#United States #Westervelt Services #Thompson Restoration #Wetland Banking #Flathead County

Westervelt Ecological Services Launches Thompson Wetland Restoration Project

Westervelt Ecological Services (WES) has recently received the green light for the Thompson Wetland and Stream Mitigation Bank in Flathead County, Montana. Approved by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) in September, this 52-acre mitigation site will generate 69.97 wetland credits and 23,768 stream credits available for purchase, offering a vital resource for developers and agencies aimed at mitigating environmental impacts.

The project is strategically designed to restore more than 5,000 linear feet of riparian habitat, enhance around 20.94 acres of wetlands, and preserve 24.2 acres of upland habitat along the scenic Thompson River. Currently facing issues such as degraded riparian habitats, stream bank erosion, elevated water temperatures, habitat fragmentation, and the proliferation of invasive species, the restoration efforts are crucial for the revival of the local ecosystem.

Restoration Efforts

WES plans to implement several restoration strategies, which include:

• - Excavation and Grading: This will address the existing eroded stream banks and help reconnect the river to its floodplain.
• - Invasive Species Management: The density of invasive species will be reduced and efforts will be made to promote and support native wetland vegetation.
• - Water Quality Improvement: These activities are expected to markedly enhance water quality and establish diverse native wetland habitats.

The restoration site will benefit from a conservation easement, ensuring its protection indefinitely. An endowment has been created to fund long-term management activities. In collaboration with the U.S. Land Conservancy, WES will uphold this conservation easement, thereby safeguarding the integrity of the area.

Importance of Mitigation Credits

The Thompson Wetland and Stream Mitigation Bank is now operational, with credits available for purchase. This initiative is particularly valuable for developers and regulatory agencies in Montana, assisting them in meeting compliance for environmental impacts as mandated by federal and state regulations.

Maria Caiola, who oversees credit sales, is available for inquiries regarding the mitigation bank and can be contacted at (720) 656–9324 or via email at [email protected]. This project showcases WES's commitment to providing efficient and effective mitigation banking solutions.

About Westervelt Ecological Services

Westervelt Ecological Services, LLC, is recognized as a leader in the conservation banking sector, focusing on the restoration and preservation of wetlands and wildlife habitats. Operating as a division of The Westervelt Company, based in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, WES specializes in offering mitigation banking solutions tailored to developers and businesses needing to offset impacts to wetlands or species across the nation.

To learn more about the Thompson Wetland Mitigation Bank or WES's various conservation initiatives, visit www.wesmitigation.com.

For additional information, please reach out to:

• - Will Duggins, Operations Manager at (303) 927-0037 or [email protected]
• - Maria Caiola, Credit Sales at (720) 656–9324 or [email protected]