As bat species continue to decline and new species are listed, TRC is here to help balance bat and project needs
Challenges
There are currently 11 bat species federally listed as endangered or threatened under the United States Endangered Species Act. Many of these species are also protected at a state level. TRC helps support projects involving these species by engaging in agency consultation, performing various surveys such as habitat surveys and/or presence/absence surveys, guiding clients on avoidance and minimization efforts and as-needed mitigation. With the recent proposal to up-list the currently threatened (with a 4(d) rule) northern long-eared bat (Myotis septentrionalis) to endangered, the recent proposal to list the tri-colored bat (Perimyotis subflavus) as endangered, and the current “Under Review” status of the little brown bat (Myotis lucifugus), it is likely that many more projects will need to avoid, minimize, and/or mitigate impacts to bat species. This may entail time of year restrictions for tree clearing, avoidance of habitat, or curtailment of wind turbines, among other restrictions. Projects may require Incidental Take Permits from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS), in addition to any state take permits. TRC is equipped to assess potential project-related impacts and negotiate with state and federal agencies to reduce project-specific restrictions where applicable, as well as preventing project delays.
Solutions
In order to provide solutions to these challenges, TRC performs the following technical tasks:
- Habitat Assessment Surveys
- Agency Consultations (USFWS and state)
- Presence/Absence Surveys (including acoustic survey and mist-netting with associated radio telemetry surveys)
- Emergence Surveys
- Tree Clearing Monitoring
- Mitigation Support
- Pre- and Post-construction monitoring and reporting
- Permitting support for federal and state Incidental Take Permits.
Results
TRC bat biologists have performed various bat surveys throughout the United States and implemented creative solutions to mitigate or avoid potential impacts and the need for permits. This work is helping to support and protect bat species while balancing the needs of important projects.