Indiana Bat Survey: West Virginia

In 2009, GAI Environmental Consultants, Inc. contracted Davey Resource Group to complete an Indiana bat presence/absence mist-net survey along a 27-mile natural gas pipeline corridor spanning two counties. Dominion Transmission, Inc. planned to replace the natural gas pipeline along this corridor and impact approximately 75 feet of its forested edge during construction.

Davey Resource Group has completed an initial reconnaissance study to determine proper site locations for mist-net placement. The study also gathered data to prepare a study plan for the client to use during coordination with federal and state agencies. Davey carefully planned the study and ensured its procedures followed guidelines recommended by the Indiana Bat Recovery Team and endorsed by United States Fish and Wildlife. This step was especially important to protect against the spread of white nose syndrome.

Mist-net sites were chosen in areas deemed as appropriate habitats for the Indiana bat; a total of 20 net sites were surveyed. Two survey crews worked simultaneously to complete this project within the specified timeframe. The fieldwork spanned several weeks to complete the mist-net surveys. During the mist-net survey, Davey provided progress updates to the client on a regular basis so that any obstacles or findings were clearly communicated. All mist-net locations were mapped using GPS and depicted on aerial photographs.

During the study, Davey participants captured a total of 151 bats of eight different species; however, they did not capture any Indiana bats. Upon completion of the fieldwork, Davey prepared a detailed report of the findings of the mist-net survey per the requirements of state and federal regulatory agencies.