The historic and present use of habitat conservation plans for the protection of aquatic species

Abstract

Habitat conservation plans have been used since 1982 when Section 10 was added to the Endangered Species Act, but were not heavily utilized until the Clinton administration amended the section to give assurances to land owners regarding their future obligations under the plans. Despite the increase in popularity, very little has been written about their application to listed aquatic species. In order to contribute to this limited literature, I have compiled a comprehensive analysis of techniques used and characteristics commonly associated with aquatic plans. Additionally, I implemented a case study format for a limited number of plans in order to examine the social and political context under which they were established. Together, these chapters can be used to better understand the development of aquatic plans and to provide categorical information for the analysis of plan success for the benefit of landowners and government agencies responsible for developing effective solutions to imperiled species management.