Previous Story
Lawmaker expresses concerns over proposed listing of species
The chairperson for the Rota Legislative Delegation wrote to U.S Fish and Wildlife Service field supervisor Loyal A. Mehrhoff yesterday to express concerns about the proposed new listing of species for protection under the Endangered Species Act.
Rep. Teresita A. Santos (R-Rota) also expressed concerns over the possible designation of additional critical habitats, particularly on eight plants and one animal on the island of Rota.
“Although I understand the necessity for the protection and conservation of such species, I also understand that such listing possibly creates adverse effects on the people of Rota as well,” Santos said.
She cited as an example the stopping of an agricultural homestead issuance due to the presence of the Marianas crow.
According to Santos, it took “almost 20 years to be resolved.”
In addition to these concerns, she asked Mehrhoff to give the people of Rota an opportunity to express their opinions in a public hearing prior to the listing of the plants and animal species under the ESA.
“The island of Rota is relatively small, yet it has several conservation areas currently in place,” Santos said. “In addition, the U.S. Congress is currently addressing legislation to authorize the review of areas on Rota for possible inclusion in the National Park system.”
She said the further designation of additional critical habitats “will lessen” the amount of available lands for future development.
Santos stated that it would be reasonable that the current conservation areas also serve as critical habitats and that will ensure the protection of the species and not inhibit future development for the people of Rota.
Santos urged Mehrhoff’s office to look into all aspects of the proposal and seriously consider the needs of the people of Rota.
“I thank you [Mehrhoff] in advance for your consideration of the concerns I have on the issue and look forward to favorable action,” she said.
