F26AS00084 Aquatic Invasive Species Grants to Great Lakes Tribes - Fiscal Year 2026 Great Lakes Restoration Initiative

The Intra-Service Section 7 Biological Evaluation Form, used by the USFWS Region 3, is a critical document for assessing the environmental impact of proposed projects, particularly those related to federal grants and RFPs. This form, completed by grant applicants with assistance from the USFWS Project Officer, gathers detailed information on project location, species, and critical habitats. Its primary purpose is to determine the potential effects of a project on federally listed, proposed, and candidate species or designated critical habitats. The form outlines three possible determinations: "No Effect," "May Affect but Not Likely to Adversely Affect," and "May Affect and Likely to Adversely Affect," each with specific requirements for Ecological Services Field Office (ESFO) concurrence. This evaluation is essential for ensuring compliance with Section 7 of the Endangered Species Act within USFWS offices, facilitating informed decision-making to protect biodiversity.

The Intra-Service Section 7 Biological Evaluation Form is a crucial document for federal agencies, particularly the USFWS, to assess the potential impact of proposed projects on federally listed, proposed, and candidate species or critical habitats. This form, submitted by the USFWS Project Officer to the Ecological Services Office, requires grant applicants to provide detailed information about their project, its location, and any species or habitats that may be affected. The form guides the applicant and reviewing office through a determination of effects, ranging from "No Effect" to "May Affect and Likely to Adversely Affect," with varying requirements for concurrence from the Ecological Services Field Office. This process ensures environmental compliance and the protection of endangered species and their habitats within the scope of federal grants and projects.

The Intra-Service Section 7 Biological Evaluation Form is used by the USFWS Project Officer to evaluate potential impacts of federal grants and projects on listed species and critical habitats. Grant applicants are requested to complete sections regarding project location, species/critical habitat, and a detailed project description. The form requires a determination of effects, categorized as "No Effect," "May Affect but Not Likely to Adversely Affect," or "May Affect and Likely to Adversely Affect," with accompanying rationales and lists of affected species/critical habitats. This evaluation facilitates consultation between USFWS Offices, ensuring compliance with Section 7 of the Endangered Species Act and guiding decisions on project implementation and the need for formal consultation.

The Intra-Service Section 7 Biological Evaluation Form is a crucial document for federal grant applicants, particularly those involved in Fisheries programs within Region 3. It facilitates consultation between USFWS offices regarding potential impacts on federally-listed species and critical habitats. Applicants must provide project details, location, and a list of species generated from the ECOS IPaC tool. The form requires a thorough description of potential effects and a determination of those effects, categorized as 'No Effect,' 'May Affect but Not Likely to Adversely Affect,' or 'May Affect and Likely to Adversely Affect.' This determination guides the need for concurrence from Ecological Services Field Offices (ESFO) or formal consultation, ensuring compliance with Section 7 of the Endangered Species Act.