SAUK COUNTY, Wis. (WFRV) – The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has proposed issuing a permit for the incidental taking of a rare lizard that could be affected by a residential development project in Sauk County.
Incidental take refers to the unintentional loss of endangered or threatened species during otherwise lawful activities, so long as it does not threaten the species’ overall survival.
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The Ho-Chunk Nation has proposed developing multiple parcels for residential construction as part of the Winnebago Heights Development. Temporary work areas would also be established within the parcels and along roadways. The land is currently covered with unmanaged herbaceous vegetation.
The state-endangered slender glass lizard has been confirmed in the vicinity of the project site, and DNR staff determined that the development may result in the incidental taking of some individuals. However, the agency concluded the project is not likely to significantly reduce the species’ likelihood of survival or recovery in Wisconsin.
Conservation measures will be built into the permit to minimize adverse impacts on the lizard and its habitat.
