The permit covers the unintentional, or incidental, taking of endangered and threatened bat species caused by wind turbines, including the tricolored bat, northern long-eared bat, little brown bat, and big brown bat. Incidental take refers to unintended losses that do not threaten the overall survival of the species.
The DNR says the updated permit balances the importance of wind energy development with the need to reduce impacts on cave bat populations. The original authorization was issued in April of 2025, and the proposed updates include revised temperature restrictions outside Bat Priority Areas, a new third curtailment option, and an extension of the annual reporting deadline.
While some bat mortality may still occur, the DNR concludes the updated conservation measures will minimize impacts and will not jeopardize the long-term survival or recovery of bat populations. Monitoring will remain in place, and collected data will be used to refine conservation strategies if necessary.
If approved, the updated measures will be incorporated into the existing permit. Background information and the jeopardy assessment are available on the DNR’s Incidental Take Public Notices webpage or by contacting DNR conservation biologist Stacy Rowe.
Public comments on the proposal will be accepted through February 28, 2026.
No responses yet