Thad Gregory Receives ACRT Services G.E.M. Award

EnviroScience Civil Computer-Aided Design (CAD) Designer Thad Gregory Receives G.E.M. Award from ACRT Services, Inc.Congratulations to Thad Gregory, a civil computer-aided design (CAD) designer at EnviroScience (ES) who was recently awarded a G.E.M. Award from ACRT Services, Inc. (ACRT Services) for contributions that significantly increased productivity.

A G.E.M. is an award for employees for Going the Extra Mile. The purpose is to recognize employees within the ACRT Services family of operating companies for performing at a level that exceeds expectations and routine job duties or for special recognition.

In ACRT Pacific Director of Operations Bryan Durr’s nomination, he shared the following about Thad’s actions:

“Thad supported a sales call with a client for ACRT Pacific as the subject matter expert (SME) for CAD. He created two job prints using CAD for us to use as a submittal. Thad also has/is assisting the utility vegetation management (UVM) software team with CAD file integration into our UVM software for our project statement of work (SOW). Without his involvement, we may not have had a path forward and likely passed on the opportunity. Instead, we are partnering for alternative revenue with a new client.”

EnviroScience Civil Computer-Aided Design (CAD) Designer Thad Gregory Receives G.E.M. Award from ACRT Services, Inc.EnviroScience President Jamie Krejsa added that Thad’s efforts exemplify how teamwork—one of the company’s Core Values—extends outside the walls of ES regional offices throughout the U.S. Congratulations, Thad, on this well-earned award that speaks directly to the work we see from you every day. We are honored that you continue to be a part of the EnviroScience family!

As a proud member of the ACRT Services family of operating companies—including ACRT, ACRT Arborist Training, ACRT Pacific, ACRT Services, and Bermex—we have the unique advantage of collectively sharing expertise, extending our reach, providing additional service lines, and expanding technology-based services to new and existing customers. Since joining the ACRT family of operating companies, EnviroScience is increasingly realizing new opportunities and working in seamless synergy to provide innovative solutions to any environmental challenge for our shared clients.

The ACRT Services family of operating companies offers independent consulting solutions to utilities and associated organizations throughout the U.S., including vegetation management consulting, utility metering services, arborist training, customized safety courses, technology solutions, and now environmental services to empower the best people in the industry.


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; 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.




Federal Definition of Waters of the U.S. (WOTUS) Revised

By EnviroScience Senior Ecologist Michael Liptak, Ph.D.

On August 29, 2023, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) released a prepublication version of its revisions to the definition of Waters of the U.S. (WOTUS), which were completed to comply with the U.S. Supreme Court’s decision in its May 25, 2023 ruling (Sackett v. EPA).

The Court held that the wetlands are not inherently WOTUS, and the only wetlands under federal jurisdiction are those with a continuous surface connection with a recognized WOTUS (such as a lake, stream, or river) where it is impossible to distinguish where the federally regulated water body ends and where the wetland begins. The USACE completed this revision, which will take effect immediately upon publication in the Federal Register, under the good cause exemption, which does not require a public notice or public comment period to revise the existing rule.

The following changes were made:

  1. The significant nexus test is no longer an acceptable method by which to determine if a wetland is regulated under federal law and is removed from the text and definitions.
  2. The definition of “adjacent” was revised to mean “having a continuous surface water connection” from its previous definition of “bordering, contiguous, or neighboring.” Natural or man-made separations between wetlands and streams or lakes (such as dunes or berms) provide sufficient separation to remove wetlands from regulation under the Clean Water Act.
  3. Interstate wetlands are removed from the definition of WOTUS.

No changes were made to other definitions or exclusions.

WOTUS Rule

What does this mean? Simply stated, wetlands that are not directly connected to a regulated stream, river, lake, or pond by a continuous surface water connection are not regulated under the Clean Water Act.  Those wetlands are regulated under applicable state and local regulations.

Are wetlands no longer wetlands? The federal definition of wetlands and streams remains the same. The USACE still determines wetland boundaries and makes the determination of whether they are regulated under the Clean Water Act or not.

Is this decision retroactive? No. Existing permits and jurisdictional determinations are still valid. If you wish to obtain a new jurisdictional determination from the USACE, they will do so, but it will take several months.

Do I still need a wetland delineation on my property if I want to develop? Yes.

Does this affect farmers? No. The basis for the regulation of farmed wetlands is the Food Security Act, which was not addressed in the recent Supreme Court case.

OHIO

State Wetland Regulation Continues as Before in Ohio

All wetlands are considered waters of the state in Ohio, and any waters that are not under federal jurisdiction have been regulated under the Ohio Isolated Wetland Law since 2001.

NORTH CAROLINA

State Legislature Overrides Governor’s Veto of Farm Act, Removing Wetland Protection from 2.5 Million Acres in North Carolina

Governor Cooper vetoed Senate Bill 582 on June 23, 2023, because it would strip legal protections from half the state’s wetlands.

The removal of these protections would mean “more severe flooding for homes, roads and businesses, and dirtier water for our people, especially in eastern North Carolina,” his veto message read. “The General Assembly has allocated tens of millions of dollars to protect the state from flooding, and my administration is working to stop pollution, like PFAS and other contaminants. This bill reverses our progress and leaves the state vulnerable without vital flood mitigation and water purification tools.”

Roughly 2.5 million acres of wetlands composing 7% of North Carolina’s land mass could lose environmental protection, the fallout of a one-two punch by state lawmakers and the U.S. Supreme Court.

The House overrode Governor Cooper’s June 23, 2023, veto of the Farm Act on June 27, 2023, stripping 2.5 million acres of wetlands — an area one and half times larger than the state of Delaware — of environmental protection. The vote was 78-40 in favor of the override. The Senate overrode the governor’s veto Monday by a 29-17 margin, with the votes landing along party lines.

The Farm Bill states: SECTION 15.(c) Implementation. – Wetlands classified as waters of the State are restricted to waters of the United States as defined by 33 C.F.R. § 328.3 and 40 C.F.R. § 230.3. Wetlands do not include prior converted cropland as defined in the National Food Security Act Manual, Fifth Edition, which is hereby incorporated by reference, not including subsequent amendments and editions.

EnviroScience experts are on top of these rules and will continue to regularly post updates to regulatory guidelines.


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; 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.




ES Restoration Work Featured on CNN’s Call to Earth

EnviroScience is excited to share that the Summit Metro Parks restoration at the former Valley View Golf Course was featured on CNN’s Call to Earth! Summit Metro Parks contracted EnviroScience as the lead engineering and restoration design firm responsible for Phase I and Phase II stream and wetland restoration designs.

EnviroScience Restoration Work at Valley View

EnviroScience’s efforts increased floodplain capacity, restored the natural hydrologic condition, and improved the overall health of the river. EnviroScience has a deep resume of projects (eight projects and counting) where golf courses were restored to provide ecological uplift and solve stormwater, nutrient, and sedimentation issues. In some cases, these restorations were completed on operating golf courses to improve the play and safety of the course while also providing ecological benefits. For example, our Valley View restoration project resulted in the return of bald eagles in 2020.

EnviroScience Restoration Work at Valley ViewEnviroScience’s work, led by Julie Bingham, Director of Ecological Restoration, refined Summit Metro Parks’ original vision for the area into interconnected complexes comprising 200 acres of headwater streams, wetlands, and forest. Environmental Restoration Engineer Angelina Hotz, PE, ENV SP, was the lead engineer and translated the restoration concepts into design plan documents used to bid the two phases. Her efforts and attention to detail were integral to the success of the project.    

Phase I focused on the captured drainage ways and swales from the golf course to daylight the water into streams, natural drainage ways, and wetlands that connect to a large remnant oxbow wetland of the Cuyahoga River. This phase constructed approximately 14 acres of wetlands and 2,250 linear feet of six headwater streams. 

Phase II focused on the Cuyahoga River corridor, an approximately 5,000 linear-foot reach, improving the floodplain and in-stream habitat. Sediment in the river, bank erosion, and low habitat diversity characterized the reach prior to the project. Furthermore, the banks were previously levied by the golf course to limit flooding.

The restoration approach aimed to improve these impairments by excavating approximately 44,000 cubic yards to create expansive floodplains that will now be regularly inundated. The resultant lower banks reduced (and, in some areas, eliminated) erosion by drastically decreasing water depth and energy and providing overbank areas for the deposit of fine silts.

Click here to view CNN’s outstanding footage of the project site in its “Rewilding a Golf Course” video story.

Previously, these sediments were deposited in the river, embedding the gravel and cobble streambed and creating a sandy “desert” underwater that did not support ecological diversity. To enhance the in-stream habitat, the EnviroScience team meticulously positioned hundreds of boulders in clusters and orientations to promote localized scour and flow diversity.

EnviroScience Restoration Work at Valley ViewOur restoration experts placed repurposed wood from previous floodplain excavations on the streambanks and underwater to create additional habitat and erosion protection. Many of the existing trees along the river were strategically conserved—not only to encourage future tree recruitment and wildlife habitats but also to enhance the site’s aesthetics. Floodplain excavations were prioritized for areas with low tree density and morphologic importance. 

The project implementation also required extensive native plantings, a long-term invasive species (vegetation management) plan, and an invasive plant control component. 

EnviroScience managed the in-house design and provided construction oversight as one seamless service. We couldn’t be more pleased to see our work captured so beautifully and are honored to see our commitment to “excellence in any environment” showcased on CNN’s Call to Earth.

To learn more about EnviroScience’s unique approaches to ecological restoration and other complex environmental problems, please contact us, and one of our experts will get back to you within 24 hours.


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; 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.




Summer 2023 Quarterly Update

Have you heard?

The Summer 2023 Edition of EnviroScience’s Quarterly Update is now available. This quarter’s newsletter features:

  • President Jamie Krejsa Celebrates 30 Years at EnviroScience
  • Latest SCOTUS Ruling on WOTUS
  • Areas of Expertise Offered at West Virginia Office
  • EnviroScience Sponsors Annual Stow Fishing Derby
  • EnviroScience Scientists Inspire Local Kindergarteners
  • Employee-led Corporate Responsibility Committee Hosts Annual Spring 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!

EnviroScience Summer 2023 Quarterly Update 

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; 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.




Anna Piazza Earns GISP Certification

EnviroScience GIS Operations Manager Anna Piazza, GISP

In the world of environmental consulting, staying at the forefront of technological advancements is crucial to delivering innovative solutions. At EnviroScience, we take immense pride in nurturing our talented team members and supporting their professional growth. Today, we are thrilled to celebrate a significant milestone achieved by GIS Operations Manager Anna Piazza, who has recently earned her GISP (Geographic Information Systems Professional) certification.

Understanding GISP Certification:

GISP certification is a highly regarded achievement in the field of geographic information systems and remote sensing. It signifies a professional’s expertise in utilizing geospatial technologies to analyze and interpret complex data related to environmental issues. The GISP certification is not easily attained; it requires a combination of educational qualifications, professional experience, and a successful examination.

Anna Piazza’s Achievement:

We are delighted to congratulate Anna Piazza on her remarkable accomplishment. Anna’s dedication, passion, and commitment to her field have earned her this prestigious certification, making her a valued asset to our team at EnviroScience.

Enhancing Analytical Capabilities:

With her newfound GISP certification, Anna’s analytical capabilities have reached new heights. She now has advanced tools and techniques to conduct in-depth spatial analysis. This enables her to uncover crucial insights from environmental data, empowering our team to make more informed decisions for our clients.

Comprehensive Data Management:

As an environmental consulting company, we regularly deal with vast amounts of geospatial data. Anna’s expertise in data collection, organization, and management ensures that our clients receive the most comprehensive, organized, efficient, and up-to-date data visualization for their projects. This not only enhances the accuracy of our findings but also improves the overall efficiency of our operations.

Enhanced Visualization and Reporting:

Anna’s GISP certification helps underscore what our clients already know from Anna’s deliverables. Anna is adept at creating impactful visual representations of environmental data, making complex information easier for our clients and stakeholders to understand. Through powerful maps, graphs, and charts, Anna enables us to communicate our findings more effectively, driving a deeper understanding of environmental challenges and solutions.

Fostering Innovative Solutions:

At EnviroScience, innovation is at the core of our mission. With her GISP certification, Anna has gained the expertise to develop groundbreaking approaches to environmental challenges. Her innovative mindset and advanced geospatial technologies will undoubtedly lead us to explore and implement new sustainable solutions for our clients.

Conclusion:

Anna Piazza’s attainment of the GISP certification is a testament to her dedication and expertise in the environmental consulting industry. Her success reflects EnviroScience’s commitment to empowering our team members to excel in their respective fields, delivering the best possible solutions to our clients.

We extend our heartfelt congratulations to Anna for this well-deserved achievement. Her GISP certification enhances our company’s capabilities, propelling us further on our mission to protect and preserve the environment through cutting-edge environmental consulting solutions.


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; 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.




President Jamie Krejsa Celebrates 30 Years with EnviroScience

Celebrating 30 Years of Dedication and Growth: EnviroScience’s Recognition Dinner

Over the past three decades, EnviroScience has blossomed into an industry leader, thanks in no small part to the dedication and vision of its President, Jamie Krejsa.

On April 27, 2023, the company held a heartwarming employee recognition dinner at the picturesque Heritage Barn in Stow, Ohio, to celebrate its staff members’ remarkable achievements and honor Jamie’s unparalleled 30 years of service to the organization.

Vice President Greg Zimmerman Presents President Jamie Krejsa with Lifetime Fishing License in Ohio from EnviroScience Staff for 30 Years of Dedicated Service

Vice President Greg Zimmerman Presents President Jamie Krejsa with Lifetime Fishing License in the State of Ohio from EnviroScience Staff for 30 Years of Dedicated Service and Leadership

From Humble Beginnings to Remarkable Heights

EnviroScience Employee Recognition Dinner 2023Jamie Krejsa’s journey with EnviroScience began in 1993. Fresh from a seasonal position at the Summit Soil and Water Conservation District with the U.S. Department of Agriculture, Jamie joined the ranks of EnviroScience when it was still a fledgling startup with big dreams. At that time, the company was primarily focused on regulatory compliance toxicity testing, with just a handful of employees working in the lab.

As the company’s first foray into large-scale fish and benthic macroinvertebrate surveys on the Ohio River took shape, Jamie found himself at the forefront of change. Despite initial challenges, Jamie’s leadership and determination prevailed, and the successful completion of the project heralded a new era of growth for EnviroScience.

Nurturing a Culture of Teamwork and Trust

EnviroScience Employee Recognition Dinner 2023

Jamie’s journey with EnviroScience was not without its share of hurdles. The early days were filled with long hours, resourceful problem-solving, and camaraderie that built the foundation of the company’s unique culture. As the team pieced together equipment and traveled like nomad biologists, a profound sense of teamwork emerged, becoming one of the company’s core values.

EnviroScience’s growth didn’t stop with aquatic surveys; it continued to expand into wetland delineations, ecological work, restoration, engineering, marine services, emergency response, and more. Through every phase of growth, Jamie extended the gift of trust that was once given to them, fostering an environment where each employee felt a sense of ownership in their contributions.

Embracing Challenges and Celebrating Triumphs

EnviroScience Employee Recognition Dinner 2023EnviroScience faced numerous challenges throughout the years, from economic downturns to major client restructuring. However, true leadership is revealed during tough times, and Jamie proved to be an unwavering beacon for the team. Celebrating the wins and sharing accountability for the losses, Jamie exemplified a leadership style rooted in collaboration and mutual support.

Triumphs such as the BP oil spill response and the National Aquatic Resource Surveys contract award from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency were celebrated with the team, acknowledging the collective effort that made these achievements possible.

A Bright Future Ahead

EnviroScience Employee Recognition Dinner 2023

As Jamie Krejsa stood before the attendees at the recognition dinner, the sentiments of gratitude and pride were palpable. Looking back on 30 years of growth, challenges, and triumphs, Jamie expressed profound gratitude for the opportunities, colleagues, and customers who have been integral to this extraordinary journey.

EnviroScience Employee Recognition Dinner 2023With EnviroScience’s talented team, strong brand, and clear vision for the future, Jamie expressed confidence that the company would continue to thrive and grow. As the evening continued, it was evident that the future of EnviroScience remains as bright as ever, and the commitment to excellence that has been ingrained in the company’s culture will propel it to even greater heights.

A Night of Appreciation and Inspiration

EnviroScience Employee Recognition Dinner 2023

The employee recognition dinner not only celebrated the accomplishments of EnviroScience’s staff members but also served as a testament to the power of visionary leadership and unwavering dedication. The event brought together the extended EnviroScience family, fostering a sense of unity and camaraderie that will undoubtedly carry the company forward for years to come.

As the evening drew to a close, one thing was abundantly clear: Jamie Krejsa’s 30 years of service had left an indelible mark on EnviroScience, transforming it from a modest startup to an industry leader. With Jamie’s continued guidance and the passion of the entire EnviroScience team, the future looks brighter than ever, promising a legacy of excellence and innovation for generations to come.

EnviroScience Employee Recognition Dinner 2023


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; 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.




West Virginia Areas of Expertise

EnviroScience West Virginia Areas of Expertise

Since opening in 2019, our West Virginia office has added key personnel to offer top-notch expertise in wetland delineation; permittingthreatened and endangered freshwater musselscrayfishfish, and bats; environmental inspection, and surface and groundwater monitoring.

ENVIRONMENTAL INSPECTION

Our West Virginia environmental inspectors mobilize rapidly, perform high-quality work, and tailor our services to meet our client’s needs. We have the resources to support multiple large-scale construction projects seven days a week. Our inspectors often work evenings, weekends, or holidays to comply with essential weather-dependent environmental compliance functions such as  National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) stormwater permit requirements. Our inspectors have conducted more than 1,000 projects, from obtaining construction NPDES permits for natural gas pipelines to preparing and implementing site-specific Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plans (SWPPP).

WETLAND DELINEATION AND PERMITTING

EnviroScience biologists perform thousands of wetland assessments and delineations on projects ranging in size from less than one acre to over 6,000 acres. Proposed development projects in West Virginia and surrounding states involving streams or wetlands are often subject to federal and state permitting requirements. Our wetland scientists complete an average of 30 permit applications for wetland and stream impacts each year. In-depth knowledge of the permitting process allows our scientists to tailor applications in a manner that often expedites the approval process. EnviroScience follows a highly refined documentation process that outlines project details and supports compliance with state and federal regulations.

EnviroScience Bat Biologist Dan Cox Conducts Bat Portal survey in West Virginia.

THREATENED AND ENDANGERED SPECIES

EnviroScience biologists hold specific collection permits and can quickly obtain collection permits to move our clients’ projects forward. They have experience in completing full-spectrum habitat assessments and species-specific surveys for numerous federal and state-listed endangered and threatened species, including freshwater mussel surveys and translocations, endangered bats, burrowing owls, birds of prey, fish, reptile and amphibian surveys, crayfish surveys, pollinators, and plants.

Our strong technical reputation with regulatory agencies allows our company to rapidly complete agency coordination, including Section 7 Consultations, assessments, surveys, and even subject matter expert guidance for litigation. The purpose of the U.S. Endangered Species Act (ESA), passed by Congress in 1973, is to prevent the extinction of native and foreign animals and plants. With some exceptions, the ESA prohibits activities affecting these protected species unless authorized by a permit. Our biologists aid our clients in ensuring all regulations are followed and threatened and endangered species are protected according to the spirit in which the ESA was enacted.

The wetland and threatened and endangered species scientists at our West Virginia office provide an integrated approach to solving environmental challenges—saving clients time, reducing costs, and ensuring high-quality results.


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; 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.




Spring 2023 River Cleanup Success

2023 EnviroScience Spring River CleanupOn May 13, 2023, EnviroScience employees, family members, and amazing volunteers gathered to make a big difference in our local community. We embarked on a river cleanup mission to make the Little Cuyahoga River beautiful again, and boy, did we leave our mark!

With our sleeves rolled up, gloves donned, and our waders high, we set out to tackle the trash and debris accumulated in this precious waterway. It was heartwarming to witness the power of unity as young and old alike joined forces to restore the river to its natural splendor. Together, we made an incredible impact!

2023 EnviroScience Spring River Cleanup

Throughout the day, we scoured every nook and cranny, leaving no stone unturned. It was astonishing to see the amount of waste we uncovered. But with unwavering dedication, we filled countless bags with litter, removed large items, and even cleared debris from the riverbanks. Our efforts made a tangible difference in improving the ecosystem and preserving the river’s vitality. 

Not only was the river cleanup rewarding, but it was also a beautiful day filled with laughter, camaraderie, and a shared love for the environment. Our volunteers demonstrated incredible enthusiasm, and their energy was contagious. Moments like these remind us of the incredible power of corporate responsibility paired with community outreach and the positive change we can create together. 

We want to extend our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who contributed their time and effort to this remarkable initiative. Through your dedication, we can continue to protect and nurture our natural spaces. We are incredibly proud of each and every one of you! Let’s keep this momentum going and make the world a cleaner, greener place for generations to come.

2023 EnviroScience Spring River Cleanup


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; 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.




2023 SCOTUS Ruling Curtails Clean Water Act

By EnviroScience Senior Ecologist Michael Liptak, Ph.D.

In its recent 9-0 ruling on May 25, 2023, the Supreme Court of the United States (SCOTUS) drastically curtailed federal protection of wetlands (and likely ephemeral streams) under the Clean Water Act in Sackett v. EPA. The Sackett family wanted to develop a residential lot near Priest Lake, Idaho, which drains into a recognized Water of the U.S. (WOTUS). This involved placing fill into wetlands on the property. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) stated that the wetlands on the Sackett property were connected to Priest Lake by a stream or ditch and were thus a WOTUS under federal jurisdiction. The Sacketts disagreed and sued. 

SCOTUS reversed their previous decision in Rapanos v. United States (2006) and held that the only wetlands under federal jurisdiction are those with a continuous surface connection with a recognized WOTUS, where it is impossible to distinguish where the federally regulated water body ends and the wetland begins. This essentially returns Clean Water Act protection to its status in the United States v. Riverside Bayview decision of 1985. The four opinions that were issued showed a division in the Court over how far to limit the definition of Waters of the U.S., with Justices Kavanaugh, Kagan, Sotomayor, and Jackson disagreeing with the exclusion of adjacent wetlands that are not physically touching waters of the United States, and Justice Thomas arguing that federal jurisdiction should be further limited to a traditional understanding of the term “navigable.”

It is important to note that the Sackett decision did not change the federal definition of wetlands or remove the need for wetland delineations on properties. It is still important to understand the location of these resources on your property. This ruling shifts the responsibility for some wetland protection and permitting to the individual states. States such as Ohio and North Carolina, which have robust wetland protection and permitting, will likely see an increase in the number of permits processed. This may actually result in wetland mitigation being required for smaller impacts that would have been allowed under the federal permitting process.

Although this ruling did not address ephemeral streams directly, it is widely anticipated that they will also be excluded from federal regulation under the Clean Water Act. 

On May 26, 2023, the USEPA and U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) released this statement “The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (the agencies) are in receipt of the U.S. Supreme Court’s May 25, 2023 decision in the case of Sackett v. Environmental Protection Agency. In light of this decision, the agencies will interpret the phrase “waters of the United States” consistent with the Supreme Court’s decision in Sackett. The agencies continue to review the decision to determine next steps.”

Navigable Waters Protection Rule

EnviroScience biologists and permitting specialists are well-versed in the navigation of confusing rules and regulations. Our team of environmental experts diligently acquaint themselves with these ever-changing complex issues, ensuring their knowledge remains both current and comprehensive. EnviroScience will provide pertinent updates as the USEPA and the USACE release guidance on how they will implement the Sackett ruling.

Before breaking ground on your next project, protect your efforts and the environment by entrusting EnviroScience to help you make sure you are in compliance with environmental regulations and requirements. Contact us today at 800.940.4025 for help with your project.

More information about this ruling can be found in this article by JD Supra and the SCOTUSblog.


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; 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 Sponsors Annual Stow Fishing Derby

EnviroScience Corporate Responsibility Committee Sponsors 2023 Annual Stow Fishing Derby On May 6, 2023, the employee-led Corporate Responsibility Committee of EnviroScience was honored to sponsor and participate in the Stow Fishing Derby, a fantastic fishing extravaganza that brings anglers together from near and far to celebrate their love for the sport and the environment each year. Stow Parks and Recreation, Summit Sportsman Association, and the Ohio Department of Natural Resources presented this year’s event.

EnviroScience Corporate Responsibility Committee Sponsors 2023 Annual Stow Fishing DerbyThe Stow Fishing Derby showcased the true spirit of what it means to be a fisherman, with anglers of all ages showcasing their skills and passion for fishing. The waters at Heritage Lake were alive with excitement as participants reeled in an impressive variety of fish, from bass to trout and everything in between. The sun was shining, and the air was filled with anticipation as families and friends united to cast their lines and make lasting memories.

EnviroScience Corporate Responsibility Committee Sponsors 2023 Annual Stow Fishing DerbySenior Ecologist Michael Liptak, Ph.D., and Senior Environmental Scientist Yakuta Bhagat, Ph.D., helped man the fun at the EnviroScience booth, where they had tanks of Rainbow trout, Largemouth bass, and Bluegill sunfish set up for children to ogle. They also had quiz stations for the kids to test their fish knowledge and earn prizes like ES cups, labyrinth mazes, keychains, and tape measures! Quiz questions included fish identification, fish family matching, and “spot the invasive species” photos.

EnviroScience Corporate Responsibility Committee Sponsors 2023 Annual Stow Fishing DerbyAs a company committed to environmental stewardship, we were thrilled to witness the emphasis on responsible fishing practices during the event. Catch-and-release fishing was celebrated, ensuring the sustainability of our aquatic ecosystems and preserving the natural balance of our local waters.

EnviroScience Corporate Responsibility Committee Sponsors 2023 Annual Stow Fishing DerbyA big round of applause is in order for the winners of the Stow Fishing Derby! These talented individuals triumphed in various categories, such as “Largest Catch,” “Youngest Angler,” and “Most Unique Fish.” Congratulations on your well-deserved achievements!

EnviroScience Corporate Responsibility Committee Sponsors 2023 Annual Stow Fishing DerbyThe EnviroScience staff extends its heartfelt gratitude to the organizers, volunteers, and the Stow community for making this event an unforgettable success. It was a joy to connect with fellow fishing enthusiasts and join hands in celebrating our shared love for nature. Let’s continue working together to protect and preserve our environment for generations to come!

EnviroScience Corporate Responsibility Committee Sponsors 2023 Annual Stow Fishing DerbyStay tuned for more updates and community initiatives from the EnviroScience Corporate Responsibility Committee as we continue to foster a greener and healthier future.

 

 


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; 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.