News Release: Nature Conservancy Will Vigorously Protect Staten Island Habitat for Sandhill Cranes
From The Nature Conservancy:
“The Nature Conservancy announced today [August 15] its intent to preserve migratory bird habitat in the Delta in light of the California Department of Water Resources’ proposed location for water export tunnels below Staten Island, which is owned by the Conservancy.
“In the updated Bay Delta Conservation Plan, the proposed tunnels would impact vitally important habitat for wintering sandhill cranes. These birds are unusually site-faithful, often using the same location to winter, year after year. Fifteen percent of the Greater Sandhill Cranes in the Central Valley winter on Staten Island.
“‘Because of Staten Island’s unique habitat values, it is with serious concern that we contemplate the Department of Water Resources’ proposed use of the Island as the location of its water export tunnels,’ said Wendy Pulling, director of conservation programs at The Nature Conservancy in California.” …
“The Nature Conservancy has been engaged in the Bay Delta Conservation Plan process in order to advance habitat conditions for migratory birds and other wildlife in the Delta. However, the Conservancy has not taken a position on the BDCP and cannot take a position until it is released.”
Read more from The Nature Conservancy news release