reasonable and prudent measure (RPM)

Reasonable and Prudent Measures (RPMs) are included as part of the Incidental Take Statement issued within a biological opinion, and are actions that USFWS/NMFS believes are necessary or appropriate to reduce the amount of incidental take.

RPMs are minor changes to minimize impact to species that do not alter basic design, location, scope, duration, or timing of the proposed action.  They are binding conditions included as part of the Incidental Take Statement, and are non-discretionary measures that must be undertaken by the federal agency.

See also: biological opinion