The Clean Water Act (CWA) establishes the basic structure for regulating discharge of pollutants into the Waters of the United States, and regulating quality standards for surface waters. The CWA was established in 1948, but the Act was significantly reorganized and expanded in 1972. “Clean...
The International Building Code defines "Special Inspections" as "The inspection of construction requiring the expertise of an approved special inspector to ensure compliance with code and the approved construction documents." In short, larger residential projects along with most commercial and industrial projects contain aspects of...
One of the most costly items in land development is a creek or stream crossing. While most of the storm water is channeled through shallow swales or storm sewer pipes, many tracts of land will include a creek or stream. The cost associated with these...
If you have a current Construction General Permit for any open land disturbing activity, you must apply for renewal by May 1, 2019, 60 days prior to July 1, 2019 to remain in compliance. KBJW is helping clients make sure they are in compliance for any...
Brrrr…. It’s cold outside. Though frigid this time of year, in the landscape industry we have to think about cold weather conditions even in the summertime. Richmond’s climate is a challenge at best, especially the past few years when we have seen winter temperatures plunge...
Recently a contractor called us with an issue on a job that was already under construction. They had run into some underground utility issues on the site. There were multiple underground lines running across the front of the property, preventing the entrance and storm sewer...
Some may argue that the use of acronyms when discussing environmental issues is much more efficient. The question is whether it is an effective means of communication? Recently I received a text message from a client asking me for advice. The message looked similar to...
A Comparison of Conventional Surveying, Photogrammetry, and LIDAR There are different ways that the elevation and horizontal locations of land are measured. When procuring design data it is important to consider factors that will determine which method is better than another. A brief description of each...
A hearty foundation is a path to success No doubt you’ve heard your realtor use the phrase “Location! Location! Location!” But what does a geotechnical engineer have to say? “Foundation! Foundation! Foundation! ” The study and design of foundations is only one component of geotechnical engineering...
When developing or applying for a building permit in rural areas or areas that may not have access to public sewer, certain considerations must be addressed prior to moving a project forward. The answer to this challenge will likely be the design and installation of...