Wildlife Diversity Program Quarterly Report for October–December 2025
COOPERATIVE LAND CONSERVATION
Western NCDOT Bats
The coordinator participated with USFWS and NCDOT staff in the construction of potential bat roost openings in shot-crete abut- ment wall being constructed on I-40 bridge replacement in Haywood County. NCDOT Division 14 staff developed the idea as a means of providing bat roost mitigation in lieu of conventional bat boxes attached to bridge substructures.
Aquatic Passage
In coordination with Mountain Region DIF staff, installed new flexible baffles in one barrel of a 90’ dual barrel culvert crossing in Powers Branch on NC 261 in Mitchell County to facilitate upstream brook trout movements (see photos). Staff also conducted a post-Helene evaluation of the condition of flexible baffles in a culvert in Maine Branch in Watauga County, installed in 2024 to facilitate upstream brook trout movements. The baffles sustained only minor damage from the flood, requiring only about one hour of repair work (i.e. attachment screw replacement). In response to requests from NCDOT and the US Army Corps of Engineers, staff also assisted with trout distribution map revisions to provide more refined regulatory guidance.
DAVID McHENRY
DAVID McHENRY
DAVID McHENRY
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