Cherokee County Superfund Site Wetland Restoration

RES is supporting Better by Design, LLC as the ecological restoration subcontractor for the Cherokee County Superfund Site, Operable Unit 4, Phase 2 (Areas 1 and 2), under the authority of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

Following mine waste removal and site regrading, RES is delivering wetland restoration planning, Professional Wetland Scientist (PWS) oversight, and ecological monitoring to advance EPA remedial objectives. Restoration efforts focus on emergent palustrine wetlands within and adjacent to the remediation footprint, including areas along Tar Creek and its tributaries, restored ponds, and wetlands temporarily impacted by construction activities.

RES is developing and implementing a comprehensive Wetland Restoration Plan consistent with the Prefinal Remedial Design Specifications and approved grading and stream alignment plans. The plan establishes restoration concepts, site-specific native wetland and upland seed mixes, and planting and maintenance recommendations to support the reestablishment of functional wetland systems.

In addition, RES is providing PWS oversight and conducting post-construction monitoring to document vegetation establishment, hydrologic conditions, soil development, and overall wetland function. Monitoring results are compiled in formal reports to support regulatory compliance and project documentation requirements.

Wetland installation and long-term maintenance are being performed by others. RES’ role is focused on ecological planning, scientific oversight, and performance documentation in support of Better by Design’s remedial construction activities and EPA Superfund requirements.