Comment on FR Doc # E8-18779

August 28, 2008 Public Comment Processing, Attention: RIN 1018-AV81 Division of Policy and Directives Management U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service 4401 North Fairfax Drive, Suite 222 Arlington, VA 22203. RE: Proposed Rule on Eagle Permits Dear Sir or Madam: On behalf of the National Audubon Society, I am writing to request that you extend the public comment period on the proposed permit rule under the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act (Eagle Act) for 30 days, until October 15, 2008. National Audubon speaks on behalf of more than one million members and supporters. We have a presence in all 50 states, including more than 450 certified chapters, nature centers, sanctuaries, and education and science programs. Our mission is to conserve and restore natural ecosystems, focusing on birds, other wildlife, and their habitats for the benefit of humanity and the earth’s biological diversity. Therefore, we have substantial interest and expertise on matters concerning eagles. On August 14, 2008, the Service published a notice of its interim response to comments already filed on its proposed rule, including a description of changes it has decided to adopt. That notice also announced the availability of the draft environmental assessment (DEA) of the proposed rule. There are significant changes being proposed from the original Federal Register notice, and the DEA is lengthy, including much of the rationale for the changes and explaining how the Service intends to implement the permit program. Nevertheless, the Service provided only 30 days for public comment on its revisions to the proposal and on the 150-page DEA. That is an inadequate time for the public to review these significant documents and prepare comments. Therefore, the National Audubon Society is requesting an extension of the comment period for another 30 days, until October 15, 2008. Sincerely, Betsy Loyless Senior Vice President & Donal O'Brien Chair for Policy and Advocacy National Audubon Society Washington, D.C