Species on Lands Affected by Renewables (SOLAR)

Multiple large scale solar, wind, and geothermal energy development projects are currently proposed across the Mojave and Sonoran deserts of the southwestern United States, and these development needs are likely to continue or increase into the future. Agencies tasked with managing biological resources throughout this region must understand the potential impacts of these renewable energy plants and associated infrastructure (e.g., transmission corridors, substations, access roads, etc.) in order to select appropriate development sites and to mitigate for anticipated effects. One of the major concerns of this new green energy initiative is determining how future development will impact wildlife movement, population persistence and adaptive potential. We are combining empirical data collection, habitat and population modeling techniques and genetic research to investigate patterns of biodiversity, and assess vulnerabilities to predicted development and climate change.