Adaptively Managed Translocation and Propagation of Mohave Ground Squirrels

The project focuses on conducting adaptive translocation and propagation research for the Mohave Ground Squirrel, a state-threatened species petitioned for federal endangered status, to mitigate biological impacts from renewable energy development in the Mojave Desert. The work combines zoological and paper-based research to develop scientifically grounded, technologically advanced protocols for capturing, relocating, and propagating the species, ensuring its survival amid solar facility expansion in California. These protocols aim to streamline renewable energy deployment by providing consistent, effective methods to reduce environmental disruption and regulatory delays, aligning conservation goals with clean energy objectives. The primary performance site is 47900 Portola Ave, Palm Desert, CA 92260, where laboratory-based husbandry, monitoring, and propagation activities will be conducted, while fieldwork occurs at affected solar sites throughout the Mojave Desert. The project operates under a categorical environmental exemption per California Code of Regulations, Title 14, Section 15306, confirming its non-significant impact nature as a research and conservation effort, and includes supporting documentation such as a certified exemption finding and notice of exemption. The California Energy Commission, through its Specialist II Julia Harnad and Project Manager Kathy Simon, oversees the initiative, with no formal solicitation, contract value, or federal acquisition regulation clauses applicable, as this is not a competitive procurement but a state-level environmental and conservation effort. No payment details, invoicing methods, contracting officer information, or socioeconomic certifications are provided, indicating the absence of standard federal contracting structure. The initiative is forecasted with a signature date of July 15, 2025, and published on December 3, 2025, suggesting it is in planning or preparatory phase, relying on state regulatory compliance rather than federal acquisition standards for implementation.