#United States #Sacramento #Elderberry Beetle #Conservation Banks #Westervelt Ecological

New Conservation Initiative for the Valley Elderberry Longhorn Beetle

Westervelt Ecological Services (WES) has made significant strides in conservation efforts for the Valley Elderberry Longhorn Beetle (VELB) by securing approval from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) for two new conservation banks in Colusa County, California. These banks, known as the Sacramento River VELB Conservation Bank and Harmony Conservation Bank, are designed to restore and preserve essential habitats for this threatened species under the federal Endangered Species Act (ESA).

The Importance of VELB Habitat

The Valley Elderberry Longhorn Beetle, known scientifically as Desmocerus californicus dimorphus, is a medium-sized beetle that historically thrived in California's Central Valley. The species is deeply connected to its host plant, the elderberry, relying on it throughout its lifecycle. Unfortunately, due to habitat loss, VELB populations have declined, prompting the need for dedicated conservation measures.

Restoration Efforts

Both conservation banks will offer a combined area of 74 acres of carefully restored riparian habitats along the Sacramento River. WES's restoration initiatives include planting elderberry shrubs and other native species like box elder, Fremont's cottonwood, valley oak, and California wild grape. These efforts aim to foster a shrub-dominated environment that supports the needs of the VELB during its lifecycle.

Moreover, the restoration activities are fortified by conservation easements, ensuring the long-term protection of these habitats. WES has partnered with Ducks Unlimited and the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation, which will manage the easements and provide funding for ongoing maintenance and management of the conservation sites.

A Model for Future Conservation

The establishment of these conservation banks represents a critical balance between development and environmental preservation. WES’s proactive approach serves as a model for future conservation banking projects, demonstrating how it is possible to meet conservation goals while accommodating development needs. As California continues to grow, these efforts will play a vital role in protecting species at risk, especially in regions where urban expansion threatens delicate ecosystems.

This initiative underscores the importance of collective action in environmental conservation, bringing together various stakeholders to establish a sustainable framework that benefits both the environment and local communities.

Moving Forward

With the necessary approvals in place and an effective management strategy established, WES is positioned to make a significant impact on conservation in California. As these projects progress, they will not only support the recovery of the Valley Elderberry Longhorn Beetle but also contribute to the overall health of the Sacramento Valley ecosystem.

For further inquiries about the Sacramento River VELB Conservation Bank and Harmony Conservation Bank and their available credits, interested parties can contact Amanda Dwyer at 925-783-9924 or via email at [email protected].

About Westervelt Ecological Services

Westervelt Ecological Services, LLC, is a leading entity in the field of conservation banking, focusing on the restoration and preservation of wetlands and species habitats. As a division of The Westervelt Company, based in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, WES offers innovative mitigation banking solutions that assist developers and businesses in managing their impact on vital ecosystems across the United States. For more information, please visit www.wesmitigation.com.