The Dakota Skipper butterfly is federally-listed under the Endangered Species Act. As such, the species has the potential to affect any project in North Dakota that has a federal nexus.
The timelines for getting through the assessment process for this species are very specific:
- Habitat surveys should be conducted in May so that the need for species-specific surveys are determined early.
- Species-specific surveys can only be conducted during the adult flight period in late-June and early-July.
SWCA Can Help You!
SWCA has the expertise to assess your project and determine whether any regulatory approvals for the Dakota Skipper will be required. With SWCA, you get:
- Approved Methodology. SWCA’s habitat analysis method is efficient, cost-effective, and agency-accepted for determining the presence of suitable habitat in the project area and for preparing the necessary documentation for project approvals.
- Federally-Permitted Biologists. SWCA has some of the only individuals that possess a U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service permit to survey the Dakota Skipper. The surveys we conduct are used to determine the presence of the species and identify any applicable permitting requirements.
- A Proactive Approach. Determining the presence of Dakota Skippers is highly time-sensitive, with only a 3-week survey window in June and July. SWCA helps you start planning early to keep your project timelines on track.
Contact SWCA for more information.