In reply, refer to:

• Main Authors: Fish, Wildlife Service, Mr. Guy Mcconnell
• Other Authors: The Pennsylvania State University CiteSeerX Archives
• Format: Text
• Language: English
• Published: 2007
• Subjects: surveys at Dutch Harbor/Unalaska; the LSA Harbor Discussion Paper and appendices obtainedGuy McConnell 3; Polysticta stelleri; steller’s eider
• Online Access: http://citeseerx.ist.psu.edu/viewdoc/summary?doi=10.1.1.422.4646; http://alaska.fws.gov/fisheries/endangered/pdf/2002026_UnalaskaHarbor.pdf

Final Biological Opinion based on our review of the proposed construction of a harbor at the Little South America-South site in Unalaska, as modified, and its effects on the Steller’s eider (Polysticta stelleri) in accordance with section 7 of the Endangered Species Act (Act) of 1973, as amended (16 U.S.C. 1531 et seq.). On March 30, 2007, we received notification that harbor location had been moved approximately 15 meters further off shore to reduce the volume of dredged material and to avoid blasting activities in the nearshore environment. While we determined that the proposed modifications to the project fall within the scope of analysis of the existing biological opinion, we have updated population estimates for the Steller’s eider and listed the southwestern distinct population segment of the northern sea otter (Enhydra lutris kenyonii) as threatened. Consequently, we revised the life history and analysis of effects for both of these species. Our reanalysis did not result in any changes to our take estimate or terms and conditions. This letter provides only a summary of the findings included in the Biological Opinion, where a complete discussion of the effects analysis can be found. Also considered in this Biological Opinion are the potential effects of the proposed action on the short-tailed albatross (Phoebastria albatrus). This Biological Opinion is based on information provided in the Biological Assessments for the