Threatened and Endangered Species: A Case Study of the Maritimes Northeast Natural Gas Pipeline in Maine

摘要

From 1995 to 1999, Maritimes & Northeast Pipeline acquired permits and constructed approximately 200 miles of 24" natural gas pipeline in Maine. Over the course of the multi-year permitting and construction process, the project encountered a number of challenges concerning rare, threatened, and endangered species. Target species were identified and survey methodologies developed based on available databases and numerous agency consultations. Local expertise from academia and consulting firms were used as necessary. Vascular plants, several species of freshwater mussels, the Tomah mayfly, two species of turtles, two species of dragonflies, and bald eagles were identified for field surveys. Over 25 professional botanists and biologists performed numerous field surveys and report input to provide the data required for the permitting process. Several challenges were overcome in dealing with time restrictions, data gathering, and the expansive, and sometimes remote, project range. Results for the final mainline route included identification of 13 species of state listed vascular plants at 17 locations, two bald eagle essential habitats within 1/4 mile of the pipeline route, and three streams with state listed freshwater mussels. Many additional sites were identified for a number of species, however were avoided by route changes. Survey results were submitted to the appropriate agencies and methodologies were developed for construction mitigation where avoidance was not possible. Mitigation work was performed while corresponding with the rigorous construction schedule. Mitigation results were compiled and additional monitoring will continue for specific sites.