Designation of Critical Habitat for the Gulf of Maine, New York Bight, and Chesapeake Bay Distinct Population Segments of Atlantic Sturgeon : ESA Section 4(b)(2) Impact Analysis and Biological Source Document with the Economic Analysis and Final Regulatory Flexibility Analysis Finalized June 3, 2017

We, the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS), are designating critical habitat for the Gulf of Maine, New York Bight, and Chesapeake Bay Distinct Population Segments (DPSs) of Atlantic sturgeon that were listed under the Endangered Species Act (ESA) on February 6, 2012 (77 FR 5880). This report describes our approach, the available information, and the required analyses we used to identify critical habitat areas for the Gulf of Maine, New York Bight, and Chesapeake Bay DPSs based on the information available to us at this time. The report includes information on the economic, national security, and other relevant impacts anticipated as a result of designating the identified areas. A separate report will provide information on the economic, national security, and other relevant impacts anticipated as a result of designating the Carolina and South Atlantic DPSs. 2017 NMFS (National Marine Fisheries Service) NEFSC (Northeast Fisheries Science Center) GARF (Greater Atlantic Regional Fisheries) Submitted Public Domain 1861