Professional consulting services were provided for a landowner interested in restoring a pond/wetland complex. Coordination with State and Federal regulatory agencies to obtain the necessary permit authorizations included the U.S Army Corps of Engineers, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, United States Environmental Protection Agency and New York State Department of Environmental Conservation.

Michael Hale, currently the Director of Environmental Planning at Synthesis, as well as a registered Landscape Architect and a Certified Professional in Erosion and Sediment Control, oversaw all aspects of construction, working closely with the excavating contractor throughout the construction period to address unexpected issues, control erosion and sedimentation in the downstream environment and ensure proper placement of wetland vegetation. Mr. Hale completed this project while employed at his previous firm.

The project successfully restored the pond’s functional benefits to the surrounding uplands and adjacent wetlands. The once-thriving pond and wetland complex threatened by downstream dam breaks was reconstructed and expanded. A range of wetland communities designed to enhance the habitat diversity replaced adjacent wetlands that were affected by excavation. Currently, the site is home to a wide array of wildlife species including waterfowl, songbirds, small mammals, fish, amphibians and insects typically found in a diverse wetland and pond environment.

In addition to becoming a valuable natural setting for wildlife, the pond provides the landowner with a peaceful setting for active recreation or inspirational meditation.