What is the role of the Biological Advisory Team (BAT) in developing the HCP?
The Biological Advisory Team (BAT) is created to provide biological and other scientific input and critical review of the HCP as it is being prepared, and to evaluate the HCP once it is completed in draft form. The BAT is created in conformance with the Texas Parks and Wildlife Code 83.015-83.016. The recommendations of the BAT are advisory only, but it will have a role in influencing the findings of scientific studies conducted as a part of the HCP and in the outcome of the permit application to the USFWS. As the District prepares the HCP with the help of a consultant team and other participants over the next two years, it will ask the BAT to provide feedback and advice at various times during the process.
