Computerized hydrology modeling software utilizes sophisticated numeric models to analyze water runoff within a watershed area over a specific time period and rainfall intensity. This advanced technology revolutionizes the assessment of water resources and their impact on project planning. By integrating existing topography, soil types, and vegetation cover, hydrology models can accurately predict water surface
On May 25, 2023, the Supreme Court of the U.S. (SCOTUS) issued a ruling in the Sackett v. EPA case, stating only wetlands with a continuous surface connection to large rivers, lakes, and streams are eligible for federal protection. On August 29, 2023, the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) amended the 2023 Clean Water Rule
The South Cheyenne Solar Project will reduce Wyoming’s carbon footprint and provide a renewable energy option for residents of Laramie County, Wyoming. Dudek conducted a Phase I environmental site assessment (ESA) and a critical issues analysis (CIA) for the development and planning of the site and completed numerous environmental technical studies to assist Q Cells
When a Florida homeowner required surveying and permitting support for gopher tortoise, Dudek’s Authorized Gopher Tortoise Agent prepared the permit application, conducted a survey, and coordinated with gopher tortoise recipient sites to maintain the client’s construction budget and keep the project on schedule.
Construction delays, tied-up bonding capacity, and extraneous years of site mitigation, monitoring, and maintenance are just a few of the consequences of poorly considered and negotiated permit conditions. Conversely, a thorough, thoughtful permitting strategy can save you time and money. Dudek Habitat Restoration Practice Director Mike Sweesy offers five tips on how to tailor a
From November 1 through March 31, manatees migrate south from along the Eastern Seaboard, seeking warmer waters off the coast of Florida and along the Gulf of Mexico. During these five months, manatee presence in the area increases significantly, so many in-water construction activities must be halted. In 2021, an Unusual Mortality Event (UME) was
On December 21, 2021, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) officially published the final listing rule for the Hermes copper butterfly (Lycaena [Hermelycaena] hermes), designating it as a threatened species under the Endangered Species Act (ESA). As the species is endemic to San Diego County and northern Baja California, Mexico, the final rule designates
California is a prime location for offshore wind development for two reasons: first, it has some of the strongest and steadiest wind anywhere in the world and second, there is high demand for renewable energy in the California Independent Systems Operator (CAISO) market. In addition, technological advances for floating offshore wind turbines make the depths
Glare from solar panels can potentially impact sensitive receptors, such as aircraft pilots, air traffic controllers, motorists, residents, and recreationists. So, glint/glare analysis is increasingly becoming a required component of solar development applications at the local and federal levels. Additionally, depending on complexity, project components can be difficult for the public and decision-makers to conceptualize
Virginia recently passed the Virginia Clean Economy Act, which includes a renewable portfolio standard that will require all of its utility companies to source 100% of their electricity from renewable sources by 2050. As such, the demand for permitting and constructing renewable energy facilities is now stronger than ever. Successful solar permitting in Virginia requires
