Madison Reporter

The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has announced its intention to issue a permit for the incidental taking of the slender glass lizard, a rare and state-endangered species, in connection with the proposed construction of the Sand Valley Outpost Golf Course in Adams County.

Incidental take is defined as the unintentional loss of individual animals or plants that are endangered or threatened, provided this does not threaten the overall population of the species. The DNR states that such permits are only issued when projects are not expected to jeopardize the survival or recovery of affected species within Wisconsin.

Wisconsin Dunes, LLC plans to build the new golf course south of the existing Sand Valley Golf Course. The development will disturb approximately 132 acres. As part of the project plan, areas outside of active play will be restored to sand barrens, sand prairie, and savanna habitats.

The presence of slender glass lizards has been confirmed near the project site. According to DNR staff assessments, some individuals may be lost due to construction activities. However, after reviewing potential impacts, DNR officials determined that "the proposed project is not likely to appreciably reduce the likelihood of the survival or recovery of the species within the state, the whole plant-animal community of which it is a part of or the habitat that is critical to its existence."

Conservation measures aimed at minimizing harm to this endangered lizard will be included in any permit issued. Further details about these measures and background information on slender glass lizards can be found on the DNR Incidental Take Public Notices webpage or by contacting Rori Paloski, a conservation biologist with DNR.

Members of the public have until August 13, 2025, to submit written comments regarding how this project might affect slender glass lizards. Comments should be directed to:

Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources

c/o Rori Paloski, DNR Conservation Biologist

101 S. Webster St.

Madison, WI 53707

Rori.Paloski@wisconsin.gov or 608-516-3742

The permitting process follows established procedures designed to balance development with protection for rare wildlife species across Wisconsin.