Species conservation plans open for comment
Public comment is open through May 5 for draft species conservation plans concerning the Atlantic pigtoe mussel and Henslow’s sparrow.
The plans will guide agency efforts to maintain and increase populations of the two species, which are declining in North Carolina. Each plan includes biological information, causes of decline, conservation goals and potential conservation actions. The Atlantic pigtoe lives in clean, free-flowing water in the Piedmont and Coastal Plain, while Henslow’s sparrow depends on grassland habitat during its nesting season.
N.C. Wildlife Resource Commission staff will present the draft plans to commissioners for approval at their June business meeting. Once approved, the plans will serve as blueprints for species conservation. To read the plans or provide input, visit ncwildlife.org/draftplan.
