Frequently Asked Questions: Mississippi Nongame and Endangered Species Conservation Act

Mississippi Nongame and Endangered Species Conservation Act Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Mississippi Nongame and Endangered Species Conservation Act?

The Mississippi Nongame and Endangered Species Conservation Act is a state law that provides protection for nongame wildlife, including endangered and threatened species in Mississippi. The act aims to conserve and manage these species and their habitats to prevent further decline or extinction.

What types of species are covered under the Mississippi Nongame and Endangered Species Conservation Act?

The act covers nongame wildlife, which includes any wild mammal, bird, amphibian, reptile, fish, mollusk, crustacean, or other wild animal not otherwise legally classified by statute or regulation in Mississippi. This also includes endangered and threatened species listed under the act.

How does the Mississippi Nongame and Endangered Species Conservation Act relate to the federal Endangered Species Act?

The Mississippi Nongame and Endangered Species Conservation Act is a state-level law that complements the federal Endangered Species Act. While the federal act provides protection for species listed as endangered or threatened nationwide, the Mississippi act focuses on species within the state, including those not listed under the federal act.

Who is responsible for implementing and enforcing the Mississippi Nongame and Endangered Species Conservation Act?

The Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks is the primary agency responsible for implementing and enforcing the act. They work in collaboration with other state and federal agencies, as well as conservation organizations and stakeholders, to ensure compliance and further the goals of the act.

What are the key provisions of the Mississippi Nongame and Endangered Species Conservation Act?

The act prohibits the taking, possession, transportation, exportation, processing, sale, or offer for sale of any nongame species designated by the Mississippi Commission on Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks. It also provides for the establishment of conservation programs, research, and education to support the protection and recovery of these species.

How can developers determine if their project may impact species protected under the Mississippi Nongame and Endangered Species Conservation Act?

Developers should consult with the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks to determine if their project area contains any protected species or their habitats. The department can provide information on known occurrences and potential impacts, as well as guidance on necessary surveys, assessments, and mitigation measures.

What are the consequences of violating the Mississippi Nongame and Endangered Species Conservation Act?

Violations of the act can result in criminal penalties, including fines and imprisonment. Civil penalties may also be imposed, and any equipment or vehicles used in the violation may be subject to forfeiture. In addition, violators may be liable for the costs of any necessary restoration or mitigation measures.

What should developers do if they discover a protected species on their project site?

If a protected species is discovered on a project site, developers should immediately halt any activities that may impact the species and contact the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks for guidance. The department will work with the developer to assess the situation and determine appropriate measures to avoid, minimize, or mitigate impacts.

How can developers incorporate the protection of nongame and endangered species into their project planning and design?

Developers should consider the potential presence of protected species and their habitats early in the project planning process. By conducting thorough environmental assessments, consulting with the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks, and integrating avoidance and minimization measures into project design, developers can proactively address conservation concerns and streamline compliance.

What are some best practices for minimizing impacts to nongame and endangered species during construction and operation?

Best practices include:

• Conducting pre-construction surveys to identify and avoid sensitive areas
• Implementing erosion and sediment control measures to protect water quality
• Limiting vegetation clearing and soil disturbance to the minimum necessary
• Scheduling construction activities to avoid sensitive breeding or migration periods
• Properly storing and disposing of hazardous materials to prevent contamination
• Providing environmental training for construction personnel
• Monitoring for and reporting any incidental takes or impacts to protected species

Are there any permits or approvals required under the Mississippi Nongame and Endangered Species Conservation Act?

While there is no specific permit under the act, any activities that may impact protected species or their habitats may require coordination with and approval from the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks. This may include the development of conservation plans, mitigation strategies, or other agreements to ensure compliance with the act.

How can developers engage stakeholders and the public in the conservation of nongame and endangered species?

Developers can engage stakeholders and the public by:

• Conducting outreach and education programs to raise awareness about protected species and their conservation needs
• Involving local communities and conservation organizations in project planning and implementation
• Providing opportunities for public input and comment on project proposals and conservation strategies
• Partnering with agencies and organizations to support research, monitoring, and habitat restoration efforts

What are some resources for learning more about the Mississippi Nongame and Endangered Species Conservation Act and protected species in the state?

• Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks: https://www.mdwfp.com/wildlife-hunting/endangered-species-program/
• U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Mississippi Ecological Services Field Office: https://www.fws.gov/office/mississippi-ecological-services
• Mississippi Museum of Natural Science: https://www.mdwfp.com/museum/