The Endangered Species Review Biologist provides guidance to project proponents and their consultants on the legal requirements of Massachusetts Endangered Species Act (MESA) and rare species provisions of the Massachusetts Wetlands Protection Act (WPA), including the requirements for obtaining Conservation & Management Permits to authorize the “take” of rare species, and negotiate permit terms to avoid, minimize and mitigate impacts. Follow-up on issued permits and ensure compliance with permit conditions, as needed.

DETAILED STATEMENT OF DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Prepare written analyses and complete reviews of the environmental impacts of proposed projects on species protected under the Massachusetts Endangered Species Act, including 321 CMR 10.18, applications for MESA Conservation and Management Permits under 321 CMR 10.23, as well as the rare species provisions of the Massachusetts Wetlands Protection Act (310 CMR 10.00).
- Provide guidance to project proponents and their consultants on the legal requirements of MESA and rare species provisions of the WPA, provide guidance on the requirements for obtaining Conservation & Management Permits to authorize a “take” of rare species and negotiate permit terms to avoid, minimize and mitigate impacts. Follow-up on issued permits and ensure compliance with permit conditions, as needed.
- Review Environmental Notification Forms and Environmental Impact Reports submitted under the Massachusetts Environmental Policy Act (MEPA) for impacts on state-listed species. Attend MEPA consultation meetings and prepare written comments to MEPA on projects with rare species impacts. Coordinate NHESP comments with other Division sections and other involved state or federal agencies.
- Extract relevant information from the Natural Heritage rare species records, computer databases, rare species occurrence maps, and consult with agency biologists and other experts concerning potential rare species impacts.
- Inspect project sites to evaluate potential impacts of projects on rare species habitats.