Watershed Restoration and Protection
Restoration designs may include retrofitting existing stormwater outfalls with pocket wetlands to remove pollutants; designing sedimentation chambers prior to these pocket wetlands to further remove suspended solids from the stormwater; employing soil bioengineering methods for stabilizing eroding stream banks and lake shorelines (riparian buffers); and augmentation and restoration of riparian buffers. Omni has been instrumental in getting local residents involved in these activities and providing them adequate training to ensure success of the project. Omni also has expertise in lake and pond management. We have performed diagnostic studies for lakes and ponds. We have assisted our clients and obtained permits for dredging activities including freshwater wetland permits, stream encroachment permits, and soil conservation and sediment control permits. In addition to the design and permitting for these projects, Omni has provided construction management and developed long-term monitoring and maintenance programs to ensure project success. The development of partnerships is crucial when designing and implementing a watershed restoration project. Omni has been instrumental in organizing stakeholders to work together on restoration projects. We work closely with partners such as municipalities, counties, non-profit organizations, universities, state and federal agencies, and local residents to design and implement restoration projects. The formation of partnerships fosters stakeholder ownership and educates the public. In addition, the implementation of inquiry-based and research-based education and general public outreach programs is key to maintenance of the restoration project in perpetuity. Omni has been successful in identifying sources of funding for projects (U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection, etc.) and helping watershed management associations draft successful grant proposals.
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A key element to managing any watershed is the comprehensive assessment of existing conditions in terms of water quality, siltation, bank stability, adequacy of riparian buffer zones, and reducing nonpoint source pollutant loads. Omni is experienced in developing comprehensive watershed management plans and implementing restoration activities. Our modeling studies identify sedimentation and nonpoint source pollution sources from within the watershed, allowing us to craft innovative and efficient solutions.
