Roe Ecological Services biologists have the expertise and experience to help you successfully:
(1) Relocate (passively, or via trapping) prairie dogs to another property;
(2) Trap, remove and donate the prairie dogs to a raptor rehabilitation program;
(3) Develop a management or mitigation plan for the prairie dogs on your property; or
(4) Develop a movement barrier to keep prairie dogs from coming onto, or leaving, your property.
In addition, prairie dog management can be a highly sensitive and emotionally charged topic, particularly in certain locations. Many jurisdictions may also require permits and/or compliance with regulations and laws for certain management actions. Roe Ecological Services has experience working with all of these issues and can help you navigate not only the logistical complexities that attend certain projects, but can also help you address any public relations issues that may arise.
Project Examples
The Clean Water Act of 1972 (33 U.S.C. § 1251 et seq.) regulates quality standards for surface waters in the United States. Generally, under Section 404 of the Clean Water Act, placing any fill material into "waters of the United States" requires a permit (known as a "404 permit") from the United States Army Corp of Engineers. "Waters of the United States" can include certain wetlands.
We have the expertise to conduct a survey of your property, delineate any potential wetlands, help you obtain a determination from the USACE, and help with permitting and mitigation, if necessary.
Project Examples
We frequently perform presence/absence assessments for wildlife (including, but not limited to, those protected by the Endangered Species Act, Migratory Bird Treaty Act, and state laws) that could be present on or adjacent to the proposed project. This is done based on an assessment of the habitat on the site, identification of possible species, and identification of any species observed. This assessment helps guide whether additional surveys are needed for purposes of determining whether mitigation is necessary, whether avoidance is possible, or if any additional federal or state permits are required.
Project Examples
Most birds and their nests, eggs, and young are protected under federal law from "take." The nesting season for most migratory songbirds and raptors is typically between March and August, but--depending on the species--can extend to the end of September.
Therefore, if your project is scheduled to begin within this timeframe, and the wildlife impact assessment has revealed that the habitat is favorable, it is important you have Roe Ecological Services conduct an in-depth transect and observational survey to make sure you will not be adversely impacting any birds, nests, eggs, or young. If nests, eggs, or young are found, we can then help you determine appropriate mitigation or avoidance options, or to obtain the necessary take permit(s) from the state and/or federal government.
Project Examples
The Western Burrowing Owl is a grassland bird that nests in underground burrows, relying almost completely upon fossorial mammals (such as prairie dogs, ground squirrels, and badgers) to excavate these burrows. Breeding populations may be observed from late spring through October. This owl and its eggs and active nests are protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act of 1918 as amended (16 U.S.C. §§ 703-712). It is also listed as a threatened species in the state of Colorado and is a species of special concern in most other states.
If prairie dogs or other burrowing animals exist on the site, a burrowing owl survey should be conducted if there will be any activity that will destroy the burrow system or could otherwise disturb any nesting owls (i.e., construction/grading work) between March 15 and October 31.
Project Examples
For many landowners, maximizing the quality and quantity of wildlife species – especially big game species – on their property ranks high on the priority list. Whether it be deer, elk, pronghorn, turkeys, or any number of other wildlife species, RES can help you realize your property’s potential.
Other landowners, such as developers, energy companies and open space departments, may need to consider, and mitigate, impacts to wildlife habitat and populations caused by their activities.
From comprehensive surveys to the development of public communication and management strategies, we are here to help!
Project Examples
With decades of experience providing wildlife management and consulting services for municipalities, county governments, state and federal agencies, private developers, energy companies, farmers/ranchers, and homeowners, we are ready to help you determine the best wildlife, wetland, or habitat management solution for your unique situation.
Judy ScherpelzI have known Kelly and Chris Roe for more than 20 years – as fellow biologists, professionals, and friends. The Rocky Mountain Raptor Program has worked with Roe Ecological Services (ROE) for more than 16 years. They are the only wildlife consulting firm that the Rocky Mountain Raptor Program works with that we recommend to others with zero reservations – because of their high level of expertise and ethics.
Jerry BiggsI have been working with Kelly Roe and Roe Ecological Services for over 12 years. She has been instrumental in assisting us in our due diligence in the acquisitions of properties as well as assisting with all of the reports and approvals necessary to complete our developments. She has been able to work through all of the challenging requirements in a cost effective and timely manner. We very much appreciate Kelly's contribution to our team.
John SattlerIt's been my pleasure to work with Kelly and Roe Ecological Services over the past couple years. My experience has been exceptional. Specifically, Kelly is responsive, attentive and diligent to the schedule and needs of our projects. In a particular jurisdiction we have a 20 day window in which to complete a field survey and submit a report before the building permit can be issued. Kelly has been great to help us meet those requirements. I highly recommend Roe Ecological Services!
Paul RubinKelly Roe is the ‘go-to’ expert on all things prairie dogs. She has the experience, knowledge and professionalism needed to get the job done. Kelly understands the complexities and sensitivity of our natural wildlife. You'll be glad you have Kelly working on your project!
Mike WeissI wanted to thank you for all your great work you did for us at Boulder Creek's project in Thornton, Riverdale Ranch, working with the Corp of Engineers to help us get a Jurisdictional Determination regarding manmade ponds on the property.
We appreciate your help and professionalism.
Valerie JohnsonWe have worked with Kelly and Roe Ecological on a number of different occasions for prairie dog issues at commercial properties we manage. Kelly is very thorough, knowledgeable, and helpful throughout the entire process. She explains and sets expectations well, prior to performing any work. It is always a pleasure working with her.