Incidental Take Public Notice:

Proposed Ravenwoods Development

The Department of Natural Resources proposes to authorize the "incidental takings" of the state-Threatened Butler’s gartersnake (Thamnophis butleri) resulting from a proposed construction of a sewer line for the Ravenwoods residential development proposed by Carity Land Corporation. The site is located in NW¼-NE¼ S34, T8N, R20E, Village of Menomonee Falls, Waukesha County. Specifically, the project site is bordered by Silver Spring Drive to the north and existing residential development to the east and west and south.

Suitable habitat for the Butler’s gartersnake has been identified on the proposed project site and the presence of the snake has been confirmed. The project applicant has identified the extent of suitable habitat and redesigned the project to avoid the majority of the habitat. Snake exclusionary fencing has been installed to prevent snakes from moving into construction zones. Portions of disturbed upland habitat will be restored to improve habitat conditions. However, the proposed sewer crossing will impact approximately 0.52 acres of suitable wetland habitat and may result in the incidental take of the snake. In addition, habitat for the state-Threatened handsome sedge (Carex formosa) was identified at the site but will be fully avoided and protected.

The Department has determined that efforts were made to minimize impacts to the species; the taking is not likely to jeopardize the continued existence and recovery of state populations of the Butler’s gartersnake or the whole plant-animal community of which it is a part; and the action 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:

Information & Supporting Materials:
Jeopardy and Background Information for the Proposed Incidental Taking Authorization for the State-Threatened Butler's gartersnake (Thamnophis butleri) [PDF 73KB]