The Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act (Eagle Act) and Migratory Bird Treaty Act (MBTA) are the cornerstone of federal environmental laws protecting eagles and migratory birds. This course will summarize recent developments and new guidance and regulations from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) on how to prepare Eagle Conservation Plans (ECPs) and how to comply with MBTA. The course will provide important information on these laws including:
- An overview of the Eagle Act and MBTA
- Recent history, case law, permit requirements and guidance
- How to apply USFWS guidance to projects and how to prepare an ECP
- The process for obtaining individual and programmatic permits
- How best to coordinate with the USFWS to obtain an Eagle Take Permit
- Challenges and solutions associated with ECP development and permitting
- Compliance with the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA)
- Benefits and costs of Eagle Act compliance
- Example ECPs and permits
- Integration of ECPs with Habitat Conservation Plans
- Other MBTA issues and permits
The course will be useful for project managers and staff seeking to comply with these laws.
Course Code
501230