The Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission (PTC) replaced the Allegheny River Bridge as part of a roadway reconstruction project. To comply with the U.S. Army Corp of Engineers and Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (PA DEP) regulations, PTC needed to construct and maintain 1.8 acres of replacement wetlands to satisfy the wetland mitigation requirements associated with aquatic impacts of the bridge replacement. PA DEP’s permit requires monitoring the wetland replacement for five years after construction. Under an open-end agreement for environmental services, PTC contracted with RETTEW to conduct the monitoring for the first two years and provide a report to PA DEP.

Every wetland construction site is unique and presents its own set of challenges. RETTEW’s Natural Sciences’ staff have the expertise needed to monitor the site for the proper hydrology required for a functioning wetland, and seasonal accumulation to support a wetland vegetative community. We will also monitor for invasive species and recommend any corrective actions if necessary. PTC’s goal is for the wetland to be fully functioning and stable in two years, then request PA DEP ‘s approval to stop the monitoring short of the five years, saving PTC time and money.