The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources is set to issue a permit that could lead to the incidental taking of Blanchard's cricket frog—a rare, state-endangered species. The incident is tied to Xcel Energy's maintenance work on their W3411 Line, which stretches from Monroe County to structure 26 near the La Crosse Substation, as reported by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources. The section of work raising concerns runs through West Salem to La Crosse, habitat for the vulnerable amphibian.
Incidental take is defined as unexpected harm to individual members of threatened or endangered species that doesn't threaten the overall population, according to the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources announcement. With Phase 3 of the project set to start in January 2026, steps are being taken to reduce potential negative impacts. This includes installing static wire with optical ground wire and updating certain structures. Still, some frogs might get caught in the crossfire within their known habitat during this phase.
Wisconsin DNR officials have concluded the project is unlikely to threaten the survival or recovery of the Blanchard's cricket frog at the state level. Conservation measures are being incorporated into the Incidental Take Permit to limit detrimental effects. These measures are a bid to align the project with public health, safety or welfare interests that justify the project according to the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources statement.
For those keen on diving deeper into the issue, the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources offers detailed documentation, including a jeopardy assessment and information on the Blanchard's cricket frog. It can be accessed via their Incidental Take Public Notices webpage or by directly reaching out to Rori Paloski, Wisconsin DNR conservation biologist at [email protected] or 608-516-3742, ensuring the public stays informed amidst the infrastructural upgrades impeding upon natural habitats.
