Comment on FR Doc # 2011-07691

Conservation Fisheries, Inc. (CFI) is currently contracted by FWS to maintain a captive (ark) population of the spring pygmy sunfish in order to refine propagation techniques for the permanent maintenance of a captive refugium in the event of loss of the wild source subpopulation in the Beaverdam Complex. We have participated in periodic survey and collection efforts for the species since 1995 and witnessed the recent (re)loss of the Pryor Spring population and the marked decline of Beaverdam populations in the face of increased agricultural impacts and urbanization pressures negatively affecting water quality and quantity in the species' highly restricted remaining habitats. We support Mr. Sandel's petition and concur that listing as Endangered under the ESA is strongly warranted.