FWSFinal Rule

Endangered and Threatened Species: Removal of Colorado Hookless Cactus from the List of Endangered and Threatened Plants

EnvironmentAgriculture

Summary

The federal government is removing the Colorado hookless cactus from the endangered species list because the plant has recovered enough to survive on its own without special protection. This means the cactus no longer needs the legal safeguards that were previously required to keep it from being harmed or destroyed.

Key Points

  • 1The Colorado hookless cactus is being removed from the endangered species list after its population recovered successfully
  • 2This cactus was protected for decades, but scientists determined it no longer needs federal protection to survive
  • 3Removing it from the list means fewer legal restrictions on land development and activities in areas where the cactus grows
  • 4Conservation efforts by government agencies and private landowners helped bring the cactus population back from the brink of extinction
  • 5The decision was made by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, the federal agency responsible for protecting endangered species

Impact Assessment

If you are a landowner in Colorado, this means you no longer need to follow special protections and restrictions regarding the Colorado hookless cactus on your property, as the species has recovered and no longer requires endangered species protections.

Impact Level
Routine
Geographic Scope

State-specific

Compliance Cost

None

Who is Affected
HomeownersFarmersState Governments

Key Dates

Published

May 29, 2025

Regulatory Connections

Amends CFR Sections
50 CFR Part 17

This summary is for informational purposes only. It may not capture all nuances of the regulation. Always refer to the official text for authoritative information.