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Ms. Jodi Reynolds-Coffelt undertook a presentation at the Arkansas Environmental Federation Regulated Waste Seminar titled:
Wildlife Habitat Programs – It’s Easier Than You Think (“Presentation”)
Ms. Reynolds-Coffelt serves as Environmental Protection Manager – Arkansas – for Waste Management of Arkansas, Inc.
The Presentation focused on how to gain certification through the Wildlife Habitat Council (“WHC”).
Ms. Reynolds-Coffelt initially noted that native species depend on private land (and responsible land stewardship), noting:
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80 percent of the habitat that species listed under the Endangered Species Act depend on exists on private lands.
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Arkansas is home to 37 threatened and endangered species.
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An estimated 82 percent of the total land base in Arkansas is privately owned.
The WHC was noted to have a mission that promotes and certifies habitat conservation and management on corporate lands through partnerships and education. The organization’s vision (every act of conservation matters ) and values (open, true, driven and bold team, and every act of conservation matters) were addressed.
Requirements for WHC conservation certification were identified, which include:
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Are locally appropriate
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Exceed regulatory requirements
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Provide conservation or education value
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Have documented measurable outcomes
The steps in planning a project were discussed, such as:
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Defining objectives
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Evaluating resources and establishing a team
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Knowing your habitat
Initiating the project includes:
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Selection
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Seeking partnerships
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Scheduling events/allocation of resources
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Implementation of projects
Program implementation and reporting were discussed which included:
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Regular meetings/evaluations
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Routine maintenance
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Routine monitoring
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Reporting results
The types of WHC programs were addressed, which may include 26 possible themes. Characteristics of projects were noted, such as:
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No minimum acreage requirements
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Ability to have one or more programs
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Ability to set your own monitoring requirements and goals
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Applications can be submitted online
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Certification is good for 2 years
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Certification fee is $1,000
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WHC staff is available to help (different levels)
Ms. Reynolds-Coffelt discussed a Waste Management example involving the 2009 Eco-Vista Landfill WHC project. The project was stated to include 75 acres of prairie unit improvement/conservation area in six phases. Also involved was the Woodland Unit/Bluebird Trail and a Butterfly Garden/Fish Pond.
Finally, five key takeaways for a successful program were noted, which included:
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A great Wildlife Habitat Program does not necessarily require lots of time and money
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Consider comprehensive site plan when designing your Wildlife Habitat Program
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Employee participation and interest is crucial
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Teaming with local groups who have similar interests can be a great asset
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If you don’t document, it didn’t happen
A copy of the slides can be downloaded here.