KCI Insights: How Stream Quantification Tools Support Environmental Mitigation

Over the past decade, stream mitigation projects have increased nationwide, with a heightened focus on environmental sustainability through engineered solutions to counterbalance the development of urban infrastructure.

As growth, development, and policy changes are creating more of a need for mitigation credits nationwide, the system of mitigation credit development is evolving to meet this challenge.

SQTs and Their Functionality

An emerging method for developing these credits is the Stream Quantification Tool (SQT). SQTs have been developed in multiple states and jurisdictions to quantify mitigation credits by measuring the ecological function of streams, not just by relying on length. Components of the SQT process include:

• Measuring on-site functional data for the pre-restoration stream;
• Comparing the collected functional data to local reference data for high functioning streams, to develop a score for the pre-restoration stream condition;
• Developing a proposed score for the stream based on the design and anticipated post-restoration stream conditions;
• Determining the potential credit value of the project by comparing the stream’s pre-restoration functional score to the proposed functional score;
• Monitoring the project using the SQT to measure the functional improvements and determine the actual functional lift and mitigation credits that the project generates.

With the emerging use of SQTs, this process creates more transparency and stability in the development of mitigation credits.

Leveraging Our Industry Expertise

SQTs have been or are in the process of being developed across a variety of states as a unique tool for stream mitigation. As stream and river characteristics – as well as regulatory expectations – vary from state to state, SQTs are custom developed for the region where they are utilized. With a strong presence in the stream mitigation market, KCI works with SQTs in numerous regions and states, covering the Southeast, Midwest, and Mid-Atlantic regions. Our ecological restoration team is highly experienced in leveraging the SQTs, efficiently accomplishing restoration and mitigation projects for clients nationwide.

Employing Innovation in the Field

KCI has utilized SQTs on numerous projects, leveraging the innovative approach to deliver efficient and accurate results for clients seeking help with restoration efforts or mitigation credits for new developments. For example, our team developed the Little LaCrosse River Headwaters Stream and Wetland Mitigation Bank project, which leveraged the SQT methodology to support the conservation and restoration of 90 acres in the headwaters of the LaCrosse River system in Melvina, Wisconsin. The project design was able to bring new habitat and ecological resilience to formerly straightened streams and fill ditches and disable drain tiles to restore wetland hydrology. The proposed functional uplift of the stream system was supported by SQT analysis and documentation. Upon completion, the increase in stream function will be documented with future monitoring via the combined Minnesota and Wisconsin SQT (MNWI SQT). The credits developed will be available for sale to any permittees needing credits in the approved service area.

The Future of Restoration and Mitigation

As ecological restoration and mitigation continue to expand across the country, efficiency and innovation are necessary advancements. The implementation of SQTs creates better transparency, communication, and shared expectations with regulatory partners, which enables projects to move forward with better efficiency.

KCI’s team of trained SQT experts leads environmental restoration and mitigation initiatives for a wide range of client types including mitigation banks, permittee responsible mitigation, and in-lieu fee programs. To learn more about how we support environmental and sustainable efforts, visit our Natural Resources service page.