July 2012
Sage Grouse Policy Updates and DDCT Web Application
Wyoming's sage grouse Core Population Area strategy was finalized in June 2011. As part of this Executive Order 2011-5, specific stipulations and permitting requirements for proposed disturbances in sage grouse core areas were established.
Recently, the Wyoming Game and Fish Department (WYGFD) and the Wyoming Geographic Information Science Center (WYGISC) collaborated to streamline the process for performing disturbance analyses and habitat assessments for sage grouse in Wyoming.
A new web application consolidates the Density Disturbance Calculation Tool (DDCT), which managers are required to use to determine the impacts of development that result in habitat disturbance. The new web application will also expedite project technical and policy review to ensure that disturbances are correctly mapped and the projects are in compliance with Executive Order 2011-5. The tool will streamline submittal of DDCT permit applications and allow managers to amend and update project status. All new DDCT submittals will use this new web tool for DDCT calculations and Executive Order compliance associated with the permit application process. The web application is currently available and can be accessed here: http://ddct.wygisc.org/home.aspx.
If you have additional questions regarding the Core Population Area strategy and DDCT requirement, please contact Matt Allshouse, Environmental Scientist, at mallshouse@trihydro.com or Trihydro at 307-745-7474.
