Natural Resource Boundary Identification
Maine Department of Transportation
Augusta, ME
Kleinschmidt was hired to assist the Maine Department of Transportation
complete a number of natural resource boundary identification projects
throughout the State of Maine. Site locations ranged from eastern Maine
to extreme northern Maine, during all four seasons. Boundary inventory
included wetland
delineation, identification of vernal pools, MDEP defined
streams, ponds or ponded areas, moose crossing areas and rare plants.
A Kleinschmidt team of botanists, wetland scientists, and soils scientists visited the various project sites to inventory the location and characteristics of the target habitats. In order to document natural resource areas soil, vegetation, and hydrologic data was collected at each site. Plants were identified to determine the location and functional value of the areas to be delineated. Hydric soil indicators were also used to define natural resource boundaries. Wetland delineation methodology was as described in the 1987 USACE Wetland Delineation Manual based on the three wetland criteria of soil, vegetation, and hydrology. Delineations of streams, wetlands, and vernal pools were also in accordance with the Maine Department of Environmental Protection and Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife guidelines. Wetland soils were classified and described using field indicators along with Munsell color determination. Biotic observations were made at each site as well, and included amphibian use or activity, general wildlife use, location of game trails, rare plant identification, and any other important site information.
Kleinschmidt, Steve Knapp, collects natural resource boundary data. Kleinschmidt also provided GPS mapping of the identified resources in conjunction with a written report including site descriptions and detailed information relating to each of the natural resources identified.
Boundary determinations were completed within a timely fashion and within budget allowing the MDOT flexibility in scheduling roadway projects along investigated sites.
For more information contact Alan Haberstock.