Property Assessment/Management
Duckworth-Cole, Inc. (DCI) is experienced in conducting Phase I environmental site assessments (ESAs) for real estate transactions according to the standards and practices for All Appropriate Inquires in 40CFR Part 312 (AAI). We seek to assist clients in making all appropriate inquiry into previous ownership and uses of a property. DCI is also qualified to develop wildlife management plans as an agricultural practice for tax valuation purposes. These plans allow for increased aesthetic value while retaining “ag use” tax status.
Beneficial Reuse
DCI is experienced in the design, development, regulatory permitting, and operation of beneficial reuse programs for municipal and industrial wastes. Our staff has conducted feasibility and market studies, risk assessments, and design projects for industrial and municipal composting and beneficial land application programs.
Waste Minimization/Co-Product Development
We are experienced in assisting clients in the identification and selection of potential co-products from process waste streams. Projects have included determination of benefits and lack of detriment through co-product characterization, bench-scale testing, and greenhouse studies. We have conducted market feasibility studies and evaluations resulting in successful co-product marketing.
Wetland Delineation/Wetland Development
Wetlands represent an invaluable natural resource for clean water, wildlife habitat, and recreation. We have staff trained in wetland delineation in accordance with the US Army Corps of Engineers. There is also growing interest in the use of constructed wetlands for water quality improvement. We have assisted clients in the development, design, construction, and monitoring of wetlands for water quality improvement. Specific duties included the design of a wetland plant nursery and wet meadow wildlife habitat area, oversight of construction and soil preparation for the planting of a constructed wetland, and development and implementation of monitoring programs.
Remediation/Reclamation
Our staff has conducted remediation and reclamation projects for sites impacted by accidental spills, industrial activities, and energy exploration and production. These projects have included remediation to regulatory standards, participation in closure of a hazardous waste land treatment facility, and reclamation of drastically disturbed land to agricultural productivity.
Regulatory Program Development
Federal and state agencies regulate activities that impact the environment and public health. We are experienced in assisting clients in successfully negotiating regulatory approval for environmental programs. Typical projects have included interpretation of regulations, development of regulatory submittals, and interaction with regulatory agencies on behalf of industrial and municipal clients.
Project Management
DCI personnel have demonstrated expertise in managing projects from basic data development through design, startup, and oversight. Our staff has effectively managed projects ranging in scope from short term projects valued at less than $1,000 to long term projects of greater than $350,000 per year. Successful and efficient project management often begins with “front end loading” wherein project end goals, completion date(s), budget, and available resources are thoughtfully considered to develop a comprehensive management plan. Proper front end loading can reduce delays, dead time, and costly budget overruns.