Fuss & O’Neill helped Eversource comply with Massachusetts Endangered Species Act (MESA) requirements for the OPGW replacement work within areas potentially containing specific types of state-listed wildlife and plant species (priority habitat areas).

To comply with MESA requirements, Fuss & O’Neill coordinated botanical surveys along right-of-way (ROW) corridors, prepared GIS mapping, and provided related ecological consulting services (e.g., wetland delineation).

Because of expected wetland impacts along the ROW, we worked closely with utility personnel to develop alternatives and to minimize impact of jurisdictional areas. We prepared permit applications for 401 Water Quality Certification (314 CMR 9.00) from the Massachusetts DEP and a Programmatic General Permit from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.