A Look at the Upper York Creek Ecosystem and Aquatic Habitat Restoration Project By Erik Schmidt, Regulatory Permitting Specialist, WRA, Inc. Since 1997, the handful of steelhead hanging on in York Creek, part of a larger Central California Coast population group, have been federally listed as “threatened” under the Endangered Species Act. The National Marine … Continue Reading »
NMEBC 2020 Goes Virtual!
WRA is a proud sponsor of the 2020 National Mitigation and Ecosystem Banking Conference (NMEBC). NMEBC Virtual will be held on August 17-19, with pre and post extended content and engagement. Entering its 23rd year, NMEBC is committed to advancing and protecting the environment in a financially sustainable way. This annual event connects mitigation providers, … Continue Reading »
2019 WOTUS Rule Implemented Except in Colorado
By Myla Ablog, WRA, Inc., Aquatic Resources Permitting Specialist On June 22, 2020, the Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) and U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) implemented the new Navigable Waters Protection Rule (2019 Rule) that defines “waters of the United States” (WOTUS) in all states except Colorado where a federal judge stayed the implementation. This is an … Continue Reading »
The Foothill Yellow-legged Frog: Status Update and Steps for Compliance
Updated June 11, 2020 (originally published September 13, 2018) By Brian Freiermuth, Wildlife Biologist Foothill Yellow-legged Frog Life History The foothill yellow-legged frog (FYLF), Rana boylii, is visually one of the more non-descript frogs in California, but it must gamble for survival. Although FYLF breed in relatively calm parts of streams, these areas are prone … Continue Reading »
Wildlife Impacts and Public Access: Are there unintended consequences of increasing open space visitation?
By John Baas, PhD The Shelter in Place (SIP) order has been in effect in the San Francisco Bay area for nearly three months and has implications for how park, recreation, and open space agencies may need to manage public access in response to wildlife impacts. Last week I saw a juvenile coyote trotting down … Continue Reading »
[VIDEO] People & Projects: Marlene Tyner-Valencourt and the San Dieguito River Valley Conservancy Project
With many people still working from home, the WRA team is finding innovative new ways to stay connected with our clients. One such way is through Zoom meetings – which got us wondering, what else can we use Zoom for? It turns out, it’s a great way to record an interview! You can get to … Continue Reading »
Federal Definition of WOTUS Published in the Federal Register
By Myla Ablog, WRA, Inc., Aquatic Resources Permitting Specialist On April 21, 2020, the Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) and U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) published the Navigable Waters Protection Rule (2019 Rule) that defines “waters of the United States” (WOTUS) and clarifies the limits of federal jurisdiction over wetlands, streams, and ditches under the Clean Water … Continue Reading »
[VIDEO] WRA Celebrates American Wetlands Month, 2020
A special video from WRA CEO, Geoff Smick, in honor of American Wetlands Month. WRA Celebrates American Wetlands Month, 2020 from WRA, Inc. on Vimeo. As part of our American Wetlands Month celebration, we put together a short video on the importance of wetlands, WRA’s history and vision for these critical ecosystems, and a few … Continue Reading »
Why You Should Check For This Underwater Plant Before Planning In-Water Construction
Perhaps you are considering the addition of a private boat pier to your property, or need to increase the depth of a channel through dredging. For whatever in-water construction you are planning, it’s important to know if an underwater plant called eelgrass lives in or near your project site to make sure your work can start without a hitch.
Programmatic Biological Opinions for Ecological Restoration: Efficient Section 7 Consultation with NMFS for Projects in Riparian and Aquatic Habitat
Many habitat restoration project applicants, whether proposing voluntary or mitigation activities, need a federal permit or have federal grant funding for their projects, or both. By Erik Schmidt, WRA Regulatory Permitting Specialist The Endangered Species Act (ESA) states that all federal agencies are responsible for conserving threatened and endangered species and their habitat. Section 7 … Continue Reading »
Paying for Stewardship: A Guide to Conservation Finance
Conservation finance is a fascinating new way for landowners to earn revenue, but it can prove challenging to navigate on your own. If you’re curious about this emerging field, check out Paying for Stewardship, a free guide for landowners about conservation finance, co-authored by WRA’s Jane Rice in partnership with the Western Landowners Alliance, Conservation … Continue Reading »
WRA is a Certified Small Business in Alameda County (2020 Update)
It has been a few years since we earned our certification as a Small Business with Alameda County’s Small, Local, Emerging Business (SLEB) Program. We have grown significantly in that time and wanted to share some updates. Services and Experience Our East Bay office team, located in Emeryville, offers a full suite of environmental consulting … Continue Reading »
WRA’s New Interns Are… Terrible
With California’s latest order to “shelter in place,” WRA has transitioned to a fully remote work environment. We asked our teammates to share photos of their home-office set ups for inspiration. That’s when we started noticing some unfamiliar characters. It appears we’ve acquired a new cohort of furry interns. And they don’t seem to be … Continue Reading »
A Message from WRA, Inc. Regarding COVID-19
Dear Clients, Project Partners, and Colleagues: With the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic rapidly evolving, we want to inform you of our efforts to honor our commitments to meeting project deadlines and providing deliverables, while ensuring the health and safety of both our clients and staff. Our executive team is meeting daily to update our operations, project delivery, … Continue Reading »
WRA Celebrates International Women’s Day 2020
Did you know women comprise over 40% of WRA’s staff? As we continue to expand, that percentage is steadily growing! International Women’s Day is Sunday, March 8th, 2020. This year’s theme is #EachforEqual, with an emphasis on ‘collective individualism’ to create a gender equal world. “We are all parts of a whole. Our individual actions, … Continue Reading »
Migratory Bird Treaty Act Uncertainty Continues, Yet Status Quo Remains for California
By Jason Yakich and Patricia Valcarcel There are two pending updates in relation to the federal Migratory Bird Treaty Act (MBTA) and regulation of incidental take (unintentional capture or killing) of birds protected under the MBTA. Although these potential revisions may be contributing to uncertainty about protections elsewhere in the United States, California’s codes protecting … Continue Reading »
Sr. Geomorphologist, Virginia Mahacek to Present at 2020 River Restoration Northwest Symposium
WRA is a proud sponsor of the 2020 River Restoration Northwest annual Stream Restoration Symposium on February 3rd-7th in Stevenson, Washington. Virginia Mahacek, WRA Senior Geomorphologist and long time RRNW member (and past Board of Directors President) will be presenting a talk titled “Opportunities from the Ashes: Pursuing Multiple Benefit Community and Landscape Resilience to … Continue Reading »
Navigating Changes to Federal WOTUS Policy
By Justin Semion, WRA, Inc., Director of Technical Services On January 23, 2020, the Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) and U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) finalized the long-anticipated Navigable Waters Protection Rule that defines “waters of the United States” (WOTUS) and clarifies the limits of federal jurisdiction over wetlands, streams, and ditches under the Clean … Continue Reading »
Research Published on New Rare Jewelflower Discovered by WRA Plant Biologist
In 2011, while working on the former Corda Ranch in northern Marin County, Aaron Arthur came across an odd-looking Streptanthus sp. on a serpentine outcrop and was not able to identify the specimens with local and regional keys. In 2012, Doreen Smith of the CNPS Marin Chapter noted a unique population of Streptanthus sp. on the south … Continue Reading »
WRA Wildlife Experts to Present at 2020 California and Nevada Amphibian Populations Task Force Meeting
Two wildlife experts from WRA will present research at the 2020 California and Nevada Amphibian Populations Task Force Meeting in San Diego, CA on January 9-10. WRA Senior Wildlife Biologist, Rob Schell, will present his paper: Environmental DNA (eDNA) Sampling as a Method to Detect Rare or Elusive Aquatic Herpetofauna: Two Case Studies. In this … Continue Reading »
WRA Botanists to Exhibit at 2020 Northern California Botanists Symposium
WRA is a proud sponsor of the 2020 Northern California Botanists Symposium, January 13-14 in Chico. This year’s theme is “The Diversity of Northern California Botany: Challenges and Opportunities”. WRA botanists Aaron Arthur and Rhiannon Korhummel will attend and be on-hand between presentations at the WRA exhibitor table — please stop by and say hello … Continue Reading »
Bianca McCarron, VP, Finance Joins WRA
WRA, Inc. is pleased to announce the addition of Bianca McCarron as Vice President, Finance. Bianca has nearly 15 years of financial and operational experience in both the consulting and construction sectors. Bianca has successfully led teams through ownership transitions, process improvement, and growth. “Bianca is a great asset for the team as she has … Continue Reading »
WRA Announces Addition of Virginia Mahacek, Senior Geomorphologist
WRA, Inc. is pleased to announce the addition of Virginia Mahacek, Senior Geomorphologist. With 27 years of experience, Virginia brings a suite of expertise and skills that align perfectly with WRA’s Vision and serve the company’s current client base as well as cultivate new connections. “I am really excited to have Virginia join our team … Continue Reading »
New Research Published on Wetland Rapid Assessment Method
WRA Senior Biologist Kari Dupler is lead author of a research paper recently published called “Rapid Assessment of Wetland Condition Reflects Amphibian Community Composition”. Kentucky has lost over 80% of its wetlands, and because state-wide monitoring was historically minimal, this number is likely underestimated. The Kentucky Wetland Rapid Assessment Method (KY-WRAM) was developed by the Kentucky … Continue Reading »
Miles Gullingsrud, VP, Operations Joins WRA
WRA, Inc. is pleased to announce the addition of Miles Gullingsrud as Vice President, Operations. Miles has more than 15 years of experience leading critical operational support including project delivery, technology, people, and culture. With a professional background in administration, finance, and technology, Miles brings a blended experience of organizational process and operational delivery. “We … Continue Reading »
WRA Poster Presenter at Cal-IPC Symposium 2019
WRA is a proud sponsor of the 2019 California Invasive Plant Council’s annual Symposium on October 15-18 in Riverside. This year’s theme is Evolving Management Perspectives in a Changing World. WRA biologist Tyler Hanson was selected to present a poster at this year’s event titled “Measuring change in a changing world: the power of statistics … Continue Reading »
Final Rules Published on Major Changes to the Endangered Species Act
Series 2: Species and Critical Habitat Listing and Prohibitions on Take for Threatened Species By Patricia Valcarcel, Senior Biologist and ESA Specialist On July 25, 2018, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) and National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Fisheries (collectively, Services) published three proposed revisions to Endangered Species Act (ESA) regulations, and on August … Continue Reading »
WRA Wildlife Experts to Present at 2019 AFS & TWS Joint Conference
Four wildlife experts from WRA will present research at the 2019 joint American Fisheries Society and The Wildlife Society (AFS & TWS) Conference in Reno, Nevada from September 29 through October 3. September 30, 2019 at 4:40 pm: The Value of a Non-Traditional Long Term Data Set: Sampling at a Former Naval Dry Dock presented … Continue Reading »
Wetland Regulations—Moving towards State Control
Recent news accounts on changes in the federal definition of “Waters of the United States” (WOTUS) have been matched with the California State Water Resources Control Board’s announcement that a new State Wetland Policy will be in effect starting on May 28, 2020. These changes reflect the shifting dynamic in environmental regulation—at least temporarily—under the … Continue Reading »
SMHM Paper Published in The Journal of Wildlife Management
WRA’s Katie Smith, one of the leading authorities on the ecology of the salt marsh harvest mouse (SMHM), is lead author of the article “Waterfowl management and diet of the salt marsh harvest mouse” recently published in The Journal of Wildlife Management. Although their diet is not well understood, SMHM is thought to feed primarily … Continue Reading »
WRA to present at the 2019 State of the Estuary Conference
WRA experts will take part in the 2019 State of the Estuary (SOE) Conference, hosted by the San Francisco Estuary Partnership at the Scottish Rite Center in Oakland, October 21-22, 2019. See the full program here. This year, WRA wildlife biologist Katie Smith will present “Mice in the Middle: The Special Case of Terrestrial Wildlife … Continue Reading »
Final Rules Published on Major Changes to the Endangered Species Act
Series 1: Interagency Cooperation (Section 7) By Patricia Valcarcel, Senior Biologist and ESA Specialist On July 25, 2018, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) and National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Fisheries (collectively, Services) published three proposed revisions to Endangered Species Act (ESA) regulations. On August 27, 2019, the Services published the final rules on … Continue Reading »
New research: a case study with lead and waterfowl on the Texas coast
Brian Kearns, a biologist with WRA, Inc., is first author of a recently published study resulting from his doctoral work focused on the magnitude and distribution of lead contamination on the Texas coast, and how it impacts endemic avian wildlife. The study, “Distribution of contaminants in the environment and wildlife habitat use: a case study … Continue Reading »
WRA’s SMHM Expert Katie Smith in “The Edge of Extinction”
WRA’s Katie Smith is featured in a new series highlighting endangered species in the Berkeley area. The second of a five-part Edge Of Extinction video series focuses on salt marsh harvest mouse (Reithrodontomys raviventris), endemic to the San Francisco Bay Area salt marsh habitat. Katie is regarded as one of the leading authorities on the … Continue Reading »
The Benefits of Public-Private Collaboration for Land Preservation
The Tri-Valley area in Alameda County is a vibrant Bay Area suburb that encompasses the cities of Dublin, Livermore, and Pleasanton. The region, marked by rolling hills and sprawling residential developments, is experiencing rapid growth. The area’s open spaces and grazing lands support sensitive species and habitats, including federal and state-listed species, but currently lacks … Continue Reading »
WRA Welcomes Senior Open Space Planner John Baas
John Baas, PhD, joins WRA, Inc. as a Senior Open Space Planner and leader for the company’s public access team. With 20 years of experience in environmental consulting, John brings expertise in park and open space planning, as well as large scale planning efforts for wildfire hazard reduction in California, Washington and Colorado. “I have … Continue Reading »
WRA Attends Society of Wetland Scientists Annual Meeting 2019
WRA team members Amanda McCarthy, Kari Dupler, and Katie Smith attended the Society of Wetland Scientists Annual Meeting May 28-31, 2019 in Baltimore, Maryland. This year’s theme was “The Role of Wetlands in Meeting Global Environmental Challenges: Linking Wetland Science, Policy, and Society.” The annual gathering brings together scientists, policymakers, and practitioners to share knowledge … Continue Reading »
Moorhen Marsh Re-Opening
The Mt. View Sanitary District (MVSD) hosted a public re-opening celebration of Moorhen Marsh on Saturday, May 11, 2019 in Martinez. This family-friendly event featured Master of Ceremonies Doug McConnell, host of OpenRoad with Doug McConnell! and educational wildlife programs including bird walks, dip-netting for children, and live animal presentations. Originally constructed in 1974, the … Continue Reading »
Napa River Rotary Screw Trap Open House 2019
On Sunday May 5, 2019 the Napa County Resource Conservation District (RCD) hosted an Open House event for approximately 50 interested members of the public at the Napa River Rotary Screw Trap. For nearly a decade, the RCD has been using the rotary screw trap — a fish collection device — to monitor fish populations … Continue Reading »
WRA GIS Expert Elected to URISA’s GISCorps Core Committee
WRA’s Chris Zumwalt, GISP was recently elected to serve on the Core Committee of the Urban and Regional Information Systems Association’s (URISA) GISCorps. The Core Committee is a group of nine members that run the GISCorps through a purely volunteer effort outside of their daily domestic and work responsibilities. Chris has been a volunteer and … Continue Reading »
TWS-WS Environmental DNA Workshop
The Wildlife Society – Western Section is hosting a three-day workshop July 29-31, 2019 on the fundamentals and practical uses for environmental DNA (eDNA). The workshop will be co-led by Genidaqs Laboratory, leaders in the application and development of eDNA, and WRA wildlife and fisheries experts, Rob Schell and Dan Chase. Attendees will learn about … Continue Reading »
WRA Speaker Joins AEP Wetland Permitting Workshop
On April 23, 2019, The Association of Environmental Professionals (AEP) San Francisco Bay Area Chapter will host a workshop on permitting strategies for projects impacting wetlands. Featured speakers Scott Birkey, partner at Cox, Castle & Nicholson and Dr. Amanda McCarthy, principal at WRA, Inc. will explore recent legal and regulatory updates at federal and state … Continue Reading »
WRA Experts Presenting Restoration Topics at SERCAL 2019
WRA is a proud sponsor of the 2019 SERCAL Conference April 10-12, 2019 in Santa Barbara! This year’s theme is Beyond Recovery: Restoration for the Future, and the event is focused on collective restoration expertise and efforts that work toward resiliency and ecosystem recovery for current and future generations. Kari Dupler is chair for the … Continue Reading »
WRA’s San Diego Office Has Moved!
The San Diego office of WRA, Inc. has relocated to a new space near Balboa Park. The move allows the team to be more centralized to clients near the city’s center while shortening the commute for nearly all team members. “We are really excited about our new location and ability to better serve our … Continue Reading »
Spring is here and so are the nesting birds: What does it mean for your project?
by Jason Yakich and Patricia Valcarcel, Wildlife Biologists; photo credits Patricia Valcarcel Changes to interpretations of long-standing protections to birds and their nests has caused confusion for project planning and compliance. We outline the difference between federal and state regulations, current interpretations of these regulations, and what it may mean for your project. On December … Continue Reading »
Michael Nieto Joins WRA as San Diego Office Director
WRA, Inc. is pleased to announce the addition of Michael Nieto as San Diego Office Director. Mike brings more than 16 years of experience in environmental consulting and natural resources management throughout southern California. “I am really excited to have Mike join the WRA family,” said Geoff Smick, WRA Chief Executive Officer. “His technical and … Continue Reading »
WRA Wildlife Experts Present at 2019 TWS-WS Annual Meeting
Members of WRA’s wildlife team are headed to Fish Camp, California near the border of Yosemite National Park February 4-8, 2019 to attend The Wildlife Society – Western Section Annual Meeting. This year’s gathering will explore themes of “Death And Taxas: Extinction and Speciation During the Anthropocene.” Patricia Valcarcel will present on a range-wide habitat suitability model created for the flat-tailed horned lizard (Phrynosoma mcallii). Katie Smith, … Continue Reading »
The 2019 CEQA Guideline Update and What It Means for You
By Rachael Carnes, Environmental Planner While the environmental permitting world is abuzz with talk of the ever-shifting “Waters of the U.S.” definition, the State of California recently released revised CEQA Guidelines, and they could have important implications for your project. The Natural Resources Agency adopted final text, which was approved by the Office of Administrative … Continue Reading »
Pathogen Poses Threat to Habitat Restoration and Open Space Projects in California
By Isaac Swanson, Tanner Harris, and Kari Dupler Phytophthora is a water-borne fungus transmitted through contact with infected soil, water, or leaves. Some Phytophthora species are relatively innocuous, but others–like Phytophthora ramorum, the cause of Sudden Oak Death–can be deadly to woody shrubs and trees and even to some grass and marsh species native to … Continue Reading »
Registration Open for Wetland Delineation Training 2019
WRA’s wetland delineation experts Tanner Harris and Aaron Arthur will co-lead a 40-hour basic wetland delineation training at San Francisco State University’s Estuary and Ocean Science (EOS) Center in Tiburon, CA on March 25-29, 2019. This training, provided in joint collaboration with the San Francisco Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve (NERR) and the EOS … Continue Reading »
Happy New Year!
WRA, Inc. Announces Geoff Smick as Chief Executive Officer
WRA, Inc. is excited to announce that its Board of Directors has appointed Geoff Smick as the new Chief Executive Officer. Geoff is a 14-year veteran with WRA and has exemplified strong leadership and commitment to company goals and operations having served as President since 2014. Geoff will continue to serve his clients in WRA’s … Continue Reading »
2018 ACES Conference Features WRA Conservation Finance Expertise
Members of WRA’s conservation strategies team including Matt Richmond and Jane Rice will attend the 2018 ACES: A Community on Ecosystem Services conference December 3-6, 2018 in Washington, D.C. This year’s event will convene an international community of professionals, researchers, and policy experts in an open forum to share experiences, methods, and tools for assessing … Continue Reading »
California Water Use Ordinance Mandates New Approaches for Landscape Construction Projects
by Isaac Swanson and Ingrid Morken California’s water use regulations are complex and often times difficult to navigate for compliance depending on the project type. According to to the California Water Boards, “our changing climate requires Californians to use water more wisely … small changes make a big impact.” The Model Efficient Landscape Ordinance (MWELO) requires … Continue Reading »
New Research: Implications for Marsh Restoration in the Northern Gulf of Mexico
WRA’s Katie Fedeli is co-author of a recently published study focused on habitat restoration and recovery efforts in northern Gulf of Mexico following the 2010 Deepwater Horizon oil spill. The article, “Recovery of Salt Marsh Invertebrates Following Habitat Restoration: Implications for Marsh Restoration in the Northern Gulf of Mexico” was a collaboration by Industrial Economics, Inc., … Continue Reading »
Oak Knoll Groundbreaking September 12, 2018
On September 12, 2018, the Oak Knoll development project broke ground after nearly decades of planning. WRA’s Amanda McCarthy, Kari Dupler, and Susie Bennett attended the event as guests alongside our client SunCal, government officials including Oakland Mayor Libby Schaaf and Oakland City Council President Larry Reid, and local community leaders. The site, formerly … Continue Reading »
WLA/WRA Blog Series: Part Eight – Final Thoughts Now Available
The Western Landowners Alliance and WRA have partnered up on a blog series focused on how landowners can leverage the opportunities offered by conservation finance to further both conservation and economic goals. Each blog will provide an understanding of key concepts, market players and trends, and financial, risk and land management considerations particular to a topic. … Continue Reading »
WRA Expands North Bay Presence with New Petaluma Office
WRA, Inc. is proud to announce that we are further expanding our geographic reach in the Bay Area with an office in Petaluma. WRA has opened the new office to offer more focused attention to our current and future clients in the North Bay and northernmost counties in the state, while also providing a local … Continue Reading »
The Foothill Yellow-legged Frog: Status Update and Steps for Compliance
By Brian Freiermuth, Wildlife Biologist Foothill Yellow-legged Frog Life History The foothill yellow-legged frog (FYLF), Rana boylii, is visually one of the more non-descript frogs in California, but it must gamble for survival. Although FYLF breed in relatively calm parts of streams, these areas are prone to scour from large late-season rains, or dry out … Continue Reading »
WRA Salt Marsh Harvest Mouse Expert to Present at the 2018 Bay-Delta Science Conference
Members of WRA’s wildlife and fisheries team including Daniel Chase, Katie Smith, and Stewart Desmeules will attend the Bay-Delta Science Conference being held September 10-12, 2018 in Sacramento. This year’s event will convene a community of scientists, practitioners, resource agency staff, and other stakeholders working on Bay-Delta issues through a theme of “Our Estuary at … Continue Reading »
WRA Welcomes Salt Marsh Harvest Mouse Expert Katie Smith
Katie Smith, a leading expert in the salt marsh harvest mouse (SMHM), joins WRA, Inc. as a wildlife biologist. “We are thrilled to have Katie join our team and share her expertise in endangered species ecology, especially her expertise with the salt marsh harvest mouse and its critical habitat, to assist our clients with projects … Continue Reading »
The River to Recovery: Fisheries Monitoring on the Napa River
The Napa County Resource Conservation District (RCD) has been operating the Napa River Rotary Screw Trap for nearly a decade. This collection device monitors fish populations in the Napa River Watershed, with particular focus on steelhead and Chinook salmon. Learn more about our collaboration with the RCD in our latest video story! Additional Resources … Continue Reading »
New Research Article: Sea Level Rise and Impacts to Tidal Marsh Habitat and Species
WRA’s Jordan Rosencranz, former Southwest Climate Science Center (SWCSC) fellow and research ecologist with the Western Ecological Research Center, United States Geological Survey, is lead author of a new research publication on sea level rise and impacts to tidal marsh habitat and species in southern California. The research, titled “Sea-level rise, habitat loss, and potential … Continue Reading »
WRA Participates in NAHB ESA Practitioner Panel
Through WRA’s involvement in the California Building Industry Association, the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) invited Amanda McCarthy, PhD PWS, to join a panel of practitioners and to speak about WRA’s experiences working with the United States Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) for consultation on impacts to listed species under the Federal Endangered Species … Continue Reading »
Federal Agencies Propose Major Changes to the Endangered Species Act
On July 19, 2018, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) and National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Fisheries (collectively, Agencies) announced proposed revisions to Endangered Species Act (ESA) regulations. The proposed changes have the potential to affect ESA permit timelines, delisting of species, designation of Critical Habitat, and whether species listed as threatened in the … Continue Reading »
San Rafael Sunset Criterium 2018
The family-friendly San Rafael Sunset Criterium cycling race will be held Saturday, July 28, 2018 along 4th Street in downtown San Rafael. One of the most common forms of American road bike racing, the criterium is a multi-lap race held on a closed course. These races are extremely fast and are accessible for spectators to … Continue Reading »
in·sight newsletter [Summer 2018]
The latest edition of WRA’s in·sight newsletter is out now. The Summer 2018 edition features exciting news and blog posts as recap of upcoming conferences and events. Click here to catch up on all our latest news!
UC Davis/WRA Research Poster Featured at the International Congress on the Biology of Fish
WRA’s Dan Chase will attend the International Congress on the Biology of Fish July 15-19, 2018 in Calgary, Alberta. A research poster on the genetic sequencing, distribution, and salinity tolerance for two invasive goby (Tridentiger) in the San Francisco Bay will be featured as a collaboration between the Todgham Lab from University of California, Davis and WRA. … Continue Reading »
Silicon Valley Clean Water Project Wins AEP 2018 Outstanding Environmental Analysis Award
The Association of Environmental Professionals (AEP) held their annual conference in Palm Springs March 25-28, 2018 in Rancho Mirage, California. The Silicon Valley Clean Water Wastewater Conveyance System and Treatment Plant Reliability Improvement Project Environmental Impact Report (EIR) was recognized with AEP’s top honor – the Outstanding Environmental Analysis Award. WRA wishes to congratulate our … Continue Reading »
Federal and State Regulatory Agencies Approve Antonio Mountain Ranch Mitigation Bank
State, Federal Agencies to Protect Nearly 800 Acres to Offset Ecological Impacts WRA is proud to announce another huge mitigation banking milestone. On June 6, 2018, regulatory agencies approved the final bank instrument for the nearly 800-acre Antonio Mountain Ranch Mitigation Bank in Placer County, California. After working with the Interagency Review Team for nearly five … Continue Reading »
WRA Announces Addition of Permitting and Mitigation Expert Leslie Allen
Leslie Allen joins WRA, Inc. as a Senior Regulatory Permitting Specialist focusing on projects affecting streams, wetlands, and endangered species. With more than 20 years of experience and a passion for coastal and shoreline habitats, Leslie lends her expertise to clients to navigate an increasingly complex regulatory permitting process. “Leslie is a recognized leader in … Continue Reading »
USFWS Site Visit: Ridge Top Ranch Wildlife Conservation Bank
The Ridge Top Ranch Wildlife Conservation Bank is a 745-acre ranch located in Solano County, California. The property supports two federally listed wildlife species: California red-legged frog and Callippe silverspot butterfly. On April 11, 2018, bank sponsor Ridge Top Ranch LLC and staff from WRA, Inc. provided a tour of the property to 11 U.S. Fish … Continue Reading »
Tidewater Goby Workshop September 21-23, 2018
WRA’s Daniel Chase is among a panel of expert instructors for the upcoming Tidewater Goby Ecology & Management workshop September 21-23, 2018 at the Pt. Reyes National Seashore in Marin County, California. The event is co-hosted by the Cal/Neva Chapter of the American Fisheries Society and the Western Section of The Wildlife Society and will cover … Continue Reading »
Northern Mockingbird Article Featured in San Diego Audubon Society Newsletter
WRA’s Anna Prowant contributed an article to the Summer 2018 edition of San Diego Audubon Society’s newsletter Sketches. Her article, Creature Feature: The Northern Mockingbird, can be found on page 7 of the issue. Click here to read the full issue. Anna volunteers as an Educational Docent at the Anstine-Audubon Nature Preserve. Learn more about the chapter … Continue Reading »
Napa River Rotary Screw Trap Open House May 6
On Sunday May 6, 2018 the Napa County Resource Conservation District (RCD) will host an open house at the Napa River Rotary Screw Trap. For nearly a decade, the RCD has been using the rotary screw trap, a fish collection device, to monitor fish populations in the Napa River Watershed, with particular focus on steelhead … Continue Reading »
Panel Recap: BPC Shoreline Restoration and Resiliency Workshop
Through WRA’s involvement in the Bay Planning Coalition’s Sustainable Waterfronts Committee, WRA had the opportunity to participate in the Shoreline Restoration and Resiliency Workshop on April 17, 2018 hosted at the Port of San Francisco Commissioner’s Room in the Ferry Building. The perfect backdrop to such a workshop, San Francisco Bay is the center of much discussion … Continue Reading »
CNPS-SCV Wildflower Show April 28, 2018
The California Native Plant Society Santa Clara Valley (SCV) Chapter is hosting its 44th Annual Wildflower Show on Saturday, April 28, 2018 at West Valley College. Th is free event will feature hundreds of species of wildflowers and native plants, lectures, tours, demonstrations, and children’s activites. WRA’s Elan Alford, CNPS-SVC San Mateo Rare Plants Chair, will present Digging … Continue Reading »
Reptiles and Amphibians Workshop: Anstine-Audubon Nature Preserve
Join Anna Prowant, WRA biologist and Anstine-Audubon Nature Preserve Education Docent, on Saturday, April 21, 2018 11am-12pm for a Reptiles and Amphibians talk! Anna will discuss reptiles and amphibians of southern California. More information about the event is on the Preserve’s Facebook page. Details about the Preserve is available on their website.
Enviro-Business Career Fair April 23, 2018
WRA is excited to participate in the Enviro-Business Career Fair at San Diego State University April 23, 2018 from 1:30-4:30pm. Hosted by the Enviro-Business Society (e3), the event will take place in the Montezuma Hall, located within the Conrad Prebys Aztec Student Union. WRA’s Amanda McCarthy and Anna Prowant will be at Table 25 to talk … Continue Reading »
Living With Water: Walk the Shoreline April 22, 2018
Hosted by the Studio for Urban Projects/Bionic Team for the Bay Area Resilient By Design Challenge, join WRA for this free Earth Day event Sunday April 22 11am-2pm! WRA’s Amanda McCarthy will among the speakers for this 2.5-mile shoreline walking tour. Starting at Pickleweed Park in San Rafael, participants will examine habitat restoration and sea level … Continue Reading »
Register for LandPaths/WRA Serpentine Ecology Workshop
WRA is excited to continue our partnership with LandPaths to lead a serpentine ecology workshop at the Bohemia Ecological Preserve in Sonoma County on April 27, 2018. Join WRA Botanist Aaron Arthur and Serpentine Ecologist Tanner Harris for an informative program including a 2-mile tour of the remote property while learning about the unique plants found … Continue Reading »
in·sight newsletter [Winter 2018]
Spring Environmental Checklist
RARE PLANT SURVEY Conducting a full season of rare plant surveys before designing your project can help you avoid last-minute redesigns and costly project delays. The first step is conducting a habitat assessment to determine whether rare plants have potential to occur on your site and whether surveys are needed. Because different rare plants bloom … Continue Reading »
New USGS Research Article: Coastal Wetlands Response to Sea Level Rise
WRA’s Jordan Rosencranz, former researcher with the U.S. Geological Survey, is co-author of a USGS-led study on coastal wetlands and sea-level rise. The article, “U.S. Pacific coastal wetland resilience and vulnerability to sea-level rise” was published in the Science Advances journal on February 21, 2018. Read the full article here. Additional Resources USGS: New USGS-Led Study Could Help … Continue Reading »
Expanding Opportunities for Environmental DNA Sampling
by Daniel Chase and Patricia Valcarcel The molecule that contains the genetic instructions for life, and is found in every species on the planet, is now opening new doors and providing a powerful tool for biologists and natural resource managers. Deoxyribonucleic acid, more commonly known as DNA, is fundamental to life. For decades, scientists have … Continue Reading »
Endangered Coho Salmon Return to Redwood Creek
WRA Fisheries Expert to Present at the American Fisheries Society Cal-Neva Annual Meeting
The Cal-Neva Chapter of the American Fisheries Society 52nd Annual Meeting will be held February 28-March 2 in San Luis Obispo. The theme of the meeting is “Outside the Bubble”. The conference, which brings together academics, scientists, regulators, and others dedicated to the fisheries community, will focus on the critical need to engage with those … Continue Reading »
WRA Featured in Landscape Architecture Magazine
Colorado Ecosystem Services Partnership Event Explores Carbon Sequestration
WRA will host the Colorado Ecosystem Services Partnership (CESP) event on December 4, 2017 at the Colorado State Land Board. The program will explore carbon sequestration in the state. Carbon crediting plays a vital role in mitigating global climate change and can also provide valuable revenue streams for private and public landowners. Tim Plass, will provide … Continue Reading »
WRA Eelgrass Expert to Present at CERF Conference
The Coastal and Estuarine Research Federation will hold its biennial conference November 5-9, 2017 in Providence, Rhode Island. CERF publishes a leading journal titled “Estuaries and Coasts” providing a platform for which scientists can share their work. Scientists gather at the event to share research in progress and findings. WRA eelgrass expert, Gwen Santos, will … Continue Reading »
Environmental Law Conference Panel Features WRA ESA Expert
WRA’s Endangered Species Act (ESA) expert Ken Sanchez will join a panel at the 2017 Environmental Law Conference at Yosemite®. Session 27: Receding and Advancing Jurisdictional Boundaries and the Interplay Between Federal and State Wetlands and Species Regulations will take place Sunday, October 22nd at 11 a.m. The panel will provide a comprehensive overview of … Continue Reading »
WRA Supports 12th Annual ‘Moonlight on the Marsh’ Gala
WRA is proud to support the Friends of Ballona Wetlands as a sponsor of this year’s Moonlight on the Marsh gala. The event will be held Saturday, October 7, 2017 at the CenterPointe Club in Playa Vista. The non-profit’s mission is to champion the restoration and protection of the Ballona Wetlands, one of the last … Continue Reading »
Natural Areas Conference to Feature WRA’s Conservation Finance Expertise
The 44th annual Natural Areas Conference will be held in Fort Collins, Colorado October 10-12, 2017. This year’s conference focuses on collaboration as a key to natural areas management. WRA’s Denver-based conservation finance team, focused on innovative investment strategies for conservation projects in the U.S. and abroad, is honored to be part of this year’s … Continue Reading »
WRA to Present Posters at the State of the Estuary Conference
WRA’s experts have been invited to present posters at the 13th Biennial State of the San Francisco Estuary Conference being held October 10-11, 2017 in Oakland. The posters will be on display throughout the conference and a special poster session reception is scheduled for Tuesday, October 10 at 5:00 pm. Posters The poster abstract program is … Continue Reading »
WRA Sponsors Rivers & Lands Conservancy ‘Pride of Place’ Gala
WRA, Inc. is a proud sponsor of the fourth annual Rivers & Lands Conservancy fundraiser. The Pride of Place in the Great Outdoors gala event will be held on Thursday, October 12, 2017 at the Crestmore Manor in Riverside, California. The Conservancy is a private nonprofit focused on conserving open … Continue Reading »
WRA Supports BionicTeam in Resilient by Design Bay Area Challenge
WRA, Inc. is honored to be part of the BionicTeam, a consortium of experts led by San Francisco-based landscape architecture and urban design firm Bionic, selected as one of the top 10 teams in the Resilient by Design Bay Area Challenge. The Challenge will form partnerships between the public and private sectors to develop community-based solutions … Continue Reading »
WRA to Co-Present at the 2017 Land Use Law Conference
WRA, Inc. is honored to be part of the 2017 Land Use Law conference, hosted by CLE International. On September 18-19 in San Francisco, developers, planners, regulators, and attorneys will gather to discuss critical topics facing California land use law and policy. WRA President Geoff Smick will co-present a session on Monday, September 18th from 1:45-2:45 pm … Continue Reading »
Ecosystem Renewal, The Earth Partners, WRA, CIM successfully partner on Texas mitigation banks
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: July 27, 2017 Harris County, Texas: Over the past year, Ecosystem Renewal (ER) and The Earth Partners (TEP) have successfully partnered to develop large-scale wetland mitigation solutions for the rapidly growing greater Houston area. They permitted and constructed one of the largest wetland banks in Texas slated to provide over 5,000 freshwater and … Continue Reading »
WRA Team Bike Challenge 2017
WRA is a Certified Small Business in Alameda County
WRA, Inc. is now certified as a Small Business with Alameda County’s Small, Local, Emerging Business (SLEB) Program! Services and Experience Our East Bay office team, located in Emeryville, offers a full suite of environmental consulting expertise including plant, wildlife, and wetland ecology; environmental planning; regulatory compliance and permitting; mitigation solutions; landscape architecture; and GIS. We are … Continue Reading »
Endangered Species Habitat Expanded in Marin
The Creekside Marsh near Hal Brown Park is home to the endangered salt marsh harvest mouse, California Ridgway’s rail, and many other tidal marsh species. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers filled this marsh and many other tidal wetlands in the watershed with dredge spoils in the late 1960’s when the earthen channel for the … Continue Reading »
WRA Initiates the Development of a Carbon Co-op with Sempervirens Fund
WRA, Inc. is kicking off the development of a first of its kind forest carbon crediting program in the Santa Cruz Mountains of California. The program is being developed in partnership with Sempervirens Fund, California’s oldest land trust, and is funded by the Gordon and Betty Moore Foundation. The program, formerly referred to as the … Continue Reading »
WRA Guest Column Featured in North Bay Biz Wine Issue
The March 2017 North Bay Biz magazine features WRA’s guest column on the increasing use of drones in the agricultural industry, especially for vineyards. WRA has supported the North Bay wine industry for several decades, from vineyard site selection, development, permitting, and maintenance. Recent advances in Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) technology, ‑aka drones‑now allows for substantial … Continue Reading »
WRA Hosts Colorado Ecosystem Services Partnership Event on Strategic Land Conservation in the West
WRA hosted a Colorado Ecosystem Services Partnership (CESP) event on February 23, 2017 at the Colorado State Land Board. More than 20 attendees braved a winter storm and came from as far as San Diego, California to attend three presentations focused on “Strategic Land Conservation in the West.” Program and Presenters Erik Glenn, Executive Director … Continue Reading »
2017 National Mitigation & Ecosystem Banking Conference
WRA is a proud sponsor of the 2017 National Mitigation and Ecosystem Banking Conference (NMEBC). Entering its 20th year, NMEBC is committed to advancing and protecting the environment in a financially sustainable way. This year’s event will take place May 9-12, 2017 in Sacramento. The program includes interactive sessions, panels, moderated forums and training opportunities. A … Continue Reading »
WRA Co-Sponsors Bank Tank® at NMEBC 2017
A platform to connect with investors at NMEBC 2017 In its second year at the National Mitigation and Ecosystem Banking Conference, Bank Tank® is a program that connects investors with environmentally sustainable projects and land opportunities. Whether you are seeking funding, own land with natural asset potential, or are looking to invest in sustainable opportunities, don’t miss … Continue Reading »
WRA to Moderate Land Conservation Mitigation Summit
WRA’s experts are attending the 2017 Land Conservation Conference, hosted by the California Council of Land Trusts. One the third day of the conference, WRA’s Ken Sanchez will moderate the Mitigation Summit scheduled for Thursday, March 9th. Panelists from regulatory, government, non-profits, and consultant sectors will cover a variety of topics including: Regional conservation investment … Continue Reading »
Registration Open for Wetland Delineation Training 2017
WRA’s wetland delineation experts Amanda McCarthy, Tanner Harris, and Aaron Arthur will co-lead a 5-day basic wetland delineation training at the Romberg Tiburon Center (RTC) for Environmental Studies March 20-24, 2017. This training, provided in joint collaboration with the San Francisco Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve (NERR) and RTC, will focus on procedures used to … Continue Reading »
Corps Issues Nationwide Permits for 2017
One of the most used authorizations for work in “waters of the United States” is the Nationwide Permit (NWP) under the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (Corps) Regulatory Program. Over 60,000 NWPs are authorized each year by the Corps with more than 700 in California alone. These authorizations cover a wide variety of activities associated … Continue Reading »
USDA Selects Winners of Conservation Innovation Grant
WRA, Inc. is proud to be part of the team selected by USDA together with I2 Capital and Upper Green River Conservancy to receive a Conservation Innovation Grant. The grant will be used to develop a new model of conservation bank for greater sage grouse in the Pinedale area of Wyoming. This new model will … Continue Reading »
San Francisco Bay Herring Spawn Potential Map
by Dan Chase Pacific herring (Clupea pallasii) are found in large schools throughout the California’s coastal zone and are an important forage species that sustains a valuable commercial and recreational fishing industry in San Francisco Bay. While primarily found off shore, the species moves into bays and estuaries in the winter to lay their eggs. These … Continue Reading »
WRA Restoration Experts to Present at SERCAL 2020!
WRA is proud to sponsor the 2020 SERCAL conference, which will encompass eight webinar sessions on Tuesday and Thursday afternoons in the month of September. This year’s conference theme is Shedding Light in Challenging Times. Two WRA experts are presenting topics, and senior biologist Kari Dupler is chairing the Hindsight is 2020 session. Managing Invasive … Continue Reading »
Greenways and Climate Change Resilience: A Call to Action at the ASLA Ecology & Restoration PPN Meeting
With a record number of industry events postponed or canceled this year, it’s comforting to have a good record of past conferences to reflect on for inspiration. The 2019 American Society of Landscape Architects (ASLA) Conference was particularly memorable. WRA Landscape Architect, Ingrid Morken, captured the highlights of the Ecology & Restoration Professional Practice Network … Continue Reading »
