Arctic Ringed Seal Critical Habitat Map and GIS Data
Map and GIS data representing critical habitat for the Arctic subspecies of ringed seals.
Once a species is listed under the Endangered Species Act (ESA), NOAA Fisheries is required to designate critical habitat for that species to the maximum extent prudent and determinable.
Critical habitat protections apply only when federal funding, permits, or projects are involved. Federal agencies are required to consult with NOAA Fisheries whenever the project or action they are proposing may affect ESA-listed species or designated critical habitat. Under section 7(a)(2) of the ESA, all federal agencies must ensure that any actions they authorize, fund, or carry out are not likely to jeopardize the continued existence of any listed species or result in the destruction or adverse modification of designated critical habitat.
The final rule (see More Information link) should be consulted for the precise legal definition of critical habitat for the threatened Arctic subspecies of ringed seals.