Wabasha Construction Birds

The City of Wabasha is aware of community questions regarding potential impacts to birds in the area of the Market Street Reconstruction project and would like to clarify how the City is addressing these concerns.

At this time, no in‑use migratory bird nest has been confirmed in the area of the project with planned tree removal. The City has retained qualified natural resources consultant staff who regularly conduct nesting bird surveys consistent with state and federal law, including the Migratory Bird Treaty Act (MBTA).

A nesting bird survey of the proposed infiltration pond footprint and surrounding area is scheduled for next week to determine whether any in‑use nests or eggs protected under the MBTA are present within the project area or an appropriate buffer.

Tree removal associated with the infiltration pond is not scheduled to occur until the end of the project, and if an in‑use nest is identified within the pond area or buffer, tree clearing can be timed to avoid the nesting period, consistent with MBTA requirements.

The City’s construction contract also requires the contractor to comply with all applicable state and federal wildlife protection laws.

The City will continue to share information as surveys are completed and will take appropriate steps to ensure compliance with migratory bird protections while the project moves forward.