Mitigation Site Searches
ESC often conducts mitigation site searches in various river basins. Search protocols involve the use of Geographical Information System (GIS) information overlain with aerial photography and cross-referenced to county tax mapping. Landowner contact is made prior to performing site visits. To date, we have identified more than 100,000 linear feet of stream for restoration and more than 200 acres of wetland restoration acreage.

Natural Resource Technical Reports (NRTRs)
NRTRs are prepared for highway projects ranging from bridge replacements to major highway relocations. The reports serve as critical components to the environmental assessments. Plant communities, wetlands, soils, wildlife, water quality, permitting, and mitigation are addressed in these documents.

Wetland Mitigation and Stream Restoration Plans
ESC not only identifies mitigation sites but also prepares detailed plans, construction drawings, and bid documents for mitigation implementation. We use innovative techniques to conduct our studies, including fluvial geomorphic principles for stream restoration. We have used our knowledge to help PD&EA develop regional curves to expedite stream planning.

Indirect and Cumulative Impact (ICI) Studies
ESC assisted PD&EA with evaluating ICIs associated with major highway development. EcoScience Corporation used innovative strategies to evaluate pre-and post-project conditions based on nutrient analyses as indices of impact. This approach is being used on other highway projects.

Permitting
ESC has experience with all phases of environmental permitting and often assists the Department with preparing permit documentation and undertaking agency coordination in support of projects.