The Service and Wisconsin Karner Blue Butterfly HCP partners at the November.. - Photo courtesy of Wisconsin DNR

Representatives from the Service’s Green Bay Ecological Services Field Office, Wisconsin DNR, University of Wisconsin-Madison, and the American Transmission Company met, Nov. 8,  to discuss the implementation of the Wisconsin Karner Blue Butterfly Statewide Habitat Conservation Plan (HCP).  

The major topic discussed was the Karner blue butterfly probability model which is nearing completion with help from UW-Madison. 

A GIS approach using several data layers is being used to develop the model. 

Karner blue butterfly occurrence data and lupine data collected by the Wisconsin DNR and its HCP partners are key components of the model.  The model identifies low to high probability areas for Karner blue occurrences throughout the high potential range of the species in Wisconsin.  

The goal is to have the model completed and in use in 2007.