Department of Commerce National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration 50 Cfr Part 224 Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and Plants; Final Listing Determinations for Two Distinct Population Segments of Atlantic Sturgeon (acipenser Oxyrinchus Oxyrinchus) in the Southeast

We, NMFS, issue a final determination to list the Carolina and South Atlantic distinct population segments (DPSs) of Atlantic sturgeon (Acipenser oxyrinchus oxyrinchus) as endangered under the Endangered Species Act (ESA) of 1973, as amended. We have reviewed the status of the species and conservation efforts being made to protect the species, considered public and peer review comments, and we have made our determination that the Carolina and South Atlantic DPSs are in danger of extinction throughout their ranges, and should be listed as endangered, based on the best available scientific and commercial data. DATES: This final rule is effective April 6, 2012. ADDRESSES: Assistant Regional Administrator for Protected Resources, NMFS, Southeast Regional Office, 263 13th Avenue South, St. Petersburg, FL 33701–5505. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Kelly Shotts, NMFS, Southeast Regional Office (727) 824–5312 or Lisa Manning, NMFS, Office of Protected Resources (301) 427–8466. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: