Subsequently, ESC has successfully completed Section 404 permitting and 401 Water Quality Certification for several rail projects, allowing work to proceed on time and within schedule.

Natural Resource Assessments and Environmental Documentation.
ESC has performed field studies and completed natural resource assessments for rail projects in areas ranging from Graham County in the mountains, to Johnston County in the Coastal Plain region.  Tasks have included an evaluation of on-site topography, soils, wetlands, water resources, and documented natural resources element occurrences.  A site visit includes identification of plant community types, a search for evidence of and potential for wildlife, and investigation of the quality of water resources.

Our firm was selected to prepare Categorical Exclusion documentation for rail improvements in Graham County and an Environmental Assessment in Swain County.

Protected Species Surveys
ESC biologists have conducted field investigations for the presence or absence of protected species or evaluations of habitat that may support listed species for the Rail Division.  Surveys have been undertaken for red-cockaded woodpecker, Schweinitz’s sunflower, Michaux’s sumac, and smooth coneflower as part of rail corridor studies. 

Environmental Permitting
ESC has offered mitigation assistance to the Rail Division on an as-need basis.  For example, our firm generated stream restoration plans at a rail crossing in Johnston County, including detailed engineering hydraulic studies and preparation of construction plans.  ESC subsequently provided construction oversight to insure success of the project.