The large-scale study will assess how proposed solar farms and other renewable energy projects could impact animals, plants, and habitats.
The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) announced $4.9 million in funding to support studies of the impacts of renewable energy projects on local ecosystems and wildlife.
As Greg Haas reports for KLAS, “The information collected could help the BLM decide the best places for projects as they come up for environmental review, and could help to fast-track some permits by doing wildlife studies ahead of time.”
Patrick Donnelly, Great Basin director at the Center for Biological Diversity, says that in addition to data collection, “We need strong new planning tools to give federal officials the authority to prioritize certain low conflict projects while denying projects that harm endangered species.”
Eight of the 10 largest proposed U.S. solar projects are in Nevada. “Those projects will eventually produce more than a quarter of the 25 gigawatts of electricity the Biden administration intends to permit on public lands by the end of 2025.”
FULL STORY: $4.9 million set aside for wildlife, plant studies ahead of solar, wind projects on public lands
Key Wins for Conservation in 2024
The year brought some important victories to advocates for public lands, national monuments, and the reclamation of Indigenous history.
Rural Nevada Counties Struggle to Keep up with Solar Projects
Local officials are calling for state regulations that would require federal land managers to enter agreements with local jurisdictions before moving forward with major renewable energy projects.
Industry Groups Sue BLM Over Public Lands Rule
Farmers, ranchers, and others are challenging a policy change that puts conservation on the same footing as other land uses.
2024: The Year in Zoning
Cities and states are leaning on zoning reform to help stem the housing crisis and create more affordable, livable neighborhoods.
NACTO Releases Updated Urban Bikeway Guide
The third edition of the nationally recognized road design guide includes detailed design advice for roads that prioritize safety and accessibility for all users.
Denver Pauses Multifamily Development in Westside Neighborhoods Amidst Gentrification Concerns
City officials say the pause on permits for redevelopment projects aims to stop the displacement of long-term residents.
After the Fires: Challenges and Efforts to Heal LA’s Parks and Trails
The recent LA wildfires have devastated parks and trails, with recovery efforts requiring extended closures, collaborative restoration plans, and community support to address extensive damage and long-term risks like landslides.
DC Launches New Round of E-Bike Rebates
District residents can apply for a subsidy of up to $1,500 to purchase e-bikes.
Why Aren’t There More Bollards in US Cities?
Solid barriers, like the dormant ones in New Orleans, are commonly used to improve road safety in Europe. Why not here?
Urban Design for Planners 1: Software Tools
This six-course series explores essential urban design concepts using open source software and equips planners with the tools they need to participate fully in the urban design process.
Planning for Universal Design
Learn the tools for implementing Universal Design in planning regulations.
Placer County
Skagit Transit
Berkeley County
Chaddick Institute at DePaul University
HUDs Office of Policy Development and Research
HUDs Office of Policy Development and Research
NYU Wagner Graduate School of Public Service
City of Cambridge, Maryland