the consequences of a potential break in this aging infrastructure were alarming: a loss of service to approximately 26,000 residential and commercial customers and the risk of an illicit discharge of untreated wastewater into nearby waters. in response to this imminent threat, the city of omaha turned to snyder & associates for a solution, tasking them with designing improvements to the sanitary sewer and streambank.

hazard mitigation grant program (hmgp) funding

as the issue at hand was intricately linked to a disaster, it rendered the project eligible for the hazard mitigation grant program (hmgp). this presented a crucial lifeline and chance to address the immediate problem and proactively engage in hazard mitigation.

with a firm commitment to fortifying our community against future challenges, we thoroughly completed the federal emergency management agency (fema) funding application. beyond that crucial step, our involvement extended to essential assistance in securing funding and administering the grant throughout the project. this dual role, from application to grant administration, underscores our dedication to recovery and building a more resilient foundation for the future.

digital terrain and aerial imagery from drone flyover of the project.

stream corridor survey & comprehensive assessment

the project began with a comprehensive assessment of existing conditions and elevations using snyder-operated drone technology. this invaluable tool allowed the team to survey the stream corridor efficiently, providing essential data for the subsequent design phase.

recognizing the need to realign the upstream gravity sewer and siphon crossing away from the eroded stream bank, concepts were developed based on the information our experts gathered.

the stream bank in the affected area presented a challenging opportunity, characterized by excessively steep 1:1 slopes with nearly 40 feet of vertical drop in some places. to safeguard against future scouring and channel degradation, the design incorporated rock check dams and bank stabilization practices upstream and downstream of the sewer crossing. however, the project’s core lay in redesigning the siphon system.

redesigning the siphon system

the siphon design featured three barrels for flow conveyance: a primary pipe for dry weather, a secondary pipe for elevated expected daily flows, and a tertiary pipe for peak flow activity associated with rainfall. an additional complication arose from limited elevation differences between the upstream and downstream connecting sewers. to address this, snyder & associates utilized hydraulic modeling software to iterate through various pipe sizes and head conditions, ensuring optimal velocities through the system.

we also considered the potential odors commonly associated with such facilities, knowing future development is planned in the vicinity. the chosen solution comprised one 10-inch and two 16-inch hdpe ductile iron pipes, carefully selected through a detailed design process. this ensured the pipes’ thickness could withstand external forces and pull stresses during installation, providing a robust and lasting solution.

the new pipe was also designed to be 10 feet below the existing channel bottom. this decision reflects a proactive approach to address potential future challenges, specifically erosion. by incorporating this design element, the project focuses on immediate needs and strategically anticipates and mitigates potential risks. this forward-thinking measure serves as a preventive step to ensure the longevity and stability of the infrastructure, demonstrating a commitment to long-term resilience and sustainability.

environmental assessment & stream rehabilitation

due to the substantial impact on the streambank anticipated with this project, fema mandated the completion of an environmental assessment. our environmental team collaborated closely with project stakeholders to develop a comprehensive plan comprising three stream restoration sections. this plan incorporated the strategic placement of rock riffles just before the newly buried pipe location and hard armor erosion control measures along the streambanks.

these riffles and added streambank support mitigated construction impacts and served as proactive defenses against potential erosion, addressing environmental concerns thoughtfully and proactively.

building resilience through innovative technologies & strategic design solutions

the collaboration between the city of omaha and snyder & associates is a testament to the importance of proactive infrastructure management. by leveraging innovative technologies, such as drone surveys and hydraulic modeling, and implementing strategic design solutions, the project successfully protected critical infrastructure, ensuring the continued provision of sanitary services to thousands of residents and businesses. this project strengthens the city’s resilience in the face of environmental challenges and serves as a model for other municipalities grappling with aging infrastructure and evolving climatic conditions.

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behind the scenes of this golfing masterpiece lies the expertise of snyder & associates, as our team played a pivotal role in shaping the topography, managing water resources, and ensuring environmental compliance for tpc wisconsin.

nurturing environmental commitment

the foundation of any successful golf course lies in a thorough understanding of the existing topography and layout. our team of skilled surveyors conducted a topographic survey of the current key features, which included the waterways, ponds, and wetland areas. the bathymetric survey, or mapping of the natural contours underwater, was done by a boat drone and manually with kayaks. this detailed assessment provided the designers and developers at tpc wisconsin with crucial information to optimize the course layout, creating a challenging yet harmonious golfing experience.

this spurred the journey to begin with an environmental perspective, as the area earmarked for transformation was once a marsh filled with silt. the restoration project became an opportunity to create a top-tier golf course and revive over 35 acres of degraded wetlands linked to the cherokee marsh. the removal of silt and the revival of the wetlands have dramatically increased the stormwater quality of water meandering through the golf course system.

tpc wisconsin design evolution

steve stricker, intimately involved in the design process, embarked on a nationwide exploration to understand the nuances of professional golf course design. after examination, the decision was clear: the course needed elevation, vegetation removal, and the restoration of canals and waterways to their original functionality.

navigating water features seamlessly is essential for golfers; all water crossings facilitate this. snyder & associates employed their engineering ability to design efficient culverts. they planned bridge locations that not only enhanced the aesthetic appeal of the course but also ensured the smooth flow of water, mitigating the risk of flooding and erosion.

the original golf course featured numerous perched culverts, where the inlets were positioned higher than the water level, posing a challenge for water and aquatic life to move freely between waterways. with the introduction of the new course design, several enhancements were implemented to address this issue. a total of six bridges were constructed, replacing some of the problematic culverts, while other culverts were strategically lowered within the water level to facilitate the movement of wildlife. additionally, the culvert diameters were expanded in many areas to promote smoother water flow, contributing to a more ecologically friendly and interconnected environment.

the challenge of drainage

snyder & associates are conducting a hydrologic survey at tpc wisconsin.

a pivotal focus during the design phase was drainage, as wisconsin’s landscapes are characterized by diverse water bodies, necessitating a robust hydrological strategy. our experts conducted thorough hydrological studies to understand water movement patterns, prevent any rise in the elevation of the floodplain post-construction of the golf course, and ensure that the overall design harmonized with the natural flow.

while elevating fairways, greens, and tees was part of the design, it necessitated a thoughtful balance to avoid adverse effects. strategic cuts were made in other sections throughout the course to offset these filled areas. additionally, waterways underwent enlargement and dredging initiatives, fostering improved water flow and habitat for wildlife. the process was meticulously modeled to abide by floodplain management rules and regulations.

furthermore, the team took proactive measures to secure the essential floodplain permits required for the project’s execution. this involved engaging with regulatory authorities and presenting a detailed report that adheres to environmental standards and floodplain management guidelines. by obtaining the necessary permits, the team ensured compliance with local regulations, fostering a collaborative relationship with regulatory bodies and affirming the project’s commitment to responsible development and environmental stewardship.

project completion: wrapping up the final details

within an 8-10 week grassing window, the course was entirely rerouted, re-grassed, and equipped with a new irrigation system. the result is a meticulously crafted golfing paradise, ready to host the pga tour champions american family insurance championship from 2025 onward. spectator mounding adds to the allure, promising an unforgettable experience for golf enthusiasts and casual spectators.

dennis tiziani’s vision for tpc wisconsin goes beyond creating a world-class golf course; it’s about revitalizing the landscape, fostering environmental sustainability, and catalyzing positive change in the community. as the greens of tpc wisconsin welcome players and spectators, it stands as a testament to the transformative power of collaboration, innovation, and a commitment to excellence in every aspect of the golfing experience.

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however, as the pierre community grew, additional stormwater was routed through the lake due to its location near the bottom of a tributary discharging into the missouri river. thousands of canadian geese and other waterfowl also inhabited the year-round open water. these issues have created poor water quality and reduced the lake’s original average depth of 16 to 20 feet to less than 6 feet.

the south dakota department of agriculture & natural resources, acting through the office of the state engineer, selected the snyder & associates and morris, inc. design-build team to dredge the lake and restore it to its original depth.

controlling sediment flow & protecting wildlife during dredging operations

before dredging began, preliminary testing indicated that lake sediment included high levels of phosphorous, ammonia, and total suspended solids (tss). due to their soluble nature and potential to harm wildlife, containment measures were needed to prevent sediment entry into capitol creek — the lake’s natural path for overflows. this was achieved by drawing down the lake elevation using silt curtains, screens, and siphons.

by lowering the water level, our team ensured the disturbed sediment would remain in the basin and not flow over the weir during dredging operations. this process allowed the amphibious and barge excavators to maneuver and dredge safely without uncontrolled discharge.

dredging is also a disruptive process for wildlife. while migratory birds tend to avoid the site during construction, aquatic creatures do not have that luxury. the south dakota game, fish, and parks team performed a humane fish removal operation called electroshocking before active dredging operations began. electroshocking fish is a common and effective method used in fishery management. this process directs a small electrical current through the water, stunning the fish so they can be quickly scooped up and removed. electroshocking is a humane method to remove fish from a waterway and has little to no impact on the long-term health of the fish population. once captured, the fish were relocated to several local waterways.

dredging process options & recycling dredged material

dredging is generally performed using a mechanical method, such as an excavator with a bucket to dig up sediment, or a hydraulic method using a cutting head and suction pump to remove materials. through numerous discussions, it was determined that hydraulic dredging should be ruled out due to the planned winter operations and sediment size and types, which prevent effective settling. a mechanical method using excavators, barges, and dump trucks was selected.

initially, an amphibious excavator was selected for sediment removal. this machine can perform dredging operations while supported on soft terrains such as swamps, wetlands, and shallow water. however, it quickly became apparent that as the excavator moved deeper into the lake, it was no longer performing satisfactorily and needed to be replaced. a barge was located rapidly, and a long-reach excavator was positioned on the floating structure to continue the process.

once removed, the lakebed material was loaded into a hopper barge and transferred to dump trucks stationed in a specially designed loading area that had been set up with erosion controls. the sediment was taken to a locally permitted landfill, where it was contained for dewatering.

several erosion control measures were implemented for the dump truck loading area.

since the sediment contains high concentrations of phosphorous and organics, it is incredibly nutrient-rich and will be recycled as topsoil for future projects around the state.

avoiding abandoned infrastructure

during dredging operations, a previously unknown utility map from 1942 indicated adjacent gas and sewer lines possibly located below the lake bed. the project team superimposed the old map onto modern survey data maps, performed field investigation work, and determined minimal damage risk.

however, all parties agreed that the sewer should be properly abandoned. to do this, the pipe was sealed by placing two inflatable plugs in the line and filling the utility access and pipe with a high-slump, small-aggregate concrete. this process makes the aged pipe a solid structure, removing the possibility of leakage or infiltration.

aggressive project schedule avoids busy season

with capitol lake serving as a community attraction, project leaders wanted the work done before the high-access seasons of spring, summer, and fall. since this aggressive schedule was necessary, a well-defined process was vital for success.

along with precise 2022世界杯32强预选赛 , our project team and the morris team expedited the project by performing multiple aspects at concurring times. as we conducted the survey and determined project specs, the crew at morris would locate and mobilize the equipment and machinery needed to fulfill the plans. this saved significant time as some barges and excavators were out of state, requiring additional transport time. with equipment ready to start as soon as plans were finalized, we completed the dredging project in less than six months.

collaboration leads to success

the key to this project’s success can be attributed to the high quality and depth of experience of the design-build team members and how well they complemented each other’s work. these factors, coupled with a proactive and supportive presence from the state, allowed our experts to complete the dredging of capitol lake as efficiently as possible. more than 32,000 cubic yards of sediment were removed from the lake.

after the project was completed and warmer weather arrived, wildlife quickly returned to the lake, with several new species of waterfowl inhabiting the area. more importantly, the lake is ready to once again provide the community with enjoyment and relaxation in a healthy and safe environment.

the capitol lake dredging project earned its prestigious status as the category ii agc build south dakota award winner through meticulous 2022世界杯32强预选赛 , innovative execution, and a significant positive impact on the local community. the project stood out among its peers by demonstrating excellence in construction practices, adherence to safety standards, and efficient resource management. this recognition underscores the project’s commitment to excellence and significant contribution to advancing construction practices in south dakota.

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the strategic design ensures that user safety and access are top priorities.

hubbard park in the village of shorewood is a local landmark in this wisconsin community. located on a nearly five-acre, 1,400-foot-long strip of land between the milwaukee river and the former chicago and northwestern railroad, the park contains the hubbard park lodge and access to the oak leaf trail. however, despite its location along the river, the park lacked easy access to the water’s edge for recreational watercraft. the shorewood 世界杯足球比赛预选赛 works department enlisted the services of the snyder & associates design team to develop a plan for a canoe and kayak launch that would give users of the park greater access to the milwaukee river.

charged with creating a launch that would aesthetically fit with the existing park site, our team worked closely with local river groups, the wisconsin dnr, and the 世界杯足球比赛预选赛 works leadership to balance the goals of the project and the overall project budget. it was agreed by all stakeholders the canoe and kayak launch had to be highly functional for various river levels, extremely durable for longevity, and easily accessible from a nearby parking area.

material challenges test the design team

the design team faced numerous challenges, including matching the high-quality amenities in the park on a limited project budget. this meant the team also needed to source materials that were logistically close to the park to reduce delivery expenses and help keep the overall environmental impact to a minimum. the primary challenge, however, required finding materials that would withstand the river’s elements and wisconsin’s frigid winters.

our team’s solution called for snapped, 6″ eden riser stones that provided a “zero-entry” area for the easy and safe launch of canoes and kayaks. also, high-quality eden outcropping stones were arranged to create a natural “amphitheater” area where users could comfortably sit and view the river. by sourcing local products, our team created a locally relevant, structurally timeless amenity and reduced the cost of transit to get the materials onsite.

following a graded path near the end of n. morris blvd. in hubbard park, the project area required approximately 35 cubic yards of earthwork grading, the installation of roughly 70 tons of outcrop stones and boulders, and the placement of approximately 16 pieces of snapped stone. with the canoe and kayak launch substantially completed, park users and recreational river enthusiasts now have a more convenient way to access the river that’s safe, aesthetically pleasing, and constructed with durability that will last for generations.

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reed canarygrass is an invasive species that can be detrimental to native habitats because it outcompetes native species with an intense rhizome complex as well as how tall and dense it grows.

the landowner was interested in restoring the property for future generations of the family to enjoy and to prevent further erosion of the creek. during their property restoration research, the property owners discovered the section 404 mitigation banking process. mitigation banking allows the owner of a restored stream or wetland (known as the sponsor) to sell credits to developers whose projects are impacting regulated environmental resources in nearby watersheds. achieving the status as a mitigation bank, however, involves a complex process that is best guided by qualified experts.

consisting of approximately 35 acres of land, the snyder & associates environmental team provided information that allowed the landowner to better understand construction costs and revenue potential for the property to be considered as a stream mitigation bank. with the landowner’s approval to move forward, our team then worked together to help make this ambitious project a reality.

meeting regulatory requirements to establish a mitigation bank

well before site design and construction can begin on a project of this nature, our team starts working behind the scenes to meet regulatory requirements that will set the bank up for success. this includes creating a preliminary prospectus document and then a final agreement document called the mitigation bank instrument (mbi). the mbi goes through an intense review and approval process with an interagency review team (irt) that may include the u.s. army corps of engineers (usace), the u.s. environmental protection agency (epa), the department of natural resources, and/or other agencies. construction plans, a conservation easement, and other documentation is included with the mbi to ensure the bank is properly built, maintained, and monitored.

site assessment & historical data reviews guide design decisions

the next phase in the transition to a mitigation bank requires the completion of a site assessment and historical data review. by understanding the area and its history, our environmental experts can determine if conditions are favorable for mitigation banking. wetland mitigation banks need to sustain hydrology, develop hydric soils, and contain adequate conditions for hydrophytic wetland vegetation, while stream mitigation banks need adequate room for improvements within the channel, as well as along the riparian buffer.

in the case of the niebuhr stream mitigation bank, the historical data review turned out to be extremely informative as the original, meandering creek channel was difficult to see when walking in the field but was evident on historical aerial imagery. several decades prior, the channel had been straightened to increase agricultural production. this straightening process, however, had also led to the erosion issues currently being experienced along the creek.

even though the mitigation banking process would be creating new wetlands and improving the stream, determining the original path was important since there would also be a small loss of wetlands to “re-meander” the creek along its original alignment. by studying historical data in combination with the topographic survey, our team was able to determine that both forested and emergent wetlands were present within the original channel and could plan accordingly.

maximizing stream mitigation credit potential

once initial inspections were completed, 2022世界杯32强预选赛 and design for the proposed mitigation bank began. consideration was given to re-meandering the creek along its decades-old, natural alignment. however, this option created concerns about the stream depositing an abundance of sediment, also referred to as aggradation, from the added length. instead, our team determined the most effective route would be to create a new creek path constructing as much length as possible, while considering historic sinuosity and channel slope, within the property limits. this option also had the added benefit of maximizing stream credit potential for the sponsor.

our team utilized the epa’s natural stream design checklist to ensure the new channel was appropriately designed. to form the new meandering channel, an area adjacent to the creek was cleared and excavated without being connected to the old channel. a bendway weir was created with rock keys to plug the old channel until the excavation was complete. the downstream end of the old channel was strategically left open to accommodate fish and invertebrate passage. new channel improvements included floodplain benches and bendway weirs. this updated creek alignment added approximately 1,100 linear feet of meandering channel, making the new creek just over 4,100 linear feet long overall.

throughout construction, additional efforts were taken to improve water quality by incorporating shallow, vegetated slopes along the streambanks and placing excavated soils on the family’s adjacent farm field to create riparian buffers. during rain events, riparian buffers treat nutrients along agricultural fields before runoff flows overland into the creek.

strategic design of surrounding areas

although the stream was the only area of the property designated for mitigation banking, the sponsors also had the desire to restore the floodplain beyond the riparian buffer. to aid in this endeavor, and to assist in future monitoring and maintenance of the creek, three low-water crossings were installed along the new channel, providing access to all areas of the site.

low water crossings allow site visitors easy access to all areas of the mitigation bank.

additionally, the nearly 35-acre floodplain surrounding the old channel had been overgrown with reed canarygrass, an invasive monoculture species. areas affected by invasives, or groups of a singular species, often see an upset in the natural balance of soils, as well as crowding out native species that are used by pollinators and promote a healthy ecosystem. to remedy this and increase biodiversity, the previously mentioned two-hundred-foot-wide riparian buffers were designed and seeded with diverse floodplain species along both sides of the stream. these buffers protect from sediment runoff during spring until adjacent row crops have a chance to establish annually.

to further enhance natural resources in an underused area along the creek, two shallow-water wetland habitats were created near the southwest property line. these features offer ducks and amphibians habitat, while also functioning as wetlands themselves, collecting and filtering runoff as well as increasing flood storage capacity.

stream & wetland mitigation banking services

construction of the niebuhr stream mitigation bank was completed in the summer of 2020 and has remained in top condition thanks to continual monitoring. with an increase in funds available through the bipartisan infrastructure law, many communities are moving forward with long-awaited development projects that will likely result in stream impacts throughout the state. the niebuhr stream mitigation bank has stream credits available for sale within the cedar service area. thanks to the work of our experienced environmental team, this valuable resource is available to aid your project’s need for mitigation.

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beyond wetlands, creating new amenities in wanatee park

during the initial design stages, community leaders had the sole intention of creating new wetlands within the park. while conducting site inspections, our environmental team noticed a few additional improvements that would significantly benefit park amenities while also enhancing water quality within the local watershed. through discussions with linn county conservation officials, a new trail bridge and fishpond were approved in addition to the planned wetlands.

wetland creation & enhancements lead design efforts

in total, seven wetlands were constructed or rehabilitated to increase the park’s sustainability and improve the area’s water quality.

our project team focused on the wetlands portion of the project first. county officials already had specific areas in mind for potential wetland enhancement and creation. throughout these assessments, our team vetted the options, affirming their selections and providing new suggestions, as well. in total, seven sites were chosen for wetland improvements, with a net cut of 2,280 cubic yards achieved.

though all wetland sites required updates, there was a varying degree of work needed across the seven locations. some of the wetlands were enhancement projects where the area had once been deeper but had filled in with sediment over time. for these areas, the focus was excavating sediment and restoring hydrology to improve wetland functions and provide an environmental lift.

other wetlands were created from scratch based on the location of drainage features and tiles. agricultural tiling systems previously conveyed water from nearby fields into wanatee creek. a few of the newly constructed wetlands allowed tiles to flow openly within the wetlands, supplying hydrology and creating ideal wetland habitats. this was a great way to improve water quality as tiles that had previously outlet nutrients directly into the creek now drain into the wetlands and the nutrients are absorbed by plants rather than flowing downstream. several of these constructed wetlands included an agri drain water level control structure™ in the designs. these structures allow linn county conservation staff to draw down wetland water levels if necessary, for seeding or vegetation maintenance, such as treating invasive species.

consistent with the water and land legacy bond’s initial goal, these wetlands filter nutrients and provide floodplain storage benefits necessary to improve local water quality while enhancing wildlife habitat and the natural beauty of the surrounding landscape.

pedestrian trail bridge replaces high-maintenance culverts

the new bridge sits higher than its predecessor to avoid washout potential.

the next phase of this project focused on the construction of a 30-foot-long prefabricated steel truss pedestrian and maintenance bridge over wanatee creek. this bridge was designed to replace deteriorated twin corrugated metal pipe (cmp) culverts that were past their useful life. the culverts were covered by a soil and mulch mixture that would constantly be washed out and require replacement due to the low trail profile and the crossing’s location in the federal emergency management agency (fema) regulatory floodway.

a more permanent structure at a higher elevation was necessary. our team consulted with our structural subsidiary, shuck britson, to identify design solutions. it was determined that using a prefabricated structure with site-specific dimensions would be the best fit as these are well suited for similar span lengths and trail bridge loading. because this is a fairly simple design that requires no formwork or falsework, this option ended up being the most economical solution for the client, as well. the bridge was assembled off-site by the manufacturer and shipped to the park for placement. a crane was used to lift the approximately 20,000-pound bridge off the truck and position it on the newly designed and constructed abutments.

since this crossing is also the main access point for county maintenance vehicles, special consideration was taken during its design. to accommodate vehicle access across the bridge, the connecting trail had to be built at a different slope than the pre-existing crossing to allow for a wider trail radius. this also created an opportunity to perform 100 feet of stream restoration to stabilize the channel flowing under the new bridge.

stream restoration efforts improve aquatic habitat

during the new trail bridge design process, scour issues were apparent in the section of wanatee creek surrounding the crossing and the banks lacked stabilization as they had previously only been shielded by bits of broken concrete. despite all of this, the creek in this location was in decent shape, however, the aesthetics did not match the surrounding prairie or park objectives. to stabilize the streambanks and enhance aesthetics, flexamat® erosion mats were used to defend against streambank erosion and promote native vegetative growth.

since wanatee creek experiences high velocity flows, additional flexamat® was installed across the bottom of the channel to further protect against scour associated with the new bridge. the result was an extremely smooth streambank transition that is hard armored, easy to maintain, and much more aesthetically pleasing than the bits of broken concrete that previously lined the banks. after a summer’s worth of vegetation growth through the flexamat®, the project has shown a major improvement in water quality, stream function, stabilization, and in-stream wildlife habitat, all while successfully complementing the park.

after completing the construction of the bridge and stream improvements, linn county conservation staff observed orange-throated darters near the new bridge, which hadn’t been spotted in this area in some time. this freshwater fish species is on iowa’s endangered list and its arrival was seen as a significant success by county leaders and staff.

creation of recreational fishing pond draws anglers

the pond helps sustain the area’s high water quality and is stocked with bluegill, bass, crappie, and other local species.

the final piece of this project involved the construction of the first fishable pond owned by linn county. the pre-existing site for the pond consisted of a bermed-up area that was weedy, non-functional, and underutilized as a wanatee park attraction.

specific elements were incorporated into the pond’s design to promote water quality and meet project goals, including a sediment forebay, shallow slopes, an impermeable clay base layer, and seepage mitigation measures such as drainage diaphragms. these features, along with native plantings and a recently added prairie buffer, help filter pollutants off the adjacent highway and farm fields and protect the pond as water enters. with a healthy pond system established, our environmental team equipped the pond with various items to enhance fish habitat, including spawning beds, jetties, and assorted depth pools.

the pond also included an agri drain water level control structure™, a cmp riser outfall, and an emergency spillway. our experts determined this was the best fit for the area as it enables staff to control water depths and maintain fishing structures. these additions, along with shallow slopes near the interior perimeter, increase safety for recreational users. county crews are responsible for continual maintenance and routinely mow a trail around the pond for improved access. after construction was completed, the pond was filled and stocked with bluegill, bass, crappie, and other local fish species.

collaboration & communication leads to project success

the success of these projects involved significant collaboration between the snyder & associates project team and linn county conservation officials. our experts helped with the technical aspects while the client attended site visits, discussed site conditions, and helped determine where the various project features would be placed. between their vision and our expert designs, wanatee park continues to experience improved water quality and is viewed as a blueprint for future collaborative efforts.

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originally founded in 1965 in wisconsin as kwik trip, the chain expanded into the iowa market in 1993 as the renamed kwik star. snyder & associates began working with kwik star in 2014 to assist the company with the land development of their store locations. our multidisciplinary service offering was a natural fit with kwik star’s efficient business model, simplifying their expansion process by working with a single partner who could streamline the lengthy and complex process of designing, constructing, and opening each new store.

customized store layout based on location

at the heart of kwik star’s success, each store’s layout is customized to its location and optimized to create a positive customer experience. if warranted, the snyder & associates team will complete an alta and topographic survey for each new site. if local regulations or the site’s location require a traffic impact study, we can also perform that service and create a design that will best fit each location’s unique needs. we’ll identify necessary additions to existing infrastructure, such as turning lanes and traffic signals to alleviate congestion at access points.

stormwater treatment & containment are high priorities

detention basins provide stormwater overflow protection during periods of heavy rain.

once the plans are complete, our 2022世界杯美洲杯预选赛 team begins work on easements, permitting, utility, and regulatory coordination. our team of environmental scientists is often tasked with creating plans for stormwater collection, treatment, and distribution. since oil and grease are a concern with convenience stores that sell fuel, kwik star’s storm sewer collection systems are typically outfitted with oil skimmers to remove any pollutants prior to the stormwater leaving the site.

once stormwater has been cleared of contaminants, it’s routed to detention ponds on sites that have ample space. sites with less real estate available utilize stormtrap® prefabricated underground storage systems to collect and store stormwater before being released to the local storm sewer network. the expansive paved parking areas common at store locations that cater to semi-truck traffic provide an ideal space to bury these storage systems without sacrificing above-ground areas.

our survey team’s continued involvement in each project includes construction staking to ensure each component is correctly placed during the building process. they also return to complete a boundary survey when the project concludes. our team of landscape architects directs the placement of the trees, shrubs, and plants around each site creating a neatly finished store, ready to welcome customers.

a partnership poised for continued growth

the institutional knowledge that the snyder & associates team has developed throughout our relationship with kwik star allows us to anticipate their needs and provide high-quality service throughout the various phases of each project. our teams look forward to maintaining this partnership as kwik star continues to expand and evolve throughout the midwest.

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the banks of fourmile creek are undergoing stabilization efforts utilizing rip-rap and vegetation.

the fourmile creek watershed in central iowa consists of nearly 80,000 acres of urban and agricultural communities. it’s also home to over 80,000 residents. as this population has grown over many decades, this expansive watershed has become increasingly prone to regular flood events.

these reoccurring floods have impacted numerous residents, resulting in frequent evacuations and the costly destruction of property. extensive efforts have been taken by several government agencies to minimize flooding and enhance the overall water quality in the watershed. a seasoned team of engineers and environmental scientists from snyder & associates has been at the forefront of these efforts since 2006. through a multitude of projects, our team has made a significant difference in the health and safety of this critical water system.

updating fourmile creek modeling & assessments

initially, snyder & associates was commissioned to study the fourmile creek watershed to establish an accurate floodplain model to update the significantly outdated federal emergency management agency (fema) maps. our team of environmental scientists and engineers used hydrologic and hydraulic flood models, along with stream assessments, to evaluate the impact of flooding on future development and the impact that development may have on the watershed.

hydrologic methods from previous studies only accounted for current land use while grouping the entire watershed into one basin. our team completed a comprehensive review of both existing and future land use plans to predict potential conditions in hydrologic models. each of these models divided the 118-square mile watershed into individual sectors to provide a more accurate analysis.

peak flow rates developed through modeling were used to predict fourmile creek’s response to flood events of varying magnitude and duration. a profile of the watershed patterns was established to create flood maps utilizing lidar data and arcgis software. these maps provide valuable information by increasing awareness of the likelihood of flooding and ultimately, reducing the devastating impacts floods can produce.

streambank stabilization increases watershed resilience

stream flooding in fourmile creek tributary a prior to stream stabilization improvements.

in addition to extreme flooding issues, fourmile creek has a long history of erosion and poor water quality. many factors, such as above-normal precipitation and runoff volumes, impervious surfaces, and agricultural practices within the watershed contribute to the stream’s degradation and erosion. specifically, two tributaries of the creek located in ankeny — northeast tributary a and southeast tributary b — experienced extensive stream degradation and bank erosion after the 2008 floods and placed many properties and infrastructure at risk.

to address these individual tributaries, our team assessed over 7,400-feet of the stream before proposing improvements that would not only mitigate flooding but also complement the stream’s natural protection, as well. this assessment, along with our intimate knowledge of the watershed, led to sustainable design solutions.

homeowner input, technical assessments, and an evaluation of alternatives were utilized to prepare conceptual designs for both tributaries using an integrated stream restoration approach. this approach provided cost-effective and aesthetic creek restoration through the combination of several techniques including vegetated buffers, toe protection, graded floodplain benches, and weirs. combined, approximately 6,500-linear-feet of the stream was successfully stabilized at the conclusion of both projects.

fourmile creek watershed management authority & stormwater management plan

while the rehabilitation of the two tributaries drastically improved the creek’s overall water quality, additional efforts were necessary to continue mitigating flooding, erosion, nutrient loading, and bacteria issues. to address these problems, local communities created the fourmile creek watershed management authority (fcwma) in 2012. this group focuses on collaborative work to address both flooding issues and water quality. snyder & associates was commissioned to study the region with the intent of improving the understanding of the watershed and preparing a stormwater management plan.

our experts knew that appropriate mitigation had to account for a powerful, meandering alluvial stream that transports significant sediment load. in some cases, extreme events caused substantial channel changes due to high flow, debris jams, erosion, and sediment deposition. toe rock protection integrated with bendway weirs, floodplain benches, and native vegetation buffers were incorporated into the design. additional measures included establishing permanent easements and expanding polk county’s adjacent conservation area which helped diversify stream habitat and increased wildlife access to the water.

this management plan also addresses overall maintenance goals and responsibilities, budgetary costs, and phasing for the full development of the comprehensive system. additionally, potential regulatory tools, grants, and funding opportunities were outlined and adopted by all jurisdictions involved.

fourmile creek greenway master plan

natural vegetation was incorporated during restoration to enhance wildlife ecosystems.

a series of eight watershed goals aimed at reducing flooding and improving water quality were included in the plan to provide guidance. each goal was assigned subgoals and tasks to help track milestones and develop a schedule. the adoption of a greenway system, or master plan, was one of the eight primary goals of the fcwma. this specific goal outlines practices, such as native vegetation re-establishment, stream restoration, and wetland enhancements. the greenway master plan addresses these improvements, as well as potential recreation and education opportunities along approximately 10-miles of the creek.

stakeholder input and thoughtful consideration of multiple elements are essential when 2022世界杯32强预选赛 and implementing a greenway system. during a 世界杯足球比赛预选赛 open house, our team gathered community input for the future of fourmile creek, which helped shape the plan’s objectives.

greenway master plan objectives:

• flood management and water quality
• native habitat protection and management
• define greenway
• make connections
• 世界杯足球比赛预选赛 access and service
• education
• economic development
• implementable steps

the greenway master plan provides a path to transform the current, developed landscape to a more natural state. to start, it’s necessary to move at-risk human life, property, and infrastructure away from the floodplain. in place of the developed landscape, work commenced establishing oxbow wetland connections, construction of a stormwater wetland, and prairie restoration. once completed, this corridor will provide many community benefits including recreation, alternative transportation, improved water quality, habitat conservation, and flood control.

stormwater wetland reduces nutrient overloads & flooding

as the greenway plan expanded, partners of the watershed project saw an opportunity to be proactive in developing a solution to protect the environmentally sensitive fourmile creek. this resulted in a stormwater wetland which once again brought our team on board to provide environmental and stormwater design services.

positioned adjacent to the popular gay lea wilson trail, the stormwater wetland provides a natural means to remove pollutants from stormwater and reduce overall flow rates. as stormwater is captured within the wetland, pollutants are removed naturally through reduced water velocity and increased settling, uptake, and filtering by vegetation.

volume control is a particularly important benefit as there are downstream portions of fourmile creek that have been restored and stabilized, but there are other locations that continue to suffer from severe bank erosion. managing the channel protection volume in the wetland improves overall stabilization efforts to reduce sediment transport.

the stormwater wetland helps to treat and slow down 23 acres of stormwater runoff from an adjacent suburban landscape before entering fourmile creek. improvements like this help to reduce sediment and pollutant loading into the des moines river further downstream, protecting it for years to come.

fourmile creek restoration gives new life to natural areas

for over 15 years, snyder & associates has helped shape implementation efforts across the fourmile creek watershed through both agricultural and urban areas. today, work on the fourmile creek watershed continues with stabilization improvements and 世界杯足球比赛预选赛 education outreach that teach residents how to better take care of our watersheds. the snyder & associates team stands ready to continue providing guidance for this beneficial and forward-looking endeavor.

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areas that previously had storm pipes inserted experienced severe erosion.

conveniently located on the north side of cedar rapids, noelridge park is a 100-acre community park complex filled with a host of recreational amenities. these include ball diamonds, botanical gardens, a greenhouse facility, a modern playground area and splash pad, an aquatic center, tennis courts, and a trail network that ties it all together. a nearby stream feeds the park’s centrally-located pond and provides fishing and small boating opportunities.

under previous construction efforts, portions of the stream had storm pipes installed while the remainder of the channel was filled in. years later, both the piped and channelized sections were determined to be unstable after experiencing significant erosion, leading to sediment transport. this not only caused safety concerns along the banks but diminished the overall water quality of the park’s pond. a stream channel restoration and bank stabilization project was needed to mitigate these issues. however, the project couldn’t get off the ground without adequate funding.

following historic floods, cedar rapids utilized a clean water state revolving fund loan to upgrade its water pollution control facility. at the same time, a water resource restoration sponsored project was applied for and awarded to the city. this project allowed interest from the state revolving fund loan to be redirected to noelridge park, offering a unique funding option to restore a section of the stream.

multiple stream renovation methods used to improve park’s health

once funding was secured, a team from snyder & associates modeled watershed and stream flows throughout the city and into noelridge park. a typical stream cross-section was designed to accommodate normal flow levels and allow overflow to the channel cross-section’s upper portions and into the floodplain.

as part of the restoration design, the stream’s length was increased, and the channel slope was decreased by incorporating meanders into the stream. energy dissipaters for culvert outlets and rock check dams were integrated into the stream channel design to reduce the channel slope further and reduce stream velocities. native plants, forbs, and flowers were selected, along with native seed mixtures, to help naturally stabilize the channel. by stabilizing the banks in noelridge park, not only should the water quality be improved, but the entire 世界杯足球比赛预选赛 area’s biological health has also been enhanced.

importance of 世界杯足球比赛预选赛 education on water best management practices

世界杯足球比赛预选赛 engagement meetings help keep community members involved throughout design processes.

due to the high volume of visitors to this recreational destination, it’s also expected that community education on water quality best management practices (bmps) will increase. educating the 世界杯足球比赛预选赛 is essential when discussing bmps to improve watershed health since the 世界杯足球比赛预选赛 ’s actions directly impact the quality and quantity of water in local lakes, streams, and rivers. an effective management plan cannot be implemented without the basic knowledge of what methods and policies affect the watershed’s health.

through facilitating 世界杯足球比赛预选赛 engagement, our team strives to discover approaches to make our work more relevant to communities. at noelridge park, we worked closely with city staff who maintain the native plants to help control invasive species. after the restoration project, the stream is now in a naturally stable condition with a significant reduction in erosion. native plants are once again thriving and help provide natural stormwater filtration, improving the stream’s overall water quality. these sustainable upgrades will ensure that the park continues to be a favorite gathering place for residents and visitors well into the future.

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the cedar valley nature trail traverses nearly 52 miles from evansdale to hiawatha, crossing the cedar river at multiple points. both the evansdale trail bridge and the trail bridge in mcfarlane park, just east of la porte city were severely damaged in the 2008 flood event and closed due to safety concerns that necessitated complete reconstruction.

when it came to the reconstruction of the bridges and the flood-damaged sections of the trail, black hawk county leaders recognized the trail’s path through the floodplain of the cedar river, forested areas, wetlands, and rolling farmlands would require a multitude of environmental services. the environmental experts with snyder & associates were brought on board to guide this challenging project through the labyrinth of wetland mitigation permitting.

mcfarlane & evansdale bridges key to trail restoration

evansdale bridge before flood damage and reconstruction.

mcfarlane bridge before flooding and reconstruction.

the mcfarlane trail bridge, originally built as part of the waterloo, cedar falls, and northern railroad (wcf&n), featured dramatic closed-spandrel arches, while its proposed replacement boasts a modern structure that stretches 728-feet long. similarly, the proposed evansdale structure stands six feet taller than its predecessor and spans 576-feet over the cedar river, providing a 12-foot wide path for trail users.

since all project locations were on or near the cedar river, environmental impacts were a foregone conclusion. during our team’s onsite reviews, critical wetland areas were identified by analyzing vegetation, soils, and hydrologic indicators. boundaries were carefully outlined and mapped. by accurately delineating wetlands, our environmental scientists determined there would be permanent loss of wetlands due to the construction of both bridge projects. the impacts were calculated and separated by wetland type to determine appropriate mitigation options.

maintaining wetland habitat & biodiversity through replacement

before the type of mitigation is determined, the process requires that actions be taken during the 2022世界杯32强预选赛 phase to minimize the impacts of construction. if impacts are determined to be permanent, mitigation bank credits can be purchased to offset the effects. if credits are not available, an alternative site can be located to create or enhance a wetlands area. wetlands that are temporarily impacted during construction may be restored to preconstruction conditions.

for the evansdale and mcfarlane bridge projects, wetland credits were not available. it was decided that creating wetlands off-site was the best option. this decision, however, introduced the challenge of finding available land. our team assisted in forming a partnership between black hawk county and tama county to find a suitable land replacement for the wetland areas lost through the projects. with this union established, approximately two acres of land was allotted for wetland creation at hickory hills park located southwest of la porte city.

at the project sites, the impacted wetlands were classified as both emergent and forested wetlands. these same varieties were replicated in hickory hills park at higher ratios, otherwise known as in-kind mitigation.

wetland mitigation site at hickory hills park was used to compensate for wetland loss during trail construction.

avoiding delays through wetland permitting

obtaining state and federal wetland permits can be a time-consuming process. therefore, site assessments should be conducted early on in the project to avoid delays. throughout these two projects and the entire design of the cedar valley nature trail, our environmental scientists compiled information to facilitate coordination between the regulatory agencies and other state and federal stakeholders during the permitting process. by utilizing this expertise, we’re able to successfully prepare the appropriate permitting applications on behalf of our clients to obtain authorization for their project in an expedited manner.

along this 52-mile trail, two significant sanctions were obtained — section 404 of the clean water act and several flood plain development permits. section 404 permits seek to avoid or minimize losses to wetlands and other waters of the united states (wotus) by regulating discharge, while flood plain permits are required when working in the floodplains of streams and rivers. after receiving the permits, the construction of both bridges and wetland mitigation sites was completed. annual monitoring of the wetland mitigation sites continued for five years to ensure stable wetland conditions.

getting prepped and ready for a large-scale engineering project is no easy task. between resourcing, budgeting, and scheduling, it can be challenging for community leaders to carve out time to understand the potential environmental impacts a plan may have. however, this unique project shows just how important environmental pre2022世界杯32强预选赛 can be. now completed, the upgrades to the cedar valley nature trail once again provide miles of multi-use trails, used by nearly 100,000 people annually, including bicyclists, walkers, runners, bird watchers, and others looking to connect with nature. it is clear these trails bring us closer to nature. by offsetting wetland loss, we ensure that our wetlands, as well as the habitats they contain, stay protected.

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