Natural Resources + Permitting

Straughan has 25+ years of experience streamlining the approval process for everything from billion-dollar infrastructure programs to small maintenance projects. We believe scientifically defensible assessments of natural resources with proper planning for regulatory requirements results in successful projects that also improve the human and natural environment.

Infrastructure and development projects can present environmental permitting challenges that drive costs and delay schedules. We provide insight into environmental compliance to reduce risk and improve efficiency. Our staff have specialized expertise in wetlands, forestry, endangered species, water quality, fisheries, and natural resource management plans, and we are committed to efficient and creative solutions for any project.

Environmental Assessments + Permitting Services

Wetland and Stream Delineations
Wetland and Stream Permitting, Section 401/404
Water Quality Monitoring
Watershed Assessments
Stream Biological and Geomorphic Assessments
Macroinvertebrates and Fish Surveys
Rare, Threatened and Endangered Species Surveys
Endangered Species Act Biological Assessments
Habitat Assessments
Forest Conservation Planning and Planting Plans
Invasive Species Management
Natural Resources Management Plans
GIS Analysis and Application Development
Environmental Program Management
Permitting and Compliance
Ecological Restoration
Stream/Wetland Mitigation Design and Monitoring

Featured Projects

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Transportation Maryland State Highway Administration

Landscape Management and Inspection for Maryland State Highway Administration

Transportation, Energy Maryland Department of Transportation

Holistic Ecosystem Enhancement Project (HEEP) Literature Review

Federal Government US Department of Agriculture

Environmental Assessment for the US National Arboretum Azalea Road Reconstruction and Rehabilitation

County & Local Government City of Frederick

Watershed Management Plan for Rock, Carroll, and Tuscarora Creek Watersheds

Transportation Maryland Transit Administration

MAGLEV Project Planning Study

Transportation Maryland State Highway Administration

TMDL Program Management

Latest News & Insights

December 17, 2024

Breaking Down the DC Circuit Ruling: CEQ’s NEPA Rulemaking Authority Rejected

Dive into the DC Circuit Court’s ruling in Marin Audubon v. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), and potential implications for future NEPA procedures and CEQ oversight.

October 31, 2024

Listening for Bats: Insights on Acoustic Monitoring

Discover insights gained by environmental scientists Hannah McGee and Isha McKnight during their recent acoustic bat monitoring workshop at Mammoth Cave National Park in Kentucky!

October 18, 2024

Maryland Water Quality Standards: A Glimpse into the 2025 Triennial Review

Discover proposed designation revisions for Maryland waters released in the MDE’s Advanced Notice of Public Rulemaking ahead of the 2025 Triennial Review of Water Quality Standards, mandated by the Clean Water Act.