Protected regions and species
The Pinelands and Highlands, endangered and threatened species, habitat and preserved land. What changed, the rules that apply and the dates ahead for projects in New Jersey, New York, Connecticut and Pennsylvania.
Latest briefings
- MediumPennsylvania
Pennsylvania board to consider stricter protection for 16 stream basins on October 13
On October 13, 2026 the Environmental Quality Board is to consider a proposal to redesignate 16 stream basins covering 138.47 miles, most as Exceptional Value. New or expanded discharges would face antidegradation review and individual permits. A proposal only; comment dates are not yet set.
ProposedProtected regions & species - MediumPennsylvania
Pennsylvania adds high-quality protection to Class A wild trout streams, tightening permits for new discharges
A final rule effective July 11, 2026 redesignates Class A wild trout streams as High Quality waters. New earth disturbance and new or expanded discharges to them face antidegradation review and individual permits. The Board's preamble states EPA approval is required under the Clean Water Act. A further proposal covering eight streams is on the October 13, 2026 board agenda.
ProposedProtected regions & species
Rules 3
- Federal · 16 U.S.C. 1536, 1538, 1539; 50 CFR Parts 17 and 402Federal endangered species review, including tree-clearing limits for bats
- Pennsylvania · DEP policy 021-0200-001; DCNR Conservation ExplorerPNDI threatened and endangered species review
- Pennsylvania · PFBC notices, 56 Pa.B. No. 33 (15 Aug 2026); 25 Pa. Code §§ 105.17(1)(iii), 105.18aProposed wild trout and Class A stream listings (October 2026)