http://www.doi.gov/audio.html U.S. Department of the Interior (DOI) latest audio news releases. en-us webteam@ios.doi.gov (DOI Office of Communications (Web Content Manager) 08/06/2007 10:02 AM http://www.doi.gov/images/doi_seal.jpg http://www.doi.gov/ The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has proposed continuation of liberal hunting regulations for the upcoming 2007-2008 late waterfowl seasons thanks to improved habitat conditions and waterfowl population estimates, some at record highs according to Paul Schmidt, the Service’s assistant director for migratory birds. http://www.doi.gov/aunews.html#802 The Secretary of the Interior Dirk Kempthorne planted a blight-resistant American chestnut tree in the nation’s capital Friday, pledging to work with state and local governments and private restoration groups to help return this fabled natural icon to American landscapes. The planting marked the 30th anniversary of the signing of the Surface Mining Control and Reclamation Act which Secretary Kempthorne called one of the most successful environmental programs in American history. http://www.doi.gov/aunews.html#726 The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has issued a 90-day finding to consider the status of 10 species’ of penguin and whether to propose them for inclusion on the Federal List of Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and Plants. Dr. Peter Thomas, part of the service’s international affairs division, says a special provision of the Endangered Species Act covers foreign listed species. http://www.doi.gov/aunews.html#710