Monarch Butterfly Proposed as Threatened Species

What happened: The monarch butterfly could be designated as a threatened species under the Endangered Species Act if a proposal released Dec. 12 by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) moves forward.

Why it matters: The proposal includes habitat protections that may require additional permitting and/or mitigation measures. For ARTBA members, transportation construction projects in California’s designated critical habitat could require federal consultation and the creation of detailed mitigation plans. In other areas, projects may still need special permits or mitigation measures such as adjustments to project schedules, restoration activities, or other compliance efforts to meet regulatory requirements.

What’s next: FWS is accepting comments on the proposal until March 12. ARTBA encourages members to share specific feedback with Prianka Sharma for inclusion in the association’s response.