Greener From the Ground Up: Our Eco-Friendly
Approach to Site Development

Bio swales are intricate and cleaner when finished with grading and sod, compared to other stormwater management options.
At Gaines and Company, we understand that site development and construction has an impact on the environment and the difficult relationship they sometimes have. That’s why we’re committed to sustainable practices throughout the entire site development process, from planning to completion. Our approach minimizes environmental impact and ensures responsible development for a greener future. You can read more here about a project that highlights some of these unique challenges and how we work to overcome them.
Sustainable Solutions We Implement
- Subcontractor Partnerships: We choose our vendors carefully, opting to work with other companies who hold similar values while holding strict standards on the jobsite. Check out our Subcontractor Spotlights throughout our News feed to learn more about who we choose to be in business with.
- Bioretention and Bioswales: We incorporate natural filtration systems like bioswales. These landscaped areas capture stormwater runoff, filtering pollutants and allowing water to slowly infiltrate back into the ground. This reduces strain on traditional stormwater systems and promotes healthy groundwater recharge.
- Erosion Control: Effective erosion control is essential for preventing soil runoff and sedimentation in nearby waterways. We utilize a variety of techniques, including silt fences and strategic planting, to minimize soil erosion and protect local ecosystems.
- Stormwater Management: We implement stormwater management plans that go beyond just compliance. We consider rainwater harvesting, permeable pavements, and other innovative solutions to reduce stormwater runoff and promote water conservation.
- Protecting Natural Habitats: We understand the importance of preserving existing ecosystems. Our site development plans minimize disruption to natural habitats and whenever possible, incorporate strategies to protect wildlife corridors and sensitive areas.
Our partnership with Magstone LLC, an industry leader in soil management and sediment controls, is invaluable in these endeavors. With a mission to “protect the environment as the world around us grows,” Magstone is “one of our trusted strategic partners who helps us stay clean and green,” says David Gaines, Gaines and Company VP. Read more about this important partnership here.

Layers of a bio pond – an example of stormwater management and returning filtered runoff to the earth
Another key partnership centered on conservation is Carroll Tree Service, a family-owned and operated tree care business. Active in the Maryland Arborists Association, they volunteer time and expertise to local communities through arboriculture service projects. Read more about their contributions here.


Magstone LLC and Carroll Tree Service – 2 of several strategic partners
Building a Sustainable Future Together
By prioritizing sustainable practices, Gaines and Company is committed to minimizing our environmental footprint and contributing to a greener future for our communities. We believe that responsible site development can coexist with essential construction projects. “We are always aware of our environmental impact and take every measure possible to minimize disruption,” said Mike Tarr, Superintendent.

Bioswales and bio ponds. Each one is unique in its construction, demanding specific percentages of sand, topsoil and mulch designed to maximize seepage into the earth from excess stormwater and other runoff.
From Estimators and Project Managers to crew members, we make it a priority to leave a site in the best ecological condition as possible, or sometimes even better. This philosophy is instilled throughout every stage of the development process. Our team is passionate about environmental stewardship and actively seeks opportunities to improve upon existing conditions.
Looking to Build Sustainably?
At Gaines and Company, we’re passionate about sustainable development and partnering with clients who share our values. We welcome the opportunity to discuss how our expertise in sustainable site development can benefit your next project. Contact us today to learn more.
Gaines and Company Site Development is a full-service site development company specializing in underground utilities, grading, excavating, erosion controls, and road work. With 70 years of experience, the organization serves home builders and developers, general contractors, and military installations, as well as state, federal and municipal authorities, throughout Maryland, North Carolina, Washington D.C., and Delaware.