what is solicited application letter

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What is the difference between a solicited application letter & an unsolicited letter.

Job seekers create application letters , also called cover letters, to send to prospective employers in an attempt to get an interview. If a job is advertised and available, the person sends a solicited application letter. If the job was not announced, the person sends an unsolicited letter hoping there might be an open position within a company.

The main difference between a solicited application letter and an unsolicited one is whether a company receiving the letter announced a job opening or not. If a company announced an opening, the letter is considered solicited because it was requested. However, if a company had not asked for applications, the letter is considered unsolicited.

The goal of a solicited application letter is to obtain an interview for a specific job position which the writer mentions in the letter. For example, the writer states that she is applying for the accounts payable clerk position that is open. When a person writes an unsolicited letter, she hopes that the company has any position, within a certain area, available. This letter is more general and the writer states that she is applying, for example, to any type of managerial position within the company.

Considerations

A person writing a solicited application letter often includes where he heard about the opening. A person writing an unsolicited letter often states where he heard about the company. Both types of letters are used to state details about the writer’s qualifications, background and skill. An unsolicited letter should also include some company information, such as an interesting fact or two the writer has learned about the company.

When writing a solicited letter, address the main point of the letter immediately without spending too much time on unnecessary details. An unsolicited letter must immediately catch the reader’s interest. Employers expect solicited letters when a job opening was announced, however, if no opening was posted, employers generally are not expecting to receive application letters. Therefore, an unsolicited letter must focus on benefiting the reader and the company. An unsolicited letter must also take action by the writer stating his intentions to call the company for a follow-up discussion regarding the application.

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• IO: Application Letters
• DePauw University Writing Center: Application Letter/Personal Statement Writing

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Solicited Application Letter: 07 Samples & Examples ideas

Are you looking for information on how to write a solicited application letter? Are you thinking of applying for a job that’s not been advertised? Or, have you seen an open position that you’re perfect for but don’t know how to go about getting your resume in front of the hiring manager? If so, you’ve come to the right place. In this blog post, we will provide you with seven samples and examples of what a solicited application letter should look like. We will also provide some tips on how to make your letter stand out from the rest.

Here is where the art of the solicited application letter comes in. A solicited application letter is one that you send to a company in response to a specific job opening, even if the job isn’t advertised. It’s a great way to get your resume directly into the hands of the person who makes hiring decisions. Wondering how to write perfect Cover letter? We’ve got 07 samples & examples for you right here!

For More: Unsolicited Application Letter: 07 Examples & Ideas

Solicited Cover letter

Dear Sir/Madam,

I am writing to you in the hope of obtaining a position of employment with your company. Also I have recently passed my professional examinations and obtained my qualifications as a <insert level> Certified Financial Planners (CFP). The combination of both theoretical knowledge and practical experience has enabled me to develop an extensive knowledge base that is well rounded, all-encompassing and marketable.

I am confident that I can make a significant contribution to your company’s future success through my dedication, determination and commitment. My skills include <insert skills> which will help me to quickly become an effective member of the team.

I look forward to discussing how I can assist you in meeting your goals and objectives.

Kindest regards,

Solicited Application letter sample

My name is (insert name here). I am an (insert age) year old (insert job), who works at (insert company) as (insert current position). Would like to apply for the position of Project Manager.

I have over ten years experience in my industry, with five years gained at my present employer. Also have a great understanding of the industry and I am well versed in all aspects taking on responsibility for (insert number) projects.

I understand what is expected from a Project Manager and I work to tight deadlines with diligence. My greatest strength is my ability to manage staff despite their inexperience, as such I have built up an extensive network over the years.

I am available for interview at your earliest convenience and can be contacted on (insert phone number). I look forward to hearing from you.

Thank you for your time,

Yours sincerely,

Example of Solicited Application letter

My name is (insert name here). I am a recent graduate of Computer Science and I am interested in applying for the position of (insert position name here) at Company X.

I was particularly impresses by your impressive client list, and believe that my skills and expertise would suit Company X well. Also I possess a strong academic record with a degree from University Y in Computer Science, and have gained much experience over the past three years as a (insert position name here) at Company A, and as an intern at Company B.

I am confident that my communication skills, ingenuity and enthusiasm would prove beneficial to your company if I were to be offers the opportunity of employment. Thank you for taking the time to read my letter and CV, and I hope that we may have the chance to discuss my suitability for this position in more detail.

For more information on me and my experience, please have a look at the attached resume. Thank you again for your time, and I hope that we may be able to meet soon.

Yours faithfully,

Solicited Cover Letter Example

I am writing this cover letter to complement my resume, which I am enclosing here with. Please go through both documents and help me in getting a job in your company.

As you can see from my resume, I have done some course on photography, mostly related to wedding work. So here are some of the photographs that I have taken, along with the comments of the clients.

Now, I am studying in final year of graduation. During these three years, I have done my best to be well prepare for the future challenges. Here are the copies of some of my certificates. Please note that I can start with an initial basic salary, but after a few months you will realize what an asset I can be for the company.

I believe this shows my level of commitment towards photography and I hope you can consider me for any openings in your company related to photography. Therefore Looking forward to doing my best for your company if given a chance. I will be waiting for your reply.

Thanking You,

Solicited Cover Letter Sample

I am aware that your company is currently looking to fill a position for a Marketing Assistant. Since I came across your advertisement in the local newspaper, I feel like my skills and qualifications would be an asset to this business. Most importantly, I believe it’s time we met and talked about this opportunity – personally – face-to-face.

I enclose my resume for you to take a look at. I hope we can arrange a meeting soon so that we could discuss this further. I’m looking forward to your response.

When you receive this letter, I would appreciate it if you could set up a time to meet with me about my interest in this position. In the meantime, please feel free to contact me at 555-555-5555 or via email at [email protected]. Whether you reach me by phone or email, I will be happy to answer any questions you may have. I look forward to hearing from you soon and seeing if we’re a good fit for each other.

Solicited Application Letter Sample for Fresh Graduate

Dear Hiring Manager,

I am applying for the  position of  you have advertised recently in (insert online job-hunting website name). I believe my expertise and skills are well suits for this  job. I’m writing to apply for the  position that  (insert name of company here) advertise on (insert date that ad was released).

At (insert last job you worked at) I (Insert quantifiable results here; things like “reduced prices by 12%”, “increased market share by 15%”, etc. If you have no quantifiable results, use the bullet style below)

(Insert a list of your skills and attributes – be specific with words like “hardworking”, “dedicated” or work-related terms. So If you have no traits, use the bullet style below)

I would appreciate the opportunity to interview for this position at your earliest convenience. Can be reach at 555-555-5555 or via email at  (insert your email address). Thank you for your consideration. I look forward to hearing from you.

For More: Best Application Letter for Job Vacancy: 09 Examples & Sample

Solicited Application Letter

Respected Sir,

I am writing to apply for a post of a computer science teacher in your great institution. I have my bachelor’s degree in Computer Science and my job is to teach in the local high school. My research papers on software engineering have been publish in international journals and my innovation is going to hit the market soon.

I have been teaching for the past few years and I am looking for a challenging post. Your institution is well-known all over the world and also I believe that if selected, I will be able to serve your great organization in a better way.

Please find attached my Resume for your consideration, I would appreciate so if you could keep me updated on any potential vacancies you might have available. Kindly accept my application as soon as possible. You can contact me at 9876543210 or write to me at ‘[email protected]’. I hope to get an interview call soon.

Regardless of what type of position you are applying for, the key to getting notice is in your application letter. That’s why we compiled a list of samples and examples so that you can find one that works best for you! Whether it be an internship or full-time job, these sample letters will help show off your skills while also giving the hiring manager insight into who you are as a person. Therefore Check out our list to get start on crafting your perfect application letter. What do you think? Let us know in the comment section!

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The Difference Between Solicited and Unsolicited Application Letters

• by Erin Fuentes
• October 5, 2023

Are you in the job market and confused about the various types of application letters ? Whether you’re actively seeking a job or simply exploring opportunities, it’s essential to understand the difference between solicited and unsolicited application letters. In today’s blog post, we will break down these two types of letters and provide insights into when and how to use them.

Solicited application letters are the traditional route when applying for a specific job opening . They typically arise in response to a job advertisement or a company’s invitation to apply. On the other hand, unsolicited application letters involve reaching out to organizations without a specific job opening. But which one is for you? Join us as we explore the nuances and implications of both types of application letters, shedding light on when you might want to consider each approach.

Uncover the secrets behind crafting effective solicited and unsolicited application letters, maximize your chances of getting noticed by employers, and increase your job prospects. Whether you’re wondering if employers want cover letters, how to apply for an unsolicited job, or how to start an unsolicited cover letter, we’ve got you covered. So, let’s dive in and unravel the mysteries together!

What is the Difference Between Solicited and Unsolicited Application Letter?

Understanding the contrast in application letters.

When it comes to job hunting, it’s important to know the difference between solicited and unsolicited application letters. These two types of letters can greatly impact your chances of landing an interview and ultimately securing the job of your dreams. So, let’s dive into the exciting world of application letters and explore the nuances that set them apart!

The Art of a Solicited Application Letter

A solicited application letter, also known as a job-specific application, is a letter that you send in response to a job posting or advertisement. It’s like raising your hand in a crowd and saying, “Hey, pick me! I’m perfect for this job!” This type of letter allows you to showcase your skills, qualifications, and experience directly aligned with the job requirements.

When crafting a solicited application letter, be sure to carefully read the job description and identify the specific skills and qualifications the employer is looking for. Highlight these key points in your letter to demonstrate that you possess what it takes to excel in the role. The goal is to convince the employer that you are the ideal candidate among the sea of contenders.

The Unpredictable Nature of an Unsolicited Application Letter

Now, let’s turn our attention to the unsolicited application letter—the wild card of the job application world! Unlike its solicited counterpart, an unsolicited letter is not in response to a job posting. Instead, it’s like saying, “Hey, I think your company is fantastic, and I want to join your team!” Think of it as a charming surprise that could potentially open doors you never knew existed.

With an unsolicited application letter, you have the opportunity to pique the employer’s curiosity and showcase your enthusiasm for their organization. Research the company thoroughly to gain insights into their goals, values, and culture. Reflect this knowledge in your letter along with a clear explanation of the skills and expertise you bring to the table. While there’s no guarantee of a job, you might just catch the attention of the hiring manager and discover hidden job opportunities.

Tailoring Your Approach for Maximum Impact

While solicited and unsolicited application letters differ in their origin and purpose, there are a few key points to remember to maximize their impact:

Grab Attention with a Stellar Opening

Whether solicited or unsolicited, your application letter needs to stand out from the competition. Begin with a captivating introduction that showcases your personality, but be mindful to maintain a professional tone throughout. You want to leave a lasting impression that makes the employer excited to read on.

Highlight Your Relevant Skills and Experience

In both types of application letters, it’s crucial to highlight the skills and experience that are most relevant to the job or company. Tailor your letter to match the specific requirements outlined in the job posting or, in the case of an unsolicited application, focus on areas where your expertise aligns with the company’s needs.

Demonstrate Your Enthusiasm and Knowledge

Whether you’re applying for a solicited or unsolicited position, employers value candidates who are genuinely interested in their organization. Show your excitement and passion by including specific details about the company’s projects, achievements, or recent initiatives. This demonstrates that you’ve done your homework and are sincerely interested in being part of their success story.

Understanding the Distinction for Application Success!

Now armed with the knowledge of the differences between solicited and unsolicited application letters, you’re ready to tackle the job market head-on! Tailor your approach depending on the circumstances and be sure to let your personality shine through in your application letter. Remember, a well-crafted letter can be the key to unlock the doors of exciting career opportunities. Good luck, job seekers!

FAQ: What is the Difference Between Solicited and Unsolicited Application Letter?

How to apply for an unsolicited job.

If you’ve got your eyes on a company and want to make a bold move, an unsolicited job application might be your ticket to success. While it may seem audacious, it can also demonstrate your initiative and determination. Here’s how to go about it:

Identify Your Target: Do your research and identify the companies you’re interested in. Find out more about their industry, values, and vision, so you can confidently approach them.

Craft an Impressive Cover Letter: Since you’re applying without a specific job opening, your cover letter needs to grab attention. Highlight your skills, experiences, and what makes you an exceptional candidate.

Tailor Your Resume: Customize your resume to showcase your relevant skills, achievements, and qualifications that align with the company’s needs. Make sure it’s clear and concise.

Send a Polite Inquiry: Reach out by email or regular mail, expressing your interest in working for the company and attaching your resume and cover letter. Be polite, professional, and enthusiastic in your approach.

Do Employers Want Cover Letters

Absolutely! Cover letters provide valuable insights into your personality, motivation, and compatibility with the company culture. While some employers may not explicitly request a cover letter, taking the time to write one shows your dedication and sets you apart from other applicants.

Is It Okay to Send an Unsolicited Resume

While it might not always lead to immediate job prospects, sending an unsolicited resume can create opportunities that wouldn’t have otherwise existed. Companies are constantly on the lookout for potential talent, and if you can impress them with your skills and qualifications, they may keep you in mind for future openings or refer you to other organizations.

What is the Difference Between Solicited and Unsolicited Application Letter

Solicited Application Letter: Picture this: a company posts a job ad, and you eagerly respond with an application tailored explicitly for that position. That’s a solicited application letter. It’s a targeted response to a specific job opening, where you showcase your qualifications and express your interest in the position.

Unsolicited Application Letter: Now imagine you’re captivated by a company and want to work there, even if they don’t have any current job openings. So, you write an unsolicited application letter to introduce yourself, express your enthusiasm, and explain how you can contribute to their success. It’s a bold move that can make a lasting impression.

How to Start an Unsolicited Cover Letter

Writing a compelling opening for an unsolicited cover letter requires creativity and personalization. Here are a few approaches you can take:

The Bold Statement: Start with a captivating statement about why you’re reaching out, grabbing the reader’s attention from the get-go.

The Mutual Connection: If you have a mutual connection with someone in the company, mention it early on. People tend to pay more attention to recommendations from people they know.

The Personal Story: Share a brief personal story that connects you to the company or industry. Make it engaging and relevant to your abilities.

Remember, your opening sets the tone for the rest of your letter, so make it unforgettable!

What Do You Mean by Solicited Proposal

A solicited proposal is a response to a specific request or invitation from a company or organization. They may invite proposals to solve a particular problem, meet a specific need, or fulfill a requirement. It could be for a business project, a research collaboration, or even a public procurement opportunity. In a solicited proposal, you demonstrate how your skills, expertise, and solutions align with the requirements outlined by the company.

So, whether you’re sending off an unsolicited application or responding to a solicited proposal, remember to showcase your strengths, grab attention, and make a lasting impression. Happy job hunting!

*Note: This content was generated with the assistance of artificial intelligence.

• application letters
• exciting world
• personality
• qualifications
• relevant skills
• specific job opening
• unsolicited application letters

Erin Fuentes

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Solicited Application Letter

Last Updated On June 27, 2018 By Letter Writing Leave a Comment

While writing an application letter, one has to be polite and use a simple tone since he is requesting by applying for this particular necessary issue. The first few lines should be written in such a manner that it will create an impression on the reader’s mind. If an impact is created,, then he will consider your application. It should be striking and contain all necessary information. This letter is written when you are in financial trouble or any other, and the trouble/problem should be highlighted issues in the letter.

 At the same time, they should not be emphasized so much that your dignity level is questioned. It should be a request, not a process of begging for the job or something. It should be completely formal, and no mention of your special friendship with the person to w tohom the letter is written to should be made because the letter starts becoming an informal one. A word or two about the special reason why you should get a chance to improve your situation should be present 

Solicited Application Letter Writing Tips

• An application letter comes under formal letter so it words and phrases should be selected carefully.
• The language should be simple and easy to understand.
• The content of the letter should be short and straightforward.
• Highlight your suitability and reasons carefully.

Solicited Application Letter Template

Use our free Solicited Application Letter to help you get started. If you need additional help or more examples check out some of the sample letters below.

__________ (employee’s name) __________ (employee’s address) __________ __________

______________ (Your name) ______________ (Your address) __________________

Date __________ (date of writing letter)

Dear Mr. /Ms__________ (name of the concerned person),

I am a ……………….(mention qualification). I came to know that there is a need for ………………….(mention job vacancy details).  I am applying for this position with the help of this letter.

I need this job because…………………(cite reasons). As for my performance in college, I have scored…………………..(mention marks). I have attached copies of my certificates along with the recommendation letter from the………………(name and designation of the person recommending you.). Please verify them and let me know if you consider me for this position.

You will be giving me a much-needed opportunity and will be helping me immensely if you consider me for this job. I will always be loyal and never disappoint the company.

Looking forward to hearing from you,

Thanking you,

Yours Sincerely,

___________ (Your name)

Sample Letter

Sunita Kumar

16, Kolkata Building,

Gandhi Marg,

Hyderabad-700016

Rajan Pillai, Recruitment Manager University of Hyderabad

Dear Mr. Pillai,

I am studying final year MBA at the University college. This application letter is for the post of part-time computer operator at our college. My father is a retired employee, and we are facing financial problems. To overcome at least to a certain extent, I want to work after college hours and support my family.

I hope you will understand my situation and do the needful. I am sending my certificates along with the recommendation letter from the Head of the Department MBA course.

I am very much in need of this job, and I will be grateful to you for your support. Please consider this matter as urgent and inform me through email. I shall come and meet you at your convenient time.

I look forward to hearing from you at the earliest.

Email Format

The following is an Email Format for Solicited Application Letter.

To: [email protected]

From: [email protected]

Subject : Application for post of _________________

Dear (name),

I am writing this letter as an application for the appointment of Part-time Data Operator in your Office to supplement my income. I want this work immediately because my financial condition is not good at this time. As requested, I am enclosing my resume. My resume offers all details; I am a Final Year MCA student in your College. I am attaching herewith the Recommendation of the Head of the Dept of MCA Course.

Thank you for your time and consideration. I very much look forward to speaking with you further regarding this work.

Thanking you.

Yours Faithfully,

(your name)

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• Career Blog

Writing a Winning Job Application Letter: Tips and Examples

A job application letter, also known as a cover letter, is a formal letter that accompanies your resume and introduces you to a potential employer. The purpose of a job application letter is to highlight your qualifications, experience, and skills that make you the perfect candidate for the job. It also helps employers understand your personality, work ethic, and how you plan to contribute to their organization.

Importance of Customization

One of the key factors that can make or break your job application letter is how well you customize it to the specific job you are applying for. Employers want to see that you have taken the time to research their company and understand what they are looking for in a candidate. Customizing your letter also shows that you are genuinely interested in the job and that you are willing to put in the extra effort to stand out from other applicants.

Brief Overview of Key Sections

While job application letters can vary slightly depending on the job and industry, they typically contain four key sections:

Introduction: This section should include a brief introduction, the job you are applying for, and how you found out about it.

Qualifications: In this section, you should discuss your qualifications and experience that make you a good fit for the job. Be sure to tailor this section to the specific job requirements to show that you have the skills they are looking for.

Skills: Here, you should highlight your relevant skills and how they apply to the job. Use examples from your past experiences to demonstrate your proficiency in each skill.

Closing: The closing paragraph should thank the employer for considering your application and provide contact information for them to reach you.

In this article, we will dive into each of these sections in more detail and provide tips and examples to help you write a winning job application letter.

Understand the Job Requirements

To write a winning job application letter, it is important to thoroughly understand the job requirements. This involves analyzing the job description and understanding the needs of the employer, as well as tailoring your letter to attract the specific employer.

A. Analyzing the Job Description

The job description provides you with valuable information about the position you are applying for. It outlines the required skills, qualifications, and responsibilities of the job. By analyzing the job description, you can determine if the role is a good fit for your experience and qualifications.

When analyzing the job description, it is important to pay attention to key phrases and requirements mentioned. These can give you insight into the priorities of the employer and allow you to tailor your application to meet those priorities.

B. Understanding the Needs of the Employer

To write a winning job application letter, it is also essential to understand the needs of the employer. This means researching the company and the industry to get a better understanding of the company culture, mission, and values. It also means understanding the desired outcome of the position and how you can address the employer’s needs.

One way to convey your understanding of the employer’s needs is to highlight relevant accomplishments in your application letter. By showing how you have successfully addressed similar challenges in the past, you can demonstrate your potential value to the employer.

C. Tailoring the Letter to Attract Specific Employer

Finally, to write a winning job application letter, it is important to tailor your letter to attract the specific employer. This means using language and examples that relate to the specific company and its values. It also means customizing your application letter to the specific job and its requirements.

To tailor your letter, take the time to research the company and its values. This can involve reviewing their website, social media, and other online resources. By addressing the specific needs and values of the employer, you can show that you are invested in the position and the company.

To write a winning job application letter, it is important to understand the job requirements, analyze the job description, understand the needs of the employer, and tailor the letter to attract the specific employer. By doing so, you can craft an application that stands out from the competition and showcases your value as a candidate.

Research the Company and Industry

Before writing your job application letter, it’s important to research the company and industry thoroughly to increase your chances of writing a winning letter. Here are three key areas to focus on:

A. Understanding the Mission, Vision, and Values of the Company

Make sure you take the time to research the company’s mission, vision, and values. This will help you understand the company’s goals and the qualities they look for in employees. You can find this information on the company’s website, social media pages or company annual report.

Incorporate the values and mission statement of the company into your job application letter. This highlights your alignment with the company culture, and how your beliefs and goals match that of the organization’s.

B. Identifying the Company’s Competition

Once you have an understanding of the company, you need to identify the company’s competition. Knowing who the competitors are can help you understand the industry as well as the company’s market share position.

List the company’s competitors in your job application letter and briefly explain how you see the company’s strengths overcoming the competitors’ weaknesses.

C. Industry Trends and How to Address Them

The final area to focus on when researching the company and industry is identifying current industry trends and how these trends may impact the company’s future. Use reputable sources to gather trends and predictions about the industry. This will also show the recruiter that you are not only familiar with their industry, but are engaging in informed discussion and contributing to innovative solutions.

Incorporate industry trends into your job application letter and showcase the ideas and innovations you bring, how leveraging them can enhance the company’s position and how you can contribute to any current and future challenges, for which the potential employer has yet to find a solution.

By researching and incorporating the above areas into your job application letter, you demonstrate a genuine interest in the organization and showcase clear understanding, innovative thought and how your expertise can improve the company’s performance.

Know Your Strengths and Skills

When writing a job application letter, it’s crucial to understand your unique selling proposition, relevant experience, and transferrable skills. This information will help you stand out from the other applicants and potentially land the job of your dreams.

A. Identifying Your Unique Selling Proposition

Your unique selling proposition (USP) is what sets you apart from the other candidates. It could be a specific skill, experience or personality trait that aligns with the company’s values and job requirements. Start by analyzing the job description and researching the company culture to identify what makes you an ideal candidate for the role.

Once you have identified your USP, use it as the main selling point in your job application letter. Highlight your strengths and skills and explain how they align with the job requirements and the company’s values. This will show the hiring manager that you are not just another candidate, but someone who has something valuable to offer.

B. Highlighting Your Relevant Experience and Accomplishments

Your work experience and achievements are essential in demonstrating your abilities and suitability for the job. When crafting your job application letter, focus on highlighting your relevant experience and accomplishments. Use specific examples to demonstrate how you have contributed in previous roles and how those skills could be applied to the new role you are applying for.

Be sure to use metrics whenever possible as numbers are a great way to showcase your achievements. For example, if you were able to increase sales revenue by 20% in your previous role, mention it in your letter. This will give the hiring manager a clear understanding of your capabilities and how they align with the job requirements.

C. Understanding How to Leverage Transferrable Skills

Transferrable skills are those abilities that you have gained from your previous experiences that are not necessarily related to the job you are applying for. They can be valuable in demonstrating your adaptability and ability to learn quickly.

When discussing your transferrable skills in your job application letter, highlight how they could be applied to the new role you are applying for. For example, if you have strong communication skills, explain how you could use that to effectively collaborate with team members and clients.

By understanding and leveraging your unique selling proposition, relevant experience and accomplishments, and transferrable skills, you can write a job application letter that stands out from the crowd. Remember to tailor your letter to the job requirements and company culture to increase your chances of success.

Address Gaps in Your Resume or Experience

When applying for a job, it’s important to consider any gaps in your resume or experience that might be a red flag for hiring managers. Addressing these gaps upfront can demonstrate your accountability and willingness to take ownership of your shortcomings.

A. Taking ownership of failings

If you have gaps in your work history or experience, don’t try to hide or make excuses for them. Instead, take ownership of any failings and show that you’re actively working to improve yourself. This could involve taking courses, pursuing certifications, or volunteering in relevant areas to gain hands-on experience.

B. Finding a workaround for unfilled requirements

Sometimes a job posting requires specific qualifications or experience that you don’t have. In these cases, it’s important to find a workaround that demonstrates your ability to still meet the employer’s needs. This could involve highlighting related experience or transferable skills that could compensate for the missing requirement. Alternatively, it might involve offering to take on additional training or work with a mentor to acquire the missing knowledge.

C. Highlighting transferable skills to counter an irrelevant job background

When applying for a job in a new industry or field, it’s common to have a background that might not seem directly relevant. However, this doesn’t necessarily mean you’re unqualified for the role. By highlighting transferable skills, such as leadership, problem-solving, or communication, you can demonstrate your ability to adapt to new situations and learn quickly.

Addressing gaps in your resume or experience is an important aspect of writing a winning job application letter. By taking ownership of your failings, finding workarounds for unfilled requirements, and highlighting transferable skills, you can position yourself as a strong candidate and increase your chances of landing the job you want.

Crafting an Attention-grabbing Opening Paragraph

In the competitive job market, first impressions matter. The opening paragraph of your job application letter is your opportunity to make a positive and lasting impression on potential employers. In this section, we’ll explore the importance of crafting an attention-grabbing opening paragraph and provide tips and examples on how to do so.

A. Importance of First Impressions

Studies show that it takes less than 30 seconds for a recruiter or hiring manager to form an initial impression of a job candidate. This means that your opening paragraph is a critical component of your job application letter. Your goal is to capture the employer’s interest and convince them to continue reading.

B. Creative and Engaging Opening Lines

One effective way to capture the employer’s attention is by starting your letter with a creative and engaging opening line. This can be a quote, a personal story, a relevant statistic, or a bold statement. The key is to be authentic and genuine while still standing out from other applicants.

C. Strategies for Catching the Employer’s Attention

Beyond the opening line, there are several strategies you can use to further capture the employer’s attention. These include highlighting relevant skills and experience, demonstrating enthusiasm for the position and company, and connecting your qualifications to the job requirements.

By following these tips and examples, you can craft an attention-grabbing opening paragraph that sets you apart from the competition and piques the employer’s interest.

Highlighting Your Accomplishments

When it comes to writing a winning job application letter, highlighting your accomplishments is crucial. This allows potential employers to see the proven results that you can bring to their organization. Here are a few tips on how to effectively highlight your accomplishments:

A. Demonstrating Achievements in Previous Roles

One of the most effective ways to demonstrate your achievements is by highlighting your accomplishments in your previous roles. This shows that you have a track record of success and can bring that success to your next job. When highlighting your achievements, make sure to focus on results, not just responsibilities. Instead of stating that you managed a team, highlight the specific results that you achieved as a team leader.

For example, instead of saying, “Managed a team of 10 employees,” you could say, “Led a team of 10 employees to achieve a 25% increase in sales within the first quarter.” This shows the impact you had in your previous role and gives potential employers an idea of what you can achieve in their organization.

B. Using Data to Support Accomplishments

Using data to support your accomplishments is a powerful way to illustrate the impact you had in your previous roles. This could include data such as sales figures, customer satisfaction ratings, or employee retention rates. When using data, make sure to include specific numbers and percentages.

For example, instead of saying, “Improved customer satisfaction,” you could say, “Increased customer satisfaction ratings by 15% through implementing a new customer service training program.” This demonstrates the impact you had on the organization and the value you can bring to a potential employer.

C. Highlighting Relevant Certifications and Awards

Another way to highlight your accomplishments is by showcasing any relevant certifications or awards you have received. This shows that you have taken the time to invest in your professional development and have been recognized for your achievements.

When highlighting certifications and awards, make sure to explain why they are relevant to the job you are applying for. For example, if you are applying for a marketing position, highlighting your Google Analytics certification would be relevant as it demonstrates your analytics skills.

Highlighting your accomplishments is a crucial part of writing a winning job application letter. By demonstrating your achievements in previous roles, using data to support your accomplishments, and highlighting relevant certifications and awards, you can show potential employers the value you can bring to their organization.

Showcasing Your Writing Skills

When it comes to writing a winning job application letter, showcasing your exceptional writing skills is crucial to increase your chances of getting hired. Employers often look for applicants who have a way with words, can express themselves clearly, and can craft compelling content that leaves a lasting impression. Here are several ways to showcase your writing skills:

A. Highlighting experience in writing

One of the most effective ways to showcase your writing skills is to highlight your experience as a writer. This can include previous work experience in writing-related fields such as journalism, marketing, or content creation. If you have a writing degree, mention it. You can also share published articles or blog posts that you have written to demonstrate your skills in action. Highlighting relevant experience shows that you have the skills needed to excel in the role you are applying for.

B. Incorporating keywords

Incorporating keywords relevant to the job posting can also help showcase your writing skills. Employers often use applicant tracking systems (ATS) to scan resumes and cover letters for specific keywords related to the position. By including these keywords, you can increase your chances of getting past the initial screening process and showcase your understanding of industry-specific language.

C. Proper grammar, spelling, and tone

Finally, it’s essential to ensure that your writing exhibits proper grammar, spelling, and tone. Errors in these areas can undercut the impact of your application letter and send the wrong message to your potential employer. Take the time to proofread your cover letter and resume carefully, and have someone else review them too. Double-check for proper punctuation, spelling errors, and that your tone fits the professional context.

Showcasing your writing skills is critical when applying for jobs, particularly those that require excellent communication skills. Highlighting relevant experience, incorporating keywords, and ensuring proper grammar, spelling, and tone are strategies that can help set you apart from other applicants and make a lasting impression on potential employers.

Using Power Words and Phrases

When writing a job application letter, it is essential to use powerful words and phrases that can help you stand out from the crowd. Here are some tips to help you select the right words:

A. Selecting Strong Action Words

Action words can help demonstrate your skills and experience effectively. Use verbs that showcase your achievements and contributions to your previous roles. For instance, rather than saying you “assisted” your team, use words such as “led,” “managed,” or “initiated” to emphasize your role in driving projects and initiatives forward.

B. Avoiding Common Clichés and Buzzwords

Although buzzwords and clichés may seem tempting, they could potentially undermine the impact of your letter. Instead of using cookie-cutter phrases like “I am a team player,” try to use specific examples to illustrate your ability to work collaboratively. Also, avoid jargon that may not be familiar to the reader and opt for straightforward language that can be easily understood.

C. Crafting Impactful and Persuasive Sentences

To make your letter more impactful and persuasive, use language that emphasizes your strengths and accomplishments. Start sentences with action words and focus on the results you have achieved. Also, be specific and illustrate your points with concrete examples that demonstrate your value to the prospective employer.

When writing your job application letter, make sure to choose powerful words that demonstrate your expertise and experience effectively. Avoid using clichés and buzzwords and instead focus on crafting persuasive and impactful sentences that showcase your strengths and contributions. By following these principles, you can create a compelling letter that increases your chances of landing the job you want.

Formatting and Presentation of Your Job Application Letter

When it comes to writing a winning job application letter, the presentation and formatting of the letter are just as important as the content. Here are some tips to ensure your letter looks professional and polished:

A. Ensure consistency in formatting

Make sure your letter has a consistent format throughout. This means using the same font and font size for the entire letter. Also, ensure that the margins and spacing are consistent from beginning to end.

B. Proper use of fonts, margins, and spacing

Use a standard font like Times New Roman or Arial, in a legible size (such as 11pt or 12pt). Be sure to use proper spacing between paragraphs and section headers. It’s important to have enough white space to make the letter easy to read, but not so much that it takes up unnecessary space.

C. Guidelines on length of the letter

Longer letters can seem rambling and may deter the hiring manager from reading the whole thing. Focus on the most important points and make them clear and succinct. Remember, your goal is to make a strong case for yourself as a candidate, not overwhelm the reader with information.

By following these tips, you can ensure that your job application letter looks professional, polished, and focused on what matters most – your qualifications for the job.

Sample Job Application Letter

Writing a winning job application letter is important if you’re looking to impress the hiring manager and land your dream job. In this section of the article, we’ll walk through a sample job application letter, analyze its strong points, and provide strategies to improve it.

A. Walk Through a Sample Job Application Letter

Dear Hiring Manager,

I am writing to express my interest in the position of Marketing Manager at ABC Company, as advertised on [job board]. With over [number] years of experience in the marketing industry, I believe I have the skills and knowledge to succeed in this role and make a significant contribution to your team.

During my time at XYZ Company, I was responsible for developing and executing successful marketing campaigns that exceeded client expectations and resulted in increased ROI. My experience in digital marketing, social media management, and content creation have prepared me well for this role. I am highly adaptable, and I have a proven track record of implementing innovative strategies to achieve business objectives.

In addition, I am a strong communicator and collaborator, and I work well in cross-functional teams. I am confident that my skills and experience make me a strong candidate for the role of Marketing Manager at ABC Company.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss my qualifications further.

Sincerely, [Your Name]

B. Analyzing the Strong Points in the Letter

The sample job application letter has several strong points:

• The candidate clearly expresses their interest in the position and summarizes their skills and experience in the marketing industry.
• The letter highlights the candidate’s successful track record in executing marketing campaigns and achieving business objectives.
• The candidate demonstrates their adaptability and ability to implement innovative strategies.
• The letter emphasizes the candidate’s communication and collaboration skills.

C. Strategies to Improve the Letter

To improve the sample job application letter, consider the following strategies:

• Start with a strong opening sentence that grabs the hiring manager’s attention, such as a personal anecdote or a statement about the company’s mission.
• Use specific examples of your achievements and accomplishments to demonstrate your value to the company.
• Customize your letter to the specific job and company by conducting research and referencing relevant company initiatives or values.
• Show enthusiasm and a willingness to learn by expressing interest in the company’s future projects or goals.

By implementing these strategies, you can enhance your job application letter and increase your chances of landing an interview with your dream company.

Writing a winning job application letter requires attention to detail, strong communication skills, and a clear understanding of the hiring company’s needs and values. By following these tips and analyzing examples such as the one above, you can take your job application letter to the next level and stand out from the competition.

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Letter Templates

solicited job application letter example

If you’re looking to apply for a job that you have been solicited to, then you’ll need to write a solicited job application letter. This type of letter is different from an unsolicited job application letter, as you have already been encouraged by the company or recruiter to apply for the position. In this article, we’ll provide you with seven solicited job application letter examples and tips to help you craft a winning application.

Example 1: Applying for an Admin Assistant Position

Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],

I am writing to express my interest in the admin assistant position that you are currently hiring for. After conducting research on your company and its mission, I believe that my skills and experience make me a strong fit for the role.

Over the course of my career, I have developed exceptional organizational, communication, and time-management skills. I am confident that I can bring these skills to your team and contribute to the growth and success of your organization.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to further discuss my qualifications with you.

[Your Name]

Tips for Writing a Solicited Job Application Letter

When it comes to writing a solicited job application letter, there are a few key tips to keep in mind:

1. Address the letter to the appropriate person

Make sure that you address the letter to the person who will be reviewing your application. If the job listing doesn’t provide a specific name, do some research to find out who the hiring manager for the position is.

2. Highlight your relevant skills and experience

Be sure to highlight the skills and experience that are most relevant to the position you are applying for. Use specific examples to demonstrate how your qualifications make you a good fit for the job.

3. Keep it concise and professional

Your letter should be no longer than one page and should be written in a professional tone. Avoid using overly casual language or slang.

4. Provide contact information

Make sure to provide your contact information at the end of the letter, including your phone number and email address.

5. Edit and proofread

Before you submit your application, be sure to edit and proofread your letter for spelling and grammar errors. A polished and error-free letter can make a big difference in the impression you make on a hiring manager.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: can i use the same solicited job application letter for different positions.

While you may be able to use the same basic letter for different positions, it’s important to tailor your application to each specific job. Be sure to highlight the skills and experience that are most relevant to the position you are applying for.

Q: Should I include my salary requirements in my letter?

It’s generally not recommended to include salary requirements in your letter, as this can limit your negotiating power later on. If the job listing specifically asks for your salary requirements, you can include them in a separate document.

Q: How do I follow up on my application?

It’s generally a good idea to follow up on your application after a week or two. You can send a polite email or make a phone call to the hiring manager to inquire about the status of your application.

Q: Should I include references in my letter?

You can include references in your letter if the job listing specifically asks for them. Otherwise, it’s generally not necessary to include them in your initial application.

Q: How do I address a letter if I don’t know the name of the hiring manager?

If you can’t find the name of the hiring manager, you can address the letter to “Dear Hiring Manager” or “To Whom It May Concern”.

Q: What do I do if I don’t have any relevant experience?

If you don’t have any relevant experience, focus on highlighting your transferable skills and any relevant coursework or volunteer experience. Be sure to explain why you are interested in the position and how you are motivated to learn and grow in the role.

A solicited job application letter is a great opportunity to showcase your skills and experience to a potential employer. By following the tips and examples provided in this article, you can craft a winning application that catches the attention of hiring managers and sets you apart from other candidates.

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Solicited Vs. Unsolicited Cover Letters

How to introduce yourself in an email for a job opening.

Cover letters are a staple of your job search, serving as a vehicle for showing off your skills and personality as a prelude to the resume you present to a prospective employer. There's a bit of a difference, however, between how you write cover letters you initiate yourself, and how you write cover letters in response to a direct request from an employer.

Solicited Cover Letters

A solicited cover letter is something you draft when you're applying for a posted job opening or responding to an employment ad. Start off the letter by introducing yourself and stating why you're writing. For example, "I'm writing in regard to the open marketing manager position posted on your website. In my enclosed resume, you'll see I have 10 years experience in marketing and communications, and I've worked in a variety of capacities for both large and medium-sized employers."

Unsolicited Cover Letters

Just because an employer hasn't asked you for your resume doesn't mean he won’t be interested in seeing it -- you just have to make the first move. An unsolicited cover letter is used to pitch yourself to a potential employer, either for an existing job opening, or as a way of introducing yourself to a company you’d like to work with. The former is known as "prospecting," and is used to let an employer know who you are and what kind of job you're looking for. The letter should introduce you, highlight your skills and credentials, and provide a brief explanation of why you're writing. Note why you think you're a good fit for the company, either for an existing job or a future opening. “I've always admired your company’s customer service levels, and I'm very interested in joining your stellar customer retention team."

Cover Letter Elements

All cover letters, whether solicited or unsolicited, should be written on high-quality letterhead. Follow the traditional business letter writing format by including the date, the name and title of the person the letter is addressed to, followed by the body of the letter. End the correspondence with the word, “Sincerely,” followed by your signature and printed name. Use the same format for email correspondence, and always include your contact information in your letter.

Cover Letter Follow-Up

Regardless of whether the cover letter you send is solicited or unsolicited, it's wise to follow-up with the recipient within several days of sending it. Contact the individual by phone, introduce yourself, and say you are calling to verify receipt of your mail. Based on the employer’s response, you might ask more about the position or press for an in-person interview.

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Lisa McQuerrey has been a business writer since 1987. In 1994, she launched a full-service marketing and communications firm. McQuerrey's work has garnered awards from the U.S. Small Business Administration, the International Association of Business Communicators and the Associated Press. She is also the author of several nonfiction trade publications, and, in 2012, had her first young-adult novel published by Glass Page Books.

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How to Write an Application Letter

How do you write an application letter that can get you the job you desire?

Many job seekers don’t always see the reason why they should write an application letter when they are applying for a job because they feel they can just send their CVs.

Your CV indeed contains all the necessary information that the recruiter needs to know about you, but sometimes your CV alone may not be able to do the job of helping you land the job of your dreams.

Your CV may do a great job of showing that you have the skills and education required to excel in a particular position, but it may not be great at telling your prospective employer that you are the best person for the job.

This is what an application letter does for you. An application letter expresses your interest in a job and shows the employer why you are the best person for the position. Writing an application letter is one of the hidden job search hacks that help you  apply for fewer jobs, but land more interviews .

If you are tired of getting  rejected every time you apply for a job vacancy , then you should consider writing an application letter that will help you express your sincere interest in the job of your dreams. In this article, we will be looking at:

• What is an application letter
• Importance of an application letter
• Difference between an application letter and a resume letter
• How to write an application letter
• Application letter examples

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What is an Application Letter?

A job application letter is a formal document that is sent to a prospective employer to express your interest in a position. An application letter is usually sent alone and not attached alongside another document.

Most times, an application letter is not sent after you must have seen an advertised position but sent whether or not a vacancy was advertised. The application letter serves a purpose that is similar to that of the CV.

Read:   How to Write an Application Letter in Nigeria for a Teaching Job

When You Should Write an Application Letter.

Yes, it is true that you should write an application letter when you are interested in a job, but that is not all you consider before you decide to write an application letter.

When you see a job advert that you are interested in, you send your CV and cover letter, right? But this does not quite work for application letters. Employers will not replace the CV and cover letter with an application letter.

The approach of an application letter is different from the CV and the cover letter. You should write an application letter when the employer does not solicit your interest in the position. This simply means when there is no job advertisement or posting.

For example, if you are searching for a job and you have a list of top companies that you would love to work for, you don’t necessarily have to wait for a job posting to declare your interest in that particular job. You can simply email an application to different companies.

This is a way for you to extensively and formally introduce yourself to the prospective employer of the companies that you would love to work for.

Why You Should Write an Application Letter for a Job

Just like we have discussed earlier, there are many reasons why people write application letters. If you are actively searching for a job, then this is why you should consider writing an application letter:

• It serves as a formal introduction between you and your prospective employer.
• It can help you access hidden jobs.
• It can help you to be a step ahead of other job seekers.
• It puts you in a less competitive circle in comparison with what happens when jobs are advertised with thousands of applicants showing interest.
• It can help you boycott the process of applying for a job online, and writing a resume letter because most times application letters stand alone.

Difference between a Job Application Letter and a Cover Letter

Many people use the terms application letter and resume letter interchangeably because they think that they mean the same thing. Even though the application letter and the cover letter perform almost the same function, they are different.

• An application letter is intended to stand alone, while a cover letter is usually accompanied by a CV or resume.
• A resume/cover letter will contain a brief introduction that consists of three to four sentences about the job seekers' experience, education, accomplishment and why the job seeker feels he/she is the best candidate for the job. On the other hand, an application letter may have a more extensive introduction because it is meant to stand alone just like the CV.
• An application letter often can substitute for a resume and, therefore, requires that the job seeker include specific information about her work history and professional competencies. A cover letter, on the other hand, should not contain too much information about the job seekers because it is merely an introduction to the resume.
• A cover letter is like an elevator pitch. It is intended to capture the reader's attention enough to make the recruiter or hiring manager want to review the CV.
• A cover letter is usually used by a job seeker to show interest in a job vacancy after which the job seeker will attach a detailed document (which is usually a CV). An application letter is mostly used by a job seeker to show interest in an unsolicited job.

Learn  how to write a stunning cover letter  now.

How to Write An Application Letter in 10 Easy Steps

These tips will guide you on how you can write an application letter:

• Write an Outline
• Write your first draft
• Use a friendly tone
• Make it concise
• Tailor the job application letter to the job specification and company requirement
• Use typed and not handwritten documents
• Use quality paper
• Write a mind blowing ending

Are you applying for a security job, but don't know how to write an application letter? Read how to write an application letter for a security job in Nigeria

1. Write an Outline : Just like you write an outline when you want to write an essay, it is also important that you write an outline when you want to write your application letter. The outline is the structure of what you want to write in your actual application letter. It is good that you make clear what you want to achieve, and all the things that you want your prospective employer to know.

An outline of your application letter will make it easy for you to write your application letter because you have the structure planned out already.

2. Write a Draft : After you must have done a structure for your application letter, then it is good for you to do a rough draft of the application letter before writing the original one.

When you are drafting your application letter, you can make use of the outline that you did earlier to serve as a guide for your application letter. At this point, you may not worry about grammatical mistakes and punctuation errors. This is to help you develop a prototype application letter.

3. Salutation : Salutation is one aspect of the application letter that is obvious. Most times that is what the employer will likely see first as soon as they open the letter. Since this is an important aspect of the application letter, you need to be careful.

It is important for you to know some tips on salutation before you start writing your application letter:

• You should put a comma at the end of your salutation
• If you are addressing more than one recipient, you should address the recipient as ‘Dear Sirs/Madams’.
• If you don’t know the name of the recipient, you should address the person as ‘Dear Sir/Madam’.
• If the recipient's gender is not known, you should address the person with the full name. Like; ‘Dear David Houston’.

 4.  Tone : Employers can sense your tone from the way that you write. When you are writing your application letter, you must treat the recipient with respect. Be polite and use formal language when you are writing. Be careful not to use slang or ambiguous words.

5. Be Brief : As much as you need to give your prospective employers reasons why you think you are the best person for the job, it is equally important for you to as brief as possible.

Employers are very busy and may not be able to spend time reading your application letter. Mention the purpose of your letter in the first paragraph because this is where the employer will likely look at first.

6. Tailor the letter to the job and the company : Tailoring your application to the job that you are applying for and the company will give your prospective employer the mindset that you are passionate about the job and the company.

Employers look forward to hiring people that are passionate about the job. Tailoring your application letter may be all you need to land the job of your dreams.

7. Use typed and not handwritten documents : Unless a handwritten letter is requested, you should send a typed and computer-generated document. Typing your document will help you present a well-aligned, clear, and easy to read the document.

8. Use a high quality Paper: If you are sending a hard copy application letter, make sure you use a good and quality paper. Don’t tear out a sheet of paper from your notepad and use that paper to write your application letter. If you do that, your application letter will look scrappy and rough.

9. Proof-reading : proof-reading your application letter will help you see errors that you would need to fix before you send your application letter. You can read your application letter out loud to yourself to see some errors.

Check the spellings on your application letter and punctuation errors. You can use Grammarly.com to check your spellings and edit your errors.

 10.  Ending your application letter : When you are sending your application letter, you should make sure that your tone matches the tone of the letter. A formal letter closing is polite, courteous, and respectful.

These are common closing that you can use to end your application letter:

• ‘Sincerely’ or your ‘faithfully’
• ‘Your Truly’
• ‘Faithfully Yours’

Application Letter Example for Any Job Vacant Position

Writing an application letter can be easy and straight forward if you follow some rules. From salutation, closing, to the overall organization of your letter some rules makes your application letter appear good.

Your application letter should begin with the contact information. The contact information should include your contact and that of the employer.

The contact information should include; name, address, phone number, email, and date. If it is an email application letter, you can put your contact at the end of the letter after your signature.

The heading of your application letter includes the contact information and the salutation.

Contact information

(Your contact information)

City, State Zip Code

Phone Number

Email Address

(The employer’s contact information)

Dear Mr./Ms. Last Name,

(Salutation)

Salutation is the polite greeting that is usually at the beginning of the application after the contact information of the. The common salutation format is ‘Dear Mr./Ms’ followed by the person’s last name.

The body of the application letter

The body of your application letter lets your prospective employer know the position that you are applying for, why they should consider your application and how they would finally follow you up if they consider you for the position.

The body of your application letter is made up of different paragraphs leading up to the conclusion. Here we are going to look at the different paragraphs.

First paragraph

The first paragraph of your application letter will include information about why you are writing the letter in the first place. It is in this paragraph that you will mention the job that you are applying for and where you saw the job application.

It is in the first paragraph that you create a lasting impression on the employer. This is where you sell yourself to your prospective employer.

Second and third paragraph

The second and the third paragraph of your application letter should tell your prospective employer what you have to offer the company and what you have to offer performing the job.

These paragraphs are the most important in your application letter because this is where you have to prove to the employer that you meet the need of what the employer is looking for.

This is where you would have to share the experience, skills and accomplishments that suggest you as the best person for the job.

Remember to state how your qualification makes you the best person for the job.

Note : You should research the company and find out some information that will help you emphasize that you are the best person for the position. You can research the role that you would love to fill to find out the company’s expectation for the role, and then tailor your application in that regards.

You should also not forget to make use of specific example where possible. If you say that you are a skilled at marketing products, you should be able to give examples that would emphasize that.

Last paragraph

The last paragraph of your application letter should summarize your application letter. You should also thank your employer in this part of your application letter. You should conclude this paragraph by thanking your employer for considering you for the position.

You can also include information on how the employer or the company will follow you up.

Complimentary close

You should sign off your letter with a polite close. For example;

Signature (for a hard copy letter)

Typed Signature

Job Application Letter   Example for an Experienced Job Candidate

Writing an application letter for a job may not be an easy thing to do especially when you are writing one for the first time.

Looking at an application letter example will help write your own without much stress. This application letter example will guide you to write your application letter.

David Emmanuel

11 South Street

Ocean View Estate, Lekki,

Lagos, Nigeria.

555-555-5555

[email protected]

November 13th, 2019.

Judith Peterson

Human Resources Director

Capital Solutions, Inc.

101 Admiralty Way

Lekki, Lagos,

Dear Mr. Judith,

I was very happy when my friend, Daine James, told me that Capital Solutions are searching for a Human Resources Specialist with a minimum of two years experience.

From my research on the company, I learned that Capital Solutions see team work as an important aspect of performance that can help the company reach its goals, and how much the company needs a Human Resources specialist that would join the team and start performing at once. I believe that I am that ideal candidate for your team.

I am David Emmanuel, a graduate of Human Resources and Personnel Management from the University of Lagos. My 5 years of experience in Human Resources practices has made me become a Human Resources specialist.

In my current as the Human Resources Manager, I manage a team of 20 staff members, organize on-boarding program for new staff, and prepare pay role for the company. I also have experience in:

• Data entry and data reporting on HRM software
• Recruiting and hiring processes (which includes; creating job descriptions, posting job vacancies, creating candidate awareness on available job vacancies, screening CVs and scheduling interviews).
• Organizing company event. (Organizing end of the year party and team bonding events).

I would love to speak with you about my qualifications and what I can do for your team. Thank you for your consideration.

(Signature)

David Emmanuel.

Job Application Letter   Example for Job Candidates with No Experience

Jane Aderinsola

11 Ajayi Close,

111-333-4444

John Samuel

Dear Mr Emmanuel,

I was extremely excited when a friend mentioned the opening for the role of a customer service intern. I recently graduated from the University of Lagos, where I studied Mass Communication. I am very passionate about customer service, which is why I am excited about this position.

As a first-class graduate of Mass Communication, and as a one-time public relations officer for the students’ Union. I have learned how to effectively communicate and manage relationships with diverse people.

Asides from my graduate program, I have also taken different certificate courses and training in customer service practices and public relations. I recently attended a 2-weeks customer service training where I learned: The ethics of customer services, telephone etiquette, and I improved my written communication skills.

From my education, training and experience, I have been able to build the following skills:

· Excellent communication skills

· Good listening skills

· Improve my writing skills

· People management skills

· Interpersonal skills

· MS Office

I believe that my education, experience, and training in Mass communication and customer service practices has prepared me for this internship role.

Considering the great milestone that ABC company has achieved over time, I am certain that this company will be a great environment for me to grow my career as well as contribute to the success of the organization.

I look forward to a scheduled time where we can discuss my qualification as regards the internship.

Thank you for your consideration .

Application Letter FAQ

1: should my cv be accompanied by an application letter .

The answer is yes, your CV or résumé should always be accompanied by an application letter. It's an important self-marketing tool which you shouldn't fail to utilize.

2:  How Should I Format My Application Letter?

Your application letter should be formatted the following way: ●    Heading (hard copy) or Subject (Email) ●    Salutation Check this post for more infomration on how to format your application letter

3:  What Should I Include In My Application Letter?

Your application letter should include relevant work history and skills, the significant role you played in your previous job which matches the job you are now applying for, why you would be a  good fit for the role, achievements, and any industry certifications you possess

4: How Long Should My Application Letter Be?

Typical, a cover letter should be half a page, or one full page in length. Break it into paragraphs, so that the information can be easily and quickly absorbed by the recruiter.

Having a professional application letter can help you land the job of your dreams without having to wait for years. Companies receive loads of application letters daily, but learning how to write an effective application letter can help stand out from other job seekers.

Looking to land your dream job? See  100 interview questions and answers  to get you prepared for the big day.

Staff Writer

24 comment(s).

You explain it very well because your way of explanation is lovely. I am a social person, and I read many blogs from different websites. is one of them. He can also provide us with good information. I appreciate it. Keep it up.

Thank you very much Meave for your comment. 

You have explained well. But what if the person doesn't have any working experience? 

Thank you Ozuu for your comment. The post has been updated, so you can look at the application letter example for job seekers with no experience.

It is the section before the application letter FAQ.

thanks it has helped me

I love yr explanation but  what if the person is not a graduate ,and have no experience, if the person is an ssce holder , how we the person write the application Letter

I appreciate your work,good explanation.It really helped me

I really appreciate your explanation,it was very helpful

You explained very well... Thanks so much

Thank you for your explanation  but what about shs graduate 

Thanks alots your explanation helps.

Thanks for your vivid insight on this subject. I actually benefited alot. Keep it up. 

Best regards from;

EMMANUEL SUNDAY

Wow! Never knew that there's a difference between application letter and CV cover letter.  Thanks for your explanation, was really helpful.

The lecture is very educative. 

What if you are writing an application letter for a job that isn't related to your specialty. 

Example, you studied banking and finance but wanting to write for a position of a human resource and you don't have any experience on that. How will you go about it? 

I love this question, can someone answer this

This article is fantastic and I got some good information by reading this. 

Nice comment, <a href=";>check this out also.</a>

Leave a Comment

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What Is a Solicited Application Letter?

A solicited application letter is a letter that a person writes requesting for an interview for a particular job position. It may be used to introduce the applicant to the manager and to highlight the information provided on the resume.

Also referred to as a cover letter, a solicited application letter starts by stating the particular position one is applying for and where a person saw the advertisement. The body should include the experience of a person and what contributions he or she will make to help the company achieve its goals. The contact information of the applicant should also be included.

MORE FROM REFERENCE.COM

Organizing a Solicited Job Cover Letter

Present information in the following order:

  1) Paragraph one:   State purpose and qualifications .  

a) State that you’re applying for the job and tell where you learned about the job (ad, referral, etc.).

~ Phrase the job title as the source/job description listed it.

~ If possible, name drop or remind the reader where/when they met you etc.

b) Briefly show you have the major qualifications for the job.

~ Phrase and list the qualifications as the source/job description did.

~ College degree, professional certification, work experience.

~ If listing several qualifications, summarize briefly   in same order as in the letter’s body.

  2) Develop your qualifications in detail .

a) Make direct links between your education and experience and the work you’ll be doing in the new job.

b) The reader may not see the connection between what you’ve done and what they want you to do if you don’t make the connection for them.

c) Use the most specific terms possible. Use terms on job description.

3) Separate yourself from other applicants.   Draw attention to any one or combination of the following:

           ~ Mine the job description or company resources (web site, prospectus, coverage in the news etc.) for clues into what the company values.

          ~ Your knowledge of the company. Experience with the company. Experience in the area or region.

           ~   Honors and awards, high GPA.

~   Unique problem solving and leadership experiences that apply to the work you want to do.

~ In short, what is it that you have done that proves that you are uniquely right for this job, among the hundreds of other people who have the same degree and basic qualifications?  

4) Ask for an interview .

       ~ Tell when you’ll be available to be interviewed.  

       ~ Try to make it as easy as possible to see you.

       ~ Tell when you’ll be available to begin work.   Use specific dates.

        ~ Try to end on a unique (not generic) forward looking note.

Next see: Cover Letter Grammar    Cover Letter Example

Published in

Letter Templates , Cover letters

20+ Best Job Application Letter Samples 

Did you know the five main skills all employers want to hear include communication, leadership skills, planning, problem-solving, or creativity, and finally, teamwork? Well, now, you know. It is important to remember that nothing in life is as attractive as being accepted for who you are, and that is why this amazing guide is here; to help you write a winning job application that will land you your dream job this season. That said, I am sure you are probably wondering; what is a Job application?

A job application letter, also known as a cover letter is a piece of paper that is designed to inform the reader or hiring manager of your desires and interests for placement or a position in the organization.

It indicates your employment interests within a company and typically addresses your personal identification details like job experience, employment history, name, phone number, and physical address. A job application letter is one of the most important formal business letters you will ever write after your college or university graduation. The job market, however, is very competitive as hiring managers receive numerous applications from job applicants with close to similar academic qualifications and experiences.

Your job application letter, also known as a cover letter is your best chance of standing out from the rest, getting noticed by your hiring manager, and being shortlisted for an interview at your dream firm. Your job application letter is your first impression, and if done right, it will sell your qualities and skills to your future employer.

With that said, I am sure you are probably curious about what the types of Job application letters are. Here are the types of cover letters:

Types of Job Application Letter

Following are a few common types of application letters:

Solicited job application letter

This is written in response to a job advertisement for recruitment or hiring. In this type of application, you already know the vacant position in the firm, and you can tailor your application according to the requirements in the advertisement. You can attract the attention of the hiring manager using your proven skills that are tailored to the specific requirements as per the job advert.

Unsolicited Job application letter

This job application letter is written as per your own initiative to the firm. They are also called prospecting letters but are more likely to be read as opposed to solicited cover letters . You are also highly likely to receive personalized attention from unsolicited job application letters . You can attract the employer’s attention by focusing on the specific employer’s needs and goals and how they will achieve their needs by bringing you on board.

Now that you know the two types of job application letters and how to get the most out of each, I am sure that ever since graduation, you have applied for several jobs, but you have not received any call yet. If this is the case, it is important to remember that to achieve different results; you have to learn how to do things differently. For starters, let us look at what employers want from your job application letter?

What are Employers looking for in your Application Letter?

Here are some of the common details employers are looking for in your job application letter:

• They want to know who you are and the job you are looking for
• The RELEVANT skills you have and how you will passionately apply them in the firm
• They want to understand that you already know what is required of you.
• They want to know if you have any other additional skills apart from those listed in the advertisement or what else you can bring onboard for unsolicited job applications.
• If you have a professional and positive attitude
• All employers want to understand if you have taken your time to understand what the firm does and the beliefs and values of the organization.

Now that you know what your future employer will be looking for in your job application letter. Let us get you your dream job this season by applying the following outlined facts in your job application letter:

What your job application letter should look like ?

With current job openings at an all-time high, a steady decline in unemployment, and a strong job market, this is the right time for you to get your dream job. Here is how your job application letter should look like this season:

• Personalize your application by tailoring your job application letter to the job you are applying for at the organization
• Avoid using “To whom it may concern” and research from professional sites like LinkedIn about the hiring manager and his or her name. Addressing your application directly to them is impressive and a great step towards standing out.
• Creatively narrate your story. A good story with a killer and mind grabbing open line definitely grab the HR’s attention.
• Hiring managers are bombarded with numerous job application letters, so use bullet points to shortlist your skills. Bullets have more impact than long, paragraphed sentences.
• Go to Google and Social media pages and research the culture of the firm. Indicate in your job application letter how you will fit into the culture of your future employing firm.
• Ending your job application letter with a question will convince your hiring manager to advance you in the hiring process.

Job Application Letter Samples

Here are professionally crafted sample letters that will help you understand the format and the sentence structuring of the document well:

Danny Brown 14 North Street, Valley view, 0800-7260-0298 [email protected]

22 nd Sept 2020

Courtney Rivera Human Resources Director Milan solutions Inc. 698 River Road Lake view, Maine 20911

Dear Mrs. Rivera,

I was excited to hear from my former colleague Roselyn that you were hiring for a Human Resources Manager at Milan Solutions.

Roselyn has told me how important teamwork is to you and your organization, and how much you need an HR manager who can fit in with the department and hit the ground running on day one. I trust that I am a perfect fit for your team.

In my current job at Goshen Limited, I have managed to create and run our onboarding program, including organizing and running background checks and new hire orientation. I also have vast experience in:

Data entry and reporting on HRIS software

Producing company events, such as the semiannual and annual company-wide picnic (300 employees from across the country)

Recruiting and hiring process, including postings and job descriptions, scheduling interviews, and screening resumes

I would like to speak with you about my qualifications and what I can do for your organization. Attached is my resume for your contemplation. Kindly don’t hesitate to reach me on my phone at 555-822-2826-2872 with questions or arrange an interview.

Regards, Danny Brown

Sample 2: Application for the Role of Sales and Marketing Consultant at ABC Ltd.

Subject: Application for the Role of Sales and Marketing Consultant at ABC Ltd.

Dear Mr. Walker,

This is concerning your job requirement on your website for sales and Marketing Consultant. I dearly believe that my experience and qualifications make me the right candidate for the job.

I completed my Bachelor’s Degree in Sales and Marketing from the University of Pretoria. I have worked as a Sales and Marketing Consultant at the Green Pine Foundation. During my stint as the Sales consultant, I intellectualized and executed a Customer Engagement Program that led to higher sales as a sales and marketing consultant. I foresee the planning and execution of new products. With five years of experience in both B2B and B2C sales and marketing, I have an in-depth understanding of the processes. I believe that I will be the right fit for the position.

I have attached my resume to the email for reference. Please have a look at it.

Thank you for considering my application.

Regards, Wayne King 800-8298-9289-9822 [email protected]

Sample 3: Application for the position of Software Development Manager

Subject: Application for the position of Software Development Manager

Dear Mr. Walker

This is regarding the advert on your website about a vacancy in your organization for the role of Software Development Manager. Kindly accept my application for the same.

Here is an overview of myself. I have completed a Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science from Oakwood University. I secured an A in my final exams and passed with distinction.

During my studies, I contributed to various tech fests and was awarded a gold medal in one of the competitions for creating a mobile app from scratch in an inter-state tech competition.

I understand that I have what it takes to excel at your organization. I have always dreamed of working for your organization due to the growth opportunity you provide. I humbly request to learn and grow at your dynamic firm through this job role.

Please refer to my CV. It is attached to the email for further information.

Yours Sincerely, Michael Stephens 800-28728-98272 [email protected]

Sample 4: Application for the Role of Data Analyst

Subject: Application for the Role of Data Analyst

Dear Sir/Madam,

This is concerning the post published in your school portal regarding the vacancy for a Biology Teacher. I would be delighted to apply for the position.

Teaching has always been a part of who I am, and I have always been great with students. I have been a Teacher at Precious Academy for seven years. My qualification and experience match the requirements listed on the post.

I have attached with this email my resume for your consideration, and request you to consider my application for the job. Feel free to call me anytime at the below mentioned contact details.

Yours Sincerely, Martin Tyler Phone No: (800) 7662-83836-277 Email: [email protected]

Sample 5: Application for the Role of Data Analyst

Dear Mr. Paul

I am Newton Smith, and I would like to apply for the role of a data analyst at your organization.

I have five years of work experience at Jubilee, where I helped the sales and marketing team with insights into their customer base through rigorous data analysis. I am conversant with data management software like SAS and MS Excel.

I have attached my Cv. with this email, and I hope to work with you in the future.

Yours Sincerely, James Walker, Phone No: (254) 673572972 Emails ID: [email protected]

Sample 6: Job Application for the Position of Project Manager

Subject: Job Application for the Position of Project Manager

Dear Mr. Ahmed

This email responds to your job advert on your website about an opening for a Project Manager’s role at your organization. I, at this moment, tender my application.

My record of completing every project within the allotted time frame and budget proves my efficiencies and a Project Manager. I have worked broadly in the social sector as well as with other corporates.

My skills match your listed requirements well, and I have attached my detailed profile with this email for your consideration.

I hope to get a moment with you to discuss with you in person about this opportunity. Thank you for considering my application.

Yours Sincerely,

Phone: (800)-704-099-676

Sample 7: Application for the Role of a Graphic Designer

Subject: Application for the Role of a Graphic Designer

I am interested in the position of Graphic Designer at your organization. I came across the position through an advertisement posted on your website.

Currently, I am working with Mega Firm, and I have been handling a variety of high-profile projects. For the last five years, I have been working on Adobe creative suite. Please find the link to my portfolio here (Link)

I believe that my skills and experience perfectly match your company’s requirements. I have attached my detailed resume to this email for your consideration.

Thank you for considering my application. I hope that you’ll find it appropriate so that we can arrange a meeting.

I am looking forward to your response.

Yours Sincerely, Peter Pan Phone No.: 6282-882-968 Email Id: [email protected]

Sample 8: Job Application for the Post of Social Media Manager

Subject: Job Application for the Post of Social Media Manager

Dear Mr. Rashid

I would like to apply for the role of Social Media Manager at your firm.

I have been working with ABC firm for the past five years. I have also been running my blog page for the last three years. Here is a link to the same (link).

I have many great ideas for your social media campaigns that I would like to discuss with you in person. I hope to get a chance to use my skills and expertise to help your firm grow and develop my skills at the same time.

Kindly find attached with this email my resume for more information.

It would be great if you arrange a meeting with me for more information and clarification.

Yours Sincerely Stephen Phone Number: +92 8373 839 73 Email Id: [email protected]

Free Downloads

Following are free editable templates:

A Job application letter will make you stand out from the rest, and if done right, it will earn not only your interview but also your dream job. It is always good to use some  cover letter samples to have a better idea about where to start. Feel free to implement the above-revealed facts, and let us help you find your dream job this season.

Keep reading

Free customer service cover letter templates – samples.

Cover letters

18 HR Cover Letter Templates – Tips & Examples

Effective nursing cover letters examples, free office manager cover letter templates & samples, 5 examples of cover letters for salary requirements.

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Fish and Wildlife Service, Interior.

Proposed rule.

We, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service), propose to list the Cedar Key mole skink ( Plestiodon egregius insularis ), a lizard subspecies from the Cedar Keys, Florida, as an endangered species under the Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended (Act). After a review of the best available scientific and commercial information, we find that listing this subspecies is warranted. We also propose to designate critical habitat for the Cedar Key mole skink under the Act. In total, approximately 2,713 acres (1,098 hectares) in Levy County, Cedar Keys, Florida, fall within the boundaries of the proposed critical habitat designation. In addition, we announce the availability of an economic analysis of the proposed designation of critical habitat for the Cedar Key mole skink. If we finalize this rule as proposed, it would extend the Act's protections to this subspecies and its designated critical habitat.

We will accept comments received or postmarked on or before October 7, 2024. Comments submitted electronically using the Federal eRulemaking Portal (see ADDRESSES , below) must be received by 11:59 p.m. eastern time on the closing date. We must receive requests for a public hearing, in writing, at the address shown in FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT by September 23, 2024.

You may submit comments by one of the following methods:

(1) Electronically: Go to the Federal eRulemaking Portal: https://www.regulations.gov . In the Search box, enter FWS-R4-ES-2024-0053, which is the docket number for this rulemaking. Then, click on the Search button. On the resulting page, in the panel on the left side of the screen, under the Document Type heading, check the Proposed Rule box to locate this document. You may submit a comment by clicking on “Comment.”

(2) By hard copy: Submit by U.S. mail to: Public Comments Processing, Attn: FWS-R4-ES-2024-0053, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, MS: PRB/3W, 5275 Leesburg Pike, Falls Church, VA 22041-3803.

We request that you send comments only by the methods described above. We will post all comments on https://www.regulations.gov . This generally means that we will post any personal information you provide us (see Information Requested, below, for more information).

Availability of supporting materials: Supporting materials, such as the species status assessment report, are available on the Service's website at https://www.fws.gov/​office/​florida-ecological-services/​library and at https://www.regulations.gov at Docket No. FWS-R4-ES-2024-0053. For the proposed critical habitat designation, the coordinates or plot points or both from which the maps are generated are included in the decision file for this critical habitat designation and are available at https://www.regulations.gov at Docket No. FWS-R4-ES-2024-0053 and on the Service's website at https://www.fws.gov/​office/​florida-ecological-services/​library .

Lourdes Mena, Division Manager, Classification and Recovery, Florida Ecological Services Field Office, 7915 Baymeadows Way, Suite 200, Jacksonville, FL 32256-7517; [email protected] ; telephone 352-749-2462. Individuals in the United States who are deaf, deafblind, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability may dial 711 (TTY, TDD, or TeleBraille) to access telecommunications relay services. Individuals outside the United States should use the relay services offered within their country to make international calls to the point-of-contact in the United States. Please see Docket No. FWS-R4-ES-2024-0053 on https://www.regulations.gov for a document that summarizes this proposed rule.

Why we need to publish a rule. Under the Act ( 16 U.S.C. 1531 et seq. ), a species warrants listing if it meets the definition of an endangered species (in danger of extinction throughout all or a significant portion of its range) or a threatened species (likely to become an endangered species within the foreseeable future throughout all or a significant portion of its range). If we determine that a species warrants listing, we must list the species promptly and designate the species' critical habitat to the maximum extent prudent and determinable. We have determined that the Cedar Key mole skink meets the Act's definition of an endangered species; therefore, we are proposing to list it as endangered and proposing a designation of its critical habitat. Both listing a species as an endangered or threatened species and making a critical habitat designation can be completed only by issuing a rule through the Administrative Procedure Act rulemaking process ( 5 U.S.C. 551 et seq. ).

What this document does. We propose to list the Cedar Key mole skink as an endangered species under the Act, and we propose the designation of critical habitat for the subspecies.

The basis for our action. Under the Act, we may determine that a species is an endangered or threatened species because of any of five factors: (A) The present or threatened destruction, modification, or curtailment of its habitat or range; (B) overutilization for commercial, recreational, scientific, or educational purposes; (C) disease or predation; (D) the inadequacy of existing regulatory mechanisms; or (E) other natural or manmade factors affecting its continued existence. We have determined that the Cedar Key mole skink is endangered due to threats associated with climate change, specifically sea level rise, increased high tide flooding, and increased intensity of storm events (Factor E).

Section 4(a)(3) of the Act requires the Secretary of the Interior (Secretary), to the maximum extent prudent and determinable, concurrently with listing designate critical habitat for the species. Section 3(5)(A) of the Act defines critical habitat as (i) the specific areas within the geographical area occupied by the species, at the time it is listed, on which are found those physical or biological features (I) essential to the conservation of the species and (II) which may require special management considerations or protections; and (ii) specific areas outside the geographical area occupied by the species at the time it is listed, upon a determination by the Secretary that such areas are essential for the conservation of the species. Section 4(b)(2) of the Act states that the Secretary must make the designation on the basis of the best scientific data available and after taking into consideration the economic impact, the impact on national security, and any other relevant impacts of specifying any particular area as critical habitat. ( print page 65125)

We intend that any final action resulting from this proposed rule will be based on the best scientific and commercial data available and be as accurate and as effective as possible. Therefore, we request comments or information from other governmental agencies, Native American Tribes, the scientific community, industry, or any other interested parties concerning this proposed rule. We particularly seek comments concerning:

(1) The subspecies' biology, range, and population trends, including:

(a) Biological or ecological requirements of the subspecies, including habitat requirements for feeding, breeding, and sheltering;

(b) Genetics and taxonomy;

(c) Historical and current range, including distribution patterns and the locations of any additional populations of this subspecies;

(d) Historical and current population levels, and current and projected trends; and

(e) Past and ongoing conservation measures for the subspecies, its habitat, or both.

(2) Threats and conservation actions affecting the subspecies, including:

(a) Factors that may be affecting the continued existence of the subspecies, which may include habitat modification or destruction, overutilization, disease, predation, the inadequacy of existing regulatory mechanisms, or other natural or humanmade factors;

(b) Biological, commercial trade, or other relevant data concerning any threats (or lack thereof) to this subspecies; and

(c) Existing regulations or conservation actions that may be addressing threats to this subspecies.

(3) Additional information concerning the historical and current status of this subspecies.

(4) Specific information on:

(a) The amount and distribution of Cedar Key mole skink habitat;

(b) Any additional areas occurring within the range of the subspecies, the Cedar Keys in Levy County, Florida, that should be included in the critical habitat designation because they (i) are occupied at the time of listing and contain the physical or biological feature that is essential to the conservation of the subspecies and that may require special management considerations or protection, or (ii) are unoccupied at the time of listing and are essential for the conservation of the subspecies;

(c) Special management considerations or protection that may be needed in the critical habitat areas we are proposing, including managing for the potential effects of climate change; and

(d) Whether areas not occupied at the time of listing qualify as habitat for the species and are essential for the conservation of the species.

(5) Land use designations and current or planned activities and their possible impacts on proposed critical habitat.

(6) Any probable economic, national security, or other relevant impacts of designating any area that may be included in the final designation, and the related benefits of including or excluding specific areas.

(7) Information on the extent to which the description of probable economic impacts in the economic analysis is a reasonable estimate of the likely economic impacts and any additional information regarding probable economic impacts that we should consider.

(8) Whether any specific areas we are proposing for critical habitat designation should be considered for exclusion under section 4(b)(2) of the Act, and whether the benefits of potentially excluding any specific area outweigh the benefits of including that area under section 4(b)(2) of the Act. If you think we should exclude any additional areas, please provide information supporting a benefit of exclusion.

(9) Whether we could improve or modify our approach to designating critical habitat in any way to provide for greater public participation and understanding, or to better accommodate public concerns and comments.

Please include sufficient information with your submission (such as scientific journal articles or other publications) to allow us to verify any scientific or commercial information you include.

Please note that submissions merely stating support for, or opposition to, the action under consideration without providing supporting information, although noted, do not provide substantial information necessary to support a determination. Section 4(b)(1)(A) of the Act directs that determinations as to whether any species is an endangered or a threatened species must be made solely on the basis of the best scientific and commercial data available, and section 4(b)(2) of the Act directs that the Secretary shall designate critical habitat on the basis of the best scientific data available.

You may submit your comments and materials concerning this proposed rule by one of the methods listed in ADDRESSES . We request that you send comments only by the methods described in ADDRESSES .

If you submit information via https://www.regulations.gov , your entire submission—including any personal identifying information—will be posted on the website. If your submission is made via a hardcopy that includes personal identifying information, you may request at the top of your document that we withhold this information from public review. However, we cannot guarantee that we will be able to do so. We will post all hardcopy submissions on https://www.regulations.gov .

Comments and materials we receive, as well as supporting documentation we used in preparing this proposed rule, will be available for public inspection on https://www.regulations.gov .

Our final determination may differ from this proposal because we will consider all comments we receive during the comment period as well as any information that may become available after the publication of this proposal. Based on the new information we receive (and, if relevant, any comments on that new information), we may conclude that the subspecies is threatened instead of endangered, or we may conclude that the subspecies does not warrant listing as either an endangered species or a threatened species. For critical habitat, our final designation may not include all areas proposed, may include some additional areas that meet the definition of critical habitat, or may exclude some areas if we find the benefits of exclusion outweigh the benefits of inclusion and exclusion will not result in the extinction of the subspecies. In our final rule, we will clearly explain our rationale and the basis for our final decision, including why we made changes, if any, that differ from this proposal.

Section 4(b)(5) of the Act provides for a public hearing on this proposal, if requested. Requests must be received by the date specified in DATES . Such requests must be sent to the address shown in FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT . We will schedule a public hearing on this proposal, if requested, and announce the date, time, and place of the hearing, as well as how to obtain reasonable accommodations, in the Federal Register and local newspapers at least 15 days before the hearing. We may hold the public hearing in person or virtually via webinar. We will announce any public hearing on our website, in addition to the Federal Register . The use of virtual public ( print page 65126) hearings is consistent with our regulations at 50 CFR 424.16(c)(3) .

On July 11, 2012, we received a petition from the Center for Biological Diversity to list the Cedar Key mole skink as an endangered or threatened species under the Act. On July 1, 2015, we published in the Federal Register ( 80 FR 37568 ) a 90-day finding that the petition provided substantial information indicating that listing the Cedar Key mole skink may be warranted. On December 19, 2018, we published in the Federal Register ( 83 FR 65127 ) a 12-month finding that the Cedar Key mole skink did not warrant listing under the Act. On January 26, 2022, the Center for Biological Diversity filed suit against the Service, alleging the Service did not use the best available scientific data regarding sea level rise and its impacts to Cedar Key mole skink habitat in its 12-month finding. In May 2022, the Service agreed to submit a new finding to the Federal Register by July 31, 2024. This finding and proposed rule reflect the updated assessment of the status of the Cedar Key mole skink based on the best available science, including an updated species status assessment for the subspecies (Service 2023, entire).

A species status assessment (SSA) team prepared an SSA report for the Cedar Key mole skink. The SSA team was composed of Service biologists, in consultation with other species experts. The SSA report represents a compilation of the best scientific and commercial data available concerning the status of the subspecies, including the impacts of past, present, and future factors (both negative and beneficial) affecting the subspecies.

In accordance with our joint policy on peer review published in the Federal Register on July 1, 1994 ( 59 FR 34270 ), and our August 22, 2016, memorandum updating and clarifying the role of peer review in listing and recovery actions under the Act, we solicited independent scientific review of the information contained in the Cedar Key mole skink SSA report. We sent the SSA report to six independent peer reviewers and received one response. Results of this structured peer review process can be found at https://www.regulations.gov and https://www.fws.gov/​office/​florida-ecological-services . In preparing this proposed rule, we incorporated the results of this review, as appropriate, into the SSA report, which is the foundation for this proposed rule.

As discussed in Peer Review above, we received comments from one peer reviewer on the draft SSA report. We reviewed the comments for substantive issues and new information regarding the contents of the SSA report. The peer reviewer generally concurred with our methods and conclusions, and provided additional information, clarifications, and suggestions, including clarifications in terminology and other editorial suggestions.

The peer reviewer suggested that our statement that “rafting is rare, but does occur” was inappropriate. The peer reviewer noted that there is no evidence that rafting occurs in the Cedar Key mole skink (or any mole skink subspecies) and that, in fact, genetic evidence suggests the opposite (that there is no movement of mole skinks among islands). We updated the SSA report to indicate that rafting is unlikely.

The peer reviewer also commented that our analysis of “potential habitat” on the two developed islands, Way Key and Airstrip Island, was an overrepresentation of the amount of habitat truly available to the Cedar Key mole skink. In our initial analysis, we included high intensity and low intensity urban data layers for these islands as part of our calculation of potential habitat available because skinks have been found in backyards, in parking lots, along roadsides, and in other disturbed or developed areas. However, these data layers also included roads, buildings, and other developed areas, which are not considered habitat for the Cedar Key mole skink. As a result, our use of these data layers increased what we had identified as potential habitat on Airport Island from 1.00 acre (0.40 hectares) to 52.43 acres (21.0 hectares), and on Way Key from 2.65 acres (1.07 hectares) to 266.14 acres (107.70 hectares). We agree with the peer reviewer that the use of the urban areas in our analysis overestimated the amount of habitat truly available to the Cedar Key mole skink. Thus, we restricted our analysis of these two islands to only include the preferred habitat data layers that included beaches, dunes, and coastal hammock. We included the additional analysis focused on high-intensity and low-intensity urban areas on Way Key and Airport Island as part of appendix A in the SSA report.

A thorough review of the taxonomy, life history, and ecology of the Cedar Key mole skink ( Plestiodon egregius insularis ) is presented in the SSA report (Service 2023, pp. 2-16). The Cedar Key mole skink is one of five distinct subspecies of mole skinks in Florida, all in the genus Plestiodon (previously Eumeces ) (Brandley et al. 2005, pp. 387-388), and is endemic to the Cedar Keys, Florida. This subspecies represents a unique genetic lineage that is distinct from the other four mole skink subspecies (Brandley et al. 2005, pp. 387-388; Parkinson et al. 2016, entire). The Cedar Key mole skink is the largest of the five subspecies, approaching 15 centimeters (5.9 inches), with the tail accounting for two-thirds of the length.

The Cedar Key mole skink is semi-fossorial (adapted to digging, burrowing, and living underground) and cryptic in nature. The Cedar Key mole skink is a cold-blooded reptile and therefore highly dependent air and soil temperature to thermoregulate (maintain body core temperature) (Mount 1963, p. 362). Ground cover moderates soil temperatures and provides shade to assist in the skinks' thermoregulation in hot climate. The optimum temperature range for the mole skink species ( Plestiodon egregius ) is 26 to 34 degrees Celsius (C) (78.8 to 93.2 degrees Fahrenheit (F)) with a mean of 29.5 C (85.1 F) (Mount 1963, p. 363). Mole skinks are considered thermoconformers, lacking the capacity to adjust or regulate to changes in temperature outside of this stable and relatively narrow thermal range in which it occurs (Gallagher et al 2015, p. 62).

The specific diet of Cedar Key mole skink is unknown, but in general, skinks in the genus Plestiodon are known to eat ants, spiders, crickets, beetles, termites, small bugs, mites, and butterfly larva (Hamilton and Pollack 1958, p, 26). Native snakes are considered natural predators of mole skinks (Hamilton and Pollack 1958, p. 28, Mount 1963, p. 356) and domestic and feral cats on some islands in the Cedar Keys are known to prey on skink populations (Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission (FWC) 2013, p.5). The Cedar Key mole skink relies on dry, unconsolidated soils for movement, cover, and nesting, and it needs detritus, leaves, wrack, and other ground cover for shelter, temperature regulation, and food (insects and arthropods found in ground cover).

The Cedar Keys are a coastal complex of islands, tidal creeks, bays, and salt marsh, located along 10 miles (16 kilometers) of Florida's central Gulf of Mexico coast in Levy County. The Cedar Key mole skink has been found in small numbers on 10 islands of the Cedar ( print page 65127) Keys archipelago (see figure 1, below). Eight of these islands are currently considered occupied (skink detections documented between 2000 to 2022), and two of these islands are considered to have uncertain status (skink detections documented prior to 1999, but not resurveyed) (Mount 1963, entire; Mount 1965 entire; FWC 2023, entire). In total, 215 Cedar Key mole skinks have been detected, with 62 individuals documented since 2000. Within this limited range, the Cedar Key mole skink is found most frequently in sand beach and coastal dune habitats. The estimated home range of a Cedar Key mole skink is approximately a 328-ft (100-meter) radius (Service 2023, p. 12).

The Cedar Keys archipelago is a relatively small coastal ecosystem of 30 or more, mostly undeveloped islands of varying size and elevations. Of the eight current islands with known Cedar Key mole skink occurrence, only one island, Airstrip Island, is developed. Deer Island, also occupied by the Cedar Key mole skink, is privately owned with one dwelling and could be further developed with a small number of (off-the-grid) dwellings. Way Key, the largest island within the Cedar Keys, where the City of Cedar Key is located, is mostly developed, but the Cedar Key mole skink population status there is uncertain. The remaining islands with known populations of the Cedar Key mole skink are undeveloped and largely protected as part of the Cedar Keys National Wildlife Refuge. There are other islands of the Cedar Keys archipelago that contain suitable habitat and soils for the Cedar Key mole skink, but they have unknown occupancy due to lack of survey efforts. Many of these islands are also protected as conservation lands, and some are privately owned (all or in part) but remain undeveloped.

Section 4 of the Act ( 16 U.S.C. 1533 ) and the implementing regulations in title 50 of the Code of Federal Regulations set forth the procedures for determining whether a species is an endangered species or a threatened species, issuing protective regulations for threatened species, and designating critical habitat for endangered and threatened species. On April 5, 2024, jointly with the National Marine Fisheries Service, we issued a final rule that revised the regulations in 50 CFR part 424 regarding how we add, remove, and reclassify endangered and threatened species and what criteria we apply when designating listed species' critical habitat ( 89 FR 24300 ). On the same day, we published a final rule revising our protections for endangered species and threatened species at 50 CFR 17 ( 89 FR 23919 ). These final rules are now in effect and are incorporated into the current regulations.

The Act defines a “species” as including any subspecies of fish or wildlife or plants, and any distinct population segment of any species of vertebrate fish or wildlife which interbreeds when mature. The Act defines an “endangered species” as a species that is in danger of extinction throughout all or a significant portion of its range, and a “threatened species” as a species that is likely to become an endangered species within the foreseeable future throughout all or a significant portion of its range. The Act requires that we determine whether any species is an endangered species or a threatened species because of any of the following factors:

(A) The present or threatened destruction, modification, or curtailment of its habitat or range;

(B) Overutilization for commercial, recreational, scientific, or educational purposes;

(C) Disease or predation;

(D) The inadequacy of existing regulatory mechanisms; or

(E) Other natural or manmade factors affecting its continued existence.

These factors represent broad categories of natural or human-caused actions or conditions that could have an effect on a species' continued existence. In evaluating these actions and conditions, we look for those that may have a negative effect on individuals of the species, as well as other actions or conditions that may ameliorate any negative effects or may have positive effects.

We use the term “threat” to refer in general to actions or conditions that are known to or are reasonably likely to negatively affect individuals of a species. The term “threat” includes actions or conditions that have a direct impact on individuals (direct impacts), as well as those that affect individuals through alteration of their habitat or required resources (stressors). The term “threat” may encompass—either together or separately—the source of the action or condition or the action or condition itself.

However, the mere identification of any threat(s) does not necessarily mean that the species meets the statutory definition of an “endangered species” or a “threatened species.” In determining whether a species meets either definition, we must evaluate all identified threats by considering the species' expected response and the effects of the threats—in light of those actions and conditions that will ameliorate the threats—on an individual, population, and species level. We evaluate each threat and its expected effects on the species, then analyze the cumulative effect of all of the threats on the species as a whole. We also consider the cumulative effect of the threats in light of those actions and conditions that will have positive effects on the species, such as any existing regulatory mechanisms or conservation efforts. The Secretary determines whether the species meets the definition of an “endangered species” or a “threatened species” only after conducting this cumulative analysis and describing the expected effect on the species.

The Act does not define the term “foreseeable future,” which appears in the statutory definition of “threatened species.” Our implementing regulations at 50 CFR 424.11(d) set forth a framework for evaluating the foreseeable future on a case-by-case basis, which is further described in the 2009 Memorandum Opinion on the foreseeable future from the Department of the Interior, Office of the Solicitor (M-37021, January 16, 2009; “M-Opinion,” available online at https://www.doi.gov/​sites/​doi.opengov.ibmcloud.com/​files/​uploads/​M-37021.pdf ). The foreseeable future extends as far into the future as the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and National Marine Fisheries Service (hereafter, the Services) can make reasonably reliable predictions about the threats to the species and the species' responses to those threats. We need not identify the foreseeable future in terms of a specific period of time. We will describe the foreseeable future on a case-by-case basis, using the best available data and taking into account considerations such as the species' life-history characteristics, threat projection timeframes, and environmental variability. In other words, the foreseeable future is the period of time over which we can make reasonably reliable predictions. “Reliable” does not mean “certain”; it means sufficient to provide a reasonable degree of confidence in the prediction, in light of the conservation purposes of the Act.

The SSA report documents the results of our comprehensive biological review of the best scientific and commercial data regarding the status of the species, including an assessment of the potential threats to the species. The SSA report does not represent our decision on whether the species should be proposed for listing as an endangered or threatened species under the Act. However, it does provide the scientific basis that informs our regulatory decisions, which involve the further application of standards within the Act and its implementing regulations and policies.

To assess the Cedar Key mole skink's viability, we used the three conservation biology principles of resiliency, redundancy, and representation (Shaffer and Stein 2000, pp. 306-310). Briefly, resiliency is the ability of the subspecies to withstand environmental and demographic stochasticity (for example, wet or dry, warm or cold years); ( print page 65129) redundancy is the ability of the subspecies to withstand catastrophic events (for example, droughts, large pollution events); and representation is the ability of the subspecies to adapt to both near-term and long-term changes in its physical and biological environment (for example, climate conditions, pathogens). In general, the subspecies' viability will increase with increases in resiliency, redundancy, and representation. Using these principles, we identified the subspecies' ecological requirements for survival and reproduction at the individual, population, and subspecies levels, and described the beneficial and risk factors influencing the subspecies' viability.

The SSA process can be categorized into three sequential stages. During the first stage, we evaluated the subspecies' individual and population life-history needs. The next stage involved an assessment of the historical and current condition of the subspecies' demographics and habitat characteristics, including an explanation of how the subspecies arrived at its current condition. The final stage of the SSA involved making predictions about the subspecies' responses to positive and negative environmental and anthropogenic influences. Throughout all of these stages, we used the best available information to characterize viability as the ability of the subspecies to sustain populations in the wild over time, which we then used to inform our regulatory decision.

The following is a summary of the key results and conclusions from the SSA report; the full SSA report can be found at Docket No. FWS-R4-ES-2024-0053 on https://www.regulations.gov and at https://www.fws.gov/​office/​florida-ecological-services/​library .

In this discussion, we review the biological condition of the subspecies and its resources, and the threats that influence the subspecies' current and future condition, in order to assess the subspecies' overall viability and the risks to that viability.

The SSA report contains a detailed discussion of the Cedar Key mole skink's individual and population requirements (Service 2023, pp. 2-16); we provide a summary here. Based upon the best available scientific and commercial information, and acknowledging existing ecological uncertainties, the resource and demographic needs for breeding, feeding, sheltering, and dispersal of the Cedar Key mole skink are characterized as:

• Beaches, dunes, and coastal hammock habitats that provide ground cover in the form of leaf litter and wrack material, that the Cedar Key mole skink needs for nesting, arthropod and insect food sources, and cover; and
• Dry, loose, sandy, permeable, or friable (crumbly in texture) soils for digging of nest cavities and movement, as all portions of the Cedar Key mole skink's life cycle occur within or on the surface of the soil.

The Cedar Key mole skink's abundance, distribution, and life-history behaviors ( e.g., nesting, breeding) are limited to, and defined by, the availability of these resources in the areas of beach, dune, and coastal hammock habitats.

The main threats affecting the Cedar Key mole skink are related to shifts in climate as a result of increasing greenhouse gas emissions. Sea level rise, more frequent tidal flooding (increase of tides above the mean high tide), and increasing intensity of storm events (such as hurricanes) are the predominant threats to the Cedar Key mole skink and its habitat. We also evaluated existing regulatory mechanisms and ongoing conservation measures. In the SSA report, we considered additional threats: habitat loss and degradation that result from development and habitat disturbance; overutilization due to recreational, educational, and scientific use; disease; oil spills; and nonnative species. We concluded that, as indicated by the best available scientific and commercial information, these additional threats are currently having little to no impact on the Cedar Key mole skink, and thus their overall effect now and into the future is expected to be minimal. For full descriptions of all threats and how they impact the Cedar Key mole skink, please see the SSA report (Service 2023, pp. 16-31).

The predominant threats currently affecting the Cedar Key mole skink and its habitat are the rapid and intense shifts in climate occurring as a result of increasing greenhouse gas emissions. The entire Cedar Key archipelago is being affected by sea level rise, more frequent high tide flooding, and increased intensity of tropical storms and hurricanes. In the SSA report and this proposed rule, we discuss the effects of climate change on the Cedar Key mole skink in terms of increasing sea level rise, more frequent tidal flooding, and increased intensity of storm events.

Sea level rise —Within Florida, sea level rise is increasing at a faster rate than globally, making this subspecies especially vulnerable to impacts from sea level rise across its entire range (Carter et al. 2014, pp. 401-403; Park and Sweet 2015, entire; Sweet et al. 2017, p. 25). Accelerated sea level rise in Florida is attributed to shifts in the Florida Current due to added ocean mass brought on by the melting Antarctic and Greenland ice packs and thermal expansion from warming oceans (Park and Sweet 2015, entire; Rahmstorf et al. 2015, entire; Deconto and Pollard 2016, p. 596; Sweet et al. 2017, p. 14). Tidal gauges around Florida have shown approximately 25 centimeters (10 inches) of sea level rise since 1920. However, from 2006 to 2016 alone, there was a 12-centimeter (5-inch) sea level rise in southeast Florida (Sweet et al. 2017, p. 41; SeaLevelRise.org 2023, p. 1).

The majority of the Cedar Keys are low-lying sandy islands (see table 1, below), making them highly susceptible to erosion and flooding, and at risk of inundation and saltwater intrusion (Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) 2012, p. 12; U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) 2017, unpaginated). As sea level rises, Cedar Key mole skink habitat becomes inundated and unusable due to saturation of the soils or direct loss of habitat. The Cedar Key mole skink utilizes coastal beach habitat and coastal maritime hammock habitat during all of its life stages, making it especially vulnerable to current and projected sea level rise across its entire range. The effects of rising sea levels (loss of beach habitat, coastal flooding, and saltwater intrusion) are currently being experienced along Florida's Gulf Coast, including the Cedar Keys, and these effects are projected to continue (see table 1, below; Carter et al. 2014, pp. 398-400, 403; Wadlow 2016, entire; SeaLevelRise.org 2023, p. 1).

High tide flooding —One of the most noticeable impacts from sea level rise is the increased frequency of high tide flooding (Sweet et al. 2020, p. v). High tide flooding begins when coastal water levels exceed the mean higher high-water level (increase of tides above the mean high tide) (Sweet et al. 2014, entire). Frequent flooding above the high tide line causes flooded areas to become unusable to the Cedar Key mole skink (individuals cannot easily move through wet sand; individuals or nests will be washed away). High tide flooding can result in beach erosion and ( print page 65130) salinization of soils, even if high tide flooding is infrequent (Saha et al. 2011a, pp. 181-182; Saha et al. 2011b, pp. 82-84; Sweet et al. 2020, pp. 1-4). Over time, habitat that is frequently impacted by high tide flooding is degraded as it becomes more intertidal, even prior to sea level rise inundation. Thus, high tide flooding is likely to result in removal of habitat, displacement of individuals landward to less suitable habitat, and potential loss of individual Cedar Key mole skinks due to drowning. Cedar Key mole skink populations are especially vulnerable when these impacts occur repeatedly without time to recover. Currently, the national high tide flooding frequency is estimated at 5 days per year and is projected to increase to 7 to 15 days by 2030, and to 25 to 75 days by 2050, in much of coastal Florida and the Cedar Keys (Sweet et al. 2021, pp. 9-10).

Storm events —Habitat for the Cedar Key mole skink can be degraded or removed by extreme storm events such as hurricanes, storm surges, and floods. Storm events are a natural part of the Cedar Keys ecosystem and can provide indirect benefits to Cedar Key mole skink habitat. Storms can deposit wrack and other debris that provide habitat for the subspecies' prey and shelter for Cedar Key mole skinks. However, hurricane activity has increased since the Atlantic Multi-Decadal Oscillation (the natural variability of the sea surface temperature in the Atlantic Ocean) went into its warm phase around 1992 (National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) 2019, p. 1), and the increased intensity of storms over the last several decades has likely had negative impacts on the Cedar Key mole skink's resiliency, representation, and redundancy.

Information on direct impacts of hurricanes to the Cedar Key mole skink are lacking. However, there is information on impacts to habitat from recent hurricanes and other strong storms that have occurred in the region. Hurricane Hermine (Category 1) passed by the Cedar Keys in September 2016, causing widespread overwash and erosion to beach and coastal hammock habitats. Vegetation became buried, and the ground cover was greatly reduced from the resulting storm surge (Enge et al. 2017, entire). As a result of Hurricane Hermine, the beachfront of North Key lost most of the vegetative cover required for the Cedar Key mole skink (Enge et al. 2017, entire). In August 2023, Hurricane Idalia (Category 3) made landfall in the Cedar Keys and caused a storm surge of up to 7 feet (2.1 meters), causing complete overwash of many islands. For example, Seahorse Key lost 20 to 30 feet (6 to 9 meters) of beach and the remaining sand was left compacted (Thomas 2023, pers. comm.). Overtime, the vegetative cover will likely return to beach and coastal hammock habitats, but when these storm impacts occur repeatedly, there is less time for Cedar Key mole skink populations to recover from any single event ( e.g., temporary inundation of soils, loss of shelter and food resource, drowning), thus reducing overall resiliency when impacts by extreme and repetitive storm events occur (Service 2017, p. 7).

The severity and duration of hurricane impacts to the Cedar Key mole skink and its habitat vary based on the intensity and scale of storm events. Localized impacts can vary greatly depending upon not only the strength of the storm but the direction of its approach and how quickly it moves through the area. Storm surges and their intensity can also vary depending on location. The increased intensity of storm events over the last several decades has likely led to a reduction in Cedar Key mole skink populations, thereby reducing overall population resiliency and the subspecies' redundancy.

In summary, impacts from climate change have the potential to reduce survival of the Cedar Key mole skink at the individual, population, and subspecies level. Sea level rise can degrade existing habitat that supports the Cedar Key mole skink, reducing the habitat features that the subspecies needs and thus reducing population resiliency. Increased high tide flooding and increased intensity of storm events have the potential to further degrade Cedar Key mole skink habitat. Increased high tide flooding and storm events also have the potential to kill skinks directly or to reduce individual survival, which could then lead to a reduction in population resiliency and the subspecies' redundancy. An increase in the intensity of storms or a direct hit from a strong hurricane could significantly reduce subspecies abundance (reducing population resiliency) and potentially extirpate populations (limiting redundancy). There are no regulatory mechanisms or conservation measures that address the impacts of sea level rise, high tide flooding, or increased intensity of storm events.

Several local, State, and Federal government plans provide conservation actions that directly or indirectly benefit the Cedar Key mole skink and its habitat. Levy County has several plans for coastal management, emergency management, and land use management, including their Comprehensive Plan (Frank et al. 2014, entire; Levy County 2017, entire). Levy County has policies to limit incompatible future growth and development in coastal areas subject to flooding (Frank et al. 2014, p. 69), which are areas where the Cedar Key mole skink's habitat occurs. The Comprehensive Plan also contains coastal setback guidelines, standards for construction near or on the shoreline, and policies for protecting environmentally sensitive land (Frank et al. 2014, p. 69; Levy County 2017, p. 13). The Levy County Code of Ordinances (Levy County 2023, pp. 6-12) requires the protection of environmentally sensitive lands and coordination with Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission and the Service regarding potential impacts to endangered or threatened species or their habitats.

The City of Cedar Key has a variety of land uses: residential, conservation, recreation, marsh, mixed use, commercial, and public (City of Cedar Key 2018, p. 145). City Code 4-3.2 states that “the City shall protect native vegetation, including but not limited to trees, mangroves, and marsh grasses, and cooperate with Levy County in identifying, conserving, protecting or preserving unique vegetative communities in contiguous areas to assure that development does not degrade the environment, impair aesthetics, damage coastal resources or deny reasonable property rights and uses” (City of Cedar Key 2018, p. 169). City Code 4-8.1 states, “a minimum coastal construction setback line of 50 feet (15 meters) from the mean high-water line will be maintained on any land adjoining all surface waters. In addition to the 50 feet (15 meters) setback line, an additional setback may be required to protect water-dependent vegetation located landward of the coastal construction setback line” (City of Cedar Key 2018, p. 172). These setbacks from beach habitat allow Cedar Keys mole skink habitat along the shoreline to remain intact. The city also has plans to manage and protect all ecological and wildlife communities (City of Cedar Key 2018, pp. 271-273).

The Florida Gulf Coast Mitigation Bank (Mitigation Bank) consists of approximately 1,587 acres (642 hectares) of habitat in Levy County owned and managed by the Mitigation Banking Group, Incorporated. The Mitigation Bank is characterized by coastal habitats, including maritime hammocks, coastal scrub, and both ( print page 65131) freshwater and saltwater wetlands. The entire property is covered by a conservation easement. Habitat for several federally listed species (Florida salt marsh vole ( Microtus pennsylvanicus, listed as Microtus pennsylvanicus dukecampbelli ), Florida scrub-jay ( Aphelocoma coerulescens ), and wood stork ( Mycteria americana )) is protected by the Mitigation Bank. Restoration and management activities include mechanical treatment, prescribed fire, and road removal to improve natural hydroperiods. Three of the proposed critical habitat units (see II. Critical Habitat, below) for the Cedar Key mole skink are located on Mitigation Bank property, and the protection and management of these areas will provide benefits to the Cedar Key mole skink.

Florida's Nature Coast Conservancy (Conservancy) is a nonprofit land trust dedicated to acquiring land for preservation, conservation, and/or public recreation. The Conservancy has protected at least 11 properties throughout the Cedar Keys and ensures sustainable land management protocols are in place for each. Two of the proposed critical habitat units (see II. Critical Habitat, below) for the Cedar Key mole skink are within the Conservancy's properties, and the protection and management of these areas will provide benefits to the Cedar Key mole skink.

The Cedar Key mole skink also occurs within three State Parks, including Cedar Key Museum State Park, Cedar Key Scrub Wildlife Management Area, and Cedar Key Scrub State Reserve. Active management of these parks provides indirect benefits to the Cedar Key mole skink by protecting and providing habitat through beach restoration and nourishment and nonnative plant and animal control. Part of the active management of these parks includes the Florida Parks Service conducting nonnative plant and animal control that benefits Cedar Key mole skinks.

The Cedar Key mole skink occurs within two National Wildlife Refuges: the Lower Suwanee and Cedar Keys National Wildlife Refuges. Specific management or conservation objectives for the Cedar Key mole skink are not identified in the management plans for these National Wildlife Refuges lands; however, ongoing management activities, including habitat restoration and nonnative species control, provide benefits to the Cedar Key mole skink and its habitat.

We note that, by using the SSA framework to guide our analysis of the scientific information documented in the SSA report, we have analyzed the cumulative effects of identified threats and conservation actions on the subspecies. To assess the current and future condition of the subspecies, we evaluate the effects of all the relevant factors that may be influencing the subspecies, including threats and conservation efforts. Because the SSA framework not only considers the presence of the factors, but to what degree they collectively influence risk to the entire subspecies, our assessment integrates the cumulative effects of the factors and replaces a standalone cumulative-effects analysis.

Due to the semi-fossorial and cryptic nature of the Cedar Key mole skink, abundance data are lacking, and no population trend data exist for this subspecies. There are also no data available regarding the population structure or demographics of the Cedar Key mole skink. There have been 215 detections of Cedar Key mole skinks on 10 islands, with 62 individuals documented on 8 islands since 2000. Two of these island populations are considered to have uncertain status given the last detections were in 1988 and 1993. In total, 191 acres (77 hectares) of preferred habitats (this includes sand, beach, and coastal dune habitats) are currently estimated on all ten islands where Cedar Key mole skinks have been detected.

Table 1, below, provides a summary of the projected magnitude of change in resiliency for populations of the Cedar Key mole skink for the 3-foot (ft) (0.9-meter) sea level rise scenario in 2040. In the “Population status” column of table 1, “current” means occupied in 2000-2022, and “uncertain” means occupied prior to 1999. In the “Year 2040 (3-ft sea level rise)” column, we use symbols as follows:

• ↓ means a slight decrease in population resiliency (more than 10 percent but less than or equal to 50 percent);
• ↓↓ means a moderate decrease in population resiliency (more than 50 percent but less than or equal to 75 percent);
• ↓↓↓ means a large decrease in population resiliency (more than 75 percent but less than or equal to 90 percent); and
• X means extirpated, based on more than 90 percent of the potential habitat being impacted regardless of population resiliency.

To date, sea level rise has resulted in the direct loss of habitat, as beaches have become inundated for long periods of time. Repeated high tide flooding has resulted in additional loss of habitat as frequently flooded areas become unusable to the Cedar Key mole skink (individuals cannot easily move through wet sand; individuals or nests are washed away). Within the near term (by 2040 or sooner), five of the eight current populations are projected to lose 75 to 90 percent or more of preferred habitat due to continued increases in sea level rise and high tide flooding (table 1). In addition, recent hurricanes (Hurricane Hermine in 2016 and Hurricane Idalia in 2023) have resulted in direct loss of habitat as well as higher storm surge and coastal flooding that has further reduced availability and quality of Cedar Key mole skink habitat. Future projections indicate an increase in the severity of these storms.

Given the current impacts of sea level rise, high tide flooding, and hurricanes, and given the limited available habitat, the relatively low number of individuals documented, and the potential for repeated catastrophic storm events, the overall resiliency of the Cedar Key mole skink is considered low.

Redundancy is the ability of a species to withstand catastrophic events. In the Cedar Keys, tropical storms and hurricanes are regular and common events. However, catastrophic events may include particularly strong or intense hurricanes or storms and the resulting winds, waves, and storm surges associated with these events. Increased intensity of such storms associated with climate change could further reduce the ability of Cedar Key mole skink populations to recover and could cause catastrophic impacts to the subspecies.

Land mass in the Cedar Keys in general is limited, thus providing less redundancy or “backup” for the available habitat such that natural expansion of the subspecies is not possible. Given its small geographic range (eight islands within a length of 10 miles (16 kilometers)), the entire subspecies is vulnerable to potential catastrophic events such as a storm or hurricane that would likely impact all islands.

The Cedar Key mole skink has limited representation. There is no evidence of morphological or behavioral differences (or “types”) among populations. The Cedar Key mole skink occurs across a narrow geographic and ecological range; there is no variation in habitat types across distance or elevations. Furthermore, dispersal of individuals across islands is considered very rare, and genetic evidence shows little to no sign of interbreeding between the identified island populations (Parkinson et al. 2016, entire).

As part of the SSA, we also developed sea level rise and high tide flooding future condition scenarios projected out until the year 2100. Our scenarios included intermediate, intermediate-high, and high scenarios, which are aligned with emissions-based, conditional probabilistic and global model projections of global mean sea level rise (Service 2023, p. 42). Because we determined that the current condition of the Cedar Key mole skink is consistent with an endangered species (see Determination of Cedar Key Mole Skink's Status, below), we are not presenting the detailed results of the future scenarios in this proposed rule. Please refer to the SSA report (Service 2023, pp. 41-50) for the full analysis of future scenarios.

Section 4 of the Act ( 16 U.S.C. 1533 ) and its implementing regulations ( 50 CFR part 424 ) set forth the procedures for determining whether a species meets the definition of an endangered species or a threatened species. The Act defines an “endangered species” as a species in danger of extinction throughout all or a significant portion of its range, and a “threatened species” as a species likely to become an endangered species within the foreseeable future throughout all or a significant portion of its range. The Act requires that we determine whether a species meets the definition of an endangered species or a threatened species because of any of the following factors: (A) The present or threatened destruction, modification, or curtailment of its habitat or range; (B) overutilization for commercial, recreational, scientific, or educational purposes; (C) disease or predation; (D) the inadequacy of existing regulatory mechanisms; or (E) other natural or manmade factors affecting its continued existence.

We presented summary evaluations of the primary threats analyzed in the SSA report including climate change, specifically sea level rise, increased high tide flooding, and increased intensity of storm events (Factor E). We also evaluated existing regulatory mechanisms (Factor D) and ongoing conservation measures. In the SSA report, we also considered additional threats: habitat loss and degradation that results from development (Factor A); overutilization due to recreational, educational, and scientific use (Factor B); disease (Factor C); oil spills (Factor E); and nonnative species (Factor E). We concluded that, as indicated by the best available scientific and commercial information, these additional threats currently have little to no impact on the Cedar Key mole skink and its habitat such that the overall effect now and into the future is expected to be minimal. However, we consider each of these threats in the determination for the subspecies, because although they may have low impacts on their own, combined with impacts of other threats, they could further reduce the already low number of Cedar Key mole skinks.

After evaluating threats to the subspecies and assessing the cumulative effect of the threats under the Act's section 4(a)(1) factors, we have determined that the Cedar Key mole skink has limited resiliency, redundancy, and representation to maintain viability over time. Only 62 skinks have been documented on eight islands in the last 20 years. Given the historical and current impacts from sea level rise, high tide flooding, and hurricanes, habitat for the Cedar Key mole skink is limited. In total, approximately 191 acres (77 hectares) of preferred habitat are currently estimated on islands where the Cedar Key mole skink has been detected. Because the subspecies is limited to a relatively small area (eight islands within a length of 10 miles (16 kilometers)), the subspecies is considered to have little redundancy. A single catastrophic event, such as a severe storm or hurricane, could result in the extinction of the subspecies. Additionally, given the subspecies' narrow range and limited-to-no island dispersal capabilities, we consider the subspecies to have low representation. The current and future projected increase in sea level rise, high tide flooding, and storm events exacerbates the current condition for the Cedar Key mole skink. We do not find that the Cedar Key mole skink meets the Act's definition of a threatened species because it already has shown declines in available habitat, has limited abundance, and its population's exhibit low resiliency. Because of the Cedar Key mole skink's low redundancy and limited representation, the subspecies is vulnerable to catastrophic storm events. Thus, after assessing the best available information, we conclude that the Cedar Key mole skink is in danger of extinction throughout all of its range. ( print page 65133)

Under the Act and our implementing regulations, a species may warrant listing if it is in danger of extinction or likely to become so within the foreseeable future throughout all or a significant portion of its range. We have determined that the Cedar Key mole skink is in danger of extinction throughout all of its range and accordingly did not undertake an analysis of any significant portion of its range. Because the Cedar Key mole skink warrants listing as endangered throughout all of its range, our determination does not conflict with the decision in Center for Biological Diversity v. Everson, 435 F. Supp. 3d 69 (D.D.C. 2020), because that decision related to significant portion of the range analyses for species that warrant listing as threatened, not endangered, throughout all of their range.

Our review of the best available scientific and commercial information indicates that the Cedar Key mole skink meets the Act's definition of an endangered species. Therefore, we propose to list the Cedar Key mole skink as an endangered species in accordance with sections 3(6) and 4(a)(1) of the Act.

Conservation measures provided to species listed as endangered or threatened species under the Act include recognition as a listed species, planning and implementation of recovery actions, requirements for Federal protection, and prohibitions against certain practices. Recognition through listing results in public awareness, and conservation by Federal, State, Tribal, and local agencies, foreign governments, private organizations, and individuals. The Act encourages cooperation with the States and other countries and calls for recovery actions to be carried out for listed species. The protection required by Federal agencies, including the Service, and the prohibitions against certain activities are discussed, in part, below.

The primary purpose of the Act is the conservation of endangered and threatened species and the ecosystems upon which they depend. The ultimate goal of such conservation efforts is the recovery of these listed species, so that they no longer need the protective measures of the Act. Section 4(f) of the Act calls for the Service to develop and implement recovery plans for the conservation of endangered and threatened species. The goal of this process is to restore listed species to a point where they are secure, self-sustaining, and functioning components of their ecosystems.

The recovery planning process begins with development of a recovery outline made available to the public soon after a final listing determination. The recovery outline guides the immediate implementation of urgent recovery actions while a recovery plan is being developed. Recovery teams (composed of species experts, Federal and State agencies, nongovernmental organizations, and stakeholders) may be established to develop and implement recovery plans. The recovery planning process involves the identification of actions that are necessary to halt and reverse the species' decline by addressing the threats to its survival and recovery. The recovery plan identifies recovery criteria for review of when a species may be ready for reclassification from endangered to threatened (“downlisting”) or removal from protected status (“delisting”), and methods for monitoring recovery progress. Recovery plans also establish a framework for agencies to coordinate their recovery efforts and provide estimates of the cost of implementing recovery tasks. Revisions of the plan may be done to address continuing or new threats to the species, as new substantive information becomes available. The recovery outline, draft recovery plan, final recovery plan, and any revisions will be available on our website as they are completed ( https://www.fws.gov/​program/​endangered-species ), or from our Florida Ecological Services Field Office (see FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT ).

Implementation of recovery actions generally requires the participation of a broad range of partners, including other Federal agencies, States, Tribes, nongovernmental organizations, businesses, and private landowners. Examples of recovery actions include habitat restoration ( e.g., restoration of native vegetation), research, captive propagation and reintroduction, and outreach and education. The recovery of many listed species cannot be accomplished solely on Federal lands because their ranges may occur primarily or solely on non-Federal lands. To achieve recovery of these species requires cooperative conservation efforts on private, State, and Tribal lands.

If this subspecies is listed, funding for recovery actions will be available from a variety of sources, including Federal budgets, State programs, and cost-share grants for non-Federal landowners, the academic community, and nongovernmental organizations. In addition, pursuant to section 6 of the Act, the State of Florida would be eligible for Federal funds to implement management actions that promote the protection or recovery of the Cedar Key mole skink. Information on our grant programs that are available to aid species recovery can be found at: https://www.fws.gov/​service/​financial-assistance .

Although the Cedar Key mole skink is only proposed for listing under the Act at this time, please let us know if you are interested in participating in recovery efforts for this subspecies. Additionally, we invite you to submit any new information on this subspecies whenever it becomes available and any information you may have for recovery planning purposes (see FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT ).

Section 7 of the Act is titled, “Interagency Cooperation,” and it mandates all Federal action agencies to use their existing authorities to further the conservation purposes of the Act and to ensure that their actions are not likely to jeopardize the continued existence of listed species or adversely modify critical habitat. Regulations implementing section 7 are codified at 50 CFR part 402 .

Section 7(a)(2) states that each Federal action agency shall, in consultation with the Secretary, ensure that any action they authorize, fund, or carry out is not likely to jeopardize the continued existence of a listed species or result in the destruction or adverse modification of designated critical habitat. Each Federal agency shall review its action at the earliest possible time to determine whether it may affect listed species or critical habitat. If a determination is made that the action may affect listed species or critical habitat, formal consultation is required ( 50 CFR 402.14(a) ), unless the Service concurs in writing that the action is not likely to adversely affect listed species or critical habitat. At the end of a formal consultation, the Service issues a biological opinion, containing its determination of whether the Federal action is likely to result in jeopardy or adverse modification.

In contrast, section 7(a)(4) of the Act requires Federal agencies to confer with the Service on any action which is likely to jeopardize the continued existence of any species proposed to be listed under the Act or result in the destruction or adverse modification of critical habitat proposed to be designated for such species. Although the conference procedures are required only when an action is likely to result in jeopardy or adverse modification, ( print page 65134) action agencies may voluntarily confer with the Service on actions that may affect species proposed for listing or critical habitat proposed to be designated. In the event that the subject species is listed or the relevant critical habitat is designated, a conference opinion may be adopted as a biological opinion and serve as compliance with section 7(a)(2) of the Act.

Examples of discretionary actions for the Cedar Key mole skink that may be subject to conference and consultation procedures under section 7 are land management or other landscape-altering activities on Federal lands administered by the Service as well as actions on State, Tribal, local, or private lands that require a Federal permit (such as a permit from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers under section 404 of the Clean Water Act ( 33 U.S.C. 1251 et seq. ) or a permit from the Service under section 10 of the Act) or that involve some other Federal action (such as funding from the Federal Highway Administration, Federal Aviation Administration, or the Federal Emergency Management Agency). Federal actions not affecting listed species or critical habitat—and actions on State, Tribal, local, or private lands that are not federally funded, authorized, or carried out by a Federal agency—do not require section 7 consultation. Federal agencies should coordinate with the local Service Field Office (see FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT ) with any specific questions on section 7 consultation and conference requirements.

The Act and its implementing regulations set forth a series of general prohibitions and exceptions that apply to endangered wildlife. The prohibitions of section 9(a)(1) of the Act, and the Service's implementing regulations codified at 50 CFR 17.21 , make it illegal for any person subject to the jurisdiction of the United States to commit, to attempt to commit, to solicit another to commit, or to cause to be committed any of the following acts with regard to endangered wildlife: (1) import into, or export from, the United States; (2) take (which includes harass, harm, pursue, hunt, shoot, wound, kill, trap, capture, or collect, or to attempt to engage in any such conduct) within the United States, within the territorial sea of the United States, or on the high seas; (3) possess, sell, deliver, carry, transport, or ship, by any means whatsoever, any such wildlife that has been taken illegally; (4) deliver, receive, carry, transport, or ship in interstate or foreign commerce in the course of commercial activity; or (5) sell or offer for sale in interstate or foreign commerce. Certain exceptions to these prohibitions apply to employees or agents of the Service, the National Marine Fisheries Service, other Federal land management agencies, and State conservation agencies.

We may issue permits to carry out otherwise prohibited activities involving endangered wildlife under certain circumstances. Regulations governing permits for endangered wildlife are codified at 50 CFR 17.22 , and general Service permitting regulations are codified at 50 CFR part 13 . With regard to endangered wildlife, a permit may be issued: for scientific purposes, for enhancing the propagation or survival of the species, or for take incidental to otherwise lawful activities. The statute also contains certain exemptions from the prohibitions, which are found in sections 9 and 10 of the Act.

Critical habitat is defined in section 3 of the Act as:

(1) The specific areas within the geographical area occupied by the species, at the time it is listed in accordance with the Act, on which are found those physical or biological features

(a) Essential to the conservation of the species, and

(b) Which may require special management considerations or protection; and

(2) Specific areas outside the geographical area occupied by the species at the time it is listed, upon a determination that such areas are essential for the conservation of the species.

Our regulations at 50 CFR 424.02 define the geographical area occupied by the species as an area that may generally be delineated around species' occurrences, as determined by the Secretary ( i.e., range). Such areas may include those areas used throughout all or part of the species' life cycle, even if not used on a regular basis ( e.g., migratory corridors, seasonal habitats, and habitats used periodically, but not solely by vagrant individuals).

Conservation, as defined under section 3 of the Act, means to use and the use of all methods and procedures that are necessary to bring an endangered or threatened species to the point at which the measures provided pursuant to the Act are no longer necessary. Such methods and procedures include, but are not limited to, all activities associated with scientific resources management such as research, census, law enforcement, habitat acquisition and maintenance, propagation, live trapping, and transplantation, and, in the extraordinary case where population pressures within a given ecosystem cannot be otherwise relieved, may include regulated taking.

Critical habitat receives protection under section 7 of the Act through the requirement that each Federal action agency ensure, in consultation with the Service, that any action they authorize, fund, or carry out is not likely to result in the destruction or adverse modification of designated critical habitat. The designation of critical habitat does not affect land ownership or establish a refuge, wilderness, reserve, preserve, or other conservation area. Such designation also does not allow the government or public to access private lands. Such designation does not require implementation of restoration, recovery, or enhancement measures by non-Federal landowners. Rather, designation requires that, where a landowner requests Federal agency funding or authorization for an action that may affect an area designated as critical habitat, the Federal agency consult with the Service under section 7(a)(2) of the Act. If the action may affect the listed species itself (such as for occupied critical habitat), the Federal agency would have already been required to consult with the Service even absent the designation because of the requirement to ensure that the action is not likely to jeopardize the continued existence of the species. Even if the Service were to conclude after consultation that the proposed activity is likely to result in destruction or adverse modification of the critical habitat, the Federal action agency and the landowner are not required to abandon the proposed activity, or to restore or recover the species; instead, they must implement “reasonable and prudent alternatives” to avoid destruction or adverse modification of critical habitat.

Under the first prong of the Act's definition of critical habitat, areas within the geographical area occupied by the species at the time it was listed are included in a critical habitat designation if they contain physical or biological features (1) which are essential to the conservation of the species and (2) which may require special management considerations or protection. For these areas, critical habitat designations identify, to the extent known using the best scientific data available, those physical or biological features that are essential to the conservation of the species (such as ( print page 65135) space, food, cover, and protected habitat).

Under the second prong of the Act's definition of critical habitat, we can designate critical habitat in areas outside the geographical area occupied by the species at the time it is listed, upon a determination that such areas are essential for the conservation of the species.

Section 4 of the Act requires that we designate critical habitat on the basis of the best scientific data available. Further, our Policy on Information Standards Under the Endangered Species Act (published in the Federal Register on July 1, 1994 ( 59 FR 34271 )), the Information Quality Act (section 515 of the Treasury and General Government Appropriations Act for Fiscal Year 2001 ( Pub. L. 106-554 ; H.R. 5658)), and our associated Information Quality Guidelines provide criteria, establish procedures, and provide guidance to ensure that our decisions are based on the best scientific data available. They require our biologists, to the extent consistent with the Act and with the use of the best scientific data available, to use primary and original sources of information as the basis for recommendations to designate critical habitat.

When we are determining which areas should be designated as critical habitat, our primary source of information is generally the information from the SSA report and information developed during the listing process for the species. Additional information sources may include any generalized conservation strategy, criteria, or outline that may have been developed for the species; the recovery plan for the species; articles in peer-reviewed journals; conservation plans developed by States and counties; scientific status surveys and studies; biological assessments; other unpublished materials; or experts' opinions or personal knowledge.

Habitat is dynamic, and species may move from one area to another over time. We recognize that critical habitat designated at a particular point in time may not include all of the habitat areas that we may later determine are necessary for the recovery of the species. For these reasons, a critical habitat designation does not signal that habitat outside the designated area is unimportant or may not be needed for recovery of the species. Areas that are important to the conservation of the species, both inside and outside the critical habitat designation, will continue to be subject to: (1) Conservation actions implemented under section 7(a)(1) of the Act; (2) regulatory protections afforded by the requirement in section 7(a)(2) of the Act for Federal agencies to ensure their actions are not likely to jeopardize the continued existence of any endangered or threatened species; and (3) the prohibitions found in section 9 of the Act. Federally funded or permitted projects affecting listed species outside their designated critical habitat areas may still result in jeopardy findings in some cases. These protections and conservation tools will continue to contribute to recovery of the species. Similarly, critical habitat designations made on the basis of the best available information at the time of designation will not control the direction and substance of future recovery plans, habitat conservation plans (HCPs), or other species conservation planning efforts if new information available at the time of those planning efforts calls for a different outcome.

In accordance with section 3(5)(A)(i) of the Act and regulations at 50 CFR 424.12(b) , in determining which areas we will designate as critical habitat from within the geographical area occupied by the species at the time of listing, we consider the physical or biological features that are essential to the conservation of the species and which may require special management considerations or protection. The regulations at 50 CFR 424.02 define “physical or biological features essential to the conservation of the species” as the features that occur in specific areas and that are essential to support the life-history needs of the species, including, but not limited to, water characteristics, soil type, geological features, sites, prey, vegetation, symbiotic species, or other features. A feature may be a single habitat characteristic or a more complex combination of habitat characteristics. Features may include habitat characteristics that support ephemeral or dynamic habitat conditions. Features may also be expressed in terms relating to principles of conservation biology, such as patch size, distribution distances, and connectivity. For example, physical features essential to the conservation of the species might include gravel of a particular size required for spawning, alkaline soil for seed germination, protective cover for migration, or susceptibility to flooding or fire that maintains necessary early-successional habitat characteristics. Biological features might include prey species, forage grasses, specific kinds or ages of trees for roosting or nesting, symbiotic fungi, or absence of a particular level of nonnative species consistent with conservation needs of the listed species. The features may also be combinations of habitat characteristics and may encompass the relationship between characteristics or the necessary amount of a characteristic essential to support the life history of the species.

In considering whether features are essential to the conservation of the species, we may consider an appropriate quality, quantity, and spatial and temporal arrangement of habitat characteristics in the context of the life-history needs, condition, and status of the species. These characteristics include, but are not limited to, space for individual and population growth and for normal behavior; food, water, air, light, minerals, or other nutritional or physiological requirements; cover or shelter; sites for breeding, reproduction, or rearing (or development) of offspring; and habitats that are protected from disturbance.

We derive the specific physical or biological features essential to the conservation of the Cedar Key mole skink from studies of the subspecies' habitat, ecology, and life history as described above. Additional information can be found in the SSA report (Service 2023, entire; available on https://www.regulations.gov under Docket No. FWS-R4-ES-2024-0053). We have determined that the following physical or biological feature is essential to the conservation of the Cedar Key mole skink: Natural habitats (including, but not limited to, beaches, dunes, and coastal hammocks) along the coast or within the interior of the Cedar Keys that contain:

(a) Suitable soils (dry, loose, sandy, permeable, or friable soils) for movement and nesting; and

(b) Sufficient, appropriate ground cover (including, but not limited to, tidal wrack deposited above the mean high-water line, leaf litter, and vegetative debris) for protection from predators and temperature extremes, sources of food ( e.g., insects and arthropods), and areas for reproduction.

When designating critical habitat, we assess whether the specific areas within the geographical area occupied by the subspecies at the time of listing contain features which are essential to the conservation of the subspecies and which may require special management ( print page 65136) considerations or protection. The feature essential to the conservation of the Cedar Key mole skink may require special management considerations or protection to reduce threats posed by climate change (sea level rise, more frequent tidal flooding, and increasing intensity of storm events); recreational activities (beach cleaning to remove wrack and other vegetative material); and human-caused disasters and response activities. For an in-depth discussion of threats, see Summary of Biological Status and Threats, above, and the SSA report (Service 2023, pp. 16-31).

Management activities that could ameliorate these threats include (but are not limited to): maintaining and protecting suitable habitat within occupied areas; identifying areas where beach erosion is occurring or habitat is succeeding to mangrove swamp or other coastal wetlands due to sea level rise and implementing nourishment or restoration/protection activities; conducting restoration and debris cleanup after storms, while concurrently minimizing disturbance to Cedar Key mole skinks and their habitat; establishing protocols and agreements to allow storm-enhanced habitats (storms can create berms and dunes and can redeposit sand and wrack, which are all beneficial to the Cedar Key mole skink) to persist; coordinating with landowners and local managers to implement best management practices during regular beach cleaning activities; conducting public outreach and education at all occupied areas; and preparing disaster response plans and conducting trainings that consider Cedar Key mole skinks and their habitat.

As required by section 4(b)(2) of the Act, we use the best scientific data available to designate critical habitat. In accordance with the Act and our implementing regulations at 50 CFR 424.12(b) , we review available information pertaining to the habitat requirements of the species and identify specific areas within the geographical area occupied by the species at the time of listing and any specific areas outside the geographical area occupied by the species to be considered for designation as critical habitat.

We are proposing to designate critical habitat in areas within the geographical area occupied by the subspecies at the time of listing. We also are proposing to designate specific areas outside the geographical area occupied by the subspecies because we have determined that those areas are essential for the conservation of the subspecies. By the year 2040, five out of eight islands currently occupied by the Cedar Key mole skink are projected to lose 75 to 90 percent or more of their preferred habitat under the lowest projected sea level rise scenario of 3.0 feet (0.9 meters) (see table 1, above). We identified suitable habitat on islands within the Cedar Keys that meet the definition of critical habitat and are considered essential to provide for subspecies redundancy into the future. These islands are considered areas with high resiliency to sea level rise ( i.e., islands with higher elevation that are projected to have habitat remaining at 5.0 feet (1.5 meters) of sea level rise)). These unoccupied islands contain the physical and biological feature essential to the subspecies and are, therefore, considered habitat for the subspecies. All units (both occupied and unoccupied) are within the range of the subspecies and contain the physical and biological feature essential to the conservation of the subspecies.

We developed the following criteria for determining the specific areas that contain the physical and biological feature essential to the conservation of the subspecies:

(1) Genetic differentiation and geographic extent—To maintain viability in populations of Cedar Key mole skink that represent and conserve any genetic variation that may exist and habitat on each of the eight islands that has current populations (see Current Condition, above), critical habitat units should encompass all current populations ensuring that the entire range of the Cedar Key mole skink is represented.

(2) Climate change resilience—To provide sufficient amounts of suitable habitat for the Cedar Key mole skink predicted to be less affected by sea level rise (Service 2023, pp. 41-50), critical habitat should include islands that are less vulnerable to sea level rise within the Cedar Keys.

(3) Structural connectivity—To maintain, enhance, and establish connectivity within Cedar Key mole skink populations (see Summary of Biological Status and Threats, above), critical habitat units should incorporate corridors for connectivity, dispersal, and refuge areas during high tide flooding and storm events.

Sources of data used for the delineation of critical habitat units included:

(1) Confirmed presence data compiled in our Geographic Information System database from 1951 through 2022, and provided by multiple databases maintained by museums, universities, and State agencies in Florida; State agency reports; and numerous survey reports for projects throughout the subspecies' range.

(2) Habitat and land use cover types from the Cooperative Land Cover map (version 3.5) developed by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission and Florida Natural Areas Inventory (FWC and FNAI 2021, entire) determined to be suitable for the subspecies based on peer-reviewed articles on this subspecies or similar subspecies, and gray literature by researchers involved in wildlife biology and conservation activities.

(3) Levy County soil data layers from the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Natural Resources Conservation Service Web Soil Survey (USDA 2022, entire) determined to be suitable for the subspecies based on their official soil series descriptions.

(4) Shoreline data representing the mean high-water line from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's Office of Coastal Management ( https://shoreline.noaa.gov/​data/​index.html ).

(5) Global and regional sea level rise scenarios for the United States from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's National Ocean Service Center for Operational Oceanographic Products and Services (Sweet et al. 2022, entire).

(6) Environmental Systems Research Institute's (ESRI's) Aeronautical Reconnaissance Coverage Geographical Information System (ArcPro) online basemap aerial imagery (2018 to 2020) to cross-check Cooperative Land Cover data and ensure the presence of the physical or biological feature.

For areas within the geographical area occupied by the Cedar Key mole skink at the time of listing, we delineated critical habitat unit boundaries using the following criteria:

(1) We determined occupied areas for this subspecies by reviewing the best available scientific and commercial data on occurrence records. As discussed above under I. Proposed Listing Determination, Background, Cedar Key mole skinks are cryptic and adapted to living underground. Because of their cryptic nature, we determined that, if suitable habitat containing the physical and biological feature is still present in an area where a Cedar Key mole skink was detected between 2000 and 2022, there is a high likelihood that the subspecies is still present. Therefore, based on the best available information, we defined occupied areas as islands with at least one current occurrence record ranging from 2000 to 2022. ( print page 65137)

(2) We selected all suitable habitat that contains the physical or biological feature as determined using the data sources listed above on currently occupied islands. When the exact location of an occurrence record could not be determined for an island (a verified record, but only general location information, such as the name of the island, was provided), or the location was accurate but in unsuitable habitat (developed areas), all suitable habitat on the island was selected.

(3) We selected additional suitable habitat within a 328-ft (100-meter) radius (the estimated home range of Cedar Key mole skink; Service 2023, p. 12) on undeveloped islands to include corridors for greater dispersal due to population expansions, localized resource limitations, and sea level rise, storm surge, or tidal flooding refugia areas for the subspecies ( e.g., for undeveloped islands, the full island was included).

(4) On developed islands, we constrained the boundary of a critical habitat unit to areas of contiguous suitable habitat. Offshore boundaries of the critical habitat unit were delineated using a simplified buffered shoreline to include the full extent of each island complex, or to the farthest offshore feature ( i.e., habitat boundary, mean high-water line, or shoreline visible in aerial imagery).

For areas outside the geographical area currently occupied by the subspecies at the time of listing, we looked at islands considered recently occupied by, or that have an uncertain status (documented before 1999) for, the Cedar Key mole skink. We analyzed these uncertain status islands and all other islands within the Cedar Keys for those that contain suitable habitat and evaluated each site for its potential conservation contribution based on quality of habitat, vulnerability to climate change (specifically sea level rise and high tide flooding), and existing protections and management of the habitat and sites. Based on these criteria, we identified nine islands that contain appropriate habitat for the subspecies and are essential for the conservation of the subspecies but would be considered unoccupied at the time of listing. For areas outside the geographical area occupied by the Cedar Key mole skink at the time of listing, we delineated critical habitat unit boundaries using the following criteria:

(1) To ensure unoccupied areas would provide skink habitat into the future, we analyzed impacts to potential habitat on each island in the Cedar Keys and included only those that are projected to still have habitat remaining after 5.0 feet (1.5 meters) of sea level rise and high tide flooding by the year 2080 (Service 2023, p. 47).

(2) We selected all suitable habitat that contains the physical or biological feature as determined using Criteria (2)-(4) outlined above for occupied units.

When determining proposed critical habitat boundaries, we made every effort to avoid including developed areas such as lands covered by buildings, pavement, and other structures because such lands lack physical or biological features necessary for the Cedar Key mole skink. The scale of the maps we prepared under the parameters for publication within the Code of Federal Regulations may not reflect the exclusion of such developed lands. Any such lands inadvertently left inside critical habitat boundaries shown on the maps of this proposed rule have been excluded by text in the proposed rule and are not proposed for designation as critical habitat. Therefore, if the critical habitat is finalized as proposed, a Federal action involving these lands would not trigger section 7 consultation with respect to critical habitat and the requirement of no adverse modification unless the specific action would affect the physical or biological features in the adjacent critical habitat.

Seventeen units are proposed for designation based on the physical or biological feature being present to support the Cedar Key mole skink's life-history processes. All units contain the identified physical or biological feature and support multiple life-history processes.

The proposed critical habitat designation is defined by the maps, as modified by any accompanying regulatory text, presented at the end of this document under Proposed Regulation Promulgation. We include more detailed information on the boundaries of the proposed critical habitat designation in the preamble of this document. We will make the coordinates or plot points or both on which each map is based available to the public on https://www.regulations.gov at Docket No. FWS-R4-ES-2024-0053 and on our internet site at https://www.fws.gov/​office/​florida-ecological-services .

We are proposing to designate approximately 2,713 acres (1,098 hectares) in 17 units as critical habitat for the Cedar Key mole skink (see table 2, below). The critical habitat areas we describe below constitute our current best assessment of areas that meet the definition of critical habitat for the Cedar Key mole skink. The 17 areas we propose as critical habitat are: (1) Live Oak Key, (2) Cedar Point, (3) Scale Key, (4) Dog Island, (5) Atsena Otie Key, (6) Snake Key, (7) Seahorse Key, (8) North Key, (9) Airstrip Island, (10) Way Key South, (11) Way Key North, (12) Richards Island, (13) Seabreeze Island, (14) Shell Mound, (15) Raleigh and Horse Islands, (16) Deer Island, and (17) Clark Islands. Most of the units contain highly dynamic barrier beaches and intertidal seashore. This area has the potential to vary year-to-year. In other words, the precise location of the physical and biological feature in some locations may shift over time somewhat because of the intrinsically dynamic nature of shorelines and due to sea level rise and high tide flooding. Table 2 shows the proposed critical habitat units and the approximate area of each unit.

We present brief descriptions of all proposed units, and reasons why they meet the definition of critical habitat for the Cedar Key mole skink, below.

Unit 1 encompasses approximately 109 acres (44 hectares) of unoccupied habitat in Levy County and includes the entire island of Live Oak Key. This unit is composed of protected lands with suitable habitat that contains the physical or biological feature essential to the conservation of the subspecies. Lands within this unit include approximately 46 acres (19 hectares) in Federal ownership, 49 acres (20 hectares) in private ownership, and 14 acres (6 hectares) in other ownership (undefined ownership). The entirety of Unit 1 is included in, and thus overlaps with, proposed critical habitat for the rufa red knot ( Calidris canutus rufa ). Live Oak Key is approximately 2.5 miles (4 kilometers) northeast of Cedar Key within the Gulf of Mexico. The northern portion of the island is managed as the Florida Gulf Coast Mitigation Bank by a private entity and the southern portion is federally owned and managed by the Service as the part of the Cedar Keys National Wildlife Refuge.

Although it is currently considered unoccupied, this unit constitutes habitat for the subspecies because it contains the physical or biological feature necessary for the life history of the subspecies. This unit is essential for the conservation of the subspecies because it will provide habitat for potential reintroductions in the case of sea level rise and high tide flooding (Service 2023, pp. 41-50) or stochastic events (such as hurricanes) should other areas of suitable habitat be destroyed or the Cedar Key mole skink be extirpated from one of its currently occupied locations.

Unit 2 encompasses approximately 41 acres (17 hectares) of occupied habitat in Levy County and includes the entire island of Cedar Point. This unit is composed of protected lands with suitable habitat that contains the physical or biological feature essential to the conservation of the subspecies. Lands within this unit include approximately 26 acres (11 hectares) in Federal ownership and 15 acres (6 hectares) in private ownership. The entirety of Unit 2 is included in, and thus overlaps with, proposed critical habitat for the rufa red knot. Cedar Point is approximately 1.7 miles (2.7 kilometers) northeast of Cedar Key within the Gulf of Mexico. The Service manages most of the island as the part of the Cedar Keys National Wildlife Refuge. The eastern portion is managed by a private entity as part of the Florida Gulf Coast Mitigation Bank.

The physical and biological feature in this unit may require special management considerations or protection to: identify areas where beach erosion is occurring or habitat is succeeding to mangrove swamp or other coastal wetlands due to sea level rise and implement renourishment or restoration/protection activities; conduct restoration and debris cleanup after storms while concurrently minimizing disturbance to Cedar Key mole skinks and their habitat; establish protocols and agreements to allow storm-enhanced habitats to persist; conduct public outreach and education; and prepare disaster response plans and conduct trainings that consider Cedar Key mole skinks and their habitat to address threats from climate change ( e.g., sea level rise, high tide flooding, and storm events) and human-caused disasters and response activities ( e.g., oil spills).

Unit 3 encompasses approximately 116 acres (47 hectares) of occupied habitat in Levy County and includes the entire island of Scale Key. This unit is composed of protected lands with suitable habitat that contains the physical or biological feature essential to the conservation of the subspecies. Lands within this unit include approximately 95 acres (38 hectares) in Federal ownership and 21 acres (8 hectares) in private ownership. The entirety of Unit 3 is included in, and thus overlaps with, proposed critical habitat for the rufa red knot. Scale Key is approximately 1 mile (1.6 kilometers) northeast of Cedar Key within the Gulf of Mexico. The Service manages most of the island as part of the Cedar Keys National Wildlife Refuge. Approximately 14 acres (6 hectares) of the eastern portion are owned by Florida's Nature Coast Conservancy, and 5 acres (2 hectares) of the northern portion are managed by a private entity as part of the Florida Gulf Coast Mitigation Bank.

The physical and biological feature in this unit may require special management considerations or protection to: identify areas where beach erosion is occurring or habitat is succeeding to mangrove swamp or other coastal wetlands due to sea level rise and implement renourishment or restoration/protection activities; conduct restoration and debris cleanup after storms while concurrently minimizing disturbance to Cedar Key mole skinks and their habitat; establish protocols and agreements to allow ( print page 65139) storm-enhanced habitats to persist; conduct public outreach and education; and prepare disaster response plans and conduct trainings that consider Cedar Key mole skinks and their habitat to address threats from climate change ( e.g., sea level rise, high tide flooding, and storm events) and human-caused disasters and response activities ( e.g., oil spills).

Unit 4 encompasses approximately 8 acres (3 hectares) of unoccupied habitat in Levy County and includes the entire Dog Island. This unit is composed of protected lands with suitable habitat that contains the physical or biological feature essential to the conservation of the subspecies. Although Dog Island is currently considered unoccupied, Cedar Key mole skinks were documented here in the past (Enge 2023, pers. comm.; FWC 2023, entire), and it is possible that they are still present.

Dog Island is approximately 1 mile (1.6 kilometers) to the east of Cedar Key within the Gulf of Mexico. Lands within this unit are entirely within State ownership. The entirety of Unit 4 is included in, and thus overlaps with, proposed critical habitat for the rufa red knot.

Unit 5 encompasses approximately 183 acres (74 hectares) of occupied habitat in Levy County and includes the entire island of Atsena Otie Key. This unit is composed of protected lands with suitable habitat that contains the physical or biological feature essential to the conservation of the subspecies. Lands within this unit include approximately 116 acres (47 hectares) in State ownership and 67 acres (27 hectares) in other ownership. Atsena Otie Key is approximately 1 mile (1.6 kilometers) south of Cedar Key within the Gulf of Mexico. The island is owned by the State of Florida and managed as part of the Cedar Keys National Wildlife Refuge through a memorandum of understanding (MOU) by the Service. The entirety of Unit 5 is included in, and thus overlaps with, proposed critical habitat for the rufa red knot.

Unit 6 encompasses approximately 57 acres (23 hectares) of occupied habitat within Levy County and includes the entire island of Snake Key. This unit is composed of protected lands with suitable habitat that contains the physical or biological feature essential to the conservation of the subspecies. Lands within this unit include approximately 39 acres (16 hectares) in Federal ownership and 17 acres (7 hectares) in other ownership. Snake Key is approximately 2.5 miles (4 kilometers) south of Cedar Key within the Gulf of Mexico. The island is managed by the Service as part of the Cedar Keys National Wildlife Refuge. The entirety of Unit 6 is included in, and thus overlaps with, proposed critical habitat for the rufa red knot.

Unit 7 encompasses approximately 165 acres (67 hectares) of occupied habitat within Levy County and includes the entire island of Seahorse Key. This unit is composed of protected lands with suitable habitat that contains the physical or biological feature essential to the conservation of the subspecies. Lands within this unit include approximately 118 acres (48 hectares) in Federal ownership and 47 acres (19 hectares) in other ownership. Seahorse Key is approximately 3 miles (5 kilometers) south and west of Cedar Key within the Gulf of Mexico. The island is managed by the Service as part of the Cedar Keys National Wildlife Refuge. The entirety of Unit 7 is included in, and thus overlaps with, proposed critical habitat for the rufa red knot.

Unit 8 encompasses approximately 236 acres (95 hectares) of occupied habitat within Levy County and includes the entire island of North Key. This unit is composed of protected lands with suitable habitat that contains the physical or biological feature essential to the conservation of the subspecies. Lands within this unit include approximately 129 acres (52 hectares) in Federal ownership and 107 acres (43 hectares) in other ownership. North Key is approximately 3 miles (4.8 kilometers) to the west of Cedar Key within the Gulf of Mexico. The island is ( print page 65140) managed by the Service as part of the Cedar Keys National Wildlife Refuge. The entirety of Unit 8 is included in, and thus overlaps with, proposed critical habitat for the rufa red knot.

Unit 9 encompasses approximately 29 acres (12 hectares) of occupied habitat within Levy County on the island of Way Key. Lands within this unit include approximately 19 acres (8 hectares) in local government ownership and 10 acres (4 hectares) in private ownership. This unit is composed of the following five separate sections with suitable habitat that contains the physical or biological feature essential to the conservation of the subspecies: Airstrip Island Beach, Cedar Key Airport, Airport Island, Piney Point, and Robert Cull Nature Preserve. Airstrip Island Beach is 5 acres (2 hectares) of private shoreline along Daughtry Bayou, encompassing sandy beach from mean higher high-water inland to dense vegetation, hardened structures, or roads, extending from the southern side of the Airport Road bridge to the south for approximately 0.5 miles (0.8 kilometers). Cedar Key Airport includes 16 acres (6 hectares) of unvegetated and vegetated sandy soils on the George T. Lewis Airport (also known as the Cedar Key Airport) that are owned by Levy County. Airport Island is a 2-acre (0.8-hectare), unnamed island southwest of the airport, which is also owned by Levy County. Piney Point is a 3-acre (1-hectare), privately owned, undeveloped, vacant lot on the western side of Piney Point south of the airport. The fifth section is 2 acres (0.8 hectares) of protected land known as the Robert Cull Nature Preserve at the terminus of Piney Point that are owned and managed by Florida's Nature Coast Conservancy. Approximately 9 acres (4 hectares) of Unit 9 overlap with proposed critical habitat for the rufa red knot.

Unit 10 encompasses approximately 44 acres (18 hectares) of unoccupied habitat within Levy County on Way Key. This unit is a series of undeveloped disconnected islands south of Way Key that contain the physical or biological feature essential to the conservation of the subspecies. The largest island, located between the airport and the developed portion of Way Key, is projected to be more resilient to sea level rise (due to its relatively higher elevation) and is composed of coastal scrub habitat with a sandy shoreline fringe. Also included in this unit are several primarily sand islands that occur seaward of the main island. This unit is entirely in State ownership. Approximately 41 acres (17 hectares) of Unit 10 overlap with proposed critical habitat for the rufa red knot.

Unit 11 encompasses approximately 24 acres (10 hectares) of unoccupied habitat within Levy County on Way Key. This unit is composed of protected lands with suitable habitat that contains the physical or biological feature essential to the conservation of the subspecies. Lands within this unit include approximately 9 acres (4 hectares) in State ownership managed as the Cedar Key Museum State Park by the Florida Park Service, and 15 acres (6 hectares) in local government ownership managed as Cemetery Point Park by the City of Cedar Key. Although the unit is currently considered unoccupied, Cedar key mole skinks were documented here in the past (FWC 2023, entire), and it is possible that they are still present. Additionally, this unit constitutes habitat for the subspecies because it contains the physical or biological feature necessary for the life history of the subspecies. This unit is essential for the conservation of the subspecies because it will provide habitat for potential reintroductions in the case of sea level rise and high tide flooding (Service 2023, pp. 41-50) or stochastic events (such as hurricanes) should other areas of suitable habitat be destroyed or the Cedar Key mole skink be extirpated from one of its currently occupied locations.

Unit 12 encompasses approximately 105 acres (42 hectares) of unoccupied habitat within Levy County and includes the entirety of Richards Island. This unit is composed of protected lands with suitable habitat that contains the physical or biological feature essential to the conservation of the subspecies. Richards Island is undeveloped and projected to be more resilient to sea level rise due to higher elevation. Lands within this unit include approximately 86 acres (35 hectares) in Federal ownership and 19 acres (8 hectares) in other ownership. Richards Island is approximately 3.3 miles (5.3 kilometers) northwest of Cedar Key within the Gulf of Mexico. The island is managed by the Service as part of the Cedar Keys National Wildlife Refuge. Approximately 43 acres (17 hectares) of Unit 12 overlap with proposed critical habitat for the rufa red knot.

Although it is currently considered unoccupied, this unit constitutes habitat for the subspecies because it contains the physical or biological feature necessary for the life history of the ( print page 65141) subspecies. This unit is essential for the conservation of the subspecies because it will provide habitat for potential reintroductions in the case of sea level rise and high tide flooding (Service 2023, pp. 41-50) or stochastic events (such as hurricanes) should other areas of suitable habitat be destroyed or the Cedar Key mole skink be extirpated from one of its currently occupied locations.

Unit 13 encompasses approximately 136 acres (55 hectares) of unoccupied habitat within Levy County on Seabreeze Island. This unit is composed of protected lands with suitable habitat that contains the physical or biological feature essential to the conservation of the subspecies. Seabreeze Island is undeveloped and projected to be more resilient to sea level rise. Lands within this unit include approximately 111 acres (45 hectares) in Federal ownership and 25 acres (10 hectares) in other ownership. Seabreeze Island is approximately 4 miles (6 kilometers) northwest of Cedar Key within the Gulf of Mexico. The island is managed by the Service as part of the Lower Suwannee National Wildlife Refuge. Approximately 8 acres (3 hectares) of Unit 13 overlap with proposed critical habitat for the rufa red knot.

Unit 14 encompasses approximately 1,050 ac (425 hectares) of unoccupied habitat within Levy County on Shell Mound. The unit contains higher elevation lands, is projected to be more resilient to sea level rise, and has suitable habitat containing the physical or biological feature essential to the conservation of the subspecies. This unit extends from Dennis Creek north to Ericson Creek. Lands within this unit include approximately 167 acres (68 hectares) in Federal ownership, 194 acres (79 hectares) in State ownership, and 688 acres (278 hectares) in private ownership. The unit includes portions of the Cedar Key Scrub State Reserve managed by the Florida Park Service and the Lower Suwannee National Wildlife Refuge managed by the Service.

Unit 15 encompasses approximately 176 acres (71 hectares) of unoccupied habitat within Levy County on Raleigh and Horse Islands. The unit includes undeveloped islands projected to be more resilient to sea level rise and contains suitable habitat with the physical or biological feature essential to the conservation of the subspecies. Lands within this unit include approximately 171 acres (69 hectares) in Federal ownership and 5 acres (2 hectares) in private ownership. The group of islands is approximately 6 miles (10 kilometers) northwest of Cedar Key within the Gulf of Mexico. The Service manages most of the islands as part of the Lower Suwannee National Wildlife Refuge.

Unit 16 encompasses approximately 113 acres (46 hectares) of occupied habitat within Levy County and includes the entirety of Deer Island. The unit is composed of suitable habitat that contains the physical or biological feature essential to the conservation of the subspecies. Lands within the unit include approximately 8 acres (3 hectares) in Federal ownership, 69 acres (28 hectares) in private ownership, and 36 acres (15 hectares) in other ownership. Deer Island is approximately 7 miles (11 kilometers) northwest of Cedar Key within the Gulf of Mexico. The entirety of Unit 16 is included in, and thus overlaps with, proposed critical habitat for the rufa red knot.

Unit 17 encompasses approximately 121 acres (49 hectares) of unoccupied habitat within Levy County on the Clark Islands complex. The unit includes undeveloped islands projected to be more resilient to sea level rise. The entirety of the unit is privately owned. The Clark Islands are approximately 7 miles (11 kilometers) north-northwest of Cedar Key within the Gulf of Mexico.

Section 7(a)(2) of the Act requires Federal agencies, including the Service, to ensure that any action they authorize, fund, or carry out is not likely to jeopardize the continued existence of ( print page 65142) any endangered species or threatened species or result in the destruction or adverse modification of designated critical habitat of such species. In addition, section 7(a)(4) of the Act requires Federal agencies to confer with the Service on any agency action which is likely to jeopardize the continued existence of any species proposed to be listed under the Act or result in the destruction or adverse modification of proposed critical habitat.

Destruction or adverse modification means a direct or indirect alteration that appreciably diminishes the value of critical habitat as a whole for the conservation of a listed species.

Compliance with the requirements of section 7(a)(2) of the Act is documented through our issuance of:

(1) A concurrence letter for Federal actions that may affect, but are not likely to adversely affect, listed species or critical habitat; or

(2) A biological opinion for Federal actions that may affect, and are likely to adversely affect, listed species or critical habitat.

When we issue a biological opinion concluding that a project is likely to jeopardize the continued existence of a listed species and/or destroy or adversely modify critical habitat, we provide reasonable and prudent alternatives to the project, if any are identifiable, that would avoid the likelihood of jeopardy and/or destruction or adverse modification of critical habitat. We define “reasonable and prudent alternatives” (at 50 CFR 402.02 ) as alternative actions identified during formal consultation that:

(1) Can be implemented in a manner consistent with the intended purpose of the action,

(2) Can be implemented consistent with the scope of the Federal agency's legal authority and jurisdiction,

(3) Are economically and technologically feasible, and

(4) Would, in the Service Director's opinion, avoid the likelihood of jeopardizing the continued existence of the listed species or avoid the likelihood of destroying or adversely modifying critical habitat.

Reasonable and prudent alternatives can vary from slight project modifications to extensive redesign or relocation of the project. Costs associated with implementing a reasonable and prudent alternative are similarly variable.

Regulations at 50 CFR 402.16 set forth requirements for Federal agencies to reinitiate consultation. Reinitiation of consultation is required and shall be requested by the Federal agency, where discretionary Federal involvement or control over the action has been retained or is authorized by law and: (1) If the amount or extent of taking specified in the incidental take statement is exceeded; (2) if new information reveals effects of the action that may affect listed species or critical habitat in a manner or to an extent not previously considered; (3) if the identified action is subsequently modified in a manner that causes an effect to the listed species or critical habitat that was not considered in the biological opinion or written concurrence; or (4) if a new species is listed or critical habitat designated that may be affected by the identified action. As provided in 50 CFR 402.16 , the requirement to reinitiate consultations for new species listings or critical habitat designation does not apply to certain agency actions ( e.g., land management plans issued by the Bureau of Land Management in certain circumstances).

The key factor related to the destruction or adverse modification determination is whether implementation of the proposed Federal action directly or indirectly alters the designated critical habitat in a way that appreciably diminishes the value of the critical habitat as a whole for the conservation of the listed species. As discussed above, the role of critical habitat is to support physical or biological features essential to the conservation of a listed species and provide for the conservation of the species.

Section 4(b)(8) of the Act requires that our Federal Register notices “shall, to the maximum extent practicable also include a brief description and evaluation of those activities (whether public or private) which, in the opinion of the Secretary, if undertaken may adversely modify [critical] habitat, or may be affected by such designation.” Activities that may be affected by designation of critical habitat for the Cedar Key mole skink include those that may affect the physical or biological features of the Cedar Key mole skink's critical habitat (see Physical or Biological Features Essential to the Conservation of the Species, above).

Section 4(a)(3)(B)(i) of the Act ( 16 U.S.C. 1533(a)(3)(B)(i) ) provides that the Secretary shall not designate as critical habitat any lands or other geographical areas owned or controlled by the Department of Defense (DoD), or designated for its use, that are subject to an integrated natural resources management plan (INRMP) prepared under section 101 of the Sikes Act Improvement Act of 1997 ( 16 U.S.C. 670a ), if the Secretary determines in writing that such plan provides a benefit to the species for which critical habitat is proposed for designation. No DoD lands with a completed INRMP are within the proposed critical habitat designation.

Section 4(b)(2) of the Act states that the Secretary shall designate and make revisions to critical habitat on the basis of the best available scientific data after taking into consideration the economic impact, national security impact, and any other relevant impact of specifying any particular area as critical habitat. The Secretary may exclude an area from designated critical habitat based on economic impacts, impacts on national security, or any other relevant impacts. Exclusion decisions are governed by the regulations at 50 CFR 424.19 and the Policy Regarding Implementation of Section 4(b)(2) of the Endangered Species Act (hereafter, the “2016 Policy”; 81 FR 7226 , February 11, 2016), both of which were developed jointly with the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS). We also refer to a 2008 Department of the Interior Solicitor's opinion entitled, “The Secretary's Authority to Exclude Areas from a Critical Habitat Designation under Section 4(b)(2) of the Endangered Species Act” (M-37016).

In considering whether to exclude a particular area from the designation, we identify the benefits of including the area in the designation, identify the benefits of excluding the area from the designation, and evaluate whether the benefits of exclusion outweigh the benefits of inclusion. If the analysis indicates that the benefits of exclusion outweigh the benefits of inclusion, the Secretary may exercise discretion to exclude the area only if such exclusion would not result in the extinction of the species. In making the determination to exclude a particular area, the statute on its face, as well as the legislative history, are clear that the Secretary has broad discretion regarding which factor(s) to use and how much weight to give to any factor. In our final rules, we explain any decision to exclude areas, as well as decisions not to exclude, to make clear the rational basis for our decision. We describe below the process that we use for taking into consideration each ( print page 65143) category of impacts and any initial analyses of the relevant impacts.

Section 4(b)(2) of the Act and its implementing regulations require that we consider the economic impact that may result from a designation of critical habitat. To assess the probable economic impacts of a designation, we must first evaluate specific land uses or activities and projects that may occur in the area of the critical habitat. We then must evaluate the impacts that a specific critical habitat designation may have on restricting or modifying specific land uses or activities for the benefit of the species and its habitat within the areas proposed. We then identify which conservation efforts may be the result of the species being listed under the Act versus those attributed solely to the designation of critical habitat for this particular species. The probable economic impact of a proposed critical habitat designation is analyzed by comparing scenarios both “with critical habitat” and “without critical habitat.”

The “without critical habitat” scenario represents the baseline for the analysis, which includes the existing regulatory and socio-economic burden imposed on landowners, managers, or other resource users potentially affected by the designation of critical habitat ( e.g., under the Federal listing as well as other Federal, State, and local regulations). Therefore, the baseline represents the costs of all efforts attributable to the listing of the species under the Act ( i.e., conservation of the species and its habitat incurred regardless of whether critical habitat is designated). The “with critical habitat” scenario describes the incremental impacts associated specifically with the designation of critical habitat for the species. The incremental conservation efforts and associated impacts would not be expected without the designation of critical habitat for the species. In other words, the incremental costs are those attributable solely to the designation of critical habitat, above and beyond the baseline costs. These are the costs we use when evaluating the benefits of inclusion and exclusion of particular areas from the final designation of critical habitat should we choose to conduct a discretionary 4(b)(2) exclusion analysis.

Executive Order (E.O.) 14094 supplements and reaffirms E.O. 12866 and E.O. 13563 and directs Federal agencies to assess the costs and benefits of available regulatory alternatives in quantitative (to the extent feasible) and qualitative terms. Consistent with the E.O. regulatory analysis requirements, our effects analysis under the Act may take into consideration impacts to both directly and indirectly affected entities, where practicable and reasonable. If sufficient data are available, we assess to the extent practicable the probable impacts to both directly and indirectly affected entities. Section 3(f) of E.O. 12866 identifies four criteria when a regulation is considered a “significant regulatory action” and requires additional analysis, review, and approval if met. The criterion relevant here is whether the designation of critical habitat may have an economic effect of $200 million or more in any given year (section 3(f)(1) as amended by E.O. 14094 ). Therefore, our consideration of economic impacts uses a screening analysis to assess whether a designation of critical habitat for the Cedar Key mole skink is likely to exceed the economically significant threshold.

For this particular designation, we developed an incremental effects memorandum (IEM) considering the probable incremental economic impacts that may result from this proposed designation of critical habitat. The information contained in our IEM was then used to develop a screening analysis of the probable effects of the designation of critical habitat for the Cedar Key mole skink (IEc 2023, entire). We began by conducting a screening analysis of the proposed designation of critical habitat in order to focus our analysis on the key factors that are likely to result in incremental economic impacts. The purpose of the screening analysis is to filter out particular geographical areas of critical habitat that are already subject to such protections and are, therefore, unlikely to incur incremental economic impacts. In particular, the screening analysis considers baseline costs ( i.e., absent critical habitat designation) and includes any probable incremental economic impacts where land and water use may already be subject to conservation plans, land management plans, best management practices, or regulations that protect the habitat area as a result of the Federal listing status of the species. Ultimately, the screening analysis allows us to focus our analysis on evaluating the specific areas or sectors that may incur probable incremental economic impacts as a result of the designation. The presence of the listed species in occupied areas of critical habitat means that any destruction or adverse modification of those areas is also likely to jeopardize the continued existence of the species. Therefore, designating occupied areas as critical habitat typically causes little if any incremental impacts above and beyond the impacts of listing the species. As a result, we generally focus the screening analysis on areas of unoccupied critical habitat (unoccupied units or unoccupied areas within occupied units). Overall, the screening analysis assesses whether the designation of critical habitat is likely to result in any additional management or conservation efforts that may incur incremental economic impacts. This screening analysis combined with the information contained in our IEM constitute what we consider to be our economic analysis of the proposed critical habitat designation for the Cedar Key mole skink and is summarized in the narrative below.

As part of our screening analysis, we considered the types of economic activities that are likely to occur within the areas likely affected by the critical habitat designation. In our evaluation of the probable incremental economic impacts that may result from the proposed designation of critical habitat for the Cedar Key mole skink, first we identified, in the IEM dated August 22, 2023, probable incremental economic impacts associated with the following categories of activities: (1) residential and commercial development; (2) construction activities such as road and bridge construction and maintenance; (3) habitat management activities (such as beach nourishment, shoreline armoring, nonnative species control (including mechanical or herbicide applications), and prescribed fire); and (4) recreational activities and associated developments (such as campgrounds, trails, and visitor facilities), management activities (such as beach raking or other cleaning methods to remove wrack and debris), and airport management activities. We considered each industry or category individually. Additionally, we considered whether their activities have any Federal involvement. Critical habitat designation generally will not affect activities that do not have any Federal involvement; under the Act, designation of critical habitat only affects activities conducted, funded, permitted, or authorized by Federal agencies. If we list the subspecies, in areas where the Cedar key mole skink is present, Federal agencies would be required to consult with the Service under section 7 of the Act on activities they authorize, fund, or carry out that may affect the subspecies. If we list the subspecies and also finalize this proposed critical habitat designation, Federal agencies would be required to consider the effects of their actions on the designated habitat, and if ( print page 65144) the Federal action may affect critical habitat, our consultations would include an evaluation of measures to avoid the destruction or adverse modification of critical habitat.

In our IEM, we attempted to clarify the distinction between the effects that would result from the subspecies being listed and those attributable to the critical habitat designation ( i.e., difference between the jeopardy and adverse modification standards) for the Cedar Key mole skink's critical habitat. Because the designation of critical habitat for the Cedar Key mole skink is being proposed concurrently with the listing, it has been our experience that it is more difficult to discern which conservation efforts are attributable to the subspecies being listed and those which will result solely from the designation of critical habitat. However, the following specific circumstances in this case help to inform our evaluation: (1) The essential physical or biological feature identified for critical habitat are the same features essential for the life requisites of the subspecies, and (2) any actions that would likely adversely affect the essential physical or biological feature of occupied critical habitat are also likely to adversely affect the subspecies itself. The IEM outlines our rationale concerning this limited distinction between baseline conservation efforts and incremental impacts of the designation of critical habitat for this subspecies. This evaluation of the incremental effects has been used as the basis to evaluate the probable incremental economic impacts of this proposed designation of critical habitat.

The proposed critical habitat designation for the Cedar Key mole skink totals approximately 2,713 acres (1,098 hectares) in 17 units in Levy County, Florida (see Proposed Critical Habitat Designation, above). Land ownership across the units includes Federal lands (37 percent), State lands (14 percent), local lands (1 percent), private lands (36 percent), and lands with unknown/undefined ownership (12 percent). Eight of the 17 units are currently occupied by the Cedar Key mole skink; the remaining 9 units are not known to be currently occupied. Approximately 42 percent of the proposed critical habitat for the Cedar Key mole skink overlaps with currently proposed critical habitat for the rufa red knot. Further, 100 percent of the proposed critical habitat for the Cedar Key mole skink intersects with existing ranges for six federally listed species (IEc 2023, p. 8).

When an action is proposed in an area of designated critical habitat, and the proposed activity has a Federal nexus, the need for section 7 consultation is triggered. Any incremental costs associated with consideration of potential effects to the critical habitat are a result of this consultation process. For all occupied areas, the economic costs of critical habitat designations would most likely be limited to additional administrative efforts to consider adverse modification in section 7 consultations, as the listing of the subspecies is being proposed concurrently with critical habitat designation, and all occupied units would still need to undergo section 7 consultation due to listing regardless of critical habitat designation. While this additional analysis would require time and resources by both the Federal action agency and the Service, it is believed that, in most circumstances, these costs would predominantly be administrative in nature and would not be significant. For the unoccupied units, section 7 consultations would not occur if not for the presence of critical habitat, so additional costs would occur. In unoccupied habitat, the incremental cost associated with a new consultation considering only adverse modification during technical assistances, informal, formal, and programmatic consultations are estimated to be $1,300, $8,000, $17,000, and $31,000, respectively (IEc 2023, p. 18). These estimates assume that consultation would not occur in the absence of critical habitat designation. In total, the estimated annual, incremental administrative costs for a Cedar Key mole skink critical habitat designation are estimated at $9,000 annually (IEc 2023, p. 19). Overall, a critical habitat designation for the Cedar Key mole skink is unlikely to generate costs or benefits exceeding $200 million in a single year. Because of the relatively small size of the critical habitat designation, the landownership (Federal, State, county, or private) of the proposed critical habitat units, the amount of land that is already being managed for conservation, and the significant overlap with the rufa red knot's proposed critical habitat, the numbers of section 7 consultations expected annually are modest (approximately 1 formal, 12 informal, and 5 technical assistance efforts annually across the designation) (IEc 2023, p. 15).

Potential private property value effects are possible due to public perception of impacts to private lands. The designation of critical habitat may cause some developers or landowners to perceive that private lands will be subject to use restrictions or litigation from third parties, resulting in costs. However, due to the speculative nature of this perception, costs are not able to be quantified. Regardless, only 36 percent of the proposed critical habitat designation is privately owned land, leading to nominal incremental costs arising from changes in public perception of lands included in the designation.

Incremental costs may occur outside of the section 7 consultation process if the designation of critical habitat triggers additional requirements or project modifications under State or local laws, regulations, or management strategies. These types of costs typically occur if the designation increases awareness of the presence of the subspecies or the need for protection of its habitat. Given that the Cedar Key mole skink is covered by existing State protection plans, project proponents may already be aware of the presence of the subspecies. For example, the Cedar Key mole skink is included in the State of Florida's State Wildlife Action Plan as a species of greatest conservation need. The subspecies is further protected through habitat management and conservation under Florida State Park management plans. Therefore, designating critical habitat is unlikely to provide information to State or local agencies that would result in new regulations or actions (IEc 2023, p. 20).

We are soliciting data and comments from the public on the economic analysis discussed above (see Information Requested, above). During the development of a final designation, we will consider the information presented in the economic analysis and any additional information on economic impacts we receive during the public comment period to determine whether any specific areas should be excluded from the final critical habitat designation under authority of section 4(b)(2) of the Act, our implementing regulations at 50 CFR 424.19 , and the 2016 Policy. We may exclude an area from critical habitat if we determine that the benefits of excluding the area outweigh the benefits of including the area, provided the exclusion will not result in the extinction of this subspecies.

Section 4(a)(3)(B)(i) of the Act may not cover all DoD lands or areas that pose potential national-security concerns ( e.g., a DoD installation that is in the process of revising its INRMP for a newly listed species or a species previously not covered). If a particular area is not covered under section ( print page 65145) 4(a)(3)(B)(i) of the Act, then national-security or homeland-security concerns are not a factor in the process of determining what areas meet the definition of “critical habitat.” However, we must still consider impacts on national security, including homeland security, on those lands or areas not covered by section 4(a)(3)(B)(i) because section 4(b)(2) of the Act requires us to consider those impacts whenever we designate critical habitat. Accordingly, if DoD, Department of Homeland Security (DHS), or another Federal agency has requested exclusion based on an assertion of national-security or homeland-security concerns, or we have otherwise identified national-security or homeland-security impacts from designating particular areas as critical habitat, we generally have reason to consider excluding those areas.

However, we cannot automatically exclude requested areas. When DoD, DHS, or another Federal agency requests exclusion from critical habitat on the basis of national-security or homeland-security impacts, we must conduct an exclusion analysis if the Federal requester provides information, including a reasonably specific justification of an incremental impact on national security that would result from the designation of that specific area as critical habitat. That justification could include demonstration of probable impacts, such as impacts to ongoing border-security patrols and surveillance activities, or a delay in training or facility construction, as a result of compliance with section 7(a)(2) of the Act. If the agency requesting the exclusion does not provide us with a reasonably specific justification, we will contact the agency to recommend that it provide a specific justification or clarification of its concerns relative to the probable incremental impact that could result from the designation. If we conduct an exclusion analysis because the agency provides a reasonably specific justification or because we decide to exercise the discretion to conduct an exclusion analysis, we will defer to the expert judgment of DoD, DHS, or another Federal agency as to: (1) Whether activities on its lands or waters, or its activities on other lands or waters, have national-security or homeland-security implications; (2) the importance of those implications; and (3) the degree to which the cited implications would be adversely affected in the absence of an exclusion. In that circumstance, in conducting a discretionary section 4(b)(2) exclusion analysis, we will give great weight to national-security and homeland-security concerns in analyzing the benefits of exclusion.

In preparing this proposal, we have determined that the lands within the proposed designation of critical habitat for the Cedar Key mole skink are not owned or managed by the DoD or DHS, and, therefore, we anticipate no impact on national security or homeland security.

Under section 4(b)(2) of the Act, we consider any other relevant impacts, in addition to economic impacts and impacts on national security discussed above. To identify other relevant impacts that may affect the exclusion analysis, we consider a number of factors, including whether there are permitted conservation plans covering the species in the area—such as safe harbor agreements (SHAs), candidate conservation agreements with assurances (CCAAs), or “conservation benefit agreements” or “conservation agreements” (CBAs) (CBAs are a new type of agreement replacing SHAs and CCAAs in use after April 2024 ( 89 FR 26070 ; April 12, 2024)) or HCPs—or whether there are non-permitted conservation agreements and partnerships that would be encouraged by designation of, or exclusion from, critical habitat. In addition, we look at whether Tribal conservation plans or partnerships, Tribal resources, or government-to-government relationships of the United States with Tribal entities may be affected by the designation. We also consider any State, local, social, or other impacts that might occur because of the designation.

In preparing this proposal, we have determined that no HCPs or other management plans for the Cedar Key mole skink currently exist, and the proposed designation does not include any Tribal lands or trust resources or any lands for which designation would have any economic or national security impacts. Therefore, we anticipate no impact on Tribal lands, partnerships, or HCPs from this proposed critical habitat designation, and, thus, as described above, we are not considering excluding any particular areas on the basis of the presence of conservation agreements or impacts to trust resources.

However, if through this proposed rule's public comment period (see DATES and Information Requested, above) we receive information that we determine indicates that there are potential economic, national security, or other relevant impacts from designating particular areas as critical habitat, then as part of developing the final designation of critical habitat, we will evaluate that information and may conduct a discretionary exclusion analysis to determine whether to exclude those areas under the authority of section 4(b)(2) of the Act and our implementing regulations at 50 CFR 424.19 . If we receive a request for exclusion of a particular area and after evaluation of supporting information we do not exclude, we will fully describe our decision in the final rule for this action.

We are required by E.O.s 12866 and 12988 and by the Presidential Memorandum of June 1, 1998, to write all rules in plain language. This means that each rule we publish must:

(1) Be logically organized;

(2) Use the active voice to address readers directly;

(3) Use clear language rather than jargon;

(4) Be divided into short sections and sentences; and

(5) Use lists and tables wherever possible.

If you feel that we have not met these requirements, send us comments by one of the methods listed in ADDRESSES . To better help us revise the rule, your comments should be as specific as possible. For example, you should tell us the numbers of the sections or paragraphs that are unclearly written, which sections or sentences are too long, the sections where you feel lists or tables would be useful, etc.

Executive Order (E.O.) 14094 reaffirms the principles of E.O. 12866 and E.O. 13563 and states that regulatory analysis should facilitate agency efforts to develop regulations that serve the public interest, advance statutory objectives, and are consistent with E.O. 12866 , E.O. 13563 , and the Presidential Memorandum of January 20, 2021 (Modernizing Regulatory Review). Regulatory analysis, as practicable and appropriate, shall recognize distributive impacts and equity, to the extent permitted by law. E.O. 13563 emphasizes further that regulations must be based on the best available science and that the rulemaking process must allow for public participation and an open ( print page 65146) exchange of ideas. We have developed this proposed rule in a manner consistent with these requirements.

E.O. 12866 , as reaffirmed by E.O. 13563 and E.O. 14094 , provides that the Office of Information and Regulatory Affairs (OIRA) in the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) will review all significant rules. OIRA has determined that this proposed rule is not significant.

Under the Regulatory Flexibility Act (RFA; 5 U.S.C. 601 et seq. ), as amended by the Small Business Regulatory Enforcement Fairness Act of 1996 (SBREFA; 5 U.S.C. 801 et seq. ), whenever an agency is required to publish a notice of rulemaking for any proposed or final rule, it must prepare and make available for public comment a regulatory flexibility analysis that describes the effects of the rule on small entities ( i.e., small businesses, small organizations, and small government jurisdictions). However, no regulatory flexibility analysis is required if the head of the agency certifies the rule will not have a significant economic impact on a substantial number of small entities. The SBREFA amended the RFA to require Federal agencies to provide a certification statement of the factual basis for certifying that the rule will not have a significant economic impact on a substantial number of small entities.

According to the Small Business Administration, small entities include small organizations such as independent nonprofit organizations; small governmental jurisdictions, including school boards and city and town governments that serve fewer than 50,000 residents; and small businesses ( 13 CFR 121.201 ). Small businesses include manufacturing and mining concerns with fewer than 500 employees, wholesale trade entities with fewer than 100 employees, retail and service businesses with less than $5 million in annual sales, general and heavy construction businesses with less than $27.5 million in annual business, special trade contractors doing less than $11.5 million in annual business, and agricultural businesses with annual sales less than $750,000. To determine whether potential economic impacts to these small entities are significant, we considered the types of activities that might trigger regulatory impacts under this designation as well as types of project modifications that may result. In general, the term “significant economic impact” is meant to apply to a typical small business firm's business operations.

Under the RFA, as amended, and as understood in light of recent court decisions, Federal agencies are required to evaluate the potential incremental impacts of rulemaking on those entities directly regulated by the rulemaking itself; in other words, the RFA does not require agencies to evaluate the potential impacts to indirectly regulated entities. The regulatory mechanism through which critical habitat protections are realized is section 7 of the Act, which requires Federal agencies, in consultation with the Service, to ensure that any action authorized, funded, or carried out by the agency is not likely to destroy or adversely modify critical habitat. Therefore, under section 7, only Federal action agencies are directly subject to the specific regulatory requirement (avoiding destruction and adverse modification) imposed by critical habitat designation. Consequently, it is our position that only Federal action agencies would be directly regulated if we adopt the proposed critical habitat designation. The RFA does not require evaluation of the potential impacts to entities not directly regulated. Moreover, Federal agencies are not small entities. Therefore, because no small entities would be directly regulated by this rulemaking, the Service certifies that, if made final as proposed, the proposed critical habitat designation will not have a significant economic impact on a substantial number of small entities.

In summary, we have considered whether the proposed designation would result in a significant economic impact on a substantial number of small entities. For the above reasons and based on currently available information, we certify that, if made final, the proposed critical habitat designation would not have a significant economic impact on a substantial number of small business entities. Therefore, an initial regulatory flexibility analysis is not required.

Executive Order 13211 (Actions Concerning Regulations That Significantly Affect Energy Supply, Distribution, or Use) requires agencies to prepare statements of energy effects “to the extent permitted by law” when undertaking actions identified as significant energy actions ( 66 FR 28355 ; May 22, 2001). E.O. 13211 defines a “significant energy action” as an action that (i) is a significant regulatory action under E.O. 12866 or any successor order; and (ii) is likely to have a significant adverse effect on the supply, distribution, or use of energy. This rule is not a significant regulatory action under E.O. 12866 or E.O. 14094 ( 88 FR 21879 ; April 11, 2023). Therefore, this action is not a significant energy action, and there is no requirement to prepare a statement of energy effects for this action.

In accordance with the Unfunded Mandates Reform Act ( 2 U.S.C. 1501 et seq. ), we make the following finding:

(1) This proposed rule would not produce a Federal mandate. In general, a Federal mandate is a provision in legislation, statute, or regulation that would impose an enforceable duty upon State, local, or Tribal governments, or the private sector, and includes both “Federal intergovernmental mandates” and “Federal private sector mandates.” These terms are defined in 2 U.S.C. 658(5)-(7) . “Federal intergovernmental mandate” includes a regulation that “would impose an enforceable duty upon State, local, or Tribal governments” with two exceptions. It excludes “a condition of Federal assistance.” It also excludes “a duty arising from participation in a voluntary Federal program,” unless the regulation “relates to a then-existing Federal program under which $500,000,000 or more is provided annually to State, local, and Tribal governments under entitlement authority,” if the provision would “increase the stringency of conditions of assistance” or “place caps upon, or otherwise decrease, the Federal Government's responsibility to provide funding,” and the State, local, or Tribal governments “lack authority” to adjust accordingly. At the time of enactment, these entitlement programs were: Medicaid; Aid to Families with Dependent Children work programs; Child Nutrition; Food Stamps; Social Services Block Grants; Vocational Rehabilitation State Grants; Foster Care, Adoption Assistance, and Independent Living; Family Support Welfare Services; and Child Support Enforcement. “Federal private sector mandate” includes a regulation that “would impose an enforceable duty upon the private sector, except (i) a condition of Federal assistance or (ii) a duty arising from participation in a voluntary Federal program.”

The designation of critical habitat does not impose a legally binding duty on non-Federal Government entities or private parties. Under the Act, the only regulatory effect is that Federal agencies must ensure that their actions are not likely to destroy or adversely modify critical habitat under section 7. While ( print page 65147) non-Federal entities that receive Federal funding, assistance, or permits, or that otherwise require approval or authorization from a Federal agency for an action, may be indirectly impacted by the designation of critical habitat, the legally binding duty to avoid destruction or adverse modification of critical habitat rests squarely on the Federal agency. Furthermore, to the extent that non-Federal entities are indirectly impacted because they receive Federal assistance or participate in a voluntary Federal aid program, the Unfunded Mandates Reform Act would not apply, nor would critical habitat shift the costs of the large entitlement programs listed above onto State governments.

(2) We do not believe that this proposed rule would significantly or uniquely affect small governments because it would not produce a Federal mandate of $100 million or greater in any year, that is, it is not a “significant regulatory action” under the Unfunded Mandates Reform Act. Therefore, a small government agency plan is not required.

In accordance with E.O. 12630 (Government Actions and Interference with Constitutionally Protected Private Property Rights), we have analyzed the potential takings implications of designating critical habitat for the Cedar Key mole skink in a takings implications assessment. The Act does not authorize the Service to regulate private actions on private lands or confiscate private property as a result of critical habitat designation. Designation of critical habitat does not affect land ownership, or establish any closures, or restrictions on use of or access to the designated areas. Furthermore, the designation of critical habitat does not affect landowner actions that do not require Federal funding or permits, nor does it preclude development of habitat conservation programs or issuance of incidental take permits to permit actions that do require Federal funding or permits to go forward. However, Federal agencies are prohibited from carrying out, funding, or authorizing actions that would destroy or adversely modify critical habitat. A takings implications assessment has been completed for the proposed designation of critical habitat for the Cedar Key mole skink, and it concludes that, if adopted, this designation of critical habitat does not pose significant takings implications for lands within or affected by the designation.

In accordance with E.O. 13132 (Federalism), this proposed rule does not have significant Federalism effects. A federalism summary impact statement is not required. In keeping with Department of the Interior and Department of Commerce policy, we requested information from, and coordinated development of this proposed critical habitat designation with, appropriate State resource agencies. From a federalism perspective, the designation of critical habitat directly affects only the responsibilities of Federal agencies. The Act imposes no other duties with respect to critical habitat, either for States and local governments, or for anyone else. As a result, the proposed rule does not have substantial direct effects either on the States, or on the relationship between the Federal government and the States, or on the distribution of powers and responsibilities among the various levels of government. The proposed designation may have some benefit to these governments because the areas that contain the features essential to the conservation of the species are more clearly defined, and the physical or biological features of the habitat necessary for the conservation of the species are specifically identified. This information does not alter where and what federally sponsored activities may occur. However, it may assist State and local governments in long-range planning because they no longer have to wait for case-by-case section 7 consultations to occur.

Where State and local governments require approval or authorization from a Federal agency for actions that may affect critical habitat, consultation under section 7(a)(2) of the Act would be required. While non-Federal entities that receive Federal funding, assistance, or permits, or that otherwise require approval or authorization from a Federal agency for an action, may be indirectly impacted by the designation of critical habitat, the legally binding duty to avoid destruction or adverse modification of critical habitat rests squarely on the Federal agency.

In accordance with E.O. 12988 (Civil Justice Reform), the Office of the Solicitor has determined that this proposed rule would not unduly burden the judicial system and that it meets the requirements of sections 3(a) and 3(b)(2) of the Order. We have proposed designating critical habitat in accordance with the provisions of the Act. To assist the public in understanding the habitat needs of the species, this proposed rule identifies the physical or biological features essential to the conservation of the species. The proposed areas of critical habitat are presented on maps, and the proposed rule provides several options for the interested public to obtain more detailed location information, if desired.

This rule does not contain information collection requirements, and a submission to the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) under the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995 ( 44 U.S.C. 3501 et seq. ) is not required. We may not conduct or sponsor and you are not required to respond to a collection of information unless it displays a currently valid OMB control number.

Regulations adopted pursuant to section 4(a) of the Act are exempt from the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA; 42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq. ) and do not require an environmental analysis under NEPA. We published a notice outlining our reasons for this determination in the Federal Register on October 25, 1983 ( 48 FR 49244 ). This includes listing, delisting, and reclassification rules, as well as critical habitat designations. In a line of cases starting with Douglas County v. Babbitt, 48 F.3d 1495 (9th Cir. 1995), the courts have upheld this position.

In accordance with the President's memorandum of April 29, 1994 (Government-to-Government Relations with Native American Tribal Governments; 59 FR 22951 ), E.O. 13175 (Consultation and Coordination with Indian Tribal Governments), the President's memorandum of November 30, 2022 (Uniform Standards for Tribal Consultation; 87 FR 74479 , December 5, 2022), and the Department of the Interior's manual at 512 DM 2, we readily acknowledge our responsibility to communicate meaningfully with federally recognized Tribes and Alaska Native Corporations (ANCs) on a government-to-government basis. In accordance with Secretaries' Order 3206 of June 5, 1997 (American Indian Tribal Rights, Federal-Tribal Trust Responsibilities, and the Endangered Species Act), we readily acknowledge our responsibilities to work directly with Tribes in developing programs for ( print page 65148) healthy ecosystems, to acknowledge that Tribal lands are not subject to the same controls as Federal public lands, to remain sensitive to Indian culture, and to make information available to Tribes. We have determined that no Tribal lands fall within the boundaries of the proposed critical habitat for the Cedar Key mole skink, so no Tribal lands would be affected by the proposed designation.

A complete list of references cited in this rulemaking is available on the internet at https://www.regulations.gov and upon request from the Florida Ecological Services Field Office (see FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT ).

The primary authors of this proposed rule are the staff members of the Fish and Wildlife Service's Species Assessment Team and the Florida Ecological Services Field Office.

• Endangered and threatened species
• Reporting and recordkeeping requirements
• Transportation

Martha Williams, Director of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, approved this action on June 14, 2024, for publication. On July 31, 2024, Martha Williams authorized the undersigned to sign the document electronically and submit it to the Office of the Federal Register for publication as an official document of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

Accordingly, we propose to amend part 17, subchapter B of chapter I, title 50 of the Code of Federal Regulations , as set forth below:

1. The authority citation for part 17 continues to read as follows:

Authority: 16 U.S.C. 1361-1407 ; 1531-1544; and 4201-4245, unless otherwise noted.

2. In § 17.11, in paragraph (h), amend the List of Endangered and Threatened Wildlife by adding an entry for “Skink, Cedar Key mole” in alphabetical order under REPTILES to read as follows:

3. In § 17.95, amend paragraph (c) by adding an entry for “Cedar Key Mole Skink ( Plestiodon egregius insularis )” following the entry for “Loggerhead Sea Turtle, Northwest Atlantic Ocean DPS ( Caretta caretta )”, to read as follows:

(c) Reptiles.

Cedar Key Mole Skink ( Plestiodon egregius insularis )

(1) Critical habitat units are depicted for Levy County, Florida, on the maps in this entry.

(2) Within these areas, the physical or biological feature essential to the conservation of the Cedar Key mole skink consists of natural habitats (including, but not limited to, beaches, dunes, and coastal hammocks) along the coast or within the interior of the Cedar Keys that contain:

(i) Suitable soils (dry, loose, sandy, permeable, or friable soils) for movement and nesting; and

(ii) Sufficient, appropriate ground cover (including, but not limited to, tidal wrack deposited above the mean high-water line, leaf litter, and vegetative debris) for protection from predators and temperature extremes, sources of food ( e.g., insects and arthropods), and areas for reproduction.

(3) Critical habitat does not include human-made structures (such as buildings, aqueducts, runways, roads, and other paved areas) and the land on which they are located existing within the legal boundaries on the effective date of the final rule.

(4) Data layers defining map units were created using Environmental Systems Research Institute's (ESRI's) Aeronautical Reconnaissance Coverage Geographical Information System (ArcPro) mapping software along with various spatial data layers. ArcPro was also used to calculate the size of habitat areas. The projection used in mapping and calculating distances and locations within the units was Albers Conical Equal Area (Florida Geographic Data Library), North American Datum of 1983 (NAD 83) High Accuracy Reference Network (HARN). The maps in this entry, as modified by any accompanying regulatory text, establish the boundaries of the critical habitat designation. The coordinates or plot points or both on which each map is based are available to the public at the Service's internet site at https://www.fws.gov/​office/​florida-ecological-services/​library , at https://www.regulations.gov at Docket No. FWS-R4-ES-2024-0053, and at the field office responsible for this designation. You may obtain field office location information by contacting one of the Service regional offices, the addresses of which are listed at 50 CFR 2.2 .

(5) Index map follows:

Figure 1 to Cedar Key Mole Skink ( Plestiodon egregius insularis ) paragraph (5)

(6) Unit 1: Live Oak Key; Levy County, Florida.

(i) Unit 1 encompasses approximately 109 acres (44 hectares) and includes the entire island of Live Oak Key. Lands within this unit include approximately 46 acres (19 hectares) in Federal ownership, 49 acres (20 hectares) in private ownership, and 14 acres (6 hectares) in other ownership. Live Oak Key is approximately 2.5 miles (4 kilometers) northeast of Cedar Key within the Gulf of Mexico. The northern portion of the island is managed as the Florida Gulf Coast Mitigation Bank by a private entity and the southern portion is federally owned and managed by the Service as the part of the Cedar Keys National Wildlife Refuge.

(ii) Map of Units 1 and 2 follow:

Figure 2 to Cedar Key Mole Skink ( Plestiodon egregius insularis ) paragraph (6)(ii)

(7) Unit 2: Cedar Point; Levy County, Florida.

(i) Unit 2 encompasses approximately 41 acres (17 hectares) and includes the entire island of Cedar Point. Lands within this unit include approximately 26 acres (11 hectares) in Federal ownership and 15 acres (6 hectares) in private ownership. Cedar Point is approximately 1.7 miles (2.7 kilometers) northeast of Cedar Key within the Gulf of Mexico. The Service manages most of the island as the part of the Cedar Keys National Wildlife Refuge. The eastern portion is managed by a private entity as part of the Florida Gulf Coast Mitigation Bank.

(ii) Map of Unit 2 is provided at paragraph (6)(ii) of this entry.

(8) Unit 3: Scale Key; Levy County, Florida.

(i) Unit 3 encompasses approximately 116 acres (47 hectares) and includes the entire island of Scale Key. Lands within this unit include approximately 95 acres (38 hectares) in Federal ownership and 21 acres (8 hectares) in private ownership. Scale Key is approximately 1 mile (1.6 kilometers) northeast of Cedar Key within the Gulf of Mexico. The Service manages most of the island as part of the Cedar Keys National ( print page 65151) Wildlife Refuge. Approximately 14 acres (6 hectares) of the eastern portion are owned by Florida's Nature Coast Conservancy, and 5 acres (2 hectares) of the northern portion are managed by a private entity as part of the Florida Gulf Coast Mitigation Bank.

(ii) Map of Units 3 and 4 follows:

Figure 3 to Cedar Key Mole Skink ( Plestiodon egregius insularis ) paragraph (8)(ii)

(9) Unit 4: Dog Island; Levy County, Florida.

(i) Unit 4 encompasses approximately 8 acres (3 hectares) and includes the entirety of Dog Island. Dog Island is approximately 1 mile (1.6 kilometers) to the east of Cedar Key within the Gulf of Mexico. Lands within this unit are entirely within State ownership.

(ii) Map of Unit 4 is provided at paragraph (8)(ii) of this entry.

(10) Unit 5: Atsena Otie Key; Levy County, Florida. ( print page 65152)

(i) Unit 5 encompasses approximately 183 acres (74 hectares) and includes the entire island of Atsena Otie Key. Lands within this unit include approximately 116 acres (47 hectares) in State ownership and 67 acres (27 hectares) in other ownership. Atsena Otie Key is approximately 1 mile (1.6 kilometers) south of Cedar Key within the Gulf of Mexico. The island is owned by the State of Florida and managed as part of the Cedar Keys National Wildlife Refuge through a memorandum of understanding by the Service.

(ii) Map of Units 5, 6, and 7 follows:

Figure 4 to Cedar Key Mole Skink ( Plestiodon egregius insularis ) paragraph (10)(ii)

(11) Unit 6: Snake Key; Levy County, Florida.

(i) Unit 6 encompasses approximately 57 acres (23 hectares) and includes the ( print page 65153) entire island of Snake Key. Lands within this unit include approximately 39 acres (16 hectares) in Federal ownership and 17 acres (7 hectares) in other ownership. Snake Key is approximately 2.5 miles (4 kilometers) south of Cedar Key within the Gulf of Mexico. The island is managed by the Service as part of the Cedar Keys National Wildlife Refuge.

(ii) Map of Unit 6 is provided at paragraph (10)(ii) of this entry.

(12) Unit 7: Seahorse Key; Levy County, Florida.

(i) Unit 7 encompasses approximately 165 acres (67 hectares) and includes the entire island of Seahorse Key. Lands within this unit include approximately 118 acres (48 hectares) in Federal ownership and 47 acres (19 hectares) in other ownership. Seahorse Key is approximately 3 miles (5 kilometers) south and west of Cedar Key within the Gulf of Mexico. The island is managed by the Service as part of the Cedar Keys National Wildlife Refuge.

(ii) Map of Unit 7 is provided at paragraph (10)(ii) of this entry.

(13) Unit 8: North Key; Levy County, Florida.

(i) Unit 8 encompasses approximately 236 acres (95 hectares) and includes the entire island of North Key. Lands within this unit include approximately 129 acres (52 hectares) in Federal ownership and 107 acres (43 hectares) in other ownership. North Key is approximately 3 miles (4.8 kilometers) to the west of Cedar Key within the Gulf of Mexico. The island is managed by the Service as part of the Cedar Keys National Wildlife Refuge.

(ii) Map of Unit 8 follows:

Figure 5 to Cedar Key Mole Skink ( Plestiodon egregius insularis ) paragraph (13)(ii)

(14) Unit 9: Airstrip Island; Levy County, Florida.

(i) Unit 9 encompasses approximately 29 acres (12 hectares) on the island of Way Key. Lands within this unit include approximately 19 acres (8 hectares) in local government ownership and 10 acres (4 hectares) in private ownership. This unit is composed of five separate sections.

(A) Airstrip Island Beach is 5 acres (2 hectares) of private shoreline along Daughtry Bayou, encompassing sandy beach from mean higher high-water inland to dense vegetation, hardened structures, or roads, extending from the southern side of the Airport Road bridge to the south for approximately 0.5 mile (0.8 kilometer).

(B) Cedar Key Airport includes 16 acres (6.5 hectares) of unvegetated and vegetated sandy soils on the George T. Lewis Airport (also known as the Cedar Key Airport) that are owned by Levy County.

(C) Airport Island is a 2-acre (0.8-hectare), unnamed island southwest of the airport that is owned by Levy County. ( print page 65155)

(D) Piney Point is a 3-acre (1-hectare), privately owned, undeveloped, vacant lot on the western side of Piney Point south of the airport.

(E) The Robert Cull Nature Preserve is 2 acres (0.8 hectare) of protected land at the terminus of Piney Point that are owned and managed by Florida's Nature Coast Conservancy.

(ii) Map of Units 9 and 10 follows:

Figure 6 to Cedar Key Mole Skink ( Plestiodon egregius insularis ) paragraph (14)(ii)

(15) Unit 10: Way Key South; Levy County, Florida.

(i) Unit 10 encompasses approximately 44 acres (18 hectares) on Way Key. This unit is a series of undeveloped, disconnected islands south of Way Key. The unit includes a large portion of the island located between the airport and the developed portion of Way Key and several ( print page 65156) primarily sand islands that occur seaward of the main island. This unit is entirely in State ownership.

(ii) Map of Unit 10 is provided at paragraph (14)(ii) of this entry.

(16) Unit 11: Way Key North; Levy County, Florida.

(i) Unit 11 encompasses approximately 24 acres (10 hectares) on Way Key. Lands within this unit include approximately 9 acres (4 hectares) in State ownership, managed as the Cedar Key Museum State Park by the Florida Park Service, and 15 acres (6 hectares) in local government ownership, managed as Cemetery Point Park by the City of Cedar Key.

(ii) Map of Unit 11 follows:

Figure 7 to Cedar Key Mole Skink ( Plestiodon egregius insularis ) paragraph (16)(ii)

(17) Unit 12: Richards Island; Levy County, Florida.

(i) Unit 12 encompasses approximately 105 acres (42 hectares) and includes the entirety of Richards Island. Lands within this unit include approximately 86 acres (35 hectares) in Federal ownership and 19 acres (8 hectares) in other ownership. Richards Island is approximately 3.3 miles (5.3 kilometers) northwest of Cedar Key within the Gulf of Mexico. The island is managed by the Service as part of the Cedar Keys National Wildlife Refuge.

(ii) Map of Units 12 and 13 follows:

Figure 8 to Cedar Key Mole Skink ( Plestiodon egregius insularis ) paragraph (17)(ii)

(18) Unit 13: Seabreeze Island; Levy County, Florida.

(i) Unit 13 encompasses approximately 136 acres (55 hectares) ( print page 65158) on Seabreeze Island. Lands within this unit include approximately 111 acres (45 hectares) in Federal ownership and 25 acres (10 hectares) in other ownership. Seabreeze Island is approximately 4 miles (6 kilometers) northwest of Cedar Key within the Gulf of Mexico. The island is managed by the Service as part of the Lower Suwannee National Wildlife Refuge.

(ii) Map of Unit 13 is provided at paragraph (17)(ii) of this entry.

(19) Unit 14: Shell Mound; Levy County, Florida.

(i) Unit 14 encompasses approximately 1,050 acres (425 hectares) on Shell Mound. This unit extends from Dennis Creek north to Ericson Creek. Lands within this unit include approximately 167 acres (68 hectares) in Federal ownership, 194 acres (79 hectares) in State ownership, and 688 acres (278 hectares) in private ownership. The unit includes portions of the Cedar Key Scrub State Reserve managed by the Florida Park Service and the Lower Suwannee National Wildlife Refuge managed by the Service.

(ii) Map of Units 14, 15, 16, and 17 follows:

Figure 9 to Cedar Key Mole Skink ( Plestiodon egregius insularis ) paragraph (19)(ii)

(20) Unit 15: Raleigh and Horse Islands; Levy County, Florida.

(i) Unit 15 encompasses approximately 176 acres (71 hectares) on Raleigh and Horse Islands. Approximately 171 acres (69 hectares) are in Federal ownership and 5 acres (2 hectares) are in private ownership. The group of islands are approximately 6 miles (10 kilometers) northwest of Cedar Key within the Gulf of Mexico. The Service manages most of the islands as part of the Lower Suwannee National Wildlife Refuge.

(ii) Map of Unit 15 is provided at paragraph (19)(ii) of this entry.

(21) Unit 16: Deer Island; Levy County, Florida.

(i) Unit 16 encompasses approximately 113 acres (46 hectares) and includes the entirety of Deer Island. Lands within the unit include approximately 8 acres (3 hectares) in Federal ownership, 69 acres (28 hectares) in private ownership, and 36 acres (15 hectares) in other ownership. Deer Island is approximately 7 miles (11 kilometers) northwest of Cedar Key within the Gulf of Mexico.

(ii) Map of Unit 16 is provided at paragraph (19)(ii) of this entry. ( print page 65160)

(22) Unit 17: Clark Islands; Levy County, Florida.

(i) Unit 17 encompasses approximately 121 acres (49 hectares) in the Clark Islands complex. The entirety of the unit is privately owned. The Clark Islands are approximately 7 miles (11 kilometers) north-northwest of Cedar Key within the Gulf of Mexico.

(ii) Map of Unit 17 is provided at paragraph (19)(ii) of this entry.

Madonna Baucum,

Regulations and Policy Chief, Division of Policy, Economics, Risk Management, and Analytics of the Joint Administrative Operations, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

BILLING CODE 4333-15-P

BILLING CODE 4333-15-C

[ FR Doc. 2024-17271 Filed 8-7-24; 8:45 am]

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