Incidental take refers to the unintentional harm or killing of wildlife that occurs as a result of lawful activities. Under the Endangered Species Act, 'take' encompasses actions such as harassing, harming, pursuing, or killing wildlife. An incidental take happens when these actions are not the primary goal of the activity being conducted.
This term is commonly used in environmental law, particularly in relation to the Endangered Species Act. It applies to federal agencies and applicants conducting activities that may inadvertently affect endangered or threatened species. Users may need to manage permits or compliance forms related to incidental take, which can often be facilitated through legal templates available on platforms like US Legal Forms.
Here are a couple of examples of abatement:
For instance, a construction project that unintentionally disturbs the habitat of an endangered species may result in an incidental take. The project is lawful, but it could still lead to harm to wildlife. (hypothetical example)
The primary law governing incidental take is the Endangered Species Act (ESA). Specifically, the regulations found in 50 CFR 402.02 provide a definition and framework for incidental take permits.
| Term | Definition | Key Differences |
|---|---|---|
| Take | Any action that harms or kills wildlife. | Incidental take is unintentional and occurs during lawful activities. |
| Harm | Actions that cause injury or death to wildlife. | Harm can be intentional or incidental, while incidental take is specifically unintentional. |
If you believe your activities may lead to incidental take, consider applying for an incidental take permit. You can explore ready-to-use legal form templates on US Legal Forms to assist with this process. If your situation is complex or involves significant wildlife concerns, consulting a legal professional is advisable.
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An incidental take permit allows for the unintentional harming of endangered species during lawful activities, provided certain conditions are met.