WI DNR – Muskego Barns
Location: S90W13232 Boxhorn Drive, Muskego, WI 53150
Project Manager: Jessica Balestrieri
Field Manager: Antonio Venegas
Balestrieri Environmental & Development, Inc. collaborated with the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (WDNR) on a unique project in Muskego, Wisconsin: the design and construction of a Snake Hibernacula. This hibernacula will provide safe overwintering space for local snakes, ensuring their survival during Wisconsin’s harsh winters.
An old barn stood on the property where the snake hibernacula was going to be constructed. Before the hibernacula was constructed, Balestrieri had to perform asbestos abatement on the barns that stood on the property. Following the asbestos abatement, Balestrieri demolished the barn and its silo. The project aimed to create a sustainable habitat for snakes by reusing materials and reducing environmental impact. Key goals included recycling materials: concrete, masonry units, railroad ties, and rocks were reused for construction and minimizing waste. Once the structure was built, BE&D capped the hibernacula with a layer of smaller rock rubble to provide insulation. Entrances were kept open, and the area was covered with logs, rocks, and brush to protect the snakes from predators. BE&D recommended that the WDNR monitor the hibernacula site in spring (mid-April to late May) to track usage. While it may take time for snakes to discover the site, we are confident it will provide long-term benefits for the local wildlife.
This project exemplifies Balestrieri’s commitment to sustainability and wildlife conservation. By reusing materials and prioritizing environmental stewardship, we created a valuable resource for local snake populations. We look forward to seeing the hibernacula thrive.
Project Manager: Jessica Balestrieri
Field Manager: Antonio Venegas
Balestrieri Environmental & Development, Inc. collaborated with the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (WDNR) on a unique project in Muskego, Wisconsin: the design and construction of a Snake Hibernacula. This hibernacula will provide safe overwintering space for local snakes, ensuring their survival during Wisconsin’s harsh winters.
An old barn stood on the property where the snake hibernacula was going to be constructed. Before the hibernacula was constructed, Balestrieri had to perform asbestos abatement on the barns that stood on the property. Following the asbestos abatement, Balestrieri demolished the barn and its silo. The project aimed to create a sustainable habitat for snakes by reusing materials and reducing environmental impact. Key goals included recycling materials: concrete, masonry units, railroad ties, and rocks were reused for construction and minimizing waste. Once the structure was built, BE&D capped the hibernacula with a layer of smaller rock rubble to provide insulation. Entrances were kept open, and the area was covered with logs, rocks, and brush to protect the snakes from predators. BE&D recommended that the WDNR monitor the hibernacula site in spring (mid-April to late May) to track usage. While it may take time for snakes to discover the site, we are confident it will provide long-term benefits for the local wildlife.
This project exemplifies Balestrieri’s commitment to sustainability and wildlife conservation. By reusing materials and prioritizing environmental stewardship, we created a valuable resource for local snake populations. We look forward to seeing the hibernacula thrive.
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