|
AUTHOR(S):
|
Michael Lychwala
- mlychwala@trcsolutions.com
TRC Environmental Corporation
Lowell, MA, USA
Michael Tyrrell -
mtyrrell@earthtech.com
TRC Environmental Corporation
Lowell, MA, USA
George McLachlan
- gamclachlan@duke-energy.com
Maritimes & Northeast Pipeline
Seabrook, NH, USA
|
|
From 1995 to 1999, Maritimes &
Northeast Pipeline acquired permits and constructed approximately 200 miles
of 24" natural gas pipeline in Maine. Over the course of the multi-year permitting and
construction process, the project encountered a number of challenges
concerning rare, threatened, and endangered species. Target species were
identified and survey methodologies developed based on available databases
and numerous agency consultations. Local expertise from academia and
consulting firms were used as necessary. Vascular plants, several species of
freshwater mussels, the Tomah mayfly, two species of turtles, two species of
dragonflies, and bald eagles were identified for field surveys. Over 25
professional botanists and biologists performed numerous field surveys and
report input to provide the data required for the permitting process. Several
challenges were overcome in dealing with time restrictions, data gathering,
and the expansive, and sometimes remote, project range. Results for the final
mainline route included identification of 13 species of state listed vascular
plants at 17 locations, two bald eagle essential habitats within ¼ mile of
the pipeline route, and three streams with state listed freshwater mussels.
Many additional sites were identified for a number of species, however were
avoided by route changes. Survey results were submitted to the appropriate
agencies and methodologies were developed for construction mitigation where
avoidance was not possible. Mitigation work was performed while corresponding
with the rigorous construction schedule. Mitigation results were compiled and
additional monitoring will continue for specific sites.
Keywords: Permitting, wildlife, vegetation, mitigation,
monitoring
Ref#: 6-15
|