Congressman Dennis Cardoza
18th Congressional District of California

“It is crucial for our area to provide input to the Service regarding the impact that these proposals will have on our area,” Cardoza said.  “In the past, these public meetings have helped to give residents an opportunity to become better informed as to the issues. Given recent developments that could have a negative economic impact on the Valley, it is important that we have another forum to give us a better understanding of the issues and assist in providing more meaningful input to the Service.”

The Service has proposed a recovery plan for vernal pool species and has also suggested that certain actions be taken regarding the Red-legged Frog and the California Tiger Salamander.  In response to court action, the Service will also be reviewing the exemptions it granted to Merced and Stanislaus counties under the critical habitat plan for vernal pool species.

“I have been working closely with Stanislaus County Supervisor Jeff Grover and Merced County Supervisor Kathleen Crookham on setting up these meetings,” Cardoza added.  “They have made these endangered species issues a priority, and deserve to be complimented for getting this issue before their respective counties.”

The meetings will be held in Merced on Monday, January 24 at 2 p.m. in the Merced County Board of Supervisors Chamber and in Modesto on Tuesday, January 25 at 9 a.m. in the Stanislaus Board of Supervisors hearing room.