The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) has been on course to issue a proposed rule under the Endangered Species Act (ESA) that may result in four aquatic amphibians being listed as endangered under the ESA.

Williamson County, through the Williamson County Conservation Foundation (WCCF), has expended much effort in preparing expert, scientific analysis of the proposed listing in anticipation of the required public comment period.

For an extended review of the background, issues and frequently asked questions about the ESA, the candidate species and this proposed listing action, please go to the WCCF’s educational site at www.wilco.org/salamander.

There will be two informational meeting and public hearing events. These public hearings are a formal part of the listing process under the ESA.

Wednesday, September 5, 2012 – Williamson County
Informational meeting – 5:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.
Public hearing – 7:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
Wingate by Wyndham Round Rock
1209 N. IH 35 North, Exit 253 at U.S. 79
Round Rock, Texas 78664

Thursday, September 6, 2012 – Travis County 
Informational meeting - 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. 
Public hearing – 8:00 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.
Thompson Conference Center
2405 Robert Dedman Drive, Room 2.102
Austin, Texas 78705 

These public hearings are not the only avenue for the FWS to receive public comments. Both written and verbal comments will be received at the public hearing. By statute all public comments – written and verbal - must be considered during the review process for the proposed listing.