5.2. SR 08-08-2011 - Laserfiche WebLink

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' swallows, sparrows, and other songbirds. The area provides limited cover with an occasional and monotypic food source. The tilling and mowing that occurs in the area results in wildlife at the site that are accustomed to frequent ' disturbance. • Rare/Endangered Species: The DNR Natural Heritage Database was consulted to determine if rare or endangered species are present in the area. The information from the DNR is included m Appendix B. Based on this information, loggerhead shrike (Lanius ludovicianus) was documented nesting within a one ' mile radius of the project area in 1996. The loggerhead shrike is astate-listed threatened bird species that prefers dry upland prairie or open grassland with scattered hedgerows, shrubs, and small trees. With the agricultural areas being planted in grasses and the adjoining trees associated with the windbreaks within the study area, this area could be suitable for loggerhead shrike. NOTE TO CITY: tl di ti W ld DNR i i h d W ' e are curren y coor na e cou not get nput pr or to s ut own. ng with DNR and will modify language as needed. The DNR also noted that the black sandshell (Ligumia recta), astate-listed mussel of special concern, has been documented in the Mississippi River. Mussels can be affected by changes in water flow or water quality. The US Fish and Wildlife Service was also contacted regarding federally threatened and endangered species. There are no federally threatened or endangered species within or near the study area. • Surrounding Resources: The surrounding areas consist mainly of additional agricultural and residential uses. The area north and east of the study area contains sites of biodiversity significance rated as moderate and below by the DNR's County Biological Survey (see Figure 11-2). The historic Kelley Farm is located south of the study area and contains a significant amount of oak communities and planted prairie, although these resources are of poor to moderate quality. Scenario 1 This scenario allows for agricultural research to remain with 75 acres of the study area and open space to remain for 14-21 (woods and wetlands) acres of the study area. The remaining area would develop into highway commercial, light industrial, and a small area of rural residential. With this scenario, a portion of the wooded areas that provide wind breaks would remain (Area 4, Figure 10-1). This would leave a portion of the potentially suitable loggerhead shrike habitat within the study area. The oak forest (Area 1) and degraded wooded area (Area 2) would likely be removed in part or in entirety. Most of the wooded area in Area 3 would remain. Based on state and federal requirements, the wetlands would likely remain intact with some anticipated impact and resulting mitigation. There would be opportunities to create habitat with storm water management requirements as part of development. While the City of Elk River Draft Alternative Urban Areawide Review July 2011 Page 29 of 84