Properties that contain wetlands and occupied gopher tortoise (Gopherus polyphemus) habitat within close proximity to one another contain potential habitat suitable for the eastern indigo snake, a federally protected species under the Endangered Species Act of 1973. In these circumstances, the development of an Eastern Indigo Snake Protection and Education Plan is often required by state and Federal agencies prior to any clearing of habitat on the site.

ESI prepared an Eastern Indigo Snake Protection and Education Plan for J.B. Coxwell Contracting, Inc. on their Branan Field/Chaffee Road Phase II project and also conducted an on-site educational seminar. The educational seminar included handouts and lecture on details regarding the eastern indigo snake and its habitat, instruction on how not to endanger the snake and what to do if an eastern indigo snake is encountered during the clearing phase of the project. Informational posters were also provided to display on the work-site information board, as well as throughout the project area. These signs provide a summary of all things explained in the educational talk, as well as serve as an important on-site reference. This project also includes coordination with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and requires experienced wildlife biologists to be on call if a protected species is encountered.