This course offers targeted training on the latest U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service final rule for designating critical habitat under the Endangered Species Act. Learn the step-by-step regulatory requirements for exclusion analyses, impact evaluations—including economic and national security—and the rigorous documentation now expected for every critical habitat decision. The training covers compliance strategies, risk management, and the roles of stakeholders and agencies. Equip your team to meet the transparency and accountability standards required by the 2026 rule.
In this course you will learn the following:
* Understand the statutory and regulatory requirements for designating and excluding critical habitat.
* Identify the processes and criteria for conducting exclusion analyses.
* Apply the new standards for considering economic, national security, and other relevant impacts.
* Recognize the roles of stakeholders and the public in the designation process.
* Comprehend the legal and financial consequences of non-compliance with the final rule.
