Wisconsin's Department of Natural Resources has moved to issue a Broad Incidental Take Permit/Authorization that could impact various rare fish species. This proposal comes in the wake of necessary transportation developments across the state, where projects will span roads, rails, and trails. The "incidental take" mentioned here refers simply to the unintended loss of endangered or threatened species which the Wisconsin's Department of Natural Resources assures won't threaten the overall populations.
This authorization covers the processes involved in infrastructure upgrades, such as installing and removing cofferdams, relocating fish due to dewatering, and actions after dewatering. While most state-listed endangered or threatened fish are included, the blue sucker, black buffalo, river redhorse, paddlefish, and skipjack herring are excluded. These species will still benefit from restrictions on spawning timing, especially if their habitats are within project areas. The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources will continue to monitor for the presence of listed fish near project sites to ensure proper care during the work.
Wisconsin's Department of Natural Resources staff have recognized that although rare fish may be taken incidentally during project execution, they do not expect these actions to jeopardize species' survival. Furthermore, there is a belief that adhering to conservation measures will minimize any impacts. According to information publicly shared by the Wisconsin's Department of Natural Resources, the trade-offs here — modernized state infrastructure against the incidental taking of fish — tip favorably towards benefits in public health, safety, and welfare.
Critical to note is that conservation measures are being designed to be part and parcel of this Broad Incidental Take Permit/Authorization. Indeed, ensuring less harm to the affected species is a pillar of the current proposal. Stacy Rowe, a conservation biologist with the Wisconsin's Department of Natural Resources, can be reached for further information, as per the public notice. And for those inclined to voice their perspectives or concerns, the Wisconsin's Department of Natural Resources is open to receiving written comments on the potential impacts to these fish species until April 4.
