May 24, 2010
Federally endangered species are protected in Kansas by the United States Fish and Wildlife Service. State and federally imperiled species are also protected as designated by the Kansas Nongame and Endangered Species Conservation Act of 1975 and protection is facilitated by the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks (KDWP). KDWP's Environmental Services Section provides professional reviews of proposed development projects with special emphasis on threatened and endangered species protection. The identification of possible critical habitat for a threatened or endangered species will require an on-site assessment for potential habitat for threatened and endangered species.
Of particular importance in Eastern Kansas are two threatened woodland snake species, the Redbelly and Smooth Earth Snake. Critical habitat areas for these two species are delineated by carefully examining a site for the presence of specific habitat indicators. Surveyed habitat areas are ranked based upon the habitat indicators to give a quantitative habitat score. Habitat assessments and recommendations are submitted to KDWP for review and final assessment of impacted critical habitat areas, and significant impacts to critical habitat require mitigation.
The scientists at Terra Technologies have completed many critical habitat surveys for multiple threatened and endangered species of animals and plants in the region. It is important to carry out proper threatened and endangered species due diligence for a new development as the mitigation requirements can be significant. Contact your local Terra Technologies office for more information. |
