Similar to the selection of covered species, the HCP Core Teams identified “covered activities” to be included in the Cumberland HCPs.  The “No Surprises” assurance of the HCP only addresses take that results from the specified covered activities.  Starting from an assessment of activities applicants undertake within the planning areas, the Core Teams evaluated the extent to which those activities could cause take of a covered species, the scientific basis for that link, the potential for those activities to expand in the future, the existence of conservation measures to minimize impacts, jurisdictional authority over those activities, and similar considerations.

The Forest Resources HCP covers aquatic and terrestrial impacts associated with timber harvesting, road construction and maintenance, and prescribed burning activities on selected Wildlife Management Areas managed by the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (see Forest Resources HCP page for more details).   Covered activities for the Cumberland HCP are more complicated, as the diversity of activities under the jurisdiction of local governments is much broader.  This HCP may address a combination of land development, wastewater treatment, utility corridor installation and maintenance, and stream crossings. Should conditions change, covered activities can be modified in the future by amending the HCPs and the Incidental Take Permits.