Michael Tuma
Michael has more than 25 years of experience in wildlife ecology and applied conservation. He is an expert in Endangered Species Act and California Endangered Species Act permitting and regulatory processes. He specializes in the study of tortoises, including desert tortoises, and is an experienced leader, having mentored biologists in a diversity of settings. Michael has project experience in a variety of market sectors, including renewable energy, land management, transportation, water infrastructure, gas and mineral extraction, and land development.
Recent Posts
Burrowing owls, currently considered a California Species of Special Concern and a federal Bird of Conservation Concern, are inhabitants of open grassland and desert scrub communities that are occasionally present on project sites in California. Mitigation and management of burrowing owls is guided mainly by recommendations in the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (2012) Staff Report on Burrowing Owl Mitigation. However, the species may soon become listed under the California Endangered Species Act, which could bring big changes to the way burrowing owls are managed on project sites.
Biological consultants protect Mojave Desert tortoises from potentially harmful projects by determining their presence on project sites, assessing project effects, and sometimes translocating tortoises from project development areas. FirstCarbon Solutions (FCS) biologists can conduct technical studies and documentation, acquire project permits, and implement minimization and monitoring measures for any project involving Mojave Desert tortoises.
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In an ever-changing regulatory and sustainability environment, FCS understands the challenges you face. Our highly qualified environmental specialists, energy management consultants, and technical experts deliver integrated, industry-specific solutions that move your project forward—so that you can focus on what matters.