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, recently elevated to Candidate for listing under the California Endangered Species Act (CESA), are inhabitants of open grassland and desert scrub communities that are occasionally present on project sites in California. Mitigation and management of burrowing owls has previously been guided by recommendations in the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (2012) Staff Report on Burrowing Owl Mitigation. However, with the recent candidacy of the species under the California Endangered Species Act, obtaining take permissions through the Incidental Take Permit process is bringing big changes to the way burrowing owls are managed on project sites.
Projects that could impact listed species may require Incidental Take Permits under the federal Endangered Species Act or the California Endangered Species Act. Understanding which law applies and the processes involved is key to staying compliant and avoiding delays.
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.
How we can help
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.