We created the Georgia Statewide Determination Key and the accompanying Standing Analysis as a consultation tool for federal action agencies and non-federal representatives to address any potential effects that future actions, pursuant to section 7 of the Endangered Species Act (ESA) of 1973 (Act), as amended (16 U.S.C. 1531 et seq.), may have on the species and Designated Critical Habitats. The tool is accessible in the Service’s Information for Planning and Consultation (IPaC) application.
With the Georgia Statewide Determination Key, project proponents and/or lead federal agency representatives may answer a series of questions about a proposed action to obtain technical assistance and consultation documents. Federal action agencies can submit a concurrence request to support a "not likely to adversely affect" determination based on the Standing Analysis. They can also review, modify, and convert a non-federal project representative's result from technical assistance to concurrence. The "DKey" also provides technical information to help project representatives determine whether an action will have "no effect" on the species and Designated Critical Habitats. If a project requires further review or formal consultation under Section 7 Section 7
Section 7 Consultation
The Endangered Species Act (ESA) directs all Federal agencies to work to conserve endangered and threatened species and to use their authorities to further the purposes of the Act. Section 7 of the Act, called "Interagency Cooperation," is the mechanism by which Federal agencies ensure the actions they take, including those they fund or authorize, do not jeopardize the existence of any listed species.
Learn more about Section 7 (a)(2) of the Act is required for actions that "may affect" a listed species and/or Critical Habitat, it guides project representatives on next steps for coordinating with our field office. Successful completion of this key requires a thorough review and familiarity with the documents, laws, and regulations relevant to the project.
Resources:
Standing Analysis for the Georgia Statewide Determination Key
Information for Planning and Consultation (IPaC)
Training Webinar: Introduction to the Georgia Statewide Determination Key
