Visual Encounter Surveys
Before construction activities occur, a Qualified Biologist will search all suitable aquatic habitat in the project area a minimum of three times during appropriate weather conditions (e.g. sunny periods between 8am to 12pm, and from 3pm until an hour before dusk; air temperatures 55.0-90.0 degrees Fahrenheit; wind speeds less than 12.0 mph). Surveys will occur when western pond turtles are most likely to be detected in aquatic habitat:
-For the southwestern pond turtle, the highest probability of detection is from March 1 to October 31 (May 1 to August 31 at elevations above 3,500 feet). If work will occur outside of this window, a Qualified Biologist will also search upland habitat between September 1 and April 30 (September 1 to April 30 at elevations above 3,500 feet).
-For the northwestern pond turtle, the highest probability of detection is from April 1 to September 30 (May 1 to August 31 at elevations above 3,500 feet). If work will occur outside of this window, a Qualified Biologist will also search upland habitat between October 1 and March 31 (September 1 to April 30 at elevations above 3,500 feet).
In areas where western pond turtles are known to occur or could be present, follow current guidance for visual encounter surveys in the Visual Encounter Survey Protocol for Western Pond Turtles developed by the Oregon Native Turtle Working Group (ODFW 2020). If surveys are not conducted or do not follow USFWS-approved methods, assume western pond turtles are present in suitable aquatic and upland habitat. Inquire with local USFWS Field Office on western pond turtle data records and if surveys have been completed in the project area.