Staff
BETSY M. WEINKAM
Environmental Biologist, President
Years of Experience - 29
Education
- B.S. Biological Science, 1979
- Rosgen Level III: River Assessment and Monitoring, 1995
- Rosgen Level II: River Morphology and Applications, 1993
- Rosgen Level I: Applied Fluvial Geomorphology, 1993
- Soil Bioengineering, 1994
- Wetland and Watershed Hydrology, 1993
- Hydric and Hydromorphic Soils, 1991
Registrations
- 1993 Certified Wetland Delineator, ACOE
- 1993 Certified Forest Conservationist, MD DNR
- 1985 Registered Environmental Sanitarian, MDE
Highlights of Experience
Betsy is the President of CRI and a seasoned Environmental Biologist with 28 years of experience. She leads a team of highly qualified scientists providing a wide range of natural resources management support and solutions. An environmentalist dedicated to educating, servicing and informing clients, Betsy delivers the expertise and leadership needed to navigate complexities of local, State and Federal regulations and requirements. Highlights of Betsy’s experience include:
Leadership
- serves as Environmental Manager for the Intercounty Connector, managing multiple construction contracts, environmental design reviews, NEPA clearances, permitting, environmental construction compliance, environmental & community stewardships, reforestation, and environmental mitigation
- leads staff of experienced scientists, many of whom are experts in their disciplines, providing quality natural resources management services
- ensures team members are trained and knowledgeable in latest regulations, techniques, and technology
- manages complex projects requiring significant coordination and a broad range of knowledge and skills
- establishes, demonstrates, requires and maintains excellent standard of quality control for all work performed by CRI
Permitting and Regulation Management
- provides leadership, experience and credibility needed to identify and implement best approach to meeting environmental requirements
- acts as environmental manager for projects, providing a vital link with regulators to ensure that wetlands, forests and other environmental concerns are addressed and impacts are minimized
Mitigation
- delivers extensive experience selecting appropriate mitigation sites to best replace the functions of impacted wetland or forest
- designs wetland and stormwater management mitigation systems, including:
- developing planting and grading plans
- selecting native plant species
- writing planting specifications
- monitoring and performance plans
Field Studies
- leads and manages scientists conducting field studies including:
- tidal and nontidal wetland delineations
- functional assessments
- water quality and stream evaluations
- vegetative community identifications
- forest stand delineations
- rare, threatened and endangered species studies
- wildlife and habitat surveys
- soil evaluations
NEPA & Other Environmental Documents
- prepares natural resources portions of numerous NEPA and other documents including:
- Natural Environmental Technical Reports
- Environmental Assessments
- Environmental Impact Statements
- Forest Stand and Wetland Delineation Reports
- Chesapeake Bay Critical Areas Reports
Other Aquatic and Terrestrial Systems
- evaluates other aquatic and terrestrial systems, applying EPA's Rapid Bioassessment Protocol to numerous stream systems to assess physical characteristics, water quality, habitat and macroinvertebrate populations
- uses applied fluvial geomorphology to classify streams (Rosgen method) according to channel geometry, sinuosity, width/depth ratio, bankfull and floodprone calculations and other morphological parameters to gauge stream stability which can be a vital tool in designing restoration projects
CHUCK WEINKAM
Senior Environmental Scientist
Years of Experience - 32
Education
- B.S. Biology, 1978
- Rosgen Level V: River Restoration Design Implementation, 2005
- Rosgen Level IV: River Restoration and Natural Channel Design, 1996
- Rosgen Level III: River Assessment and Monitoring, 1995
- Rosgen Level II: River Morphology and Applications, 1993
- Rosgen Level I: Applied Fluvial Geomorphology, 1993
- Fish Passageways and Bypass Facilities, 2000
- Fluvial Geomorphology for Engineers, 1999
- Fluvial Sediment Transport - Measurement, Analysis and Prediction, 1998
- Interfluve, Inc.-Design of Natural Stream Channels, 1997
- Graduate Program in Soils and Hydrology, 1995
- Soil Bioengineering, 1993
Registrations
- 1994 Certified Forest Conservationist, MD DNR
- 1994 Certified Soil Scientist (VA)
- 1993 Certified Wetland Delineator, COE
- 1985/MD Erosion and Sediment Control ‘Green Card’ No. 11213
- 1984 Registered Environmental Sanitarian
Highlights of Experience
Chuck is an accomplished Senior Environmental Scientist with over 31 years of experience in numerous natural resources management disciplines. A leader and visionary, Chuck is frequently called upon by regulatory agencies to provide leadership, oversight or expert input for complicated environmental problems. Chuck’s experience includes wetland and forest delineations, stream classification and restoration, soil evaluations and environmental assessments. Highlights of Chuck’s experience include:
Environmental Management
- serves as Environmental Mitigation Manager for the Intercounty Connector overseeing project coordination, design and construction
Stream Team
- provides technical guidance to CRI’s talented staff of technical experts who provide physical, chemical and biological assessments of streams and watersheds
- proficient at Rosgen stream assessment and classification (Levels I-IV), watershed assessments, sediment transport analysis, gage calibrations, and developing grading plans for improved channel design, and planting plans for soil bioengineering and riparian buffer enhancement
- prepares specifications for construction bid documents, cost estimates and construction management
Environmental Restoration
- delivers extensive experience and training in environmental restoration techniques such as soil bioengineering and the Rosgen method of stream classification, which focuses on understanding the geomorphologic processes of streams and rivers, to assess the stability of streams and design restoration measures for improvement of channel stability, water quality and aquatic habitat
Field Studies and Document Preparation
- conducts field studies of upland vegetative communities, significant wildlife habitat and rare, threatened and endangered species
- reviews development plans for compatibility with environmental laws and regulations
- assesses potential impacts and prepares technical reports, alternatives analyses and environmental impact statements for a wide range of development and transportation projects
- delivers considerable experience assessing groundwater conditions and developing mitigation options for wetland and upland impacts
- experienced in wetland & forest delineations
MICHELE J. FLOAM, RLA
Environmental Manager
Years of Experience: 24
Education
- M.S. Environmental Science and Policy, 2002
- B.S. Landscape Architecture/ Environmental Science, 1988
- Dale Carnegie Achieving Success through Human Resource Skills, 2005
- Dale Carnegie Leadership Training for Managers, 2004
- Plant Identification, 1998
- Wetland Delineation Training, 1998
- Evaluation for Planned Wetlands Seminar, 1996
- Stream Restoration & Rosgen Classification System, 1995
- Wetland Design HGM Approach, 1995
- Planned Hydrology for Wetland Construction, 1995
Registration
- 1993/MD Licensed Landscape Architect
- 1994 Certificate of Training Erosion and Sediment Control (green card)
- 1994/VA Certified Landscape Architect
Highlights of Experience
Environmental Manager with 22 years of experience providing expert leadership and support in numerous natural resources management disciplines. Adept at managing complex projects with multiple regulators, Michele’s experience and credibility with regulatory agencies and clients is well-earned. Michele specializes in wetlands and water quality services, permitting, and landscape architecture. Highlights of Michele’s experience include:
Project Management
- serves as Environmental Design Review Manager for the Intercounty Connector managing multiple construction contracts, NEPA Environmental Summaries/Permitting, Archaeological Investigations, HAZMAT Investigations, Noise & Air Studies, and other functions
- manages complex projects involving multiple local, State and Federal regulatory agencies;
- provides expert advice on best approach to meet requirements and keep project and schedule on track
Field Studies –
provides a full rage of wetlands and water quality services including:
- wetland delineations
- jurisdictional determinations
- ecological studies
Mitigation –
delivers extensive experience and training in the full range of wetland mitigation services including:
- site searches and selection
- evaluation and design
- functional assessments
- water budgets
- contract documents
- monitoring and inspection before, during and after construction
Permitting and Regulation Management
- instrumental in the success of the "fast-tracked" FedEx Field access roadway project and the Woodrow Wilson Bridge Replacement project
- works diligently with state and federal agencies to meet permitting requirements
- maintains outstanding relationships with regulatory agencies to ensure permitting requirements are complete thereby avoiding unnecessary delays
Landscape Architecture
- provides landscape architect/environmental specialist solutions on numerous and varied mitigation and stream restoration projects
- specializes in low impact development, streetscapes, forest stand delineations and inventories, planting plans, park design, details, cost estimates and specifications, inspection of nursery plants, and inspection of planting operations
Environmental Inventory and Planning Team
SARAH A. WILLIAMSON
Senior Environmental Scientist
Years of Experience - 22
Education
- B.A. English, Concentration - Environmental Studies, 1989
- Wetland Delineation Field Training, Coastal Plain Supplement, SWS, 2009
- Hydric Soils Workshop, Mid-Atlantic Association of Professional Soil Scientists, 2009
- Maryland Biological Stream Survey, Benthic & Fish Sampling, 2002-2010
- Maryland Biological Stream Survey, Fish Taxonomy Exam, Qualifying Score, 2004, 2006-2010
- Maryland Biological Stream Survey, Benthic Macroinvertebrate Taxonomy Workshop, 2002
Registrations
- 1994 Certified Wetland Delineator, COE
- Adult CPR and First Aid, American Safety and Health Institute, 2010
Highlights of Experience
Sarah, CRI’s Assessment and Planning Team Department Head, is a Senior Environmental Scientist with 21 years of experience in providing solutions for a wide range of natural resources management issues and specializing in preparing NEPA and other environmental documents, conducting field studies, assessments, and delineations; and providing natural resource permitting. Sarah’s leadership and expertise managing complex regulatory requirements makes her an integral member of highly successful project management teams. Highlights of Sarah’s experience include:
NEPA and Other Environmental Documents
- prepares natural resources portions of NEPA and other environmental documents
- delivers expertise in all aspects of process including background research, technical field work, impact analysis, document preparation and agency coordination
- researches and compiles environmental data for Natural Environmental Technical Reports, Environmental Impact Statements, Environmental Assessments, Natural Environmental Inventories and other documents
Tidal and Nontidal Wetlands
- delineates tidal and nontidal wetlands
- performs functional assessments
- identifies potential mitigation sites
- evaluates water quality and stream habitat through monitoring of chemical, physical and biological parameters, including benthic macroinvertebrates and fish
Field Studies
- assesses vegetative communities for health, diversity and wildlife habitat potential as well as conducting rare, threatened and endangered species surveys and forest stand delineations
- performs natural resource mapping for use in alternative analyses
- conducts a variety of field studies and environmental assessments using the latest methodologies
- conducts evaluations of stream health and stability and identifies potential sites for restoration
Water Quality Monitoring
- performs water quality studies and is familiar with methods of physical and chemical analysis
- has extensive experience in the application of biological monitoring protocols including EPA’s Rapid Bioassessment and Maryland Biological Stream Survey (MBSS) methods for collection and analysis of data on habitat, benthic macroinvertebrates and fish
- has achieved a qualifying score on the MBSS Fish Taxonomy exam and has expertise in analyzing and compiling monitoring data for reporting
Permitting and Regulation Management
- expert in the various processes for obtaining natural resource permits and approvals
- regularly coordinates with natural resource agencies on permitting impacts to wetlands, streams, critical areas, forests, and other sensitive resources
DAVID R. SMITH, PWS
Senior Environmental Scientist
Years of Experience – 35
Education
- M.S. Zoology, 1988
- B.S. Biology, 1980
Registrations
- Professional Wetland Scientist, Certificate No. 000929
- DNREC Recognized Qualified Bog Turtle Surveyor
- 2003 DNREC Recognized Qualified Delmarva Fox Squirrel Surveyor
- MDNR Recognized Qualified Bog Turtle Surveyor
- 2010 - 2008 Maryland Biological Stream Survey, Amphibian and Reptile Taxonomy Exam, Qualifying Score
- 1998 USFWS/MDNR Recognized Qualified Delmarva Fox Squirrel Surveyor
- 1993 Certified Wetland Delineator, COE
- 1990 USFWS Habitat Evaluation Procedures
- 1990 Maryland List of Qualified Birders
Highlights of Experience
David is a seasoned Senior Environmental Scientist with 23 years of experience in the assessment and management of a wide range of natural resources. Gifted as a field ecologist, David provides a unique blend of knowledge of terrestrial and aquatic resources, ability to identify and assess impacts to those resources from public and private development, excellent writing skills, and a great working relationship with clients and regulators. Highlights of David’s experience include the following:
Wetland Delineation and Impact Assessment
- delivers in-depth experience in the identification and delineation of tidal and nontidal wetlands and waterways within the Mid-Atlantic region, employing the methodology of the 1987 U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Wetland Delineation Manual and associated guidance
- conducts wetland functional assessments using the New England and Evaluation for Planned Wetlands methodologies
- assesses impacts to wetlands and waterways associated with proposed development
- prepares wetland delineation reports and wetland avoidance and minimization analyses
- identifies potential wetland mitigation sites following detailed site search protocols
- prepares Phase I and II wetland mitigation plans including water budgets, site grading design, and plant species selections
- has extensive experience with and is a leading authority on Maryland SHA wetland mitigation monitoring protocols
Terrestrial Habitat and Wildlife and RTE Inventory and Analysis –
- has specialized training and experience with the inventory and impact analysis of terrestrial habitat and wildlife, and has conducted detailed studies of forest interior dwelling bird species, the distribution and abundance of amphibians and reptiles, and vernal pool identification and species composition
- completes forest stand delineations and assessments of forest structure, composition, and function according to guidelines of the Maryland Forest Conservation Act
- is qualified and has conducted many rare, threatened, and endangered species surveys for a wide range of plant and animal species including trapping studies for the federally endangered Delmarva fox squirrel and surveys for the federally threatened bog turtle
- has USFWS training in the use of Habitat Evaluation Procedures
- is thoroughly familiar with Section 7 Endangered Species Act compliance requirements and has completed numerous field studies and impact evaluations for Biological Assessment reports as part of Section 7 consultation
Document Preparation and Regulatory Agency Coordination
- prepares the natural resource portion of NEPA documents including background research, technical field studies, impact assessments, avoidance and minimization evaluations, document preparation, and agency coordination
- provides natural resource input to Natural Environmental Technical Reports
- completes wetland mitigation plans and monitoring reports
- Chesapeake Bay Critical Area Studies
- state and federal wetland permit applications
- Biological Assessment reports and RTE survey reports, and coordinates with federal, state and county review agencies concerning wetland regulatory authorizations
BRIDGETTE J. GARNER
Senior Environmental Scientist
Years of Experience –14
Education
- B.S. Natural Resources Management, University of Maryland, 1995
- Hydric Soils Workshop, Mid-Atlantic Association of Professional Soil Scientists, 2009
- Forest Conservation Qualified Professional Training, 2009
- Maryland Biological Stream Survey, Benthic & Fish Sampling, 2002-2004, 2006, 2009
- Maryland Biological Stream Survey, Fish Taxonomy Exam, Qualifying Score, 2009 and 2010
- Maryland Biological Stream Survey, Benthic Macroinvertebrate Taxonomy Workshop, 2002
- Impacts of Forest Corridors in the Community, 1999
- Maryland Biological Stream Survey Symposium, 1999
- Water Quality Sampling Program Design Workshop, 1999
- NRCS Forestry Workshop, 1997
- Critical Area Planting, 1997
- Wetland Delineation, 1997
- Marine Biology studies, 1993
Registrations
- Adult CPR and First Aid, American Safety and Health Institute, 2010
- DNR Forest Conservation Qualified Professional, 2009
- Environmental Compliance & Awareness Training (ECAT) #1253, 2007
- Personnel Certification for Erosion and Sediment Control, 1997
Highlights of Experience
Bridgette is a highly trained and experienced Senior Environmental Scientist/Team Leader with 13 years of experience in leading field studies and environmental assessments in support of the NEPA process, water quality monitoring, document and report preparation, mitigation site searches and permitting. Highlights of Bridgette’s experience include:
Field Studies
Conducts a wide variety of field studies including:
- performs forest stand delineations (FSD) using State and County guidelines and regulations
- prepares Natural Resources Inventory/FSD and Forest Conservation Plans (FCP)
- conducts field delineations of tidal and nontidal wetlands and assesses wetland functions using the New England and Evaluation for Planned Wetlands methodologies
- collects benthic macroinvertebrates, fish, water quality, and aquatic habitat data
Document and Report Preparation
Delivers extensive experience preparing a variety of documents including:
- compiles and researches environmental data for technical reports, Environmental Impact Statements, Major Investment Studies, and Natural Environmental Inventories
- conducts technical field work and agency coordination in preparation of the natural resources portion of NEPA documents
- writes and assesses the existing conditions and environmental consequences associated with natural resource portion of NEPA
Mitigation
- conducts mitigation site searches for both tidal and non-tidal wetlands that include infrared photo interpretation, soil evaluations, development of site database tools, and agency coordination
- conducts field studies to assess topography, vegetation, land cover, soils, and sources of hydrology
- prepares mitigation site search reports as part of the NEPA process
Permitting
- identifies and prepares permitting strategies that are needed to fulfill the project’s goals and to satisfy federal and state requirements for impacts to natural resources
- coordinates with local, state, and federal agencies associated with the permitting process that include Chesapeake Bay Critical Area Commission (CBCA), National Marine Fisheries (NMF), Maryland Department of the Environment Wildlife and Heritage Division (MDNR-WHD) and the Environmental Review Unit (ERU), and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) to discuss time sensitive resource issues such as Essential Fish Habitat (EFH), anadromous fish species, and rare, threatened, and endangered species (RTE)
- initiates early dialogue with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (ACOE) and Maryland Department of the Environment (MDE) to understand their concerns, discuss the permitting strategy and schedule, and schedule a Joint Evaluation meeting.
Sean D. Sipple, CE, PWS, PWD
Senior Environmental Scientist
Years of Experience –10
Education
- B.S., Biology, Towson University, 2002
Registrations
- 2007 Professional Wetland Scientist, Certificate #1730
- 2008 Virginia Professional Wetland Delineator, Certificate #3402000096
- 2008 NABS Certified Family-level Taxonomist for Aquatic Invertebrates
- 2008 NABS Certified Other Arthropods Taxonomist
- 2009 Certified Ecologist, Ecological Society of America
- 2010 Certified EPT Taxonomist/North American Benthological Society
- 2010 HAZWOPER Hazardous Materials Technician, Certificate 2009060507
- USFWS Qualified Surveyor for small whorled pogonia (Isotria medeoloides)
- Maryland Biological Stream Survey Summer Sampling Training - Herpetofauna Taxonomy Exam Qualifying Score, 2008, 2011; Freshwater Mussel Qualifying Score, 2011; Crayfish Qualifying Score, 2011; Invasive Plants Qualifying Score, 2011
Highlights of Experience
Mr. Sipple has ten years of experience working in natural resources, in the research, government, and private sectors. Mr. Sipple conducts, reviews, and assembles complex natural resource studies related to residential, commercial, transportation, and utility projects, both private and public. Highlights of Sean’s experience include the following:
Field Studies
Conducts a wide variety of field studies including:
- Utilizes Maryland Biological Stream Survey (MBSS), Virginia Department of Environmental Quality (VADEQ) and EPA Rapid Bioassessment protocols to assess aquatic communities
- Identifies benthic macroinvertebrates to the family or genus level, depending on the requirements of the project
- Conducts detailed analysis of water quality and biological data, including Index of Biotic Integrity (IBI) and Physical Habitat Index (PHI) calculations to determine the overall health of aquatic communities
- Conducts fish relocation per State and Federal permit conditions for stream restoration projects
Wetland Assessment
- Conducts waters of the U.S. delineations using the US. Army Corps of Engineers 1987 Delineation Manual, and Regional Supplements for the Eastern Mountains and Piedmont and Atlantic and Gulf Coastal Plain regions
- Has prepared Joint Permit Applications for impacts to Waters of the U.S. Has also conducted stream impact assessments using the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and VADEQ Unified Stream Methodology for Waters of the U.S. permitting
- Has conducted wetland functional assessments using several different methodologies
- Has conducted Submerged Aquatic Vegetation delineations
- Conducts vernal pool delineation and assessments
Mitigation Monitoring
- Has conducted vegetation sampling, well monitoring, invasive species assessment, buffer condition assessments, corrective action plans, and reporting for numerous wetland mitigation projects
- Has conducted vegetation sampling, benthic macroinvertebrate monitoring, natural channel design monitoring, invasive species assessment, buffer condition assessments, wildlife assessment, , corrective action plans, and reporting for numerous stream mitigation/stewardship projects
Rare, Threatened and Endangered Species Surveys
- Has conducted surveys and habitat evaluations for the comely shiner (Notropis amoenus), green floater (Lasmigona subviridis), Wood Turtle (Glyptemys insculpta), Bald Eagle (Haliaeetus leucocephalus), Peregrine Falcon (Falco peregrinus, including F.p. tundrius), Upland Sandpiper (Bartramia longicauda), Loggerhead Shrike (Lanius ludovicianus ludovicianus, L.l. migrans), Henslow's Sparrow (Ammodramus henslowii), barn owl (Tyto alba), small whorled pogonia (Isotria medeoloides), American Ginseng (Panax quinquefolium), and several rare diabase-associated plants.
HEATHER SPEARGAS
Environmental Scientist
Years of Experience: 7
Education
- B.S., Geography and Environmental Systems, 2004
- Maryland Biological Stream Survey, Benthic & Fish Sampling, 2006 – 2010
- Wetland Delineation Field Training, Coastal Plain Supplement, SWS, 2009
- Hydric Soils Workshop, Mid-Atlantic Association of Professional Soil Scientists, 2009
- Adult CPR and First Aid, American Safety and Health Institute, 2010
Highlights of Experience
Heather is an Environmental Scientist with 5 years of experience. She assists with a variety of field studies and environmental assessments for the public and private sector. She is proficient in GIS and uses it to create maps to support environmental documentation. She has worked as an In-House Consultant for the MD SHA’s Environmental Programs Division and as an MDE Consultant Reviewer. Highlights of Heather’s experience include:
Field Studies
Assists senior scientists perform a wide variety of field studies including:
- conducts wetland delineations, forest stand delineations, and rare plant surveys
- collects benthic macroinvertebrates, fish, water quality, and aquatic habitat data
- performs data entry and analysis
- uses GPS and GIS technologies to support technical field work and reporting, including preparation of resource mapping
Document Preparation
- compiles and researches environmental data for technical reports, Environmental Impact Statements, Environmental Assessments and Natural Environmental Inventories
- delivers experience using GIS programs to support environmental assessments, inventories, and impact analyses
Mitigation
- assists in mitigation site searches, including infrared photo interpretation, soil evaluations
- assists in monitoring of completed mitigation sites for successful establishment of wetland, vegetation, soils and hydrology
In-House Consultant for the MD State Highway Administration, Environmental Programs Division
- provided environmental permit preparation, permit coordination and tracking
- coordinated task orders for services from other consultants and provided comment on deliverables
- conducted wetland delineations, prepared delineation reports and GIS mapping, and prepared wetland permit applications
- participated in coordination meetings to identify permitting and agency coordination requirements
- assists in monitoring of completed mitigation sites for successful establishment of wetland, vegetation, soils and hydrology
Maryland Department of the Environment Consultant Reviewer
- reviews Joint Permit Applications and completes field reviews
- prepares required documents for permitting by MDE
- prepares Maryland State Programmatic General Permits required by the USACE
KATE ESTLER
Environmental Scientist
Years of Experience: 7
Education
- M.S., Conservation Biology, 2006
- Graduate Certificate Candidate, Geospatial Information Science
- B.S., Aquatic Resources, 2001
- Duke Marine Laboratory, One Semester Study of Marine Science
- MBSS Fish Taxonomy Exam, Qualifying Score, 2007
- Maryland Biological Stream Survey, Benthic & Fish Sampling, 2007-2010
- Hudson Basin River Watch Macroinvertebrate Identification Program, 2007
Highlights of Experience
Kate has 6 years of experience as an Environmental Scientist performing natural resources analysis and management tasks. Her experience includes field studies, laboratory identification of benthic macroinvertebrates, document preparation and assessment of aquatic environments. She is proficient in GIS and uses it to create maps to support environmental documentation and to analyze and display long-term water quality data. She has assisted in creating and implementing a volunteer water quality monitoring program which provided data to the State DEP and EPA.
Field Studies
Performs a wide variety of field studies including:
- benthic macroinvertebrate, fish, water quality, and aquatic habitat surveys
- performs standard physical, chemical, and biological monitoring techniques needed to assess stream and watershed responses to management
Assists Senior Scientist in field studies including:
- wetland delineations, forest stand delineations, and rare plant and animal surveys
Water Quality and Biological Monitoring
Performs aquatic macroinvertebrate and fish identification:
- identifies benthic macroinvertebrates to the family or genus level, depending on the requirements of the project
- utilizes Maryland Biological Stream Survey’s (MBSS) and EPA RBP protocols to assess aquatic communities
- conducts detailed analysis of water quality and biological data, including Index of Biotic Integrity (IBI) and Physical Habitat Index (PHI) calculations to determine the overall health of an aquatic community prepares and assists in developing biologic monitoring protocols and analysis tools to assess stream restoration effect on aquatic biota
- responsible for data management of large monitoring data sets
Document Preparation
- provides water quality analysis on multiyear data to clients, regulatory agencies, and partnering firms delivers GIS expertise to support environmental documentation and to analyze and display long-term water quality data on various platfoms
- compiles and researches environmental data for technical reports, Environmental Impact Statements, Environmental Assessments and Natural Environmental Inventories
- prepares technical documents including wetland delineation reports, forest stand delineation reports, and water quality and biomonitoring reports
ADAM TATONE
Environmental Scientist
Years of Experience: 5
Education
- B.S., Natural Resources, 2007
- Maryland Biological Stream Survey, Fish Sampling, 2008-2011
- Maryland Biological Stream Survey, Benthic Sampling, 2008-2010
- Wetland Training Institute, Inc., Planning Hydrology, Vegetation, and Soils for Constructed Wetlands, 2011
- Maryland Biological Stream Survey, Fish Taxonomy Exam, Qualifying Score, 2011
- Adult CPR and First Aid, American Safety and Health Institute, 2010
- Hydric Soils Workshop, Mid-Atlantic Association of Professional Soil Scientists, 2009
- Primary Headwater Habitat Program, Ohio EPA, Division of Surface Water, 2006
- Boaters Safety, Ohio Department of Natural Resources, Division of Watercraft, 2005
Highlights of Experience
Adam has 5 years of experience as an Environmental Scientist assisting in electrofishing surveys, wetland delineations, plant surveys, data management, and macroinvertebrate sample processing. He has worked as an MDE Consultant Reviewer conducting permit reviews. He assists senior scientific personnel in conducting a variety of field studies and environmental assessments for the public and private sector. Highlights of Adam’s experience include:
Field Studies
- collects fish, water quality, and aquatic habitat data
- performs fish relocations at stream restoration and construction sites
- performs wetland delineations and forest stand delineations
- studies the migration of anadromous fish upstream using electrofishing and ichthyoplankton sampling
Assists senior scientists in performing a wide variety of field studies. Tasks include:
- conducts wetland delineations, forest stand delineations, and rare plant surveys
- collects fish, benthic macroinvertebrates, water quality, and aquatic habitat data
- performs data entry and analysis
- uses GPS and GIS technologies to support technical field work and reporting, including preparation of resource mapping
Document Preparation
- compiles and researches environmental data for technical reports, Environmental Impact Statements, Environmental Assessments and Natural Environmental Inventories
- delivers experience using GIS programs to support environmental assessments, inventories, and impact analyses
- completes USACE Jurisdictional Determination forms
Maryland Department of the Environment Consultant Reviewer
- reviews Joint Permit Applications and completes field reviews
- prepares required documents for permitting by MDE
- prepares Maryland State Programmatic General Permits required by the USACE
Mitigation
- conducts mitigation site searches that include field studies to assess soils topography, vegetation, and sources of hydrology
- conducts wetland mitigation monitoring as well as groundwater well installation and monitoring
- provides monitoring results to MDSHA and regulatory agencies via the Wetland Mitigation Management System
CORNELIA SARVEY
Environmental Scientist
Years of Experience: 10+
Education
- Agricultural Technical Assistant, Germany, 1977
- B.S. Biology, 2000
- Herbaceous Plant Identification, 1995
- Benthic Macroinvertebrate Identification, 1997
- Stream Restoration Workshop on Bioengineering Techniques, 2001
- Winter Woody Plant Identification, 2002
- Hydric Soils and Use of Field Indicators of Hydric Soils in the U.S, 2005
- Identification of Freshwater Wetland Sedges, Grasses, and Rushes, 2006
- Invasive Plant Management Workshop, 2006, 2007
- Non-Native Invasive Species of the Mid-Atlantic,2007
- Wetland Delineation Training, 2007
- Biology and Identification of Grasses, 2007
- Geographical Information Systems, 2009
Registrations
- 2008 MD-DNR Forest Conservation Qualified Professional,
- 2004 MD Erosion and Sediment Control ‘Green Card’ No. 25957
Highlights of Experience
Cornelia is experienced in performing natural resources assessments and inventories, chemical and biological water quality monitoring, and sediment and erosion control monitoring to NPDES standards. Cornelia conducts and manages all project aspects including fieldwork, data analysis, report writing and plan preparation. Prior to her work as an environmental scientist, Cornelia has been participating in scientific studies in Germany and the States. Cornelia currently serves Montgomery County Parks (M-NCPPC) in the role of ecological monitor and liaison to the Intercounty Connector. Highlights of Cornelia’s experience as environmental scientist include:
Field Studies
Conducts a variety of environmental assessments including:
- Forest stand delineations to assess forest structure, forest health and species composition
- Wetland delineations utilizing the 1987 U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Wetland Delineation Manual
- Non-native invasive species surveys
- Maryland State listed rare, threatened and endangered (RTE) plant species surveys
- Wetland mitigation vegetative monitoring
Water Quality and Biological Monitoring
Performs biological, chemical and physical water quality investigations including:
- Biological and physical stream habitat assessment
- Benthic macroinvertebrate collection, identification, and data analysis
- Continuous well ground water level monitoring
- Cross-sectional data collection as part of stream morphology monitoring programs
Sediment and Erosion Control Monitoring
- Performs sediment and erosion control monitoring
Document and Report Preparation
- Prepares reports to local and State agencies including:
- Wetland delineation reports
- Forest stand delineation reports and plans, forest conservation plans
- Water quality data analyses and reports
- Non-tidal wetlands and waterways permit application
DEREK RODGERS
Environmental Scientist
Years of Experience: 3
Education
- B.S., Environmental Science, 2007
- M.S., Environmental Science, 2010
- MBSS Summer Sampling Training, 2010, 2011
- MBSS Spring Sampling Training, 2011
Highlights of Experience
Derek has 3 years of full-time experience as an Environmental Scientist assisting senior scientific personnel in conducting a variety of field studies and environmental assessments for the public and private sector. He has experience in the application of protocols used to identify and delineate wetlands using the three-parameter approach. His graduate research involved exploring the effects of urban stormwater contaminants on biota utilizing stormwater detention ponds. Using bioassays, he determined specific effects of road salt and trace metals on the biology of a common species of earthworm. Highlights of Derek’s experience include:
Field Studies
Assists senior scientists perform a wide variety of field studies and associated activities including:
- conducting wetland delineations and forest stand characterizations
- assessing invasive plant populations and recommending treatment strategies
- collecting benthic macroinvertebrates, fish, water quality, and aquatic habitat data
- performing data entry and analysis
- using GPS and GIS technologies to support technical field work and reporting, including preparation of resource mapping
Document Preparation
- compiles and researches environmental data for technical reports, Environmental Impact Statements, Environmental Assessments and Natural Environmental Inventories
- reviews scientific literature for technical documents
- utilizes GIS programs to support environmental assessments, inventories, and impact analyses
- performs wetland functional assessments using various methodologies
Technical Publications
Derek W. Rodgers, Steven M. Lev, Joel W. Snodgrass, David R. Ownby, Lisa M. Prince and Ryan E. Casey. An enriched stable isotope technique to estimate the availability of soil zinc to Lumbricus terrestris (L.) across a salinization gradient. Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry. 2011; Vol. 30. Issue 3. Pg. 607-61
ALYSSA CRANSKA
Environmental Scientist
Years of Experience: 1
Education
- B.S. Environmental Science and Management- Watershed Sciences Track, University of California Davis, 2011
- Maryland Biological Stream Survey Symposium, 2011
Highlights of Experience
Alyssa has 1 year of experience as an Environmental Scientist conducting a variety of field studies and environmental assessments for the public and private sector. She is experienced in MBSS field monitoring protocols for fish and assessing the quality of aquatic habitat as well as the potential causes of habitat degradation. Highlights of Alyssa’s experience include:
Field Studies
Assists senior scientists in performing a wide variety of field studies. Tasks include:
- fish, water quality, and aquatic habitat surveys
- data entry and analysis
- physical, chemical, and biological monitoring needed to assess stream and watershed responses to management
Document Preparation
- researches and prepares environmental data for inclusion in technical reports, Environmental Impact Statements, Environmental Assessments and Natural Environmental Inventories
Water Quality and Biological Monitoring
- identifies benthic macroinvertebrates to the family
- utilizes Maryland Biological Stream Survey’s (MBSS) and EPA RBP protocols to assess aquatic communities
- conducts detailed analysis of water quality and biological data, including Index of Biotic Integrity (IBI) and Physical Habitat Index (PHI) calculations to determine the overall health of an aquatic community
Wetland and Stream Mitigiation Team
STEVEN A. MORSBERGER
Senior Environmental Scientist
Years of Experience: 18
Education
- M.S., Environmental Science and Policy, 1998
- B.A., Biology, 1993
- Canaan Valley Institute: Sediment Sampling Workshop, 2006
- Rosgen Level V: River Restoration Design Implementation, 2005
- Rosgen Level IV: River Restoration and Natural Channel Design, 2003
- Rosgen Level III: River Assessment and Monitoring, 2002
- Rosgen Level II: River Morphology and Applications, 2000
- Rosgen Level I: Applied Fluvial Geomorphology, 2000
- Maryland Biological Stream Survey – Summer Sampling Protocols, 2002
- Wetland Mitigation Design, 2001
- Nationwide Permits, 2000
- MD-DNR Qualified Forest Stand Delineation & Conservation Planning Professional, 1999
Registrations
- 2007 MD SHA Erosion & Sediment Control Certificate ‘Yellow Card’ No. 07-252
- 2002 MD Erosion & Sediment Control Certificate ‘Green Card’ No. 17434
- 1999 MD-DNR Qualified Forest Stand Delineation & Conservation Planning Professional
- 1992 NAUI Openwater I Scuba Diver Certification
Highlights of Experience
Steve is a well trained and tested Environmental Scientist with over 12 years of professional experience in natural resources management and another 4 years of professional experience in scientific research. Steve is experienced with a wide range of environmental and natural resource management issues and specializes in using the most recent techniques to evaluate and restore aquatic ecosystems. Highlights of Steve’s experience include:
Management
- manages small to large complex projects involving numerous local, State and Federal agencies and other stakeholders
- co-manages Coastal’s Stream Team
Field Studies
conducts a wide variety of environmental investigations including:
- stream classification/geomorphology, assessment and restoration
- wetland and forest stand delineation
- functional assessments
- vegetative communities surveys
- biological and water quality monitoring
Document Preparation and Regulation Management
- provides coordination with regulatory agencies for projects affecting natural resources including streams, wetlands, Chesapeake Bay critical areas, forests and other sensitive resources
- prepares permits
- conducts field meetings
- writes reports
- performs analyses
- prepares designs
Mitigation
- conducts mitigation site searches that includes site assessments, infrared photo interpretation, soil evaluations, hydrologic evaluations and the installation of wells to monitor groundwater
- provides coordination with regulatory agency
- prepares mitigation site search reports
- develops and maintains databases
- prepares NEPA documentation
- performs pre-, during- and post-construction monitoring for mitigation projects
Construction Inspection and Management
- performs construction inspection for stream and wetland mitigation contracts to maintain design objectives and preserve natural resources during construction phase
- conducts traditional survey to verify design
- coordinates monitoring and inspection activities and remedies, where needed, with clients, property owners, contractors, regulatory agencies and the public
- performs contract administration tasks for environmental mitigation construction projects
GIS Mapping
- delivers substantial experience developing and utilizing GIS for mapping natural resources and incorporating spatial models and aerial photo interpretation
SEAN CRAWFORD, P.E.
Professional Engineer
Years of Experience - 15
Education
- M.S., Marine-Estuarine Environmental Science, 1998
- B.S., Chemical Engineering, 1995
- ASCE: Sediment Transport Analysis Using HEC-RAS, 2009
- Rosgen Level IV: River Restoration and Natural Channel Design, 2008
- Rosgen Level III: River Assessment and Monitoring, 2007
- Rosgen Level II: River Morphology and Applications, 2006
- University of Maryland: Ecological and Geomorphic Principles of Stream Restoration, 2006
- Rosgen Level I: Fluvial Geomorphology for Engineers, 2005
Registrations
- 2005, Maryland, Registered Professional Engineer - MD #200966
- 2007, Maryland State Highway Administration Erosion and Sediment Control Certification ‘Yellow Card’
- 2003, State of Maryland Erosion and Sediment Control Certification ‘Green Card’
Highlights of Experience
Sean is a Senior Water Resources Engineer with 13 years of experience conducting hydrologic and hydraulic studies, modeling and assessing watersheds and streams, designing stormwater management facilities, and conducting Rosgen assessments. Sean has also served as the project manager for multiple stream assessments and designs that involve multi-disciplinary teams, and include complex analysis and solutions that are customized to each particular stream channel. Highlights of Sean’s experience are as follows:
- conducts stream assessments to determine the extent, magnitude, and rate of instability, assess Large Woody Debris (LWD), and determine the need for stream rehabilitation.
- formulates innovative approaches to identify and quantify the extent of bank erosion, and determine recommended improvements for each reach.
- models existing and proposed hydrologic and hydraulic conditions.
- Served as the lead reviewer for fish and aquatic passage at all culverts constructed as part of the InterCounty Connector
- designs stormwater management wetlands/ponds to reduce peak discharges of design storm events, provide water quality treatment and ensure flows are non-erosive for chosen restoration techniques, and that created/restored wetlands have adequate hydrology.
- stream design to stabilize actively eroding stream banks and reduce sediment loads to downstream reaches, and provide grade control and reduce shear stresses.
- civil site design and preparation of plans, specifications and cost estimates.
Technical Publications:
- Crawford, S.M. and Sanford, L.P., Boundary Shear Velocities and Fluxes in the MEERC Experimental Ecosystems. Marine Ecology Progress Series. Vol. 210:1-12, 2001.
- Sanford, L.P. and Crawford, S.M., Mass Transfer Kinetic Control of Uptake Across Solid Water Boundaries. Limnology and Oceanography. 45(5):1180-1186. 2000.
CHRISTINE S. SMITH, P.E.
Water Resources Engineer
Years of Experience - 13
Education
- Master of Environmental Engineering, 2002
- B.S., Engineering and Environmental Science, 1997
- Ecological and Geomorphic Principles of Stream Restoration, 2005
- Rosgen Level IV: River Restoration and Natural Channel Design, 2004
- Rosgen Level III: River Assessment and Monitoring, 2004
- Rosgen Level II: River Morphology and Applications, 2003
- Rosgen Level I: Applied Fluvial Geomorphology, 2003
- Natural Rivers: Mechanisms, Morphology and Management, 2003
- Stormwater Management Workshop, 2003
- Erosion and Sediment Control Training Course, 2003
- Continuing Education Courses: Wetlands, Stormwater Management, Ethics for Engineers, 2010
Registrations
- 2010 Professional Engineer, Pennsylvania, License No. PE077397
- 2008 Professional Engineer, Maryland, License No. 36335
- 2007 Professional Engineer, Virginia, License No. 042266
- 1998 Maryland Erosion and Sediment Control ‘Green Card’ No. 10125
Highlights of Experience
Christine is a well-trained and experienced Water Resources Engineer with 13 years of water resources engineering and management experience. Highlights of Christine’s experience include:
Project Management
- serves as Contract Manager for various Intercounty Connector Environmental Stewardship and Compensatory Mitigation contracts including stream restoration, stormwater management Best Management Practices, wetland/floodplain creation, and riparian buffer enhancement components
Design Review and Quality Assurance
- serves as lead Environmental Design Reviewer for two segments of the Intercounty Connector construction contract
- provides quality assurance oversight to ensures environmental compliance with the Intercounty Connector project's Commitment Tracking Database and environmental permits
Field Studies
- performs physical stream and watershed assessments, performs sediment transport analyses, models the hydrologic and hydraulic characteristics of streams
- employs environmental assessment and restoration techniques such as the Rosgen method of stream classification and natural channel design that focuses on understanding the geomorphologic processes of streams and rivers
Document Preparation and Other Analyses
- assists with compiling environmental data and preparing NEPA documentation such as Natural Environmental Technical Reports, Environmental Impact Statements and other documents
Hydrologic and Hydraulic Models
- skilled with a number of hydrologic and hydraulic models, and various physical and chemical stream assessment methodologies and models, including RIVERMorph Stream Restoration Software
Permitting and Regulation Management
- regularly coordinates with regulatory agencies, local natural resource agencies and special interest groups on permitting impacts to streams and wetlands
CLIFF M. GARRATT
Hydrologist
Years of Experience - 21
Education
- B.S. Physical Science, Hydrology, 1990
- Rosgen Level V: River Restoration Design Implementation, 2005
- Rosgen Level IV: River Restoration and Natural Channel Design, 2002
- Rosgen Level III: River Assessment and Monitoring, 2002
- Rosgen Level II: River Morphology and Applications, 2001
- Rosgen Level I: Applied Fluvial Geomorphology, 2001
- TMDL: Total Maximum Daily Loads in California Rivers, 2002
- Stream Biological Monitoring, 2001
- Introduction to California Water Management and Ecosystem Restoration, 2000
- Watershed Assessment, 2000
Registrations
- 2007 Maryland Erosion and Sediment Control ‘Green Card’
- 2007 Maryland Erosion and Sediment Control ‘Yellow Card’
Highlights of Experience
Cliff is a Hydrologist with 20 years of proven experience in assessments, grading and planting plans, preparing specifications and other documents. Highlights of Cliff’s experience include:
Field Studies
- performs Rosgen stream assessment and classification (Levels I – IV), watershed assessments, gage calibrations and post construction monitoring
- performs best management practices (BMP) stormwater management assessment.
Document Preparation
- designs stream mitigation projects utilizing natural channel design techniques
- develops grading plans for improved channel design, and planting plans for soil bioengineering and riparian buffer enhancement
- evaluates low impact development techniques for small BMP projects, prepares specifications for construction bid documents, cost estimates, and permit applications
- provides construction inspection
Hydrologic and Hydraulic Models
- skilled with a number of hydrologic and hydraulic models and various physical and chemical stream assessment methodologies
J. DUNCAN KERR
Environmental Inspector
Years of Experience - 24
Education & Certificates
- B.S. Ornamental Horticulture, 1983
- Rosgen Level V: River Restoration Design Implementation, 2005
- Rosgen Level I: Applied Fluvial Geomorphology, 2004
- OSHA Certified in Level C&D Confined Space Entry, 1997
- Stormwater Management Inspection Certification, 1997
- Certified Professional Horticulturalist, 1986
- Certified Pesticide Applicator, 1986
- Integrated Pest Management – Short course, Univ. of MD, 1984
Registrations
- 2002 Erosion & Sediment Control Certificate Green Card No. 14383
Highlights of Experience
Duncan is a seasoned Environmental Inspector with 23 years of extensive experience in environmental regulations, permit compliance and construction inspection. Highlights of Duncan’s experience include:
Construction Project Management
- directs, manages and implements environmental construction projects including complex stream restorations/stabilizations, wetland creations, wetland enhancements and restorations, tidal and non-tidal shoreline stabilization, stormwater management facilities and reforestation
- directs and manages roadway construction and capital projects
Environmental Construction Inspection
- inspects grading and planting operations, erosion and sediment control measures for water quality and pollutant control, and completes daily inspection reports
- maintains excellent working relationship with federal, state and local regulatory agencies
LARRY LUBBERS
Senior Environmental Scientist
Years of Experience - 38
Education
- B.A., Biology
- Rosgen Level IV: River Restoration and Natural Channel Design
- Rosgen Level III: River Assessment and Monitoring
- Rosgen Level II: River Morphology and Applications
- Rosgen Level I: Applied Fluvial Geomorphology
- Ecosystem Modeling & Biostatistics
- EPA Working at a Watershed Level
- Intro to ArcGIS I
Registrations
- 2010 MD SHA Erosion & Sediment Control Certificate ‘Yellow Card’
- 2010 MD SHA Erosion & Sediment Control Certificate ‘Green Card’
- PADI Openwater Scuba Diver Certification
Highlights of Experience
Larry is a Senior Environmental Scientist with more than 40 years of professional experience, using the most current techniques to evaluate and restore aquatic ecosystems. Larry has worked with Coastal Resources Inc. since 2005 but before joining the CRI team he was Chief of the Watershed Assessment and Targeting Program at the Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR). In this role, Larry developed and coordinated ecosystem based watershed restoration actions strategies (WRAS) with landowners and other government agencies. He conducted field evaluations, wrote watershed restoration/management plans, prioritized and staged restoration projects. Larry has made multiple presentations on ecosystem management issues in a variety of professional forums. During his time at DNR Larry also managed the Governor’s Watershed Revitalization Partnership Program, a cooperative program with MD Department of Transportation coordinating and funding stream restoration projects. He developed guidance documents, solicited proposals, negotiated contracts, supervised budgets, and authorized reimbursements for 17 stream restoration, stormwater management & fish passage projects located in 8 jurisdictions across Maryland. Larry developed a quantitative stream restoration vegetation sampling protocol and assisted in the development of a Stream Corridor Assessment method (SCA) subsequently used to survey over 3000 miles of streams. Larry’s first twelve years of professional experience were working as a research Project Manager at the University of Maryland’s Chesapeake Biological Laboratory. He is also a co-founder and first president of the Maryland Stream Restoration Association. Details of Larry’s experience include:
Management
- manages small to large complex projects involving numerous local, State and Federal agencies and other stakeholders
- performs contract administration tasks for environmental mitigation projects
- acquires and manages grants for restoration and monitoring projects
Field Studies
Conducts a wide variety of environmental investigations including:
- stream classification/geomorphology, assessment and restoration
- functional assessments
- vegetative communities surveys
- biological and water quality monitoring
Document Preparation and Regulation Management
- provides coordination with regulatory agencies for projects affecting natural resources including streams, wetlands, Chesapeake Bay critical areas, forests and other sensitive resources
- prepares permits
- conducts field meetings
- writes scientific papers for peer reviewed journals
- presents scientific papers and leads field trips at national science conferences
- performs analyses
- prepares designs
Mitigation
- conducts mitigation site searches that includes site assessments, infrared photo interpretation, soil evaluations, hydrologic evaluations and the installation of wells to monitor groundwater
- provides coordination with regulatory agency
- prepares mitigation site search reports
- develops and maintains databases
- performs pre-, during- and post-construction monitoring for mitigation projects
GIS Mapping
- utilizes GIS for mapping natural resources, and incorporating spatial models and aerial photo interpretation
KAREN JENNINGS
Geomorphologist
Years of Experience - 11
Education & Certificates
- MS, Geology, 2001, Concentration in Alluvial Geomorphology
- BA, Geoscience, 1996
- Wetland Hydrology Design, 2011
- Bioretention Summit, 2010
- US ACOE: Stream and Riparian Stabilization and Restoration, 2010
- Geomorphology and Sediment Transport in Channel Design, 2009
- Risk Failure Assessment of In-Stream Structures, 2008
- Ecological and Geomorphic Principles of Stream Restoration, 2007
- Rosgen Level II: River Morphology and Applications, 2007
- Rosgen Level I: Applied Fluvial Geomorphology, 2006
Highlights of Experience
Karen is a geologist with a specialization in alluvial geomorphology and nine years of professional experience. Karen’s background also includes experience in soil taxonomy, stratigraphic mapping, isotopic dating, and groundwater modeling. Her responsibilities include stream assessments and restoration design, wetland mitigation design, and hydrologic studies. Highlights of Karen’s experience are as follows:
- performs complex stream assessments, evaluates technical problems, directs technical aspects of assessment and monitoring projects, designs and drafts restoration plans, evaluates data sets for quality control, and writes technical reports
- wetland and stream mitigation site searches, water quality and sediment contamination studies, environmental permitting, sediment and water budget assessments, and physical bridge scour analyses
- design of wetland and stream restoration and rehabilitation projects
- skilled with land surveying using total station, laser level and GPS equipment
- skilled with various physical and chemical stream assessment methodologies
- familiar and proficient with the EPA Rapid Bioassessment and MD DNR Stream Corridor Assessment protocols, and other watershed assessment methodology
- management of projects with budgets ranging from $12,000 to $350,000 and project teams of up to seven people.
Technical Publications
2008, George H. Riechers, Jan L. Beyers, Peter R. Robichaud, Karen Jennings, Erin Kreutz, and Jeff Moll. Effects of three mulch treatments on initial postfire erosion in north-central Arizona. In: Narog, Marcia G., tech. coord. Proceedings of the 2002 Fire Conference: Managing Fire and Fuels in the Remaining Wildlands and Open Spaces of the Southwestern United States. Gen. Tech. Rep. PSW-GTR-189. Albany, CA: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Pacific Southwest Research Station. p. 107-113.
2003, Karen L. Jennings, Paul R. Bierman and John Southon. Timing and style of deposition on humid-temperate fans, Vermont, United States. Geological Society of America Bulletin. 2003; 115, p.182-199.
J. ASHBY STRASSBURGER
Biological Resources Engineer
Years of Experience - 9
Education
- B.S., Biological Resource Engineering, University of Maryland, 2002
- M.S., Environmental Science and Policy, Johns Hopkins University, Candidate
- North Carolina State University, River Course Stream Morphology Assessment & Natural Channel Design Principles, 2009
Registrations
- 2009 Maryland Erosion and Sediment Control ‘Green Card’ No. 41573
Highlights of Experience
Ashby is a well-trained and experienced Biological Resources Engineer with over six years of professional environmental engineering experience. Highlights of Ashby’s experience include:
- Serves as Environmental Design Reviewer for Intercounty Connector mainline construction and environmental stewardship and compensatory mitigation projects
- Conducts document reviews in accordance with applicable state and federal laws executing environmental permits and ensuring compliance
- Works collaboratively with internal and external peers to ensure ongoing compliance
- Assists senior scientists in performing geomorphic assessments, stream restorations, wetland delineations, water quality assessments, rapid visual stream assessments, large woody debris surveys, facies surveys and wetland & stream mitigation site searches
- Performs data analysis for stream channel characterization, large woody debris analysis and facies analysis
- Practices standard physical, chemical and biological monitoring techniques to evaluate stream health and support resource inventories
- Evaluates stream channels for use as reference sites for the qualification of existing physical characteristics channels and to establish design parameters
- Provides post construction monitoring including measure velocities to evaluate stream discharges and evaluate fish passage post-construction
- Use AutoCAD and GIS to support production of documents and ensure compliance
MATTHEW HUBBARD
Environmental Scientist/Inspector
Years of Experience - 10
Education/Certification
- B.A. English, Environmental Studies, Integrated Liberal Studies, 2000
- Planning Hydrology, Soils and Vegetation of Constructed Wetlands, 2011
- Ecological and Geomorphic Principles of Stream Restoration (Wilcox, Palmer, Schmidt), 2008
- Rosgen Level I: Applied River Morphology, 2004
- Stream Classification and Assessment – North Carolina Stream Restoration Institute, 2003
- Stream Restoration and Design - North Carolina Stream Restoration Institute, 2003
- Pollution Ecology and Taxonomy of Aquatic Insects – North Carolina Stream Restoration Institute, 2006
- Advanced Wetland Delineation – Environmental Concern, 2003
- Introduction to Cad - Chesapeake College, 2006
- Wetland Plant Identification – Environmental Concern, 2003
- Constructed Wetlands: Wastewater and Stormwater Treatment – Environmental Concern, 2003
Registrations
- Environmental Compliance & Awareness Training ICC Contract B (ECAT) #0296, 2008-2009
- MD Erosion and Sediment Control ‘Yellow Card’, 2007
- MD Erosion and Sediment Control ‘Green Card’, 200 6
Highlights of Experience
As an Environmental Scientist with ten years of experience, Matt manages wetland mitigation designs, provides designated specialist activities for restoration construction projects, and leads a variety of field studies and environmental assessments for stream restoration and water resource monitoring. Matt writes technical design and monitoring reports that combine field data with research and practical experience. His experience in construction enables him to work effectively with contractors as an inspector, and his on-the-ground experiences provide him with practical and achievable design approaches and goals for mitigation projects. Matt has extensive experience assessing hydrology and soils for constructed wetland designs. He also has experience constructing tidal wetlands and possesses a working knowledge of the standard physical, chemical, and biological water quality monitoring techniques. He regularly conducts detailed geomorphic assessments of streams for restoration designs, and completes rapid watershed assessments. Matt has led bioretention designs and conducted detailed monitoring investigations of bioswales and stormwater infiltration ponds.
BRIAN MCGRATH
Environmental Construction and Quality Assurance Inspector
Years of Experience - 8
Education/Certification
- B.S., Marine Biology, 2002
- OSHA 40 Hour Hazwopper Certified
Registrations
- 2008 MD Erosion & Sediment Control ‘Yellow Card’ #08-592
- 2008 MD Erosion & Sediment Control ‘Green Card’ #41504
Highlights of Experience
Brian’s expertise includes environmental regulations, permit compliance, construction inspection, geotechnical investigations, erosion & sediment control compliance and water quality testing and inspection along with the necessary computer hardware and software compatible with the Administration’s electronic compliance system (Quality Assurance Toolkit). He has extensive experience directing, managing and implementing the environmental inspection and quality assurance of highway construction projects. He is also experienced in environmental compliance of permit conditions and Record of Decision commitments for all aspects of roadway construction including bridges, stream relocations, stream diversions, fish relocations and culverts. He regularly inspects roadway, bridge and culvert construction; grading and planting operations; erosion and sediment control measures and streams for water quality and pollutant control, and completes daily inspection reports. Brian has a strong understanding of the construction process and sequences, particularly ESC and SWM. He currently supervises two environmental inspectors and has an excellent working relationship with Contractors & their environmental managers as well as federal, state and local regulatory agencies. Brian is also experienced in conducting Quality Assurance inspection and completing the SHA Standard Form 61.
AUSTIN BYERS
Water Resources Specialist
Years of Experience - 3
Education
- M.S., Water Resource Management, Environmental Science, 2009
- B.S., Natural Resource Management, Environmental Studies, 2007
- Rosgen Level II: River Morphology and Applications, 2011
- Engineering for Ecosystem Restoration, 2011
- Maryland Biological Stream Survey, 2010
- Rosgen Level I: Applied Fluvial Geomorphology, 2009
Registrations
- 2011 Maryland State Highway Administration Erosion and Sediment Control Certification ‘Yellow Card’ No. 11-413
- 2011 State of Maryland Erosion and Sediment Control Certification ‘Green Card’ No. 46446
Highlights of Experience
Austin is a Water Resources Specialist with 4 years of experience. His educational background includes a focus on stream and river processes and measures of channel stability. Austin provides technical support for stream assessment, stream restoration design, and monitoring projects. Highlights of Austin’s experience include:
- Performs geomorphic assessments, sediment sampling, discharge measurements, rapid visual stream assessments, Rosgen stream classification, and facies analysis to assess and understand historic and active geomorphologic processes of streams and rivers.
- Coordinates with contractors and engineers to provide construction oversight and insure design intent is carried out during construction of stream restoration projects.
- Utilizes GIS for assessment and analysis of natural resources, map production, and aerial photo interpretation.
- Works with a multidisciplinary team to develop and implement pre and post-construction monitoring plans that characterize the biological, ecological, hydrological, and physical attributes of streams and wetlands over time.
- Develops and produces grading plans and details for stream restoration projects using Microstation. Prepares specifications for construction bid documents, cost estimates, and technical reports. Develops spreadsheets utilized for data analysis.
- Evaluates existing and proposed hydraulic conditions to provide stream design services that reduce shear stress and stabilize actively eroding stream banks.
- Some specific projects include culvert removals, outfall protection, bank stabilization, and increasing aquatic habitat though in-stream structures and bio-engineering practices.
SUMANTHA PRASAD
Water Resources Engineer
Years of Experience - 3
Education
- A.A., Biology, 2004
- B.S., Bioenvironmental Engineering, 2008
- M.S., Environmental Science and Engineering, Candidate
- Hydrogeology, Spring 2009
Highlights of Experience
Sumantha has two years of experience as a water resources engineer assisting senior engineers and scientists in conducting a variety of field studies, environmental assessments, data input and analysis, hydrologic and hydraulic modeling, developing maps and design documents utilizing CAD and GIS, and drafting technical reports. Sumantha’s education and recent coursework has prepared her to use many of the latest technologies and tools in managing, analyzing and displaying large and complex datasets to perform site assessments, watershed assessments, and environmental restoration designs. In addition, she has experience in designing stormwater management systems according to the New Jersey Best Management Practices manual. Highlights of Sumantha’s experience include:
Field Studies
- Assists senior scientists in performing a wide variety of field studies including: geomorphic assessments, tree assessments, facies surveys, discharge measurements, sediment sampling and topographic survey
Document Preparation
- Assists with development and production of plan sets using AutoCAD/Microstation
- Develops water budgets for wetland mitigation sites and reporting results
- Assists with drafting and formatting technical reports
- Utilizes GIS for assessment and analysis of environmental datasets and map production
- Develops spreadsheets utilized for data collection, management and graphing of results
CAITLIN WILSON
Water Resources Engineer
Years of Experience - 1
Education
- B.S., Environmental Engineering, 2010
- Minor, Civil Engineering, 2010
Other Professional Qualifications
- Engineer In Training (EIT) Certification, Maryland State Board for Professional Engineers
Highlights of Experience
Caitlin is a water resources engineer with one year of experience assisting senior staff with fieldwork and design related work, specifically in the preparation of stream and wetland restoration plans, specifications, and cost estimates. She also conducts hydrologic and hydraulic studies, including water budgets for wetland design.
- Assists senior staff in performing a wide variety of field studies including: stream classification/geomorphology assessment and restoration, discharge measurements, sediment sampling, topographic survey, and wetland & stream mitigation site searches
- Assists with development and production of plan sets using AutoCAD/Microstation
- Conducts hydrologic and hydraulic studies
- Assists with drafting and formatting technical reports
- Utilizes GIS for assessment and analysis of environmental datasets and map production
- Develops spreadsheets utilized for data collection, management and graphing of results
Publications
- Wilson, C. and S. Dentel, 2009, Exploring Direct Contact Membrane Distillation (DCMD) as for Water Purification, Delaware Water Resources Center, University of Delaware, Newark, Delaware, 11 pages.
Coastal's Admin Team
THE ADMIN TEAM
From left to right: Pam Foster, Laura Marra, Barbara Smiroldo, Beverly Warner and Sandra Jaffe (not pictured)