Incidental Take Public Notice:

Proposed WI Gas Lateral

Proposed Incidental Take Authorization for the proposed Wisconsin Gas Company Lateral Line Project, Jefferson, Washington and Waukesha Counties, Wisconsin.

The Department of Natural Resources proposes to authorize the Wisconsin Gas Company for the "incidental taking" of the state threatened Butler's gartersnake (Thamnophis butleri) resulting from the construction of the proposed underground natural gas pipeline through approximately 30 miles in Jefferson, Washington and Waukesha Counties.

Due to the likely presence of Butler's gartersnakes throughout portions of the project site, existing habitat was evaluated for suitability to support the snakes. As a result, it was found that the proposed projects will likely result in limited and temporary disturbance to Butler's gartersnake habitat through five wetlands and adjacent uplands at three sites along the proposed route.

The proposed project is likely to result in the take of the species, but take is anticipated to be low due to the temporary nature of the disturbance and the established conservation measures that have been approved by the DNR. The Department has concluded that the Wisconsin Gas Company will minimize the impacts to the species by adhering to conservation measures; the proposed take is not likely to jeopardize the continued existence and recovery of the state population of either species 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:

Information & Supporting Materials:
Jeopardy Assessment for the Butler's Gartersnake [PDF 9KB]