Initiation of 5-Year Review for the Saimaa Seal

NOAA Fisheries announces its intent to conduct a 5-year review of the endangered ringed seal, Saimaa subspecies (Phoca (or Pusa) hispida saimensis), hereafter referred to as the Saimaa seal. NOAA Fisheries is required by the Endangered Species Act (ESA) to conduct 5-year reviews to ensure that listing classifications of species are accurate. The 5-year review must be based on the best scientific and commercial data available at the time of the review. We request submission of any such information on the Saimaa seal, particularly information on its status, threats, and conservation efforts, which has become available since the previous 5-year review in January 2018.