Comment on FR Doc # 2010-04071

My name is Dr. Cameron W. Barrows and I have been conducting research on flat-tailed horned lizards in the Coachella Valley for the past decade. In past reviews of proposed listing for this species two issues have arisen: 1) not enough is know about this species' biology and distribution, and 2) the largest share of its distribution is on federal (BLM, DOD) lands and they can manage the species without listing. Whether either were true in the past, neither applies today. The research I have conducted in the Coachella Valley is documented in the four attachments - all from published, peer-reviewed literature. Flat-tails in the Coachella Valley were inexplicably ignored in previous reviews. Flat-tails in the Coachella Valley have lost at least 90% of their original, historic suitable habitat. They are much more sensitive than the listed Coachella Valley fringe-toed lizard to fragmentation and edge effects. Their preferred habitat is currently the most heavily infested by Sahara mustard than any other; The impacts of that infestation on the lizards is not yet clear. Had the flat-tailed horned lizard been listed when fist proposed in 1993 the area of protected habitat and viable populations would at least be double what it is today. There appears to be (depending on the impact of the mustard) a viable population within the Thousand Palms Preserve, and another within the Dos Palmas Preserve. Over the past decade the construction of the border fence along our international boundary, along with the attendant activities and facilities, has had significant impacts on this species that have not been adequately mitigated. BLM has allowed ORV use within several of the remaining flat-tail population areas in Imperial County. Now proposed solar facilities within flat-tail habitat may further fragment and reduce this species' habitat. Providing listing for this species will provide the legal nexus to ensure these activities are balanced with adequate protection measures.