Taking of Endangered and Threatened Species Incidental to Texas Parks and Wildlife Department’s Fisheries-Independent Gill Net Surveys in Texas Waters.

Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) has applied for an incidental take permit (ITP) pursuant to the Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended (ESA). The permit application is for the incidental take of ESA-listed sea turtles associated with otherwise lawful fishery-independent gill net surveys within Texas bays and estuaries. NMFS is publishing this notice to allow other agencies and the public an opportunity to review and comment on the application and Conservation Plan. All comments received will become part of the public record and will be available for review.