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Standard Information to help you better understand this ER Review Endangered Resources(ER)Reviews are conducted using a standard six-step process in which we gather initial information about the project and site,determine if endangered resources are present or likely to be present on the site, determine if the proposed project is likely to affect endangered resources present on site,determine if potential impacts to endangered resources present on the site can be avoided,identify options for proceeding if impacts to endangered resources cannot be avoided,and confirm and document findings. To determine what endangered resources are present or likely to be present on the site,we first query the Wisconsin Natural Heritage Inventory(NHI)database for endangered resources records for the proposed project area.The project area evaluated consists of both the specific project site and a buffer area surrounding the site.The size of the buffer considered varies depending on the size and nature of the project and the ecological and land use characteristics of the site and surrounding area.In all cases,at least a 1-mile buffer is considered.At least a 2 mile buffer is considered for large linear projects,projects in areas that are unlikely to have been surveyed(e.g.,within large blocks of private land),and projects near wetlands and waterbodies.Other circumstances may warrant use of a larger buffer.For example,for projects in a large patch of contiguous habitat,we look throughout the patch.Endangered resources records from the buffer area are considered because most lands and waters in the state,especially private lands,have not been surveyed. In addition,If the area has moderate to high-quality or extensive habitat or if we are aware that recent surveys have been conducted on or near the site,we consult additional online databases,species experts,or other sources of endangered resources information to complement information contained in the NHI database.Considering records from the entire project area(also sometimes referred to as the search area)as well as other endangered resources information and data whenever warranted provides the best picture of species and communities that may be present on your specific site if suitable habitat for those species or communities is present. This ER Review is being provided to you as a tool to help you comply with state and federal endangered species laws.By following the process described above,we have provided you with the best information currently available about endangered resources that may be present in the proposed project area.However,endangered resources information is never perfect.The NHI database is not all inclusive;systematic surveys of most public lands have not been conducted,and the majority of private lands have not been surveyed.Occurrences of endangered resources are only in the NHI database if the site has been previously surveyed for that species or group during the appropriate season,and an observation was reported to and entered into the NHI database.As such,absence of a record in the NHI database for a specific area should not be used to infer that no endangered resources are present in that area.Similarly,the presence of one species does not imply that surveys have been conducted for other species.Evaluations of the possible presence of rare species on the project site should always be based on whether suitable habitat exists on site for that species. Endangered resources considered in ER Reviews and protections for each: Species listed as Threatened or Endangered under Wisconsin's Endangered Species Law(s.29.604,Wis.Stats.): • State-listed animals(vertebrate and invertebrate)are protected on all lands and waters of the state • State-listed plants are protected on public lands and on lands that the person does not own or lease,except in the course of forestry,agriculture or utility actions(s.29.604,Wis.Stats.). Species protected by the Federal Endangered Species Act of 1973 as amended,including those federally-listed as Endangered or Threatened,those Proposed or Candidates for federal listing,and their Proposed or Designated Critical habitats: • Federally-protected animals are protected on all lands. • Federally-protected plants are protected on federal lands and in the course of projects that include federal funding. They are also protected on other lands if they are removed,cut,dug up or damaged in knowing violation of any law or regulation of any state or in violation of a criminal trespass law. Special Concern species,high-quality examples of natural communities(sometimes called High Conservation Value areas), and unique natural features(e.g.,caves and animal aggregation sites)are not legally protected by state or federal endangered species laws.However,other laws,policies(e.g.,related to Forest Certification or master planning),or granting/permitting processes may require or strongly encourage protection of these resources.The main purpose of the Special Concem classification is to focus attention on species about which some problem of abundance or distribution is suspected before they become endangered or threatened. State Natural Areas(SNAs)protect outstanding examples of Wisconsin's native landscape of natural communities,and significant geological formations.Endangered species are often found within SNAs.SNAs are protected by law from any use that is inconsistent with or injurious to their natural values(s.23.28.Wis.Stats.). Please click on hvperlinks for more information ER Review Log# 10-341 Page 2