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PREFACE <br />This document presents an overview of the process, procedures, and determinations <br />associated with the proposed critical habitat designation for the Virgin River chub (Gila <br />seminuda), woundfin (Plagopterus argentissimus}, and Virgin spinedace (Lepidomeda <br />mollispinis mollispinis). The woundfin and Virgin River chub are listed as endangered under <br />the Endangered Species Act (Act) of 1973, as amended (16 U.S.C. 1531 et seq.). The <br />Virgin spinedace has been proposed for listing as federally threatened (59 FR 25875). Part I <br />of this document is a general overview of the area and species involved. Part II is an <br />overview of the proposed crirical habitat designation for the Virgin River. Part III is a <br />summary of the biological information used in determining areas for proposed designation <br />and the description of each area. Part N is a discussion of the process for evaluation of the <br />economics and other impacts, including the exclusion process, of the proposed critical habitat <br />designation. Part V discusses the section 7 consultation requirements of the Act and <br />available conservation measures. <br />The Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) welcomes public comment on this document, the <br />proposed rule, the Economic Analysis document, and all. aspects of the critical habitat <br />designation for the Virgin River listed fishes (the term "listed fishes" used throughout this <br />document includes the woundfin, Virgin River chub, and Virgin spinedace). Additionally, <br />information and comments are welcome on the overall exclusion process, recommendations <br />on economic criteria far use in the exclusion determination, any other benefits associated <br />with exclusion, benefits of including proposed areas as critical habitat, and information on <br />which areas, if excluded, would result in the extinction of any of the three Virgin River <br />listed fishes. <br />