As part of its ongoing commitment to protect endangered species, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) recently introduced updated tools and guidance to aid developers, landowners, and project managers in achieving compliance with the Endangered Species Act (ESA) for the northern long-eared bat (NLEB) and tricolored bat (TCB). For industries managing compliance across construction, wind energy, sustainable forestry, and beyond, understanding ESA compliance for the NLEB and TCB is essential under the recent USFWS updates.

With over 35 years of expertise, EnviroScience offers unparalleled consulting services designed to help clients effectively apply these updates, minimize project delays, and maintain adherence to federal guidelines.

Federally Endangered Northern Long-eared Bat

Understanding the New ESA Compliance Guidelines and Tools

Effective October 23, 2024, the USFWS tools support stakeholders in navigating ESA requirements for the recently reclassified NLEB and the proposed listing of the TCB. These tools streamline consultation and compliance processes, offering a clear path forward for projects that intersect with the habitats of these endangered bats. Notable updates include:

• Range-Wide Determination Key (DKey):
  Integrated within the USFWS IPaC tool, this DKey enables project managers to automate bat impact assessments and secure ESA compliance faster. Its automated process reduces project bottlenecks and facilitates efficient project planning for most sectors.
• Sector-Specific Guidelines:
  The USFWS guidance is tailored to critical industries, with options for voluntary environmental reviews for development projects and distinct compliance solutions for wind facilities and forestry. Each guidance type offers flexibility while emphasizing bat conservation and regulatory predictability.

These updates benefit project stakeholders by clarifying the steps for ESA consultation, reducing regulatory uncertainties, and helping manage project schedules efficiently.

How EnviroScience Helps You Navigate ESA Compliance

As a leader in endangered species consulting, EnviroScience provides comprehensive services to ensure your project aligns with USFWS requirements without compromising timelines. Our team’s knowledge of bat ecology and extensive experience in regulatory compliance allow us to deliver services tailored precisely to industry needs. Whether your project involves wind energy, commercial construction, or sustainable forestry, EnviroScience’s services cover every stage of the ESA compliance process, including:

• Specialized Bat Surveys and Impact Assessments:
  Our team of biologists and ecologists conducts detailed bat surveys that provide critical insights into bat presence, helping to guide compliance strategies effectively.
• Mitigation Strategy Development:
  We craft customized mitigation plans to minimize project impacts on endangered bat habitats, ensuring regulatory adherence while allowing project continuity.
• Ongoing Support for Compliance:
  From initial project planning to mitigation and monitoring, EnviroScience offers clients the guidance needed to implement USFWS’s tools and resources successfully.

Proposed Endangered Tricolored Bat

Why Choose EnviroScience as Your Bat Conservation Partner?

With a proven track record across multiple industries, EnviroScience has built a reputation for excellence in bat conservation and ESA compliance. Our consulting team’s decades of experience working with USFWS and other regulatory bodies make us a preferred partner for complex projects nationwide.

By partnering with EnviroScience, you gain:

• Industry-Specific Expertise:
  We understand the unique regulatory needs of sectors ranging from wind energy to private landowners, enabling us to tailor our services to each client.
• Efficient Compliance Solutions:
  Our expertise ensures that your project can achieve ESA compliance quickly and accurately, helping to keep timelines on track and budgets in check.
• Commitment to Conservation:
  While we support your project’s success, we also work closely with regulatory agencies to ensure that endangered species like the NLEB and TCB are protected for future generations.

Discover How EnviroScience Can Support Your Project

Whether you’re developing land, managing forest resources, or operating a wind facility, EnviroScience’s expert bat consulting services are designed to help you meet regulatory requirements without compromising your operational goals. Visit our Endangered Bat Surveys webpage to learn more about our services.

Few environmental firms in the country retain EnviroScience’s degree of scientific know-how, talent, and capability under one roof. The diverse backgrounds of our biologists, environmental engineers, scientists, and divers enable us to provide comprehensive in-house services and an integrated approach to solving environmental challenges—saving clients time, reducing costs, and ensuring high-quality results.

Our client guarantee is to provide “Excellence in Any Environment,” meaning no matter what we do, we will deliver on our Core Values of respect, client advocacy, quality work, accountability, teamwork, and safety. EnviroScience was created with the concept that we could solve complex problems by empowering great people. This concept still holds true today as our scientists explore the latest environmental legislation and regulations and incorporate the most up-to-date technology to gather and report data.

EnviroScience expertise includes but is not limited to aquatic surveys (including macroinvertebrate surveys and biological assessments); ecological restoration; ecological services (including impact assessments, invasive species control, and water quality monitoring); emergency response; engineering and compliance services; endangered mussel surveys; laboratory and analysis; stormwater management; sustainability services; threatened and endangered species; and wetlands and streams (including delineation and mitigation). Further, EnviroScience is one of the few biological firms in the country that is a general member of the Association of Diving Contractors International (ADCI) and offers full-service commercial diving services.

The Ohio Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)’s Division of Surface Water recently implemented significant updates to regulations on wetlands and streams, impacting industries from transportation to development and infrastructure.

These changes, effective as of August 2024, were outlined by 401/Wetlands Manager Anna Kamnyev during her October 8, 2024, presentation at the Ohio Transportation Engineering Conference (OTEC). Below is a summary of the primary changes and how EnviroScience can assist clients in staying compliant amid these regulatory updates.

Understanding the New Regulations

Integration of Mitigation Guidance and Senate Bill 9
Effective August 1, 2024, the EPA incorporated mitigation guidance per House Bill 175 into Ohio Administrative Code (OAC) sections 3745-1-50 through 3745-1-54 and 3745-32-01 through 3745-32-04. These sections establish wetland water quality standards and the 401 Water Quality Certification process, ensuring that mitigation for activities affecting wetlands and streams is both effective and consistent.

Adoption of the Ohio Stream Assessment Method (OSAM)
The Ohio Stream Assessment Method (OSAM) is a new functional assessment tool adapted from the Georgia Stream Quantification Tool (SQT) and Stream Functional Pyramid framework. OSAM evaluates stream functions across hydrology, geomorphology, and biology. It uses a debit/credit system to quantify environmental impacts and associated mitigation efforts, facilitating precise assessments and restoration planning.

Emphasis on Early Coordination
The updated regulations encourage early coordination with the EPA, allowing project proponents to engage with the agency at the pre-application stage. This proactive approach, particularly valuable for infrastructure projects like bridges and culverts, can help identify and address environmental concerns early, minimizing the risk of costly redesigns and delays.

Updated Standards for Culvert Design and Installation
New culvert design and installation standards ensure compliance with Nationwide Permit Conditions or Regional General Permits. These standards are intended to maintain stream continuity and minimize ecological disruptions that could affect aquatic habitats and lead to erosion.

How EnviroScience Can Assist

Navigating these changes can be complex, but EnviroScience offers a comprehensive suite of services to help clients through every step:

Wetland and Stream Delineation
Our experts conduct detailed assessments to identify and map wetlands and streams on your property, ensuring precise alignment with regulatory requirements.

Permitting Assistance
We prepare and submit permit applications, including 401 Water Quality Certifications and 404 Permits, streamlining approval and reducing the risk of delays.

Mitigation Planning and Implementation
EnviroScience develops and executes mitigation plans in line with Ohio EPA’s standards, ensuring all environmental impacts are properly managed.

Early Coordination Support
We facilitate early engagement with regulatory agencies, helping identify potential environmental issues and develop proactive strategies.

With EnviroScience’s expertise, clients can meet Ohio’s regulatory requirements while keeping projects on track. For more information on how we can support your project, please visit our Wetlands & Streams Services page at https://www.enviroscienceinc.com/services/wetlands-streams/.

Few environmental firms in the country retain EnviroScience’s degree of scientific know-how, talent, and capability under one roof. The diverse backgrounds of our biologists, environmental engineers, scientists, and divers enable us to provide comprehensive in-house services and an integrated approach to solving environmental challenges—saving clients time, reducing costs, and ensuring high-quality results.

Our client guarantee is to provide “Excellence in Any Environment,” meaning no matter what we do, we will deliver on our Core Values of respect, client advocacy, quality work, accountability, teamwork, and safety. EnviroScience was created with the concept that we could solve complex problems by empowering great people. This concept still holds true today as our scientists explore the latest environmental legislation and regulations and incorporate the most up-to-date technology to gather and report data.

EnviroScience expertise includes but is not limited to aquatic surveys (including macroinvertebrate surveys and biological assessments); ecological restoration; ecological services (including impact assessments, invasive species control, and water quality monitoring); emergency response; engineering and compliance services; endangered mussel surveys; laboratory and analysis; stormwater management; sustainability services; threatened and endangered species; and wetlands and streams (including delineation and mitigation). Further, EnviroScience is one of the few biological firms in the country that is a general member of the Association of Diving Contractors International (ADCI) and offers full-service commercial diving services.

From October 2-6, 2024, EnviroScience Algal Taxonomist Kyle Scotese, Algal/Toxin Operations Manager Brad Bartelme, and Algal Taxonomist Alison Frohn attended the 27th North American Diatom Symposium (NADS) at Iowa Lakeside Laboratory in Milford, Iowa.

This internationally recognized event, celebrating its 50th anniversary, brought together diatom researchers across North America to advance knowledge in biodiversity, ecology, paleolimnology, and more. NADS is renowned for its unique blend of rigorous scientific inquiry and a welcoming atmosphere, fostering collaboration and learning at every level.

EnviroScience’s participation in this annual event is a direct reflection of our ongoing commitment to leadership in diatom research and ecological services. Kyle Scotese delivered an exciting presentation unveiling a new diatom species, Stauroneis marginistriata, discovered in groundwater seeps at Stebbins Gulch Natural Area in Holden Arboretum. This discovery highlights EnviroScience’s expertise and adds valuable insights into diatom diversity in groundwater ecosystems.

EnviroScience diatomists in attendance are each certified at Level II in diatom taxonomy through the Society for Freshwater Science; they are three of only a handful of diatomists who have this level of certification in the entire world—a testament to their advanced knowledge and capabilities. All three trained under the guidance of Dr. Jeff Johansen at John Carroll University and were excited to reconnect with their mentor during the symposium. EnviroScience leadership identifies ongoing professional development and academic collaboration as pivotal to maintaining excellence and innovation across all service areas.

The symposium provided opportunities for hands-on workshops, including training in diatom taxonomic certification, and featured innovative presentations and poster sessions. Events like the “Scum Run” race and a lively auction supporting student scholarships added to the camaraderie while advancing the field of diatom research. The team returned to EnviroScience with enhanced expertise and new connections, ready to apply their expanded knowledge to help clients meet regulatory compliance and achieve project success.

At EnviroScience, our diatom experts bring world-class knowledge to every project—from biological assessments to water quality monitoring and algae identification. Learn more about how our laboratory services can support your project’s success by visiting our Algae Identification, Analysis, and Lab Services page.

Few environmental firms in the country retain EnviroScience’s degree of scientific know-how, talent, and capability under one roof. The diverse backgrounds of our biologists, environmental engineers, scientists, and divers enable us to provide comprehensive in-house services and an integrated approach to solving environmental challenges—saving clients time, reducing costs, and ensuring high-quality results.

Our client guarantee is to provide “Excellence in Any Environment,” meaning no matter what we do, we will deliver on our Core Values of respect, client advocacy, quality work, accountability, teamwork, and safety. EnviroScience was created with the concept that we could solve complex problems by empowering great people. This concept still holds true today as our scientists explore the latest environmental legislation and regulations and incorporate the most up-to-date technology to gather and report data.

EnviroScience expertise includes but is not limited to aquatic surveys (including macroinvertebrate surveys and biological assessments); ecological restoration; ecological services (including impact assessments, invasive species control, and water quality monitoring); emergency response; engineering and compliance services; endangered mussel surveys; laboratory and analysis; stormwater management; sustainability services; threatened and endangered species; and wetlands and streams (including delineation and mitigation). Further, EnviroScience is one of the few biological firms in the country that is a general member of the Association of Diving Contractors International (ADCI) and offers full-service commercial diving services.

Have you heard?

The Fall 2024 Edition of EnviroScience’s Quarterly Update is now available. This quarter’s newsletter features:

• Hurricane Helene’s Impact on Our Hendersonville Staff
• EnviroScience Achieves Historic ODOT Milestone
• New USEPA Recommendations Combat PFAS in Freshwater Fish
• EnviroScience Expands Expertise with New NC Accreditations
• The Ecological Restoration of Fox Creek
• EnviroScience Sharpens Dam Removal Expertise in North Carolina
• Argo-geddon: Advancing Ecological Recovery
• Celebrating Senior Environmental Engineer Elizabeth Wick
• Darrow Road Stream Restoration: Enhancing Water Quality
• CRC Engages Community at Summer Sunset Blast
• EnviroScience Sponsors “Up! A Creek” 2024 Fundraiser
• Volunteers Wanted for 2024 Fall River Cleanup
• EnviroScience Employees of the Month
• Join the Growing EnviroScience Family! (Current EnviroScience Openings)
• Links to Social Media Posts This Quarter

Click here to see what’s new this quarter!

Like What You See?

EnviroScience is pleased to share its quarterly update with respected colleagues to provide the latest company news, industry updates, and important regulatory changes. Only your name and email address are required, we never share your information with anyone, and you can easily unsubscribe at any time.

Few environmental firms in the country retain EnviroScience’s degree of scientific know-how, talent, and capability under one roof. The diverse backgrounds of our biologists, environmental engineers, scientists, and divers enable us to provide comprehensive in-house services and an integrated approach to solving environmental challenges—saving clients time, reducing costs, and ensuring high-quality results.

Our client guarantee is to provide “Excellence in Any Environment,” meaning no matter what we do, we will deliver on our Core Values of respect, client advocacy, quality work, accountability, teamwork, and safety. EnviroScience was created with the concept that we could solve complex problems by empowering great people. This concept still holds true today as our scientists explore the latest environmental legislation and regulations and incorporate the most up-to-date technology to gather and report data.

EnviroScience expertise includes but is not limited to aquatic surveys (including macroinvertebrate surveys and biological assessments); ecological restoration; ecological services (including impact assessments, invasive species control, and water quality monitoring); emergency response; engineering and compliance services; endangered mussel surveys; laboratory and analysis; stormwater management; sustainability services; threatened and endangered species; and wetlands and streams (including delineation and mitigation). Further, EnviroScience is one of the few biological firms in the country that is a general member of the Association of Diving Contractors International (ADCI) and offers full-service commercial diving services.

In the wake of Hurricane Helene, our thoughts and hearts are with the communities affected, especially our EnviroScience team in Hendersonville, North Carolina.

The storm’s devastation has left many of our eight employees and their families in need of essential supplies as they navigate the aftermath of power outages, damaged homes, and severely limited access to gas, water, and food.

Thankfully, we are relieved to report that all our employees and their families are safe, though the challenges ahead are significant. While the Hendersonville office itself sustained minimal damage, most of our employees’ homes endured structural damage from fallen trees, and all are struggling with limited access to critical resources such as electricity, clean water, and fuel. Connectivity remains an issue with spotty cell service, and it may be weeks before the Hendersonville regional office is fully restored. However, it may take months before some of our employees’ homes are fully repaired and their lives return to normalcy.

Employees Rally to Provide Support

Despite these challenges, the spirit of EnviroScience shines brightly. Over the weekend, employees from our regional offices rallied together in an inspiring display of teamwork and care. Several staff members drove down from surrounding states, delivering gas, clean water, and solar-powered battery packs to support their colleagues in need. This outpouring of generosity and solidarity truly embodies our company’s culture and Core Values. In times like these, we witness what it truly means to be a part of the EnviroScience family.

EnviroScience President Applauds Staff

In a message to all staff, EnviroScience President Jamie Krejsa expressed deep gratitude for the way our employees united during this difficult time, writing, “Although a horrible situation, it was humbling to see how our employees banded together and helped each other over the weekend. This truly speaks to our Core Values and the culture of EnviroScience and our employees.” Our culture, which is built on genuine care for one another, extends beyond the work we do in the field—it permeates our daily lives, ensuring that in times of crisis, our priority is the well-being of our people.

We recognize that recovery will be a long and challenging process for our North Carolina team. In the meantime, we continue to find ways to support them—whether through delivering supplies, offering temporary shelter, or staying connected despite communication challenges.

Help in the Aftermath of Hurricane Helene

In response to the overwhelming desire from many of our employees to assist their coworkers in Hendersonville, our Corporate Responsibility Committee has set up a GoFundMe page to provide direct support to the eight team members whose lives have been severely impacted by Hurricane Helene. These employees face enormous personal challenges, including significant structural damage to their homes caused by fallen trees, essential utilities, and the unimaginable process of rebuilding their lives. 

We invite you to help us make a meaningful and immediate impact on their recovery as these eight individuals strive to restore their homes and lives by donating here:

By donating to this GoFundMe campaign, you can help provide much-needed relief as our team members navigate these hardships. 100% of your contribution will provide critical assistance in easing these burdens—from covering repair costs to helping with temporary housing needs.

The Road Ahead

As the employees at our Hendersonville regional office navigate the difficult road ahead, we take pride in the resilience and camaraderie demonstrated by our team. EnviroScience is more than just an environmental consulting company—we are a family, and our commitment to each other mirrors our dedication to our clients and the communities we serve.

As Hendersonville and other affected communities begin their journey toward recovery, we stand united in our support for them. Their strength and perseverance embody the very heart of EnviroScience.

Few environmental firms in the country retain EnviroScience’s degree of scientific know-how, talent, and capability under one roof. The diverse backgrounds of our biologists, environmental engineers, scientists, and divers enable us to provide comprehensive in-house services and an integrated approach to solving environmental challenges—saving clients time, reducing costs, and ensuring high-quality results.

Our client guarantee is to provide “Excellence in Any Environment,” meaning no matter what we do, we will deliver on our Core Values of respect, client advocacy, quality work, accountability, teamwork, and safety. EnviroScience was created with the concept that we could solve complex problems by empowering great people. This concept still holds true today as our scientists explore the latest environmental legislation and regulations and incorporate the most up-to-date technology to gather and report data.

EnviroScience expertise includes but is not limited to aquatic surveys (including macroinvertebrate surveys and biological assessments); ecological restoration; ecological services (including impact assessments, invasive species control, and water quality monitoring); emergency response; engineering and compliance services; endangered mussel surveys; laboratory and analysis; stormwater management; sustainability services; threatened and endangered species; and wetlands and streams (including delineation and mitigation). Further, EnviroScience is one of the few biological firms in the country that is a general member of the Association of Diving Contractors International (ADCI) and offers full-service commercial diving services.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) has finalized its recommended aquatic life criteria and benchmarks for 10 PFAS compounds, including PFOA and PFOS. These benchmarks help guide states and tribal authorities in creating enforceable water quality standards under the Clean Water Act. Though not regulatory, these guidelines provide a critical framework for adopting water quality criteria for selected PFAS into their water quality standards to protect freshwater ecosystems.

Understanding PFAS and Their Impact

PFAS, often called “forever chemicals,” have been widely used in industrial and consumer products like firefighting foam and nonstick cookware. Their persistence in the environment leads to the contamination of water, sediments, and soil. PFAS are known to accumulate in fish and other aquatic life and can pose ecological risks.

USEPA’s New Criteria

The USEPA’s new aquatic life criteria establish Criterion Maximum Concentrations (CMC), Criterion Continuous Concentration (CCC), and benchmark exposure concentrations for PFAS in freshwater and saltwater systems, particularly focusing on PFOA and PFOS. The acute freshwater aquatic life benchmarks for eight PFAS reflect the latest research and are designed to protect aquatic organisms during short-term exposures. In this final version, the EPA also added acute saltwater life benchmarks for PFOA and PFOS. 

To prevent harm to fish and invertebrates, PFOA has an acute water column CMC of 3.1 mg/L and a chronic water column CCC of 0.10 mg/L, while PFOS acute water column CMC is set at a much lower at 0.071 mg/L, and a chronic water column CCC of 0.00025 mg/L. These PFOA and PFOS CMC and CCC water column concentrations were lowered considerably from the 2022 Draft Aquatic Life Criteria, as were the PFOS invertebrate whole-body, fish whole-body, and fish muscle concentrations. However, the PFOA invertebrate whole-body, fish whole-body, and fish muscle concentrations were slightly raised from the 2022 Draft Aquatic Life Criteria. 

How This Affects Businesses

Industries with potential PFAS discharges, such as manufacturing and wastewater treatment plants, should be mindful of these updated guidelines. Even trace amounts of PFAS can accumulate over time, posing risks to compliance with future state or federal regulations. Proactively managing PFAS discharge is crucial to avoiding penalties and legal challenges.

How EnviroScience Can Help

EnviroScience offers expert support in navigating PFAS-related issues, including:

• PFAS Monitoring: We provide comprehensive sampling and analysis services to assess contamination levels.
• Risk Assessment: Our team evaluates the impact of PFAS on local ecosystems and advises on mitigation strategies.
• Regulatory Guidance: We help clients comply with new and emerging PFAS standards through tailored remediation and mitigation plans.

As the regulatory landscape evolves, EnviroScience remains committed to helping clients stay compliant while protecting aquatic ecosystems. For more details on how we can assist, visit our Water Quality Monitoring Services page.

Few environmental firms in the country retain EnviroScience’s degree of scientific know-how, talent, and capability under one roof. The diverse backgrounds of our biologists, environmental engineers, scientists, and divers enable us to provide comprehensive in-house services and an integrated approach to solving environmental challenges—saving clients time, reducing costs, and ensuring high-quality results.

Our client guarantee is to provide “Excellence in Any Environment,” meaning no matter what we do, we will deliver on our Core Values of respect, client advocacy, quality work, accountability, teamwork, and safety. EnviroScience was created with the concept that we could solve complex problems by empowering great people. This concept still holds true today as our scientists explore the latest environmental legislation and regulations and incorporate the most up-to-date technology to gather and report data.

EnviroScience expertise includes but is not limited to aquatic surveys (including macroinvertebrate surveys and biological assessments); ecological restoration; ecological services (including impact assessments, invasive species control, and water quality monitoring); emergency response; engineering and compliance services; endangered mussel surveys; laboratory and analysis; stormwater management; sustainability services; threatened and endangered species; and wetlands and streams (including delineation and mitigation). Further, EnviroScience is one of the few biological firms in the country that is a general member of the Association of Diving Contractors International (ADCI) and offers full-service commercial diving services.

It’s that time of year again; it’s time for EnviroScience’s 2024 Fall River Cleanup!

For over 20 years, our Corporate Responsibility Committee (CRC) has been hosting a biannual river cleanup event to help fish out debris from the Little Cuyahoga River in Akron, Ohio. This fall’s event is slated to take place on Saturday, October 5, 2024, from 9:00 am to 12:00 pm, and we’re looking for volunteers of all ages to help us in this effort.

This is an employee-led tradition that EnviroScience has spearheaded since 2002—bringing EnviroScience employees, family members, loved ones, and community members together to remove trash from the Little Cuyahoga River and the Ohio & Erie Canal while raising awareness of the litter problem in our local streams.

This has always been a fun event; all ages are welcome, and we need all the help we can get! Here’s what you need to know:

Who: Anyone willing to help! We’ve had volunteers of all ages at this biannual event.

When: Saturday, October 5, 2024, from 9:00 am to 12:00 pm

Where: Mustill Store, 57 West North Street, Akron, Ohio 44304 (Check-in at the tables)

What to Wear: Old clothes and shoes that you don’t mind getting wet/dirty and waders or rubber boots if you have them. (We may have extra waders and rubber boots for those who don’t have them.)

Registration: No formal registration is necessary; however, adults will be required to sign a waiver onsite. Children under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult who is authorized to sign the waiver on their behalf.

Questions: Any questions should be directed to Michael Liptak.

EnviroScience will provide gloves, snacks, and drinks.

Join in on the fun as we help clean up our local river. Who knows what we’ll find this year? We hope to see you there on Saturday, October 5, 2024!

Few environmental firms in the country retain EnviroScience’s degree of scientific know-how, talent, and capability under one roof. The diverse backgrounds of our biologists, environmental engineers, scientists, and divers enable us to provide comprehensive in-house services and an integrated approach to solving environmental challenges—saving clients time, reducing costs, and ensuring high-quality results.

Our client guarantee is to provide “Excellence in Any Environment,” meaning no matter what we do, we will deliver on our Core Values of respect, client advocacy, quality work, accountability, teamwork, and safety. EnviroScience was created with the concept that we could solve complex problems by empowering great people. This concept still holds true today as our scientists explore the latest environmental legislation and regulations and incorporate the most up-to-date technology to gather and report data.

EnviroScience expertise includes but is not limited to aquatic surveys (including macroinvertebrate surveys and biological assessments); ecological restoration; ecological services (including impact assessments, invasive species control, and water quality monitoring); emergency response; engineering and compliance services; endangered mussel surveys; laboratory and analysis; stormwater management; sustainability services; threatened and endangered species; and wetlands and streams (including delineation and mitigation). Further, EnviroScience is one of the few biological firms in the country that is a general member of the Association of Diving Contractors International (ADCI) and offers full-service commercial diving services.

EnviroScience, Inc., in collaboration with RiverReach Construction and GPD Group, is proud to lead the Darrow Road Stream Restoration Project’s design-build team. This project addresses significant impairments to Darrow Road Park Ditch—including channel straightening, historic dredging, and in-stream sediment deposition, which have degraded the water quality and habitat of the stream.

The restoration project will focus on re-establishing a healthy, functioning stream system. The current ditch, which is unnaturally deep and straight, has disconnected from its floodplain. This loss of floodplain interaction means reduced sediment deposition, nutrient exchange, and energy release—all factors that are vital to stream health. Additionally, the straightened channel has compromised the stream’s ability to dissipate energy, leading to bank erosion and reduced habitat diversity for invertebrates, fish, and other wildlife.

At EnviroScience, we understand that successful restoration requires a thorough evaluation of the existing landscape and surrounding infrastructure. Our specialized services in stream restoration, habitat enhancement, and wetland management are central to this project. Using a combination of innovative ecological assessment and engineering, our team will design a solution that restores the stream’s natural flow while preserving critical surrounding features such as residential areas and roads.

Key Project Goals

Restoration of Stream Function
Redirecting the stream’s flow to improve energy dissipation and create a variety of in-stream habitats, including riffles and pools, essential for wildlife.

Wetland Enhancement
Invasive species will be controlled, and native plant species will be reintroduced to improve habitat quality and stabilize the streambanks.

Erosion Control and Water Quality Improvement
Reestablishing the stream’s connection to the floodplain will reduce erosion and enhance the stream’s ability to filter pollutants, improving overall water quality.

It is important to note that this restoration effort is focused on improving water quality and stream function rather than stormwater control. Our approach emphasizes minimal disruption to the existing landscape while prioritizing long-term ecological improvements.

The project is currently in the design phase, with permitting to follow. Construction is slated to begin in 2025 to transform Darrow Road Park Ditch into a thriving, ecologically balanced stream system.

At EnviroScience, we are committed to providing tailored environmental solutions that enhance ecosystems while meeting the unique needs of each project. Our stream and wetland restoration services are grounded in a deep understanding of ecology, regulatory requirements, and sustainable development practices.

Few environmental firms in the country retain EnviroScience’s degree of scientific know-how, talent, and capability under one roof. The diverse backgrounds of our biologists, environmental engineers, scientists, and divers enable us to provide comprehensive in-house services and an integrated approach to solving environmental challenges—saving clients time, reducing costs, and ensuring high-quality results.

Our client guarantee is to provide “Excellence in Any Environment,” meaning no matter what we do, we will deliver on our Core Values of respect, client advocacy, quality work, accountability, teamwork, and safety. EnviroScience was created with the concept that we could solve complex problems by empowering great people. This concept still holds true today as our scientists explore the latest environmental legislation and regulations and incorporate the most up-to-date technology to gather and report data.

EnviroScience expertise includes but is not limited to aquatic surveys (including macroinvertebrate surveys and biological assessments); ecological restoration; ecological services (including impact assessments, invasive species control, and water quality monitoring); emergency response; engineering and compliance services; endangered mussel surveys; laboratory and analysis; stormwater management; sustainability services; threatened and endangered species; and wetlands and streams (including delineation and mitigation). Further, EnviroScience is one of the few biological firms in the country that is a general member of the Association of Diving Contractors International (ADCI) and offers full-service commercial diving services.

EnviroScience proudly contributed $2,500 to sponsor West Creek Conservancy’s annual “Up! A Creek” fundraising gala, held on September 7, 2024, at Landerhaven in Mayfield Heights, Ohio. Over 500 conservation supporters gathered for this event to raise funds to support West Creek Conservancy’s mission of protecting natural habitats, restoring urban lands, and enhancing public access to green spaces across Northeast Ohio.

As a longstanding partner of West Creek Conservancy, EnviroScience is committed to supporting initiatives that align with our core values of environmental stewardship and ecological restoration. Four members of our ecological restoration team—Scott Nelson, Keli Stambaugh, Nora Gallagher, and Trevor Chambers—attended the event to represent EnviroScience and connect with fellow conservation enthusiasts and professionals.

The evening began with a cocktail hour featuring art exhibits with striking bird photography—including images of snowy owls, cormorants, and golden-crowned kinglets—and conceptual designs for projects like the Irishtown Bend restoration in Cleveland. Dinner, a delicious spread of salmon, chicken caprese, and beef with sides, followed the welcoming remarks by West Creek Conservancy’s Executive Director Derek Schafer. Guests enjoyed games like “Heads & Tails,” raffles for exciting prizes like Guardian box tickets, and a wine toss that brought friendly competition to the festivities. Keli Stambaugh secured a bottle of Cabernet Sauvignon from the wine toss, adding to the evening’s fun.

Live music from the K Street Band provided the soundtrack for dancing and celebration. Attendees bid on items in the silent auction and enjoyed a late-night snack bar, capping off a successful night of fundraising for an important cause. 

West Creek Conservancy’s efforts align directly with our ecological restoration services, including stream and watershed restoration and land conservation. EnviroScience continues to help communities and clients meet environmental goals while fostering public engagement with nature through partnerships like these. We are honored to have participated in this year’s event and look forward to future opportunities to support West Creek Conservancy’s impactful work.

Few environmental firms in the country retain EnviroScience’s degree of scientific know-how, talent, and capability under one roof. The diverse backgrounds of our biologists, environmental engineers, scientists, and divers enable us to provide comprehensive in-house services and an integrated approach to solving environmental challenges—saving clients time, reducing costs, and ensuring high-quality results.

Our client guarantee is to provide “Excellence in Any Environment,” meaning no matter what we do, we will deliver on our Core Values of respect, client advocacy, quality work, accountability, teamwork, and safety. EnviroScience was created with the concept that we could solve complex problems by empowering great people. This concept still holds true today as our scientists explore the latest environmental legislation and regulations and incorporate the most up-to-date technology to gather and report data.

EnviroScience expertise includes but is not limited to aquatic surveys (including macroinvertebrate surveys and biological assessments); ecological restoration; ecological services (including impact assessments, invasive species control, and water quality monitoring); emergency response; engineering and compliance services; endangered mussel surveys; laboratory and analysis; stormwater management; sustainability services; threatened and endangered species; and wetlands and streams (including delineation and mitigation). Further, EnviroScience is one of the few biological firms in the country that is a general member of the Association of Diving Contractors International (ADCI) and offers full-service commercial diving services.

Once again, the Summer Sunset Blast in Stow, Ohio, offered EnviroScience’s Corporate Responsibility Committee (CRC) the perfect opportunity to connect with the local community this year. Wetland Operations Manager Emmalisa Kennedy and Wetland Biologist Elise Bartelme volunteered their time and expertise to host the EnviroScience booth, which was one of the event’s highlights.

The EnviroScience booth was a vibrant hub of activity, attracting children of all ages to hands-on activities such as the pollinator and hive game designed to educate and inspire curiosity about our natural world.

Through these fun activities, children learned about the importance of Ohio’s plant and wildlife species that our scientists and biologists help protect. The specimens on display ranged from aquatic species, such as salamanders, to terrestrial species, such as bats and birds—all playing a vital role in maintaining the balance of our ecosystems.

It was inspiring to see how these activities sparked the children’s interest in becoming stewards of the environment, empowering them to take an active role in environmental conservation.

The booth remained bustling throughout the two-day event, with skulls, shells, and pelts to touch, feel, and identify—capturing the curiosity of young and old alike. The overwhelming enthusiasm parents and community members showed about EnviroScience’s role in environmental protection and how we support local and national conservation efforts was heartwarming.

But the excitement didn’t stop at our booth. The Stow Summer Sunset Blast was a true community event featuring a variety of other booths hosted by local businesses and organizations, each offering its unique experience and contributing to the spirit of community.

Live music from local bands filled the air, providing a festive atmosphere while families enjoyed a wide range of activities. From free giveaways, crafts, and games to delicious local cuisine served by food trucks, the event catered to all age groups, ensuring there was something for everyone to enjoy. The grand finale of a fireworks display on the second day was the perfect end to a fun-filled event.

EnviroScience’s participation in this event, led by our dedicated volunteers, is a testament to our commitment to giving back to the community. The enthusiasm shared between our team and eventgoers made for an unforgettable day of fun, learning, and community building.

For more about EnviroScience’s Corporate Responsibility Committee and our community involvement, visit our website: https://www.enviroscienceinc.com/who-we-are/corporate-responsibility/.

Few environmental firms in the country retain EnviroScience’s degree of scientific know-how, talent, and capability under one roof. The diverse backgrounds of our biologists, environmental engineers, scientists, and divers enable us to provide comprehensive in-house services and an integrated approach to solving environmental challenges—saving clients time, reducing costs, and ensuring high-quality results.

Our client guarantee is to provide “Excellence in Any Environment,” meaning no matter what we do, we will deliver on our Core Values of respect, client advocacy, quality work, accountability, teamwork, and safety. EnviroScience was created with the concept that we could solve complex problems by empowering great people. This concept still holds true today as our scientists explore the latest environmental legislation and regulations and incorporate the most up-to-date technology to gather and report data.

EnviroScience expertise includes but is not limited to aquatic surveys (including macroinvertebrate surveys and biological assessments); ecological restoration; ecological services (including impact assessments, invasive species control, and water quality monitoring); emergency response; engineering and compliance services; endangered mussel surveys; laboratory and analysis; stormwater management; sustainability services; threatened and endangered species; and wetlands and streams (including delineation and mitigation). Further, EnviroScience is one of the few biological firms in the country that is a general member of the Association of Diving Contractors International (ADCI) and offers full-service commercial diving services.