Terrestrial Ecology & Wildlife Consulting

Environmental Solutions & Innovations (ESI) provides comprehensive terrestrial ecology services through a team of advanced-degree scientists who are professionally certified and federally permitted by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Our terrestrial ecologists combine resourceful thinking with proven scientific methodologies to deliver efficient, innovative solutions that keep projects compliant and on track.

Early Project Planning & Conflict Avoidance

Proactive assessment saves time and money. ESI’s specialists conduct thorough desktop analyses examining species databases, land cover data, and aerial imagery to identify potential conflicts before they impact your timeline or budget. We provide comprehensive information that informs project design, highlights regulatory considerations, and establishes realistic permitting strategies from day one.

Our early planning approach includes detailed habitat mapping, regulatory pathway analysis, and stakeholder coordination to ensure your project moves forward smoothly through the environmental review process.

Habitat Assessments & Conservation Planning

ESI conducts detailed habitat assessments that document suitable conditions for listed species while supporting mitigation and conservation objectives. Our assessments follow established federal and state protocols, and when standard guidance doesn’t exist, we develop agency-validated, species-specific methodologies using best available science.

Key habitat assessment services include:

• Suitable habitat mapping for endangered and threatened species
• Mitigation banking feasibility studies
• Conservation easement planning
• Restoration potential evaluations
• Critical habitat impact assessments

Species Surveys & Monitoring

USFWS Section 10 Recovery Permit Capabilities

ESI holds federal permits allowing our qualified biologists to capture and handle over 100 federally listed species. We conduct presence/probable absence surveys for federally listed, state-listed, forest sensitive, and locally rare species across more than 23 states annually.

Our survey expertise spans multiple taxa:

• Mammals: Bats, carnivores, small mammals, ungulates
• Birds: Raptors, songbirds, waterfowl, ground-nesting species
• Reptiles & Amphibians: Turtles, snakes, salamanders, frogs
• Invertebrates: Pollinators, butterflies, freshwater mussels
• Plants: Rare flora, invasive species mapping

Cave & Karst Ecology Specialists

For over 20 years, ESI has been a recognized leader in cave biomonitoring and karst ecosystem assessment. Our team includes accomplished technical cavers who safely access remote locations using single and multi-pitch rappelling techniques.

Specialized cave services:

• Winter and summer bat hibernacula counts
• Bio-inventories of karst-obligate species
• Critical cave feature assessments
• White-nose syndrome monitoring
• Karst habitat restoration planning

Animal Movement & Tracking Studies

ESI’s animal movement specialists utilize cutting-edge technology to monitor wildlife across large landscapes and challenging environments. Our services include aerial tracking, ground-based triangulation, and advanced telemetry analysis.

Tracking technologies we deploy:

• VHF radio telemetry
• GPS collar systems
• Cellular-enabled tracking devices
• Coded transmitter arrays

We maintain FAA compliance and commercial aircraft insurance for aerial surveys using Cessna 172 and 182 aircraft, plus drone capabilities for specialized monitoring needs.

Invasive Species Management

ESI provides comprehensive invasive species services from initial surveys through long-term management and restoration. Our field surveys establish baseline conditions, monitor restoration progress, and support adaptive management strategies.

Invasive species services include:

• Early detection and rapid response protocols
• Mechanical and chemical control implementation
• Restoration monitoring and success criteria development
• Cost-effective sustainability planning

Why Choose ESI for Terrestrial Ecology?

Professional Certifications: Our team holds certifications from The Wildlife Society and Ecological Society of America, ensuring the highest professional standards.

Regulatory Expertise: We maintain current permits and stay current with evolving federal and state regulations across multiple jurisdictions.

Proven Track Record: With projects spanning 23+ states, we have the experience to handle complex, multi-jurisdictional environmental challenges.

Innovative Solutions: Our science-based approach delivers creative solutions that meet compliance requirements while supporting project objectives.

Ready to Move Your Project Forward?

Contact ESI’s terrestrial ecology team to discuss how our expertise can support your environmental compliance needs. Our proactive approach helps identify opportunities early, avoid costly delays, and ensure successful project outcomes.

Get started with a consultation today – call us at 513-451-1777 or contact us online to learn how ESI’s terrestrial ecology services can benefit your next project.