In July of 2005, Lake Mead National Recreation Area, in cooperation with other federal and state agencies, completed a Conservation Agreement and Strategy (CAS) to protect the relict leopard frog (Rana onca). This species was first described in 1875 but was thought to be extinct by 1950. In 1991 the frog was rediscovered at two springs within Lake Mead NRA and since its rediscovery, additional populations have been discovered within the park. The CAS identifies threats to the species and outlines conservation actions needed to protect to the remaining populations.
Based on the fundamental goals of reducing threats to the species, increasing the size and number populations, and maintaining associated riparian and wetland habitats, several management actions are prescribed. These include, but are not limited to, captive rearing of Rana onca tadpoles, reintroduction of frogs into appropriate habitats, controlling nonnative species of plants and animals in frog habitat, protecting the water resources on which the habitat depends, and implementing public education and outreach.
An environmental assessment will be prepared to identify and evaluate potential alternatives, including no action, for implementation of the CAS. Officials at Lake Mead National Recreation Area are seeking public input on alternatives, issues, and impacts to be addressed in the environmental assessment. Written comments, which must be received by April 30, 2006, should be sent to: Superintendent, Lake Mead National Recreation Area, Attention: Compliance Office, 601 Nevada Way, Boulder City, Nevada 89005.
Lake Mead National Recreation Area is a unit of the National Park Service.
Source: U.S. Department of the Interior, National Park Service
