Relocation and burrow excavation practices are standard mitigation tools for species such as the San Joaquin antelope squirrel (Ammospermophilus nelsoni), California tiger salamander (Ambystoma californiense), and blunt-nosed leopard lizard (Gambelia sila), yet empirical support for their success remains limited. This presentation compiles and analyzes field data from multiple projects across the Central Valley to review the species encountered, fiscal costs, human safety concerns, and the overall success of burrow excavating. Findings indicate low number of species encountered yet high fiscal costs and increased human safety concerns. We propose a discussion for an alternative framework emphasizing population-level mitigation over individual relocation and increasing human safety protocols. By presenting both biological outcomes and fiscal implications, this presentation invites biologists and agencies to discuss traditional burrow excavating requirements and potential alternative routes.

Karissa Denney is a Senior Environmental Scientist at QK with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Conservation and Organismal Biology from San Jose State University. She has over 10 years of experience in environmental consulting supporting an extensive range of projects including renewable energy, habitat restoration, and urban development. Ms. Denney has wide range of field experience, compliance monitoring, and CEQA and NEPA reporting. She has conducted protocol-level surveys for San Joaquin kit fox, San Joaquin antelope squirrel, blunt-nosed leopard lizard, and other special-status species, and is experienced in small mammal trapping within the San Joaquin Valley.