Spectrum’s Nashville Natural Resources Group Helps TN Clients Manage Their Mitigation Credits

Clients who engage in residential and commercial development are familiar with paying mitigation credits in order to meet the jurisdictional needs of their projects. In Tennessee, Compensatory Mitigation for Streams and Wetlands may be calculated on a case-by-case basis using the The Tennessee Stream Quantification Tool (SQT).

The Tennessee Stream Quantification Tool (SQT) is a mechanism which can be used to evaluate either the current stream reach conditions or the potential for the stream’s functional lift. Spectrum’s scientists utilize the SQT to determine the existing conditions of a stream reach. The stream reach condition is calculated from gathering field data, as seen in the photographs, related to hydrologic, hydraulic, geomorphologic, biological, and physiochemical properties. The results of the SQT can be utilized to determine the number of stream mitigation credits required to offset impacts to jurisdictional waters, and in many cases proves beneficial to Spectrum’s clients rather than using the “default stream value”. SQT results can also prove useful should Spectrum’s client seek to offset mitigation requirements through Banking or Permittee Responsible Mitigation efforts.

In this way, Spectrum’s Nashville Natural Resources group helps our TN clients with managing their mitigation credits and helps them find balance with environmental and financial stewardship.