Ecological Services, Inc. Benchmark Ecological Services, Inc. Statement of Qualifications

Transcription

1 Ecological Services, Inc. Benchmark Ecological Services, Inc. Statement of Qualifications Statement of Qualifications 1

2 Statement of Qualification 2

3 Statement of Qualifications William D Quast, PhD... President Robert L. Davidson...Vice President Neil Henthorne... Senior Project Manager Lynn Benefield...Senior Scientist Benchmark Ecological Services, Inc. P.O. Box 158 Katy, Texas Office: Fax: Statement of Qualification 3

4 Table of Contents Introduction... 1 Project Management and Environmental Services... 2 Ecological Assessment... 3 Environmental Impact Studies... 5 Environmental Sampling and Analysis... 7 Related Project Experience Wetland Services Construction/Restoration Habitat Evaluation Permitting/Agency Liaison Related Wetland Experience GIS Services Habitat Mapping Reports and Presentations Study Design and Interpretation Key Personnel & Technical Experience Resumes Statement of Qualification 4

5 Statement of Qualification 5

6 Introduction Benchmark is an environmental consulting and services company, located in Brookshire Texas, offering a wide range of services including; ecological assessment, eco-toxicology, environmental impact studies, environmental permitting, environmental sampling and analysis studies, wetland construction/restoration, and wildlife ecology. Benchmark is supported by a group of highly experienced environmental scientists that have worked in the environmental industry for more than 20 years. Benchmark specializes in wetland construction and restoration, riparian zone restoration, pre-dredge sampling/analysis studies, assessment and mitigation for environmental contamination, and innovative passive wastewater treatment systems. Benchmark provides the suite of ecological services necessary to meet these needs by teaming with other companies that can provide complementary services including engineering, construction, and analytical chemistry. Benchmark s primary objective is to provide scientific expertise, ecological experience, and regulatory networking capabilities through a more personalized and focused consulting service to industry, municipal managers, and government agencies faced with tighter operating budgets and more stringent environmental regulations. Statement of Qualifications 1

7 Project Management and Environmental Services Benchmark scientists collectively have more than 65 years of experience in developing, managing, and conducting environmental sampling programs. Benchmark personnel have considerable experience in the development of innovative sampling programs that are cost efficient and provide accurate reliable results. Services provided by Benchmark include: Ecological Assessment Aquatic Toxicology Biodiversity Studies Habitat Mapping and Utilization Studies Vegetation Baseline Evaluation and Monitoring Environmental Impact Studies Bioaccumulation Studies Ecological Risk Assessment Fate and Transport Studies Site Characterizations Environmental Sampling and Analysis Bioavailability Studies Biological Sampling Chemical Evaluations Remediation Monitoring Sediment Sampling and Analysis Surface Water Sampling and Analysis Statement of Qualification 2

8 Aquatic Toxicology Ecological Assessment Senior scientists at Benchmark have designed and conducted aquatic toxicology studies since 1986, when toxicity testing was adopted as an investigative and monitoring tool for water quality permitting. Toxicity testing was introduced to the wastewater discharge permit process by the 1984 re-authorization of the Clean Water Act. Benchmark s senior scientists managed and operated aquatic toxicology laboratories from 1986 through Toxicity tests were conducted with wastewater, sediment, and drilling fluids to meet NPDES and state discharge permit requirements and USACE sediment disposal requirements. Benchmark does not currently operate an aquatic toxicology laboratory but can provide testing services through partner laboratories. Benchmark provides toxicology project design, project management, and data evaluation. Biodiversity Studies Investigative ecological projects often require site characterization to evaluate potential impacts and to establish an ecological baseline. Most of these studies also utilize un-impacted reference sites as a standard for decontamination or mitigation. The site characterization and reference site identification process often involves biodiversity and/or biota population studies to quantify potential adverse impacts to biota. Benchmark scientists have conducted biodiversity studies to support stream classification, special use permits, site clean-up, and mitigation projects. Benchmark scientists have conducted and designed special studies involving mark/recapture, sonic tagging, trapping, netting, and stratified random sample collection. Studies were conducted according to EPA and TCEQ standards. Statement of Qualification 3

9 Habitat Mapping and Utilization Studies It is often necessary, during the initial phases of an ecological project, to classify habitats found at a site and to determine how that site is being utilized by wildlife. Benchmark scientists routinely classify and map habitats at aquatic, intertidal and upland sites. The goal of these studies is to categorize and map habitat by using a variety of characteristics including: soil type, moisture level, and vegetative cover. These studies may include population density and species diversity studies to evaluate wildlife utilization. Habitat mapping and utilization studies are often conducted as part of site characterization studies, reference site identification studies, and ecological monitoring programs. Habitat quantification, to document existing ecological conditions, is a necessary component of mitigation or restoration project development. Vegetation Baseline Evaluation and Monitoring As part of a habitat assessment, Benchmark scientists often conduct vegetation baseline evaluations. Vegetation baseline studies are specialized habitat assessments that are used to establish or confirm the status of vegetative communities. A baseline study involves plant species identification; and classification of vegetation and plant communities (e.g., coastal prairie, intertidal wetland, forested wetland, forested upland). Baseline studies are often conducted to document the condition of habitats at a reference site or establish a starting point for mitigation or restoration projects. Many of the techniques used to conduct a baseline study can be incorporated into a vegetation monitoring program. Vegetation monitoring is generally used to document the development or progress of plant communities in a mitigation or restoration project. The objective of a monitoring program is to document the progress of a modified or constructed habitat toward a developmental target (e.g., performance criteria), or demonstrate that performance criteria are being maintained. Statement of Qualification 4

10 Bioaccumulation Studies Environmental Impact Studies Benchmark scientists have conducted bioaccumulation studies in lakes, rivers, streams, bays, wetlands, and on oyster reefs. Bioaccumulation studies may include sampling of media such as soil, sediment, biota, and water. Benchmark scientists are especially adept at locating, identifying, and collecting biological specimens, and preparing them for chemical analysis. Benchmark scientists have been trained to use ultraclean sampling techniques and have many years of experience with sensitive sample media and ultraclean sample processing. Benchmark has the equipment, personnel, and experience to provide study design, sampling services, sample tracking, laboratory liaison, data management, and reporting. Ecological Risk Assessment Through teaming arrangements, Benchmark scientists have conducted Ecological Risk Assessments for major chemical and mining companies. Benchmark scientists have worked with team members to design and conduct risk assessment studies in aquatic habitats. Benchmark focuses primarily on the potential impacts to aquatic habitats but our experience includes the assessment of forested wetlands and coastal prairie. Statement of Qualification 5

11 Fate and Transport Studies Fate and Transport studies are typically an integral part of an overall Risk Assessment. Benchmark scientists have experience with the identification and delineation of the habitats that should be included in a fate and transport study. Benchmark scientists have collected soil, sediment, water, and biota samples to support fate and transport studies. Identifying the most meaningful habitats and environmental media for evaluation is a critical first step in all fate and transport studies. The key to selecting critical habitats and media is a thorough understanding of the chemical and ecological processes at work in the ecosystem. Benchmark scientists are accomplished aquatic ecologists and biological chemists. Site Characterizations Site characterization may be conducted as an independent study (i.e., Phase I and II Site Characterizations) or as the first step in a Risk Assessment Study. The success of a site characterization study can hinge on the selection of meaningful habitats and appropriate sampling media. Benchmark scientists have the knowledge and experience necessary to design a meaningful characterization study, and the skill to conduct a complex field investigation. Statement of Qualification 6

12 Environmental Sampling and Analysis Bioavailability Studies As part of site characterization studies Benchmark scientists have conducted bioavailability studies to assess the availability of chemicals of concern and to evaluate potential bioaccumulation pathways. The bioavailability of chemicals of concern is generally determined by the species of chemical found at the site, and the nature of the media containing the chemicals. Many chemicals that can cause concern are not available to biota and may not represent an ecological threat. A bioavailability study would evaluate all media (e.g., surface water, ground water, soil, sediment, vegetation, and prey organisms) that might contain the chemicals of concern and determine exposure pathways for biota. If an exposure pathway is identified, the study might also evaluate the potential exposure impact and the potential impact to lower trophic level organisms. Chemical Evaluations Site characterization also involves a chemical evaluation of site media to establish the nature and extent of potential contamination. A thorough chemical evaluation would include collection and analysis of potentially impacted media from potentially impacted areas. An initial sampling event might be used to pinpoint areas that need further study and to eliminate chemicals not found at the site from the analyte list. A second sampling event could be required to focus on areas that are potentially impacted using a focused analyte list. Benchmark scientists have conducted chemical evaluations at potentially contaminated industrial sites, at wastewater discharge sites, and sites where sediment removal is proposed. Some of the methods used by Benchmark scientists for chemical evaluations are described on the following pages. Statement of Qualification 7

13 Remediation Monitoring Benchmark scientists are experienced in developing and conducting monitoring programs for Remediation and Mitigation projects. Monitoring programs are designed to monitor the progress of a project, evaluate the need for modification, and determine when the project has met remediation goals. Benchmark scientists conduct vegetation cover surveys, erosion monitoring and control, invasive plant control, and water quality studies. Benchmark scientists conduct vegetation cover studies using a variety of data sources and methods including line intercept, point intercept, aerial photographs, sample grids, and qualitative field observations. Erosion monitoring and control is conducted during the monitoring phase of a project to ensure success of the project. While a wetland project is developing, it is important to provide optimal conditions for growth and development of the desired plant species. Benchmark staff control the invasion of undesirable plant species that may hinder or compete with desirable species. Undesirable species are controlled through physical removal, herbicide application, controlled burning, or other methods. Benchmark conducts surface water monitoring in the study area to assess the health of wetlands. Remediation monitoring may also include a sampling program that provides a succession of samples of sediment, soil, water, or biota. Changes in sample results can be used to evaluate the success of remediation efforts. Statement of Qualification 8

14 Sediment Sampling and Analysis Benchmark scientists have collected and processed sediment samples from rivers, channels, marshes, lakes, bays, and beaches. The chemical objectives and target depth of a sampling program will determine the methods used for sample collection and processing. Surface Grabs - Surface sediment can be collected using a box core or ponar sampler. These devices are used when shallow samples are desired and relatively large volumes may be needed (e.g., toxicity testing, sediment infauna assessment). Sediment Coring - If deeper sediments are needed or a known depth stratum is desired, Benchmark scientists use a sediment core sampler. Benchmark uses a lightweight piston corer for soft sediment less than 8 feet deep. The piston corer is quickly deployed and can be operated without heavy equipment. A vibracorer is used when sediments are firm or more than 8 feet deep. Sediment cores can be homogenized or sectioned by depth. Sediment Profiling - When information about specific depths or specific sediment strata is needed, Benchmark scientists use a piston corer or a vibracorer. Sediment cores are measured and extruded, or the sampling tube is split to access sediment strata. A sediment profile is produced when sub-samples are collected from successive sediment strata and analyzed for physical and/or chemical constituents. Sediment Pore Water Analysis - Studies investigating dissolved or available chemicals might require pore water analysis. Pore water samples are usually extracted using centrifugation or positive gas pressure, from core sections. Pore water can be extracted under anaerobic conditions when target analytes might be lost through oxidation. Statement of Qualification 9

15 Surface Water Sampling and Analysis Surface water samples are usually collected when data about ambient conditions are needed. Samples are collected using surface grabs or submersible pumps. Samples can be used for chemical analysis or toxicity testing. To obtain information about depth strata, or when contaminant concentrations are low and can be masked by sampling related contamination, other sampling techniques are used. Ultra-clean Water Sampling - When contaminant concentrations are low and may be masked by sampling related contamination, Ultra-clean sampling techniques are used. Ultra-clean sampling involves the use of peristaltic pumps and pre-cleaned Teflon tubing. Samples are collected from a continuous stream pumped from the target depth. Special sample handling techniques are used to avoid sample contamination after collection. Water Column Studies - Water column profiles can be developed by collecting discrete samples from specific depth strata using a sample bottle (i.e., Alpha or Beta Sampler), or pumping water from specific strata using a peristaltic pump. Physical parameters (i.e., temperature, ph, conductivity, salinity) can also be collected at each sample point by attaching sensors to the sample bottle or pump intake. Statement of Qualification 10

16 Related Project Experience Agrifos Fertilizer (2001) - Conducted chemical monitoring to assess impact and neutralization of soil and water from acid releases to a tributary of the Houston Ship Channel. Agrifos Fertilizer (2001) - Houston Ship Channel pre-dredge sediment core sample collection and sample preparation for chemical analysis. Analytical results analyzed and compared to EPA sediment quality criteria. Alcoa ( ) - Super Fund site characterization in Lavaca Bay, Texas included sediment core sample collection and anaerobic sample processing. Data were used to develop sediment depth profiles for a nature and extent study. Alcoa ( ) - Mark and recapture study with red drum was conducted as part of a bioaccumulation and habitat utilization study in Lavaca Bay, Texas. Alcoa ( ) - Bioavailability study conducted in Lavaca Bay, Texas to identify pathways for constituents of concern from environmental media to biota. Study involved assessment of soil, sediment, water, vegetation, and prey organisms as source media. Alcoa ( ) - Evaluation of a potential habitat restoration site included a vegetation baseline evaluation. The study consisted of quantitative vegetation sampling along established transects, species composition assessment and vegetation cover estimation. Alcoa (1997-Present) - Tissue monitoring study conducted in Lavaca Bay, Chocolate Bay, and Keller Bay, Texas. Species collected during the monitoring study are red drum, speckled trout, black drum, blue crabs, and gulf killifish. Alcoa (1998) - Conducted oyster reef delineation on a 700-acre portion of Lavaca Bay, Texas to determine the presence and extent of reefs in the study area. AtoFina (1997) - Super Fund site characterization at Texas facility included sediment core and surface water sample collection and sample processing. Data were used to develop sediment depth profiles and water column profiles for nature and extent study. Chevron ( ) - Evaluation of potential mitigation sites involved habitat assessment and habitat mapping. The mapping was part of a biological assessment of the property in southeast Texas. Georgia Gulf (2001) - Houston Ship Channel pre-dredge sediment core sample collection and sample preparation for chemical analysis. Analytical results analyzed and compared to EPA sediment quality criteria. Gulfco (2006) Conducted sediment and water sampling in support of superfund activities at a site near Freeport, Texas. Additional sampling including fish and invertebrate collections are planned at the site. Intergen Pipeline (2001) - Oyster reef delineation and reef quality assessment. Study included oyster reef mapping and evaluation of oyster population distribution in Galveston Bay, Texas. Malone (2006) - Conducted sediment, water, fish and invertebrate sampling in support of superfund activities at a site near Texas City, Texas. Statement of Qualification 11

17 Related Project Experience (Continued) ODFJELL (2003) - Pre-dredge sediment core sample collection and sample preparation for chemical analysis from a site in the Bayport Channel, Texas. Analytical results analyzed and compared to EPA sediment quality criteria. ODFJELL (2003) - Sediment contaminant delineation using a core sampler. Delineation was conducted to define the extent of contamination by analytes detected in sediment collected as part of the predredge sediment study in the Bayport Channel, Texas. Port of Houston Authority (2000-Present) - Pre-dredge sediment core sample collection and sample preparation for chemical analysis. Analytical results analyzed and compared to EPA sediment quality criteria. Listed below are the Port of Houston Authority facilities where Benchmark has conducted predredge studies: Barbours Cut Terminal - Houston Ship Channel Bulk Material Handling Plant - Houston Ship Channel Care Terminal - Houston Ship Channel Jacinto Port Terminal - Houston Ship Channel Jacinto Port Flare - Houston Ship Channel Turning Basin - Houston Ship Channel Woodhouse Terminal - Houston Ship Channel Port of Houston Authority (2002) - Sediment delineation study involving a vibracore to collect sediment cores that were processed and analyzed according to sediment depth at Greens Bayou, Texas. Port of Houston Authority (2006) Benchmark has conducted over 20 separate sediment sampling and analysis studies for the Port since Benchmark provided oversight for the collection and processing of fish tissue samples in Greens Bayou, Texas. Benchmark scientists represented the Port of Houston Authority on the project and worked with consultants hired by an industrial firm located on the channel. Benchmark also processed tissue samples and sent them to a laboratory for chemical analysis. US Army Corp of Engineers New Orleans District (2002) - Pre-dredge sediment core sample collection and sample preparation for chemical analysis. Samples were collected using a vibracore in a channel located in the Gulf of Mexico, near Grande Isle, Louisiana. Two studies providing pre-dredge sediment core sample collection and sample preparation for chemical analysis. Also conducted oyster tissue collection for chemical analysis as part of the pre-dredge study, near Grande Isle, Louisiana. US Army Corp of Engineers Galveston District ( ) - Pre-dredge and experimental dredge sediment core sample collections and sample preparation for chemical analysis. Analytical results analyzed and compared to EPA sediment quality criteria. Benchmark has conducted studies for the USACE in the Houston Ship Channel, Greens Bayou, and the Bayport Channel, Texas. Westvaco ( ) - Fish and invertebrate tissue sample collection and tissue sample preparation for chemical analysis from a site in the Neches River, Texas. Samples were analyzed for Dioxins and Furans. Statement of Qualification 12

18 Wetland Services Wetlands play a crucial role in nutrient cycling, water purification, stormwater retention, and provide critical wildlife habitat. Wetlands also help clean contaminated surface water through physical and biological filtration. Freshwater and salt marshes provide habitat for wildlife and aquatic biota (e.g., waterfowl, shorebirds, small mammals, reptiles, amphibians, fish, and aquatic insects). Since 1980, measures implemented by the United States to preserve wetlands have begun to pay off. The loss of wetlands and marshes has been reduced, and the loss of benefits provided by these habitats has also been reduced. Benchmark scientist are experts in the fields of wetland construction, restoration, monitoring, habitat evaluation, and delineation. Wetland services provided by Benchmark include: Construction and Restoration Construction Oversight Maintenance Monitoring and Reporting Planting Wetland Design Habitat Evaluation Damage Assessment Site Selection Wetland Delineation and Mapping Permitting/Agency Liaison Federal Agencies - EPA, NMFS, NOAA, USACE, USFWS State Agencies - GLO, TCEQ, TPWD, TXDOT Statement of Qualification 13

19 Construction and Restoration Construction Oversight Benchmark scientists draw on experience and ecological training to oversee wetland construction projects to ensure their success. Benchmark Scientists work in the field with engineers and construction crews to ensure that the constructed wetlands provide the conditions necessary for wetland development. Benchmark scientists help resolve unanticipated construction issues and ensure the finished project is ecologically sound. Maintenance When construction and planting is complete, maintenance may be required until the constructed or restored site achieves specific success criteria. Benchmark scientists oversee and conduct the following maintenance tasks: monitoring and controlling water levels, water quality testing, control of invasive or undesirable species, plant replacement, and erosion/siltation control. Statement of Qualification 14

20 Monitoring and Reporting Benchmark scientists develop and conduct wetland monitoring studies. Studies are designed to monitor the growth and success of constructed or enhanced wetlands. Benchmark scientists conduct vegetation cover and species composition studies, biomass studies, water quality studies, wildlife utilization studies, and document the developmental state of constructed wetlands. Benchmark can provide monitoring and progress reports, and can ensure that required documentation is available. Planting Benchmark has conducted and managed numerous wetland planting projects along the Gulf Coast. These projects include planting estuarine and freshwater marshes, wastewater treatment wetlands, and nurseries for emergent vegetation. The number of plants required for the planting projects has ranged from a few thousand plants to over one hundred thousand plants. Plants may be cultured on-site, purchased from vendors, or extracted from donor sites. Benchmark scientists develop planting schemes, identify plant donor sites, harvest donated plants, and conduct the planting. Wetland Design Benchmark scientists and GIS experts work together to develop designs for wetland creation or enhancement. Benchmark personnel work with clients, engineers and government agencies to design wetlands that are productive and meet appropriate success criteria. Benchmark scientists evaluate soil characteristics, soil chemistry, rainfall data, site elevation, and topography to identify potential wetland sites. Statement of Qualification 15

21 Habitat Evaluation Damage Assessment Damage assessment is one of the first steps in site characterization after a chemical spill or chemical release. Damage assessments typically involve an evaluation of damaged or lost resources and systematic chemical characterization of water, soil, sediment, and biota. A damage assessment conducted by Benchmark usually includes the identification and characterization of an appropriate reference site. The resources and chemical characteristics of a potentially injured site, are compared to a reference site using procedures developed by the EPA and TCEQ. Site Selection If habitat mitigation or restoration is required, Benchmark scientists will evaluate available property to identify candidate sites. Site selection involves surveying, habitat evaluation and mapping. Benchmark scientists will determine what modifications are required at each candidate site to provide the required mitigation. Site selection is often a part of mitigation plan development. The best candidate mitigation site is selected based on the development potential of each site and the specific mitigation requirements. A mitigation plan usually includes a description of the selected site, and a detailed plan for the mitigation project. Statement of Qualification 16

22 Wetland Delineation and Mapping Wetland delineation is an important ecological service in many parts of the United States. Federal regulations prohibit the net loss of jurisdictional wetlands and degradation of other types of natural habitat. Benchmark scientists are trained wetland delineators, who evaluate intertidal zones, upland habitat, forested wetlands, riparian zones, and prairie wetlands. Wetland delineations are usually conducted to identify and quantify habitats that must receive special consideration when development or site modification is proposed. Site plans might use delineation data to avoid sensitive habitat or prepare wetland mitigation plans. Wetland classification and mapping is an important part of a delineation. Benchmark scientists develop accurate, geo-referenced habitat maps which can be used to calculate size, elevation, and location relative to other habitats. Statement of Qualification 17

23 Permitting /Agency Liaison On many of the ecological projects managed by Benchmark, Benchmark scientists have served as the agency liaison. Benchmark scientists work with regulatory agency representatives, on behalf of their clients, to facilitate permitting, project planning, and monitoring. Over the past 20 years, Benchmark scientists have developed excellent working relationships with many state and federal agency representatives. Benchmark routinely works with scientists and engineers from EPA, NMFS, NOAA, USACE, USFWS, TGLO, TCEQ, TPWD, and TXDOT. Project development and execution are always enhanced by the experience and credibility that Benchmark scientists bring to the table. Statement of Qualification 18

24 Related Wetland Experience Agrifos Fertilizer (2001) - Conducted a wetland determination/delineation on a 300-acre dredge material disposal site in Pasadena, Texas. Alcoa (1998-Present) - Designed, constructed, and managed a 5-acre wetland nursery to provide planting stock for a 70-acre wetland restoration project in Calhoun County, Texas. Oversight of marsh construction and planting. Monitoring will be initiated during Fall Alcoa (1999) - Conducted below-ground biomass study in natural marsh and constructed marsh in Calhoun County, Texas. Chevron ( ) - Evaluated eight sites for potential wetland restoration sites near Port Arthur, Texas. Benchmark also provided conceptual design services for the restoration project. City of Houston (2001) - Conducted habitat mapping and wetland evaluation on two sites that were identified for potential development as city park properties in Harris County, Texas. ERM Southwest (2001) - Conducted preliminary habitat evaluation and wetland assessment on a 200-acre tract in Harris County, Texas. ExxonMobil ( ) Conducted wetland delineation and permitting related functions for a 681-acre facility site and 77-mile pipeline for a proposed LNG operation in East Texas. Hamshire Fannette I.S.D. (2000) - Developed planting plan and planted wetland plant species in two, 1-acre wastewater treatment cells in Jefferson County, Texas. M&H Enterprises ( ) - Conducted a wetland determination/delineation for a new natural gas pipeline to serve a South Texas Electric Coop generating station in Victoria County, Texas. Benchmark also prepared the Pre-Construction Notification to the Corps of Engineers and served as agency liaison for Nationwide Permit authorization. Mobil Mining and Minerals (now Exxon/Mobil) (1998) - Benchmark scientists provided ecological oversight for the construction phase of wetland construction project. The project included construction of a 15 acre freshwater wetland and a 17 acre estuarine marsh on the Houston Ship Channel. Statement of Qualification 19

25 Related Wetland Experience (Continued) Mobil Mining and Minerals (now Exxon/Mobil) ( ) - Developed and implemented a wetland maintenance and monitoring program for NRD wetland restoration project in Harris County, Texas. Also served as agency liaison to the NRD Trustee group. Project certified as completed in April Pierce Marsh (2003) - Provided logistical support for planting a wetland restoration project in Galveston County, Texas. Port of Houston Authority (2000) - Conducted habitat mapping and wetland delineation on a 12-acre site adjacent to the Houston Ship Channel in Harris County, Texas. Port of Houston Authority (2000) - Conducted wetland determination/delineation on a 200-acre proposed wetland mitigation site in Harris County, Texas. Conducted site evaluation studies on alternate mitigation sites. Port of Houston Authority ( ) - Conducted site selection surveys on prospective wetland mitigation sites for a proposed container and cruise ship terminal near Houston, Texas. Port of Houston Authority ( ) - Developed the wetland mitigation plan for jurisdictional wetland mitigation for a proposed container and cruise ship terminal near Houston, Texas. Reliant Energy (now CenterPoint Energy) (2001) - Conducted a wetland determination/delineation on two legs of electric transmission corridor in southeast Texas. Shell Equilon (2001) Conducted a wetland determination/delineation on a 58-mile pipeline in central Illinois. Shell Pipeline (2004) Conducted a wetland determination/delineation on a 58-mile pipeline Texas Parks and Wildlife Department ( ) - Provided ecological and logistical support for a 280-acre wetland restoration project in Orange County, Texas. Vinson and Elkins (2003) - Conducted habitat mapping and wetland delineation on a commercial tract proposed for development in the City of Houston, Texas. Statement of Qualification 20

26 GIS Services Benchmark s Geographic Information System (GIS) staff uses ESRI ArcView software to support wetland delineation and construction projects, environmental sampling, and other field services. Benchmark staff uses digital geographic information (e.g., USGS maps, Federal Emergency Management Agency maps, National Wetland Inventory maps) to develop project maps prior to the initiation of field activities (e.g., site location maps, sample station maps, and habitat maps). Field data collected by Benchmark scientists are combined with existing information to develop comprehensive data bases. Listed below are examples of services and information Benchmark staff can provide: Habitat Mapping Area and Distance Calculations Study Area Maps and Geo-referenced Aerial Photographs Vegetation Community Mapping Reports and Presentations Conceptual Project Designs Site Location Maps Study Design and Interpretation Sampling Grids Sample Station Maps Spatial Representation of Data Statement of Qualification 21

27 Habitat Mapping Area and Distance Calculations Benchmark staff calculate areas and distances using ArcView software. Areas and distances are calculated using geo-referenced aerial photographs; topographic maps, and field data. Data collected in the field with a Global Positioning System is downloaded by GIS staff and used to plot sample stations, sampling areas, and habitat boundaries. Plotted data are used to calculate areas and distances required for the particular study. Study Area Maps and Georeferenced Aerial Photographs GIS staff use a variety of sources to create study area maps and report figures for individual studies. Benchmark staff use USGS maps, FEMA maps, NWI Maps, and geo-referenced aerial photographs. Maps that designate study area location, hospital location, topography, NWI boundaries, soil classifications, and water depths can be produced for most study areas throughout the United States. Statement of Qualification 22

28 Vegetation Community Mapping Vegetation community maps are produced when conducting wetland delineations, wetland monitoring, and habitat mapping studies. Interpretive habitat maps can be produced prior to a field study using recent aerial photographs of the study area. Benchmark staff will field validate the interpretive maps using a Global Positioning System. The field data are downloaded into ArcView software and vegetative community boundaries are plotted on area maps or aerial photographs. Vegetative community maps are an important part of wetland delineation. Statement of Qualification 23

29 Conceptual Project Designs Reports and Presentations GIS staff work with scientists and engineers to create conceptual project designs. Conceptual designs are an important part of the planning process for wetland construction, oyster reef construction, and restoration of other habitat types. Conceptual designs allow clients, government agencies, and consultants to review design options prior to work plan development. Site Location Maps Site location maps are an important part of presentations, project plans, health and safety plans, and reports. Site location maps may be superimposed over aerial photographs, street maps, or topographic maps. Site location maps are used to identify hospitals, evacuation routes, access routes, and potentially hazardous areas. Statement of Qualification 24

30 Study Design and Interpretation Sampling Grids Sampling grids are an important part of the site delineation process. GIS staff can produce sample grids with any shape or spacing and generate grid coordinates. Grid points may then be uploaded into a Global Positioning System and used by field staff to locate the selected sample points. Sample Station Maps Sample station maps are important in all field sampling studies. Maps may be produced prior to the initiation of field studies to assist in identifying specific sampling stations or areas of concern. Maps may also be produced from data stations recorded in the field using Global Positioning Systems. Sample station coordinates recorded in the field can be downloaded to a computer and plotted on aerial photographs and topographical maps. Statement of Qualification 25

31 Spatial Representation of Data Maps that show sample stations, grids or transects through a study area can be produced before sampling is initiated. GIS staff use ArcView software to spatially represent data collected in the field. Spatial representation of sample stations is important when conducting wetland delineations, habitat mapping, sediment characterizations studies, water quality studies, and tissue studies. Field data can be plotted on maps to show spatial relationships between sample stations and results. Statement of Qualification 26

32 Key Personnel Statement of Qualification 27

33 Personnel Bill Quast Bob Davidson Technical Degree B.S. Biology M.S. Biology Ph.D. Marine Biology B.S. Wildlife and Fisheries Sciences Neil Henthorne B.S. Bioenvironmental Science Years of Experience 23 years 24 years 10 years Technical Experience Agency Liaison/Permitting Assistance Agency Liaison/NRDA Aquatic Toxicology Bioaccumulation Studies Biomonitoring and NPDES Permit Compliance Ecological Surveys and Impact Studies (Freshwater and Marine Ecosystems) Environmental Chemistry Estuarine Ecology Finfish Tagging and Population Studies Habitat Assessment and Mapping NRDA Restoration Project Development Oyster Reef Evaluation, Restoration, Construction Renewable Resource Management Toxicity Identification/Reduction Evaluations Wetland Design and Construction for Fisheries and Wildlife Habitat Wetland Design and Construction for Wastewater Treatment Wetland Restoration Aquaculture Systems Design and Operation Aquatic Toxicology Laboratory Design, Construction, and Mgmt. Bioaccumulation Studies Biological Samplng and Collections. Biomonitoring and NPDES Permit Compliance Ecological Surveys and Impact Studies (Freshwater, Marine, and Terrestrial Ecosystems) Environmental Toxicology Finfish Tagging and Population Studies Surface Mine Permitting Surface Mine Reclamation Planning and Implementation Ultra-clean Sampling Techniques Wetland Design and Construction for Fisheries and Wildlife Habitat Wetland Delineation Wetland Design and Construction for Wastewater Treatment Wetland Restoration Field Program Management Finfish and Shellfish Collection and Surveys NPDES Toxicity Identification/Reduction Evaluations Project Management Surface and Subsurface Sediment Sampling Ultra-clean Sampling Techniques Wetland Delineation, Construction and Planting Statement of Qualification 28

34 Richard L. Benefield B.S. Wildlife and Fisheries Sciences 38 years Agency Liaison/Permitting Assistance Agency Liaison USACE Agency Liaison TPWD Agency Liaison USFWS Agency Liaison NMFS Ecological Surveys and Impact Studies Estuarine Ecology Shellfish Tagging and Population Studies Oyster Reef Evaluation, Restoration, Construction Renewable Resource Management Mud and shell dredging Marine construction methods Oyster reef ecology Benthic ecology Wetland Restoration Statement of Qualification 29

35 Resumes Dr. William Quast - Dr. Quast, president of Benchmark Ecological Services, Inc., holds B.S. and M.S. degrees in biology from the University of Houston and a Ph.D. in marine biology from Texas A&M University. He is recognized by the scientific community and industry, for his expertise and accomplishments on the Texas Gulf coast in the following areas: Agency Liaison/Permitting Assistance Aquatic Toxicology Laboratory Design, Operation, Management, Bioaccumulation Studies Biomonitoring and NPDES Permit Compliance Ecological consulting for CERCLA Projects Ecological consulting for NRD Restoration Projects Ecological Surveys and Impact Studies (Freshwater and Marine Ecosystems) Environmental Chemistry Estuarine Ecology Finfish Tagging and Population Studies Habitat Assessment and Mapping Toxicity Identification/Reduction Evaluations Wetland Design and Construction for Fisheries and Wildlife Habitat Wetland Design and Construction for Wastewater Treatment Wetland Restoration Before founding Benchmark, Dr. Quast conducted estuarine research for the University of Texas Marine Biomedical Institute and the National Marine Fisheries Service, and was involved in coastal resource management with the Coastal Fisheries Division of Texas Parks and Wildlife Department. Dr. Quast designed, constructed and operated an aquatic toxicology laboratory in Houston. He managed the laboratory and its environmental consulting services for 6 years. Dr. Quast has served as Project Manager and Senior Toxicologist for a variety of coastal projects including environmental impact studies, wetlands evaluations, and wetland construction. Dr. Quast has been involved in coastal ecology, wetland research, and environmental toxicology for more than 16 years. Dr. Quast and other Benchmark scientists designed and conducted a sediment quality investigation in the Houston Ship Channel. The project involved deep sediment core sample collection, sediment depth profiling, and sediment sample processing. Samples, ranging from 8-12 feet in length, were collected using a spud barge, crane, and pneumatic vibracorer. Cores were placed on special sample processing tables and split to remove sub-samples from specific depth strata. Samples were processed on the barge in a specially prepare sample processing area, and shipped to a laboratory for analysis. The sediment investigation is on-going. Dr. Quast and a team of Benchmark scientists located a wetland mitigation site and developed a wetland mitigation plan for a Port Authority in Harris County, Texas. The wetland project was designed to serve as mitigation for jurisdictional wetlands that would be lost during construction of a container dock facility. Dr. Quast and the Benchmark team designed a wetland that would be compatible with the surrounding ecosystem and met mitigation requirements for the project. The wetland project is on-going. Dr. Quast was a senior scientist for the design and development of an NRDA wetland restoration/mitigation project for a petroleum company in the Beaumont, Texas. Dr. Quast served as a biological consultant during the mitigation site evaluations and provided technical oversight during the design phase of the project. Dr. Statement of Qualification 30

36 Quast provided support for Project Plan development and worked with engineering staff to develop a Pilot Program for construction methods. This project is still in development. Dr. Quast served as a Senior Scientist and Technical consultant for a survey of oyster reefs and other benthic habitat in Galveston Bay for a natural gas pipeline company. The study included studies of shoreline habitat, oyster reefs, oyster leases, and other sensitive benthic habitat. The purpose of the study was to determine if proposed pipeline maintenance would adversely impact oyster reefs and other sensitive habitat. Dr. Quast was the lead scientist for the construction of an NRDA wetland restoration project for a fertilizer manufacturing company on the Houston Ship Channel. Dr. Quast served as project liaison with the Project Review Committee (State and Federal Trustees) and provided technical oversight during the construction phase of the project. He also managed final construction and planting of the freshwater treatment wetland and brackish inter-tidal wetland. Dr. Quast is the project manager for the 5-year wetlands monitoring program to document marsh development, monitor treatment wetland efficiency, and ensure that performance criteria are maintained. Dr. Quast has been involved in a Superfund investigation in Lavaca Bay, Texas for 9 years. The project involves wetland evaluation and estuarine marsh relocation. Dr. Quast has served as a technical resource for fisheries, estuarine marsh, and oyster reef issues, and served as a technical expert in project meetings with the Trustee Committee assigned to the project. Dr. Quast is the primary consultant for ecological issues for NRD discussions and negotiations. Dr. Quast has planned and managed many of the ecological projects associated with the investigation. He has planned projects to characterize water and sediment quality over a large project area. These studies included sediment sampling and pore water extraction; sediment grain-size analysis, and ultra-clean water sampling for dissolved metals. He helped design fish tagging and tracking studies to examine finfish movement and behavior in the project area. The ecological projects also included long-term finfish and shellfish monitoring studies to provide information about changes in bioaccumulation rates and habitat utilization. His studies also include wetland and oyster reef delineation, and wetland vegetation baseline evaluations. An important part of the Superfund project was the drafting of Implementation Plans and Work Plans for all required NRD projects. Dr. Quast worked with the clients and their attorneys to develop Implementation Plans and Work Plans for a wetland creation project and an oyster reef project in the Lavaca Bay system. These projects are on-going. In preparation for a NRDA Wetland Restoration Project, Dr. Quast and other Benchmark scientists designed and constructed a 5-acre wetland plant nursery near Matagorda Bay. Plants that are growing in the nursery will be used to restore damaged wetland habitat and vegetate a unique inter-tidal wetland to be constructed in The purpose of the nursery is to provide the large number of plants needed to complete this project and reduce project costs and impact to natural plant donor sites. Dr. Quast has been involved in the restoration phase of a Superfund investigation in Lavaca Bay, Texas for 6 years. Dr. Quast is the primary consultant for ecological issues for NRD discussions and negotiations. Dr. Quast has served as the primary ecologist for the development of Restoration Project Work Plans, Implementation Plans, and Performance Monitoring Plans. The Restoration settlement included a 70 acre intertidal wetland and an 11 acre oyster reef. Dr. Quast was the primary ecologist and ecological project manager for the construction of both projects. The 11 acre oyster reef was constructed in 2005 and the intertidal wetland was constructed in Construction of both projects is complete and both projects have entered into a monitoring program. Dr. Quast will manage both of the monitoring programs. Statement of Qualification 31

37 Dr. Quast managed a benthic assessment project for a Liquid Natural Gas Re-gasification Plant on the Port Arthur Ship Channel. The study involved chemical characterization of sediments and water in the proposed project area. Dr. Quast coordinated the collection of samples for benthic habitat analysis, sediment samples for chemical analysis, and water samples for chemical analysis. The results of the study were used by FERC to evaluated the site. The Project is ongoing. Dr. Quast helped design and conduct a water, sediment and biota sampling project on the Rio Negro (Brazil) and six of its tributaries. The study spanned two years and was conducted to investigate metals contamination of sediment, water, and edible fish tissues associated with developing industries and expanding urban areas. Dr. Quast served as project manager for a Biological Assessment/Remedial Investigation for a herbicide manufacturing company. He conducted a biological assessment and remedial investigation, required by The Texas Natural Resource Conservation Commission, at the site of a decommissioned herbicide manufacturing plant. The studies included chemical analysis of surface water, sediments, and biota at the site and in the surrounding watershed. The study included a human health risk assessment, a biodiversity assessment, and a long-term site-monitoring program. Dr. Quast managed a project for a Chemical Manufacturing Company conducting an Environmental Impact Study. The project included a study of ambient water quality in Patrick Bayou (tributary to Houston Ship Channel). The study included a summer low-flow collection of water and sediment for chemical analysis and included characterization of a reference site (tidal bayou). The study focused on the impact of a calcium rich effluent discharged to the stream. Dr. Quast managed a Bioaccumulation Analysis for a Waste Disposal Company on West Galveston Bay. He conducted semi-annual bioaccumulation analysis of marine organisms from target and reference sites. Target analytes were methyl-mercury, dioxins and furans. The Project involved 24 hr field collections of organisms and laboratory preparation of tissues for chemical analysis. Dr. Quast conducted a toxicity study of the Houston Ship Channel; it's tributaries, and side bays. The study included toxicity testing and chemical analysis of water, sediment, and chemical analysis of fish tissue. The study included the San Jacinto River, Carpenters Bayou, Patrick Bayou, Greens Bayou, Hunting Bayou, Vince Bayou, Sims Bayou, Brays Bayou, and Buffalo Bayou. The study examined ambient water and sediment chemistry and aquatic toxicity, bioaccumulation in edible fish tissue, and pathology of fish and crabs. Project management involved project design, project plan and QA plan preparation, scheduling of project tasks, data management. Dr. Quast conducted an NPDES Bioaccumulation Study for Pulp and Paper Processor on the Neches River in east Texas. Fish and crab tissues were collected and processed for Dioxin and Furan analysis. Tissues were prepared in the laboratory and composite samples were designated. Results showed consistently low levels of Dioxin and Furan accumulation. Dr. Quast has directed many NPDES Toxicity Reduction Evaluations for chemical manufactures, petroleum refineries, pesticide manufacturers, a bauxite processor, and municipal/industrial wastewater treatment facilities, hazardous waste incinerators, and pulp/paper processors. He has also conducted bioaccumulation studies for pulp and paper processors and sediment toxicity studies for power plants. Dr. Quast has conducted treatability studies with industrial effluents and produced waters, investigating toxicity due to nitrogen enrichment and ionic imbalance. Statement of Qualification 32