Getting the Most out of Scientific Studies

Making the most out of scientific studies prepared for your projects can take a little extra planning.  Before scheduling project needs for the new year consider the following information.  It can guide you towards obtaining the most effective studies possible.

The experience of Raedeke Associates, Inc. over the past year indicates that many jurisdictions are increasing the requirements for wetland and wildlife studies.  This is evident in requests for new information during scoping of studies, or requests for additional information while processing Preliminary Plat Applications, Forest Practices Applications, and Hydraulic Project Approvals.

Early negotiation with responsible agencies on the scope, protocol, and schedule of studies will clarify the tasks to be completed, commit the project to an acceptable scope of studies, and result in the most cost and time effective studies.

Raedeke Associates, Inc. has extensive experience working with the various agencies in the region and can offer valuable guidance through the study scoping phase.

Our Wildlife and Habitat Studies Matrix indicates some of the specific studies requested along with whether the request specified dates or survey protocols and the optimal time for the requested study.  Missing a required or optimal timing window may delay studies until the next appropriate time, possibly substantially delaying the project.  This list does not represent all studies that may be requested.  It is intended to present some of the variables involved in scoping these studies.

Biological and wetland studies often have prescribed time periods or protocols.  For instance, many studies have an optimum period for the most efficient use of time.  Some studies are best if performed before leaf-out or when combined with other activities.

Some studies may be performed concurrently, for example reptile surveys can often be conducted along with amphibian or bird surveys.

Generally, leaf-out in lowland western Washington occurs in mid to late March.  By the end of March both deciduous shrubs and trees are in leaf, and inspection of the canopy for nests or woodpecker cavities is difficult.  Also, traversing through the understory becomes more difficult and time-consuming.

If you have any questions about the agency requirements for any of the studies listed on the Wildlife and Habitat Studies Matrix please call Rick Lundquist at Raedeke Associates, Inc. at (206) 525-8122 or email him at rwlundquist@raedeke.com