By Dan Modlin
Bowling Green, KY – The Fish and Wildlife Service says the Cumberland Darter only survives in short reaches of less than one mile, along twelve streams. The fish historically inhabited 21 streams in the upper Cumberland River system, but changes in stream habitat have contributed to a decline in the range and abundance of the fish. Factors such as mining, pollution, sedimentation, and urban sprawl have impacted the stream habitat, according to federal officials.
The listing of the Cumberland Darter as "endangered" will become effective on September 8th, thirty days after the new listing in the Federal Register.
Federal agencies that undertake, fund or permit activities that may affect endangered species are required to consult with the Fish and Wildlife Service to ensure such actions don't adversely affect or jeopardize the continued existence of the species.