MADISON (WKOW) — The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources is proposing to issue a permit that would allow the unintentional loss of some state-endangered slender glass lizards and ornate box turtles during a horticulture business expansion in Dane County.

Tim Andrews Horticulture wants to expand gravel parking and storage areas into about 1.23 acres of adjacent undeveloped land, according to a press release. The project area is currently a mix of northern hardwood, upland brush and some open areas.

DNR staff confirmed both endangered species live near the project site and determined the expansion may result in what’s called incidental take. That refers to the unintentional loss of individual endangered or threatened animals or plants that doesn’t put the species’ overall population at risk.

The proposed permit includes several conservation measures to protect the lizards and turtles. A biological monitor will be on site during construction, animals will be moved out of the project area before work begins and the company will enhance adjacent habitat to offset the impacts.

The DNR concluded the project is not likely to appreciably reduce the likelihood of survival or recovery of either species within the state.

The public can submit written comments about project-related impacts to the slender glass lizard or ornate box turtle by May 19 to DNR Conservation Biologist Rori Paloski at 608-516-3742 or Rori.Paloski@wisconsin.gov. Copies of the assessment and background information on both species are available on the DNR Incidental Take Public Notices webpage.