Lunch and Learn

Analyzing the realms of utility mapping and subsurface utility engineering (SUE) to uncover the complexities and advancements in underground infrastructure management.

Discusses the potential surveys that may be necessary in an effort to identify wetlands and waterbodies present on a site that may be regulated by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and therefore would require submittal through the Section 404/401 permitting process. Our natural resource team works to minimize impacts by modifying plans and can act as a liaison with regulatory agencies, ensuring a smooth permitting process and reducing unexpected costs or delays during construction or redevelopment. Our experienced team has the necessary experience to assist our clients through the regulatory process from start to finish, including preparation of the necessary reports and compensatory mitigation requirements.

The presentation will focus on an introduction to current advances in Geotechnical exploration techniques including in-situ testing methods. The presentation will also have an in-depth review on the factors that influence the International Building Code Site Class and Seismic Design Criteria determinations. The discussion will include the benefits of performing a site-specific seismic hazard analysis in order to potentially reduce the seismic design criteria and the seismic loading.

Understanding the geology of the site plays an important role in developing appropriate geotechnical investigations and defining the risks associated with each site. This geologic information and our understanding of the proposed project are used to develop a scope of services for the project which will provide an understanding of the subsurface conditions and the potential risks a developer or owner may encounter on the site. Once the report is complete, there are a few keys to understanding the report and quickly being able to identify the design recommendations and potential “red flags” associated with the project.

The natural resource services group at SCI provides threatened and endangered species habitat assessments and presence/absence surveys for private development or construction projects, as well as public sector entities. With our close contact and strong relationships with federal and state regulatory agencies such as the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Missouri Department of Conservation, and Illinois Department of Natural Resources, SCI can navigate complex regulations and inform our clients on potential issues before time and money is spent on a project. Our team can inform you on when surveys will be necessary and help our clients navigate through the process from start to finish.

Phase I Environmental Site Assessments are often required on a property, but what exactly does that entail? This lunch and learn discusses the Phase I process and explains the types of red flags that may be identified on a property. Red flags represent the potential presence of petroleum, toxic or hazardous substances, and other concerns that can make development especially difficult and costly. Additionally, key non-scope items are discussed which include asbestos, lead-based paint and mold, and other environmental liabilities which may be a part of a client’s specific due diligence process.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) requires that a Land Disturbance Permit be obtained for construction sites disturbing more than one acre, and site-specific stormwater pollution prevention plans (SWPPPs) are often necessary as part of the requirements. This lunch and learn outlines the development and implementation of SWPPPs and the ongoing monitoring requirements that are often necessary. This seminar will also provide an opportunity for clients to equip their personnel with the valuable training and knowledge navigate these important regulations.

Private undertakings that involve federal permits, licenses, or funding require a Cultural Resource Survey (CRS) by the authority of the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, the Archaeological Historic Preservation Act of 1974 (Executive Order 11593), and Title 36 of the Code of Federal Regulations (Part 60 through 66 and 800, as appropriate). This lunch and learn will give details on how to recognize when a project will be subject to Section 106 requirements and explain how the SCI team of archaeologists can help our clients navigate through the process. It will also include a detailed outline of the required steps and corresponding timeframes for cultural resource consultations.