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Wetland Characterization and Permitting

Wetland Delineation
404 Permitting/Floodplain Permitting
Wetland Analysis
Threatened and Endangered Species Impact Analysis

Huff & Huff, Inc. (H&H) has conducted wetland delineation and 404 permitting projects in northern Illinois and Indiana. Using the 1987 Army Corps of Engineers field manual, vegetation, soil, and hydrology criteria are analyzed to determine the presence or absence of jurisdictional wetlands. H&H has completed applications for nationwide 404 permits for projects involving stream crossings, directional boring, direct cut techniques, and individual permits. In the Chicago area, H&H uses the Floristic Quality Index (FQI) to evaluate the quality of wetland flora.

H&H has completed assessments of natural resources impacts for various transportation projects. Identification of wetlands, sedge meadows, and quality prairie areas and the resulting mitigation measures were elements of the projects. As a component of an environmental impact statement (EIS) preparation, wetlands analysis, vegetation analysis, and natural resources identification were all completed for a 12.5 mile segment of proposed freeway, a 30-mile segment and multiple river crossings. Other issues included analysis of salt spray impacts on wetlands and woody vegetation. H&H has completed wetland analysis in technical reports for over 150 road projects of varying magnitude and complexity.

H&H routinely identifies areas of potential jurisdictional wetlands for clients purchasing commercial properties. Using soil survey information and aerial photographs, in combination with a site visit, potential wetland areas are described. Wetland areas affect land development and, in DuPage County, areas, such as wetlands and floodplain lands, are highly regulated by the county government.

H&H has helped clients determine the suitability of real estate development given the presence of high quality wetlands. Factors included in the determination were the quality and size of wetlands, applicability of nationwide permit or individual permit, and the length of time needed to obtain a permit. The analysis included determining ways to avoid impacting wetlands, ways of minimizing impacts to wetlands, and exploring the potential for wetland mitigation.

H&H also has licensed herbicide/pesticide applicators for management of invasive species. H&H utilizes invasive species management techniques, such as cutting and herbicide applications for wetland mitigation sites and prairies. Threatened and endangered species has become an important factor in development of roads or private projects. H&H has conducted surveys for the following species:

Eastern Prairie Fringe Orchid
Franklin Ground Squirrel
Massasauga Snake
Blandings Turtle
Kirtland Snake
In addition, H&H is involved in development for the Hines Emerald Dragonfly as a mitigation component. H&H has assisted in Indiana bat surveys.

Tree surveys have been conducted along transportation corridors. Data from these surveys have been compiled into tree survey reports where the health, structure, and size are described. The largest tree survey included identification of 2,500 trees in forested corridors. Mitigation for tree loss has also been developed.

Other natural resource issues include evaluation of impacts to threatened and endangered mussels and fish in streams.