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AUTHOR(S):
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J. Roger Trettel
- rtrettel@neamaine.com
Northern Ecological Associates, Inc.
Portland, ME,
USA
Sandra J. Lare
Northern Ecological Associates, Inc.
Portland, ME, USA
Brett M. Battaglia
Northern Ecological Associates, Inc.
Portland, ME, USA
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During 1998 and 1999, Portland Natural Gas
Transmission System ("PNGTS") and Maritimes & Northeast Pipeline,
L.L.C. ("Maritimes") (collectively the “Owners”) constructed
approximately 292-miles of 12-, 24-, and 30-inch outside diameter pipeline
(the Projects) through portions of Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Maine and Vermont. Prior to construction, background research and
field surveys were performed identifying the rare, threatened, and endangered
("RTE") plant and animal species located along the project route.
Field surveys identified a total of 25 different RTE plant species located in
57 discrete populations; no animal species were identified. All plant species
identified were state-designated, and no Federally-designated Threatened or
Endangered species were identified. Avoidance of RTE plant populations was
the preferred form of mitigation considered, however avoidance was not always
feasible. Where avoidance was not possible, alternative mitigation measures
were developed in conjunction with the appropriate regulatory agencies. A key
component of the mitigation program involved removal and temporary nursery
storage of rare plants during construction, and subsequent replanting in
their approximate original locations following the completion of
construction. Other mitigation measures included topsoil
segregation/replacement and use of timber mats to cover and protect the
populations from heavy equipment traffic. Post construction monitoring after
the first growing season revealed that all but one of the rare plant
populations is viable and vigorous following the first growing season. Based
on initial results, we conclude that the techniques implemented were
successful. Proper transplanting during the appropriate season, special care
and over-winter handling by a qualified nursery, and replanting in suitable
habitat and during the appropriate time window, are critical factors in
determining program success. Such techniques may be applicable to other
pipeline projects.
Keywords:
Rare plant populations, suitable habitat, mitigation,
replanting, monitoring plan
Ref#: 2-12
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