ESA Critical Habitat Exclusion Analysis (Section 4(b)(2))

Current understanding

To be populated as evidence accumulates.

Evidence log

• 2026-07-16 — Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and Plants; Revised Designation of Critical Habitat for the Contiguous U.S. Distinct Population Segment of the Canada Lynx: cross-connection with canada-lynx-critical-habitat: The lynx revision applies ESA §4(b)(2) exclusion analysis in delineating final critical habitat boundaries. (novelty: 2)
• 2026-07-21 — Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and Plants; Regulations for Designating Critical Habitat: FWS finalized a rule amending 50 CFR Part 424 to clarify when and how the Service weighs the benefits of excluding an area from critical habitat against the benefits of designation under ESA section 4(b)(2), codifying existing practice and case law to increase transparency and predictability of exclusion analyses. (novelty: 2)

Open questions

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