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1. conduct a scientifically sound on-site inspection of the area af- fected by the action, which must, unless otherwise directed by the FWS, include a detailed survey of the area to determine if listed or proposed species are present or occur seasonally and whether suitable habitat ezlsts vi thin the area for either expanding the existing population or potential reintroduction of populations; 2. interview recognized experts on the species at issue, including those within the Fish and Wildlife Service, state tonaervatfon agencies, universities, and others who may have data not yet found in scientific literature; 3. review literature and other scientiflc data to determine the species' distribution, habitat needs, and other biological requirements; 4. review and analyze the affects of the action oa the species, in terms of individuals and populations, including consideration of the cumulative effects of the action on the species and habitat; 5. analyze alternative actions that may provide conservation measures; 6. conduct any studies necessary to fulfill the requirements of (1) through (5) above; 7. review any other relevant information. The FWS can enter into formal Section 7 consultation only with another Federal agency or its designee. State, county oz any other governmental or private organizations can participate in the consultation process, help prepare infor- mation such as the biological assessment, participate in meetings, etc. After the relevant Fedetal agency has reviewed the assessment, it is that agency's responsibility to determine if the proposed action "may affect" any of the listed species or critical habitats. The agency should also determine if the action is likely to seopardize the continued existence of proposed species or result in the destruction or as adverse modification of any critical habitat proposed for such species. If the determination is "may affect" for listed species the agency must request in writing formal consultation from the Field Supervisor, Endangered Species Office, D.S. Fish and Wildlife Service at the address given above. In addition, if the agency determines that the proposed action is likely to jeopardize the continued existence of proposed species or result in the destruction or adverse modification of proposed critical habitat, it must confer with the FWS. At this time the agency should provide this office a copy of the biological assessment and any other relevant information that assisted it in reaching its conclusion. Your attention is also directed to Section 7(d) of the Endangered Species Act, as ameflded, which underscores the requirement that the Federal agency or the applicant shall not make any irreversible or irretrievable commitment of resources during the consultation period which, in effect, would deny the formulation or implementation of reasonable and prudent alternatives regarding their actions on any endangered or threatened species. r 1 U