4.3 SR 03-20-2023 - Laserfiche WebLink

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mortality can be detrimental to populations of Blanding's turtles, as these turtles have a low reproduction rate that depends upon a high survival rate to maintain population levels. This project does have the potential to impact this rare turtle through direct fatalities and habitat disturbance/destruction due to excavation, fill, and other construction activities associated with the project. Minnesota's Endangered Species Statute (Minnesota Statutes, section 84.0895) and associated Rules (Minnesota Rules, part 6212.1800 to 6212.2300 and 6134) prohibit the take of threatened or endangered species without a permit. As such, the following avoidance measures are required: o Avoid aquatic impacts during hibernation season, between October 15th and April 15th, unless the area is unsuitable for hibernation. o The use of erosion control blanket shall be limited to'bio-netting' or'natural-netting' types, and specifically not products containing plastic mesh netting or other plastic components. Please update project plans so that this information is given to contractors. ■ Also, be aware that hydro-mulch products may contain small synthetic (plastic) fibers to aid in their matrix strength. These loose fibers could potentially re- suspend and make their way into Public Waters. As such, please review mulch products and not allow any materials with synthetic (plastic) fiber additives in areas that drain to Public Waters. o Areas where there will be construction, especially aquatic areas, should be checked for turtles before the use of heavy equipment or any ground disturbance. ■ The Blandin�'s turtle flyer must be given to all contractors working in the area. ■ Monitor for turtles during construction and report any sightings to the DNR Non�ame Specialist, Erica Hoaglund at 651-259-5772 or Erica.Hoa�lund@state.mn.us. ■ If turtles are in imminent danger they must be moved by hand out of harm's way, otherwise, they are to be left undisturbed. If the above avoidance measures are not possible, please contact NHIS.Review@state.mn.us as further action may be needed. For additional information, see the Blandin�'s turtle fact sheet, which describes the habitat use and life history of this species. The fact sheet also provides two lists of recommendations for avoiding and minimizing impacts to this rare turtle. Please refer to both lists of recommendations and apply those that are relevant to your project. For further assistance regarding the Blanding's turtle, please contact the DNR Regional Nongame Specialist, Erica Hoaglund. 10. Page 16, Rare Features. The project plans to destroy 148 acres of contiguous forested habitat. The EAW states multiple times that 62 acres of the forested area has only established since 2005, and that fallen or dead trees are present indicating that the forested habitat is of poor quality. Please be aware that fallen or dead trees as well as relatively recent forest established