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.