Habitat Management Guidelines for Amphibians and Reptiles of the Northwestern United States and Western Canada

Habitat alteration, fragmentation and loss are collectively considered to be the primary challenge in the conservation of amphibians and reptiles (i.e., herpetofauna). With herpetofaunal populations declining, and human populations expanding and using more land, PARC has developed a series of regionally specific best management practices, or Habitat Management Guidelines (HMGs) to provide proactive guidance for improving the compatibility of land management practices with these animals.

These guidelines are not regulations, nor are they in any way an attempt to limit landowners’ rights. They should simply be regarded as recommendations for landowners and managers to consider the needs of amphibians and reptiles in the course of their management activities. The HMGs are directed towards resource managers and private landowners who have a desire to help protect amphibians and reptiles. If many landowners and land managers each implement some of these guidelines, then the cumulative effect can only be a positive one.

These guidelines:
-use the best science available
-are easily understood by and practical for land managers and private landowners
-present measures to help maximize compatibility with existing management objectives, or to optimize management actions specifically for herpetofauna
-provide guidance on the management and restoration of habitats such that amphibians, reptiles, and many other wildlife species may benefit

HMGs are also available for Southeast, Northeast and Midwest regions (www.parcplace.org/habitat_management_guide.html)

To order hard copies of the regional habitat management guidelines, contact:
Delinda Franklin @ High Cotton
dfranklin@highcottonusa.com
phone: 1-877-838-2345
fax: 205-836-5587

OR, send a check (@ $10 per # copy desired) made out to “Missouri Conservation & Heritage Foundation” with “PARC” in the memo line to:
High Cotton (ATTN: Ms. Delinda Franklin)
2901 Alton Way
Birmingham, AL 35210

Donations to PARC help defray the costs of development, printing, postage and handling, and can be made by check, credit card, or money order.