14-Attachment M2. Kohl Park ERMP Table 5 - Focal Species Matrix.xlsx

This document is a detailed ecological matrix (Attachment M2) for the Kohl Park Wildlife Enhancements Project, developed collaboratively by Milwaukee County Parks, the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR), and environmental consultants. The matrix comprehensively documents focal species present in the project area, including breeding birds, crayfish, frogs, salamanders, snakes, and mammals, with detailed assessments of potential restoration actions such as prescribed fire, forestry mowing, foliar spraying, reforestation, and grassland establishment. The project focuses on habitat restoration and invasive species control within the Milwaukee Estuary Area of Concern, with specific attention to species' breeding seasons, preferred habitats, and the short-term and long-term impacts of proposed ecological interventions.

The matrix provides a sophisticated evaluation framework for ecological restoration, utilizing a color-coded system to indicate species priority, habitat requirements, and potential impacts of proposed actions. The document includes multiple tabs with example matrices, supporting technical references such as the Milwaukee Estuary Area of Concern Wildlife Population Assessment Report, and guidance for consultants on completing species information, determining restoration actions, and mitigating potential negative environmental impacts. The matrix is designed to be a dynamic tool, with expectations that evaluations will evolve throughout the project, and each significant draft should be dated and saved as a separate workbook tab. The underlying goal is to support local conservation interests while carefully managing habitat modifications to benefit priority species groups.