federal protection of these species and their habitats means that any activities affecting waterbodies within these areas may be subject to stringent regulatory scrutiny. EDGE staff are permitted to handle these species and have extensive experience addressing regulatory compliance issues related to freshwater mussels. Navigating these nuanced regulations can be complex, but EDGE is here to provide further insight.
Please contact David Ford for further insight into how the listing of these mussels and their designated critical habitat could impact your project.