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Comment from Smith, Megan
Posted by the Fish and Wildlife Service on Mar 20, 2026

Docket / Document (FWS-HQ-ES-2025-1464-0001) / Comment

Comment

Thank you for the opportunity to submit comments regarding whether the information collected by the U.S. Fish and
Wildlife Service is necessary and how the collection process could be improved. I support renewal of the
information collection requirements for all experimental populations, including those specific to gray wolves and
grizzly bears, with minor improvements as noted below.
(1) Necessity and Practical Utility
The collection of information is necessary for the proper performance of agency functions and has clear practical
utility. Accurate, timely reporting supports science-based wildlife management, regulatory compliance, and informed
decision-making for endangered and threatened species. This data is essential to evaluating conservation
outcomes, improving general management and conflict mitigation strategies, and ensuring accountability under the
Endangered Species Act.
(2) Accuracy of Burden Estimates
Give
Feedback
The estimated burden of 30 minutes for reporting and 30 minutes for recordkeeping appears understated.
A more
realistic estimate would be approximately one hour for reporting and one hour for recordkeeping, given the time
required to compile records, verify information, and ensure accuracy. It is also unclear whether burden estimates
account for travel time associated with any in-person coordination or meetings, which may be necessary in some
cases. If not already included, these logistical requirements should be factored into the estimate.
(3) Enhancing Quality, Utility, and Clarity
The Federal Register notice states that “there are no forms associated with this information collection.”
Standardized forms would improve consistency, completeness, and efficiency. Forms help ensure that:
- Required information is not omitted
- Respondents clearly understand expectations

https://www.regulations.gov/comment/FWS-HQ-ES-2025-1464-0023[6/10/2026 8:11:38 AM]

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- Agency staff can review submissions more efficiently
- Data is more easily compiled and analyzed
Structured reporting tools would improve both data quality and administrative efficiency.
(4) Minimizing Burden While Maintaining Effectiveness
Given the significance of monitoring endangered and threatened wildlife, minimizing effort should not come at the
expense of data quality or completeness. The current time estimates already appear insufficient for careful
reporting.
That said, burden can be reduced through improved systems rather than reduced expectations. For example:
- Secure online submission forms and portals
- Clear digital guidance and instructions
- Ability to upload supporting materials electronically
- Flexible communication options (email, phone, virtual meetings)
These tools would streamline reporting, reduce follow-up requests for missing information, and support both
respondents and agency staff.
Thank you for considering these comments and for your continued work to conserve imperiled wildlife.

Comment ID
FWS-HQ-ES-2025-1464-0023

Shape Tracking Number
mmz-9skf-5g8l

Comment Details
Document Subtype
Comment(s)
Received Date
Mar 20, 2026
Page Count
1

https://www.regulations.gov/comment/FWS-HQ-ES-2025-1464-0023[6/10/2026 8:11:38 AM]

Submitter Info

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https://www.regulations.gov/comment/FWS-HQ-ES-2025-1464-0023[6/10/2026 8:11:38 AM]

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