|
EcoScience biologists have the technical expertise to undertake benthic macro-invertebrate sampling in streams and rivers on a statewide basis. Our staff has been certified by the NC Division of Water Quality (DWQ) for benthic sampling following state mandated protocols. EcoScience has SCUBA certified biologists with experience and training in SAV identification and mapping. The company maintains Hydrolab water quality monitoring equipment, ISCO stream gauges, and various sampling equipment for fisheries and benthic macro-invertebrates. We have ongoing benthic monitoring programs for public and private clientele.
Typical projects include:
Water Quality and Benthic Monitoring, NC Global TransPark, Kinston, NC
As part of the mitigation monitoring program for the North Carolina Global TransPark, EcoScience undertook a 2-year water quality monitoring program in Stonyton Creek to determine nutrient loading within the Stonyton Creek watershed. A detailed report was prepared and accepted by DWQ determining nutrient coefficient values for nitrogen and phosphorus. An evaluation of stream macro-invertebrate populations was also incorporated into the sampling regime.
Coastal Plain Macro-invertebrate Reference Data, Eastern North Carolina
EcoScience biologists, in cooperation with North Carolina Department of Transportation personnel, collected macro-invertebrate data from 10 NC Coastal Plain reference streams to establish an initial baseline database to determine successful rates of recolonization in stream restoration projects. The database is available to both private companies and public agencies.
Submerged Aquatic Vegetation (SAV) Survey, US 264 Bridge Replacement,
Hyde County and Roanoke Sound Bridge, Hyde County, NC
ESC staff conducted systematic surveys for SAV in association with highway bridge replacement over Scranton Creek. The project required construction of an on-site, temporary bridge during replacement of an existing bridge. SAV surveys were conducted in the vicinity of both the existing bridge and the proposed location of the temporary bridge with the use of SCUBA equipment. Aquatic vegetation was identified, vegetation boundaries were mapped, and survey results were presented in a summary report.
Similar studies were undertaken within the proposed footprint of a working pier as part of the Roanoke Sound Bridge replacement project. Regulatory requirements dictated that surveys be performed before construction of the pier commenced.
Concord Mills Water Quality Monitoring, Cabarrus County, NC
Approval of the mitigation plan for construction of the 1.4 million square foot Concord Mills Mall included stream restoration in an unnamed tributary to the Rocky River. Stream sampling for macro-invertebrates has been ongoing since restoration was completed in 2000. DWQ sampling protocols have been employed and samples taken for current and future identification. A trends analysis comparing pre- and post-project conditions was undertaken at the end of the 5-year monitoring period to determine mitigation success related to changes in macro-invertebrate diversity.
|
