Western states are renowned for their vast and diverse wildlife habitat, as well as their potential to produce renewable energy. These land uses often overlap across the landscape, leading to increasing habitat fragmentation while contributing significantly to the nation’s energy grid. Join the NSGIC Western States Caucus 3rd Annual Roundtable as we delve into these competing uses and the challenges western states face in balancing them, including data sharing and the complex permitting process. Expert speakers will inform discussions in breakout rooms before reporting out to consider recommendations or next steps.
To discuss the concepts of wildlife and renewable energy, Dr. Eric Schauber, Director of Research for the Renewable Energy Wildlife Institute, will join the roundtable. He is a wildlife ecologist with expertise in modeling and quantitative analysis.
To discuss the concepts of wildlife and renewable energy from a state agency perspective, Meghan Hertel, Deputy Secretary of Biodiversity and Habitat for the California Natural Resources Agency, will join the roundtable. Meghan leads her Agency’s efforts to conserve biodiversity and improve habitat across the state of California.
And to discuss the concepts of wildlife and renewable energy from a tribal sovereignty perspective, Geneva Thompson, Deputy Secretary of Tribal Affairs for the California Natural Resources Agency, will join the roundtable. Geneva leads the efforts to cultivate and ensure the participation and inclusion of tribal governments and communities within the work of the California Natural Resources Agency.
Presenters:
- Eric Schauber, PhD – Renewable Energy Wildlife Institute
- Meghan Hertel – California Natural Resources Agency
- Geneva Thompson – California Natural Resources Agency
Date: April 8, 2025
Materials:
- Recording
- Schauber Slides
- Roundtable Summary Document