FWS will propose to establish a nonessential experimental population (NEP) of the grizzly bear (Ursus arctos horribilis) in the North Cascades Ecosystem, under section 10(j) of the Endangered Species Act. Wildlife and land managers in Canada are planning reintroduction of grizzly bears in the Canadian portion of the ecosystem. Establishment of this NEP would facilitate reintroduction of grizzly bear to the region while allowing for greater certainty and management flexibility, including allowable legal incidental taking of grizzly bear, within the NEP. FWS will engage with the public through scoping meetings during the proposed rulemaking and the NEPA processes.

The best available data indicate that reintroduction of the grizzly bear into the North Cascades Ecosystem is biologically feasible and will promote the conservation and recovery of the species consistent with the overall grizzly bear recovery strategy.