Minimal Disturbance Maximizes Ecology

Gaines works to local and EPA standards to ensure minimal disruptions to the local ecology.

Gaines and Company’s site development crews are used to clearing and grading acres and acres of land for future site development. But what happens when preservation measures are required? Or stormwater management is a factor? During a recent residential project in Hunt Valley, Maryland, Gaines and Company took extra precautionary measures to preserve the environment.

Led by Superintendent Mike Tarr and Foreman Alvero Leon, Gaines and Company crews were performing repairs on an existing private sewer that was transitioning to public in Hunt Valley. However, crews were challenged to minimize environmental impact to not disrupt the existing runoff water flow.

“We brought in special mats that sat on the ground on runners. It looked like a boardwalk for our heavy equipment,” said Superintendent Mike Tarr. “We drove our equipment on these mats to eliminate ruts and wear from the equipment driving back and forth.”

After minimal post-project repairs, the site experienced only slight disturbances, allowing the ecology of the land to resume naturally.

“We are always aware of our environmental impact and take every measure possible to minimize disruption,” added Mike.

Laying protective mats to reduce environmental impact

Not only are they mindful in their work, but Gaines also offers stormwater management services that align with EPA recommendations to reduce runoff volumes and improve storm water quality. These services – including innovative coastal plain outfalls, dry ponds, gravel wetlands, sediment controls, micro-bioretention, swales, and embankments – ensure that surrounding communities are protected against flooding and erosion.

Gaines and Company never rushes through jobs if it compromises quality, safety, or environmental impact. As shown with the Hunt Valley project, Gaines takes careful steps to keep its employees safe and make the least amount of environmental impact possible while delivering industry-leading site development work.