Endangered Species Consultation: Why Does iT Take so Long?

摘要

The percentage of projects requiring endangered species consultations, particularly formal consultations, has increased substantially. Most alarming is the increase in the amount of time required. While the regulatory 135-day timeframe would not necessarily significantly add to the amount of time the licensing process takes, in practice, the consultation process clearly significantly delays the licensing process. Delays in the licensing process ultimately result in the delay in implementing much-needed environmental protection measures. The numbers of formal consultations are likely to continue into the future, particularly with the current increased interest in hydropower development.