Maine DOT Seeks Corps Permit to Conduct Work in U.S. Waters

The Maine Department of Transportation is seeking a permit from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, New England District to conduct work in waters of the United States in conjunction with replacing or repairing bridges or culverts at 10 locations in the state of Maine.

The Maine Department of Transportation proposes to place permanent and temporary fill material below the ordinary high water line of numerous waterways and in their adjacent freshwater wetlands at 10 locations throughout the state of Maine in order to repair, rehabilitate, or replace existing deteriorated bridges or culverts.

This work is designed to address critical bridges and other structures that need immediate attention to ensure public safety and protect the economic vitality of Maine’s transportation network. Projects are in Lowell, Orono, Bangor, Newburgh, Carmel, Hampden, Augusta, Benton, Clinton and Waterville.

The application for the federal permit was filed by the Maine Department of Transportation with the Corps in compliance with Section 404 of the Clean Water Act, which regulates the discharge or fill of material in United States waters, including wetlands.

The proposed work may impact Essential Fish Habitat for Atlantic salmon. This habitat consists of stream and river bottom composed of silt, sand and gravel mixed with stones. Impact to this species is expected to be minimal with appropriate erosion control measures, in stream work windows, and other best management practices. The Corps has made a preliminary determination that the site-specific adverse effect will be minimal.

Further consultation with the National Marine Fisheries Service regarding Essential Fish Habitat conservation recommendations is being conducted and will be concluded prior to the final permit decision. Similarly, consultation will be initiated regarding the presence of salmon as they are a Federally-listed endangered species.

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Press Release, January 30, 2013