Section 10.33 - Review of Proposed DesignationPrior to designating an area as Significant Habitat, the Director shall review the information presented at the public hearing, any written comments submitted within 21 days after the public hearing, and any other information the Director deems appropriate, and shall take into consideration the following:
(1) the size of the population, as evidenced by current estimates of the number of individuals in the population of the Endangered or Threatened species;(2) the current and foreseeable uses of the land or water, as evidenced by its existing condition; existing roads, structures, and other improvements; proposed uses and improvements; zoning status; existing easements, encumbrances and other restrictions on the use of the land or water; and other regulatory constraints;(3) the current and foreseeable threats to the population or its habitat, as evidenced by existing or proposed activities that may impact or fragment the habitat such as: landform alterations; pollution of surface, ground, or marine waters; alteration of the hydrology; proposals for development projects; and plans for infrastructure developments such as sewers, water systems, and roads; or regional growth trends; and(4) the potential benefits of designation to the population and to the status and welfare of the species generally, as evidenced by how designation will help further the conservation of the population and of the species generally in the state.