Incidental Take Public Notice:

Proposed Merritt/Glaser Pier Piling Proposals on the Lower Wolf River

The construction of piers and pier pilings for two projects along the Wolf River in Waupaca County could result in the incidental taking of the rare mussel species if they are encountered during construction.

As part of the review process for the DNR’s Waterway Permit, a screening for rare species determined that the installation the project areas of the piers pilings could potentially contain the buckhorn mussel (Tritogonia verrucosa), listed as threatened under state law.

The Wolf River supports a large number of freshwater mussel species that occur in low to moderate densities, with occasional higher density mussel beds. Pier pilings are proposed to reduce pier damage following ice break-up in spring. The piling clusters for the proposed projects will directly impact an area of less than one square meter of the river bed resulting in a very low likelihood that mussels will be lost. In addition, the locations of the clusters and the support arms of the barge that will be installing them will be raked free of mussels prior to installation. The extent of loss to the mussel species is expected to be very low.

Under the “incidental taking” law, which was approved by the Wisconsin Legislature in 1997, the Department of Natural Resources can authorize the taking of an endangered or threatened species from a location if that removal will not jeopardize the species' survival or recovery in Wisconsin. DNR staff have concluded that the proposed project will minimize the impacts to the mussel by adhering to conservation measures; is not likely to jeopardize the continued existence and recovery of the state populations of these dragonflies or the whole plant-animal community of which they are a part; and has benefit to the public health, safety or welfare that justifies the action.

Copies of the jeopardy assessment and conservation measures are available below or upon request from:

Public comments will be taken through December 15, 2006 and should be sent to Mr. Galvin at the above address.

Information & Supporting Materials:
Jeopardy Assessment and Background Information [PDF 14KB]