DEWATERING

DEWATERING – WHAT IS IT AND WHY DO WE NEED IT?
Construction dewatering refers to the methods used to remove accumulated groundwater or surface water by pumping or thru evaporation.  When working on trenches, near a body of water, in areas with a high water table or an area filled because of rains and flooding it is important to understand proper methods for water removal.   Proper Dewatering protocol should be included in a site SWPPP (Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan) for a construction site.  Methods may vary depending on municipality requirements, location of construction and proximity to waterways, lakes and streams.
   

IMPORTANT CONSIDERATIONS
When determining the type and scale of dewatering methods, some variables that need to be taken into consideration include the amount of water being relocated,  how fast it will travel (pump or gravity?), and the amount and type of impurities in the water.  Water that is pulled out of a ditch with a sump pump may have more sediment than water being removed from an area of a natural lake.  Either way, the water will typically need to be filtered as it is relocated to minimize the effects of erosion and sedimentation.   Water that is potentially polluted may need further treatment, such as using an oil and water separator to make sure that those impurities are not put back into natural waterways.

DEWATERING AND FILTRATION OPTIONS
In almost every case, dewatering will require some kind of filtration to remove impurities from the water as it is removed and directed to a draining area or waterway.   Some of these options include:

•  Filter Sock, filter bag or tube:  Filter Bags come in many shapes and sizes.   As the name states – these bags are a filter that hold in silt and impurities while allowing water to pass thru and drain away.

•  Dewatering Filter Pad – If needed, a dewatering pad allows for additional filtration beyond the sock or bag, using a combination of man-made and natural materials to clean the water.

•  Drainage Ditch with lining (to prevent further erosion) and FLOC Logs.   The Floc Logs are designed for use in flowing conditions for treating turbid water to remove suspended sediment


DEWATERING PRECAUTIONS
While the dewatering process is relatively simple, the reasons and methods are designed to protect our environment and require awareness and diligence to maintain the health of our natural waterways.   When dewatering an area, it is always best to be aware of the amount of water, where it is traveling and look for ways to prevent damage to the existing natural landscape.

•  Avoid overland routes that can cause further erosion
•  Choose the best place for the discharge keeping in mind amount of water and flow rate
•  Water leaving the construction site needs to be as clean as the water entering the site
•  All dewatering protocols need to be monitored regularly to avoid filtration failure

Proper Dewatering and SWPPP protocols are important steps in Construction Best Management Practices (BMPs) and should be taken seriously.   For more information contact our knowledgeable staff at 630-554-6655 or by email.

BUILDING UP....

In the past few years many schools have added to their educational offerings and begun to focus on Science, Technology and Math to encourage kids to learn the types of skills that are needed in our fast moving, technology enhanced lives.   In  today’s top career fields these are crucial skills to survive, however many educators are adding ‘Arts’ to the acronym because they realize that in all fields, creative solutions are the key to success.  Looking at Civil Engineering and Land Surveying it is easy to see where each of these educational components are needed to shape our youth into creative, problem solving professionals to tackle tomorrow’s needs.

CIVIL ENGINEERING AS A CAREER
Civil Engineering is the overall description that covers a wide range of Engineers who work on Public Projects such as buildings, roads, waterways, energy systems, ocean ports, railroads, and airports. Civil Engineering is broken down into subcategories with many different specialties.   But what does it take to be a Civil Engineer?  How do you know if you should pursue engineering as a career?   There isn’t a set type or hard list that can be used, but in general an Engineer is someone who wants to know how and why things work.  A good engineer is someone who can learn and then creatively apply that learning to different situations and applications.   Engineers by definition are problem solvers who create solutions to improve the world around us and to manage our natural resources.   Good interpersonal skills and an ability to communicate ideas are needed to succeed along with a love of learning.  As new technology, information and techniques are developed, the professionals in this field need to listen, learn and adapt to the continually changing needs of our society.   

Civil Engineering, as opposed to other types of Engineering, is concerned with designing, building
and maintaining public works.  Civil engineers work on construction, renovation, and rebuilding projects. Within the field of Civil Engineering there are various areas of focus including Environmental, Geotechnical, Structural, Hydraulic /Water Resources, and Transportation.  Civil Engineers often work with architects, technologists, and other industry professionals on a single project.  Depending on the project a Civil Engineer may have to split their time between working on design in the office and site visits to ensure the proper construction of their designs.  Some Civil Engineers may also be involved in reviewing government regulations, city ordinances and highway designs.

LAND SURVEYING AS A CAREER
Land Surveying is a profession which relies on legal analysis and science to determine the size, distance and position of the three-dimensional world around us.  Land Surveyors use the Law, Geometry, Trigonometry, Physics and Engineering Principles to produce official Plats, Mapping and Property Boundary Surveys. Land Surveyors also establish points of reference on the ground that are then used for things like geographic Information Systems (GIS), construction, land transactions and planning.  Attorneys, Civil Engineers, Property Owners and Governmental Agencies depend on Land Surveyors to provide them with accurate information about the land in order to divide property, transact property, plan improvements, maintain drainage and manage the existing natural resources.

MATH EVERY DAY
Anyone thinking of a career as an Engineer (any kind) or as a Land Surveyor should be proficient at math.  Both Civil Engineering and Land Surveying use their math skills on a daily basis.  While there are great advances in technology, programs and models to assist in their work, a good foundation and understanding of math is still essential.

TECHNOLOGY
As our society continues to improve technology, the information that a Land Surveyor or Civil Engineer has to work with is increasingly more precise.  GPS, Satellites, and Computer Software all aid the Land Surveyor in making accurate surveys, mapping topography and showing the shape, size and position of landmarks.  AutoCAD is a frequently used Computer Drafting program that allows the Civil Engineer to put their vision on paper.  Despite these advancements in technology, proper education and training is paramount to providing the public with an accurate and dependable final product.

FULL STEAM AHEAD
As the youth of today take interest in Science, Technology, Artistic Creativity and Math they will learn the skills needed to find solutions for tomorrow’s world, but they are not the only ones.  As business professionals, our Civil Engineers and Land Surveyors are required by law and a code of ethics participate in continuing education and development to maintain their edge on the ever advancing world of Technology.  

WHAT IS SWPPP?

STORM WATER POLLUTION PREVENTION PLAN [SWPPP]

             The Storm Water Pollution Prevention Plan is considered to be the most important 
              requirement of the General Permit. Each facility covered by this permit is required to 
             develop a plan, tailored to the specific conditions and with the primary goal of controlling 
             pollutants that may be discharged into storm water runoff.  (Illinois EPA.Gov)

As our country has developed, it has become increasingly clear that measures need to be taken to maintain our water resources and protect waterways from pollution.  Over the course of time laws have been created to prevent dumping of industrial waste, use of chemicals that can wash into the waterways and even testing of materials to be used in landfills.  All of this is aimed at the same goal: protecting the water.   This is part of the reason that SWPPP came into existence and is now an important part of the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permitting program. Any Construction Site that disturbs one or more acres is required to have coverage under the NPDES general permit for storm water discharges from construction activities.

MAKING A PLAN
Contractors typically have at least a vague notion of what a Storm Water Pollution Prevention Plan [SWPPP] entails even if they are uncertain as to exactly how or where it is to be implemented.  

              A SWPPP is more than just a sediment and erosion control plan.  It describes all the 
              construction site operator’s activities to prevent stormwater contamination, control 
              sedimentation and erosion, and comply with the requirements of the Clean Water Act. 
              (EPA SWPPP GUIDE pg. 1)

A good SWPPP will incorporate best Engineering Practices (BMPs) using knowledge of the hydrologic and natural features of the land.   In plain English that means a Civil Engineer will use the knowledge they have of the way the water travels to determine where there may be concern for damage to the environment or potential pollution to occur.   Since most developments will require a Civil Engineer in the planning stages, it is frequently the Engineer who will take care of the required Notice of Intent (NOI) to the IEPA and who can then provide the contractor with a SWPPP.  

PUTTING THE SWPPP INTO ACTION
When developing a site, the contractor then needs to make sure their staff are trained and understand the requirements and implementation of the SWPPP.   Some of these measures include:

     • How and where to install silt fence, 
     • Perform dewatering, 
     • Stabilizing Construction Entrance/Exit to minimize erosion
     • Designated Washout Areas for Concrete
     • Maintain Logs and Regular Inspections

Overall putting a good SWPPP into place is a necessary part of construction and development.   With the right measures contractors and developers can ensure that their project has minimal damage to the local environment by reducing polluted runoff, minimizing erosion and controlling sedimentation.
Need help preparing a Storm Water Pollution Prevention Plan on your next project?  Just Call (630-554-6655) or Email and we can help!

BMP: What is it & Why Do I Care?

Let’s start with what is a BMP?  In Civil Engineering and Construction, it typically refers to Best Management Practices.   The ‘Management’ part can vary, depending on who is using the term BMP’s.  A contractor may refer to Managing a Construction Project, but for Civil Engineering the term is almost always used in reference to stormwater and/or surface water runoff.  In general, Best Management Practices (BMPs) is a term used to describe thecontrol of water pollution; the best way to manage your land and youractivities to reduce or prevent pollution of surface and groundwater near you1.   There are a number of ways that pollution can be introduced to a body of water.  Once pollutants are present, it is more difficult and expensive to restore it to its former glory.  The use of BMPs that prevent damage to receiving waters is the target.

WHERE DOES THE RAINWATER GO?

Think back to the days of grade school and learning about the water cycle.  The very fundamental cycle of water and how it travels is the key to managing this resource in the best possible way.  Since water is a universal solvent, it easily picks up pollutants such as debris, metals, pesticides, sediment, bacteria, and more as it travels.  If left unchecked, the water can then carry these pollutants into lakes, rivers and streams.  For new developments part of their BMP will be a Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan or “SWPPP”.  This Plan is developed and maintained throughout the construction phase of a project to ensure that the newly disturbed ground has a minimal impact on the natural water flow until the project is completed.   Another part of the BMPs for a new development will be the Civil Engineer’s Drawings showing how the earth around a building needs to be shaped, what elevations should be used and what the slope of the ground should be.   Along with the potential water quality issues, urban development can displace water and create an increase in flooding and add to the amount of water that is causing erosion or sedimentation.  These changes can also cause a change in vegetation and decrease of native wild life.  This is where Effective Management or ‘Best Management Practices’ (BMPs) become important.  Stormwater BMPs are techniques, measures or structural controls used to manage the flow and improve the quality of stormwater runoff and will be incorporated into the Civil Engineers Plans.

 

CONTROLLING THE FLOW

Typical BMP techniques used to control the flow of water and improve water quality include such measures as detention ponds, grass swales, natural plantings, and natural filters.  The techniques used for each development will differ depending on variables such as water table, typical rainfall, wetlands, overland flood routes, surrounding developments, and available drainage. 

By: Rashida Pflipsen / Rebecca Luginbill

¹ US EPA website:  http://www.epa.gov/nrmrl/wswrd/wq/stormwater/bmp.html

Steps for a Happy New Year

As we come to the end of the year, it seems paradox, but instead of finishing projects - this is the time of year when new projects get started. Many companies, schools and businesses are focused on next years’ budgets and the work that will go with them. As you step into the New Year, there is a process needed to successfully get a construction or renovation project off the ground for next spring. If you haven’t already, now is the time to consider the first key step: Funding.

Every project is different, and yet they each have the same basic key elements. No matter how big or small a project is there are important steps to be taken. Funding may seem like an obvious matter, but it is an absolute necessity. Many times Funding will go hand in hand with choosing the right design professional for the project. Is it a new building or renovation? Then an Architect will need to be on your team. Are you doing earthwork or site improvements? A Civil Engineer can help. Hiring a quality professional up front can save time and money with possible solutions before you build. You will also want to have full knowledge of the property you hope to develop. Accurate Surveys, Site Assessments with Historical Data, and Geo-technical Reports, sometimes referred to as “due diligence,” can help determine the property value and the feasibility of using the parcel for the project you have in mind.

Once you have your team in place, the designing can begin. A ‘Schematic Design’ would be the first design steps, some of which can include the above mentioned research. Designs can change based on utilities, drainage, soil conditions, municipalities, or other factors that come up during the continuing research on a piece of land. This first design stage helps to shake out the issues that will need to be handled during the construction process. 

 The ‘Design Development’ Stage continues this design process, refining the plans as decisions are made and issues are resolved. Once the designs are complete, the design professional can issue Construction Documents for bidding. Your design professional can help with the bidding as needed and oversee, answer questions, and provide guidance throughout the construction process including coordination with municipalities and resolution of any issues regarding the design.

At the end of the project, the Close-out will help to tie up loose ends, ensure that any construction issues are resolved and provide the corrections needed for the final occupancy and use of the developed parcel. It sounds like a simple enough process, but having the right team for your project can make the difference between a timely success and a long, expensive road to misery. I’m going to wish you the first – a Happy and Successful New Year with the right people on your team.

ARE YOU THANKFUL FOR ENGINEERS?

It’s November – a traditional time of year for people to stop and think about what they are thankful for in their day to day lives.  Personally, I’m thankful for hot water and for the engineers who figured out how to create a water system that provides me with a constant supply of clean, potable water.   Have you ever thought of all the things that wouldn’t be part of your day today without Engineers?    Things like roads, clean water, bridges, Drainage to prevent flooding and so much more are all because we have Engineers to create, innovate and improve the infrastructure that makes modern society possible.

Water Filter Experiment [Click Here]

These improvements are only part of the reason we can be thankful for Engineers and why so many schools in America are looking at their STEM - Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math curriculum as a means to promote interest in these critical fields.  As our society grows in technology, it is becoming increasingly important for schools to foster critical thinking in students, increase their abilities in the STEM fields, and enable this generation to continue to create new and innovative solutions for our needs today, tomorrow and for years to come.    

As part of this effort, MeritCorp Employees spent two hours investing in the future of America at the Crone Middle School STEM night [11-19-14].   Crone Middle School, like many other schools in Illinois, invited working professionals from various businesses to show the students the real life application for STEM curriculum.   

Since Civil Engineering is a broad umbrella, we used a video from the American Society of Civil Engineers [ASCE] called  “What do Civil Engineers Do?” to help the students get a better understanding of the varied options available.   We then did a hands-on project where the students learned the basics of an industrial water filter.   This visual helped the students to see one real-life application of Civil Engineering Knowledge.

We hope that all of the students who came and participated in the STEM night went home with a renewed excitement and interest in the Science and Engineering Fields.  

Spring, Summer, Construction, Winter…..

Fall is here, but are you ready?  Ready for the construction, snow, and really bad pot-holes next Spring?  You drive thru the construction…bounce thru the pot-holes, but have you thought about what those crews on the side of the road are doing?  Ever wonder about the constant work to maintain our roads and what could be the cause of the giant pot-hole you just found?  To answer this, let’s take a look at just three of the factors to asphalt degradation:  How the road was made, who drives on the road, and where the road was built.  

DESIGNING THE ROAD
The first area to look at is the design of the road.  The region where you live and the type of soil that is available is a factor affecting the lifecycle of the roads you use.  Sub-base failure or poor quality soil along with poor compaction can greatly reduce the life of the roads.  Too much clay or silt can affect the ability of the road to drain properly.   An Engineer needs to ask themselves: Is there adequate drainage for spring thaws and heavy water flow?  Will it hold the weight of snow plows and buses?  What utilities are buried in the area?  What is the climate where the road will be built?  All of these are important considerations in designing any road, drive or parking lot.   

WHO DRIVES ON THE ROAD

Alligator Cracking

Have you ever seen a parking lot where the asphalt got too warm and a big truck left a tire mark?  High temperatures soften the asphalt binder and allow the weight of heavy tires to deform the
pavement.
Even in more moderate temperatures over-loading can cause problems.  If the sub-base is not adequately compacted or if too many heavy vehicles are on a roadway early cracking and deterioration may occur.  Prior to designing a roadway, the Civil Engineer needs to know about the amount of use the road will have, the weight of the vehicles and speed they will travel.   If you begin to think about this as you travel, you will notice that many truck stops, shipping facilities, and highways use concrete instead of asphalt so it can withstand the heavy traffic.  It won’t stop the normal process of deterioration over time, however, knowing the intended use of the roadway or parking lot is essential in designing the right solution.

WATER, WEATHER, & ENVIRONMENT
One of the worst enemies of asphalt is water damage including: 

- Water caught under the asphalt causing soft soil    
   conditions or freezing which becomes frost heave. (Silt or Clay is more susceptible)
-  Poor drainage allows water to get into cracks and begins eroding the sub-base.
-  Freezing / Thawing can push asphalt apart at cracks, leave voids in the sub-base and cause 
    potholes.  
-  The ground thaws from the top down which can trap water between the asphalt and frozen ground 
    causing soft soil.

Other weather factors can include hot weather, making asphalt soft and/or causing the asphalt to oxidize making it stiffer and less resilient.  Cold weather can also make the asphalt stiffer and less resilient causing cracks that allow even more water to get in and under it and cause damage.
Other Environmental elements that can affect the life of an asphalt road include tree roots that push up from underneath, changes to the ground under a road such as sinkholes, nearby erosion, or continuous chemical exposure from vehicles in high traffic areas.

MAKE IT LAST
Even the best made Asphalt road won’t last forever and for many municipalities the balance between budget and maintenance is an ongoing issue.   With this information in mind you can watch construction crews with a new perspective and think about these key factors to asphalt paving:
-  Build on a firm foundation and use the best sub-grade material available
-  Compact!  The more dense it is, the stronger it is
-  Design for the region ensuring adequate drainage for spring thaw and heavy water flow
-  Know the traffic load and use
-  Maintain the road by sealing cracks, keeping it clear of water, check ditches and drains

Hopefully this has given you a basic understanding of how and why the potholes form and the basic cause and effect of water, weather and usage on Asphalt.   If you still have questions or need to know more for a project, you can contact us by phone at 630.554.6655 or email.  You can also check out our website www.meritcorp.com for a list of our services.

OLD & NEW

Change can be good, bad and sometimes very hard. Moving to a new office location while expanding and opening a new office is a huge undertaking. One that can have great benefits, but that may come with some temporary setbacks such as schedule delays and perhaps even misplacing that odd piece of paper with information. I have been ever so grateful over the past two months for the generosity and flexibility of those around us including clients, co-workers and even my family. As we have settled into the new locations (yes, we now have TWO offices!! Aurora & Palatine)

I am happy to conclude that we are still the same company – just in a different place.

You are only as good as your employees….
The juxtaposition of old and new, experience and innovation is a never ending tension in the workplace. Every business wants to have experienced employees, but they also NEED a certain amount of innovation and youthfulness to keep up with changing times. At MeritCorp, we strive for that balance between the experience that knows how things are done thru years of learning and innovation that takes a fresh look for new solutions because after all – things aren’t what they used to be. It is important in our industry to keep moving ahead with the cutting edge of technology, ever improving our skills with continuing education and training, while maintaining the connection with that which we know to be tried and true proven methods and experience. Working together, mentoring and continuing education are all important aspects to make each employee even better than they are today, which then continues to make MeritCorp even better for tomorrow and beyond.

Celebrating our People
Labor Day was instituted as a Federal Holiday in 1894 to celebrate the labor that has made this country what it is today. The definition of ‘labor’ and who is being celebrated may be a bit hazy, due to the frenzy of new technology in the recent era, but the Federal Department of Labor puts it this way:

"Labor Day, the first Monday in September, is a creation of the labor movement and is dedicated to the social and economic achievements of American workers. It constitutes a yearly national tribute to the contributions workers have made to the strength, prosperity, and well-being of our country."

‘The American Worker’ has grown far beyond Railroad Crews and Construction Workers. It takes a nation full of dreamers and designers, Architects, Engineers, Builders and Developers to create the ‘strength, prosperity, and well-being of our country’. So take a moment to appreciate your employees, celebrate those you work with and encourage those who are stepping up with new ideas for tomorrow.

We are as good as the Engineers and Surveyors that work here... and proud of it.  We have a new location, we have expanded and added a new office, but the same great people who are worth celebrating are here to make sure that MeritCorp Group LLC continues 'Designing the Future' with our clients.

Rebecca Luginbill

Digging up the Facts on CCDD

If you are in the Construction industry, chances are you have heard about Clean Construction or Demolition Debris, also known as CCDD but you may not know exactly what it is or how it impacts you.   First we need to back up a little and look at what practices have been used in handling soil and construction debris in previous years.  Previously the rules for handling the construction debris were not as clear and during the construction process could go to any number of places.  If the soil and debris were uncontaminated, that may have been okay, however since no one was testing it there was a concern of this material moving harmful contaminates to places where it could affect ground water and public health.  This was part of the reason why regulations regarding the disposal and use of these materials were recently made more specific.

What is Clean Construction and Demolition Debris [CCDD]?

According to the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency [IEPA] Website, the definition of CCDD is:

CCDD:  Uncontaminated broken concrete without protruding metal bars, bricks, rock, stone or reclaimed asphalt pavement generated from construction or demotion activities.  When uncontaminated soil is mixed with any of these materials, the uncontaminated soil is also considered CCDD – but only when mixed.  Uncontaminated Soil by itself is not considered CCDD.

Uncontaminated Soil:  Soil generated during construction, remodeling, repair or demolition of utilities, structures and roads that does not contain contaminates in concentrations that pose a threat to human health and safety and the environment.

So what does this mean?  How does this affect the way soil and construction debris are handled today?

The basic question to begin with on a construction project is to find out if there is a potential impact for contaminates from the property or a nearby potentially impacted property [Also known as a PIP].   Land Owners need to know what the property has been used for and if there are nearby industrial properties that could potentially leak harmful substances onto their property.  Is there a gas station or service nearby?  A Dry Cleaners?  A Paint Store?   If a property owner needs assistance in determining if their property is impaired an investigation by a trained Environmental Professional can help.

Uncontaminated Soil – No Potential Threat Nearby

Uncontaminated soil from a site that has not been used for commercial or industrial purposes, such as residential and agricultural soil [except orchards where arsenic and pesticides may have been applied] and that does not have a PIP nearby may be certified by either the site owner or operator or by a licensed professional engineer.   In order to dispose of this Clean Construction and Demolition Debris [CCDD] in a CCDD Fill operation, a pH test is still needed to prove the acidity is within the required range.  If the acidity is not within tolerance the material may need to go to a non-hazardous special waste landfill.

If the CCDD is from a Commercial or Industrial Property or there is a nearby Potential Impacting Property (PIP), certification must be made by a licensed professional in order to send the material to a CCDD Fill Operation.  This includes most roadway, utility and right of way projects as well.  The Environmental Professional will need to analyze samples for contaminates and proper pH levels in order for it to be deemed appropriate for CCDD Fill operations.   If it is impacted, then it will need to go to a landfill or other operation that receives impacted Materials.

Clean Construction and Demolition Debris is not difficult once you understand the rules that are in place to protect our water and environment.   At MeritCorp Group we strive to help our clients with all aspects of their Site Civil Projects from Planning thru completion.  Not sure where to start?  Give us a call!

Civil Engineering - Where Every Day is Earth Day

It’s EarthDay once again! [April 22nd]  In schools across the United States, students are learning about the important natural resources available to us and they are taking time to focus on ways to reduce, reuse, renew and recycle.  It is encouraging seeing this focus in the classroom and exciting to think about how this will translate to a better tomorrow.  That is our focus at MeritCorp every day – ‘Designing the Future’ to our best ability every day.  Perhaps you read the title of this Blog and you are asking yourself, “What does a Civil Engineer do that affects our environment?”

WHAT DO ENGINEERS DO?

There are many facets to Civil Engineering and some of the specializations have more impact than others.  Here are just a few of the ways that a Civil Engineer manages the resources around us:

• Engineers design how and where water flows taking into account contaminates, distance, filtration and final location.  This includes surface water, groundwater, wastewater, soil and air.
• Engineers help manage our natural environment including wetlands, watersheds and floodplains.
• Engineers design systems for wastewater treatment and disposal of solid and hazardous waste.

EARTH DAY – EVERY DAY

With each and every project, whether it be a roadway, building, or subdivision it is important to note that Engineers do not just consider building size and location, vehicle/pedestrian pavement design, traffic flow and safety, but they look at how the stormwater runoff will be collected, stored and discharged.  A Civil Engineer needs to find a way to reduce the volume of water and the level of contaminates in stormwater runoff.  They need to consider how to utilize natural filtration thru clean soil to recharge groundwater tables and to help protect sources of drinking water.

• Where will the water that washes off the sediment, salt and oil from the building or pavement go?
• How are contaminates separated from the stormwater discharge?
• When a building is constructed, will there be enough area to contain rainfall and prevent downstream flooding?
• Does the planned building or parking lot affect a natural area or wetland?

Proper management of stormwater from any land development is essential to ensure the continued quality of our natural water system of streams, rivers, wetlands, watersheds and floodplains.

SITE CIVIL WORK AND BEYOND

When buildings and subdivisions are constructed, the civil engineers are responsible for designing how and where drinking water is provided to serve the site and how wastewater will be leaving the site.

• Where will the water and sewer lines that are necessary for the building go?
• How will they hook up with what is already in place?
• How are these water and sewer lines protected? 

Municipalities and some developments are required to have wastewater filtered and cleaned either by a water treatment facility or thru a natural process before it goes back into our streams and waterways.

Earth Day is an important reminder that we need to minimize our negative impact on the environment.  As we learn and improve, we also strive to ‘clean up’ what is already in place thru testing and remediation.    Every day MeritCorp Group LLC works to design a better tomorrow thru responsible planning and thoughtful Engineering.   We can also help identify potential hazards at existing developments with Phase I and PhaseII investigations, and Asbestos Surveys.  We don’t need to wait for Earth Day to improve the World we live in because here we do it every day.

-  by Clayton Schuler and Rebecca Luginbill

MeritCorp Goes Back to School

This month MeritCorp Group, LLC went back to School!  Across the nation there has been a recent push in the education system to encourage students to embrace Math, Science and Technology learning.  Many schools, including the Oswego School system, are reaching out with programs like ‘Project Lead the Way’ and with community events like the recent Science Night put on by P.A.C.E. [Parents and Community for Excellence].   

MeritCorp Group was proud to participate in this fun evening focused on encouraging young students with activities focused on scientific principals related to Civil Engineering and Surveying.

The objective of the Science night was to provide an interactive experience for kids that would help them to learn about Civil Engineering and Land Surveying.   While the sometimes technical world of a Civil Engineer may go over the heads of kids, our staff stepped up to the challenge with three fun hands-on activities that anyone could relate to and learn from.

The first activity was focused on Civil Engineering.  Using a simplified design, we showed the kids how to filter water with sand similar to what would be done in a large industrial sand filter.  The kids were able to create a small filter using a 2-liter bottle, cotton balls, small aggregate (rocks) and sand.   For the ‘dirty’ water we used glitter with water.  This made it easy for the kids to see how the sand filters out solids.  Then as they poured the water back thru the filter a second (or third) time they could see how the fine particles would come out cleaner on the other side.

The second activity included a land surveying construction level.  It was set up for the kids to look thru and see an object across the room.  They enjoyed the ability to focus and see the tiny plaque on the bottom of a picture of George Washington.   Our goal was to show kids the resolution capabilities of the instrument and then explain how it is used by a surveyor to set and obtain elevations of roads, buildings and other structures.  

The third activity was focused more on problem solving, something a Civil Engineer has to do every day.  The problem presented was how to use a single sheet of paper to support heavy books at least 2 ½ inches off of the table.  They were allowed to use scissors, tape, and a ruler.  Amazingly, the kids stepped up to the challenge and figured out ways to create columns to support their impromptu ‘structures’.

The staff at MeritCorp had a fun evening of interacting with potential future engineers and surveyors.  With over 600 attendees, it was a busy 2 ½ hours.  We hope that the excitement of the evening will encourage future problem solvers to continue pursuing knowledge in the Science, Math, and Technology fields. 

“PACE Science Night was a great success thanks to all the support from presenters throughout the community, the volunteers, and everyone at Oswego High School!  Over 600 guests of all ages enjoyed presentations and activities at over 50 tables.” 

                                                  – Jessica Byrne (PACE Representative)  www.pace308.org

For parents interested in doing the water filter or even more fun activities to do with their kids visit: PBSkids.org 

For more information on MeritCorp Group, LLC and how we can put our hands-on problem solving to work for you visit  www.meritcorp.com 

Can I get a Survey in the Winter?

With the severity of the winter weather this year our thoughts have turned to

the challenges of providing a survey in the winter weather.  While surveys are completed in the winter time, there are several factors to consider when deciding if the weather is a detriment to your goal.  The first thing to consider is what kind of survey do you need?  Once you have determined the need you can then look at the conditions, timing and cost to see if it really would make a difference to wait.  A few of the most commonly known surveys are as follows:

Boundary Survey:  In a nutshell, this type of survey is required to establish the property boundary and mark the corners of any property.  The more formal explanation says:  * “….…The purpose of a boundary survey is to establish or re-establish the extent of title lines, and to define and identify those lines so as to uniquely locate each lot, parcel or other specific land area in relation to well recognized and established points of reference, adjoining properties, and rights of way.”  

Since this type of survey defines the boundaries, it is necessary to find fixed points, features or previous monumentation (markers) which can mean breaking ice, digging snow and fighting with the frozen ground.  This can make surveying in the winter challenging, but not impossible.  A client can expect a slight increase in cost, depending on the size and nature of the property and its’ associated legal descriptions.  This may also mean waiting a day or two if there is a snow storm or extreme cold, but should not prevent a surveyor from completing the project goal.

Mortgage Survey – This is a boundary survey that also includes the building locations and easements.  This is different than a Mortgage Inspection (See Mortgage Inspection below).

Mortgage Inspection - *“A Mortgage Inspection does not approach the standards of other survey categories, though ….the services of an Illinois Professional Land Surveyor are required.  A mortgage inspection is not a type of boundary survey or ALTA/ACSM survey and does not constitute a boundary survey of the subject real property.  A mortgage inspection includes field investigation, measurements and graphic representation of improvements. The mortgage inspection is intended for use by a mortgage lender and/or title insurer and is only a professional opinion of the relationship of improvements with respect to the deed lines and the existence, location and type of building on the property, the intent of which is to assist in the determination of the property's suitability to serve as collateral for a mortgage.  It is not an opinion as to deed, title or platted lines.  It is not to be used in matters of boundary disputes, legal actions between landowners, or for construction purposes.  No new legal descriptions can be created from a mortgage inspection.”

Topographic Survey – While a boundary survey is completed in one dimension (flat), a topographic survey depicts elevations and contours of the land, buildings, sidewalks, utilities, and other features of the property.  This would include both natural (rivers, trees, etc.) and man-made features.  A more technical definition is: *“……the delineation of horizontal and/or vertical locations of the existing natural or man-made features of a portion of the earth's surface, subsurface or airspace and the graphic representation of the results of such delineation. ..”    Topographic surveys are frequently used in the design stage for new construction projects and may include boundary lines and easements (boundary survey) and may be part of a survey performed per the ALTA/ASCM standards.

Since a Topographic survey looks at all of the land features and the height or elevation of those features, it makes winter surveying more difficult.  Snow and ice covering the ground, especially in open areas with heavy drifting can make it difficult or impossible to determine vertical changes.  Utility structures, concrete, and monuments can be buried in the snow.  In order for a surveyor to take accurate measurements they may need to shovel snow to get to the roadway or other fixed height in multiple sections meaning the surveyor may spend more time shoveling the 5 ft of snow at the side of the road then they do actually measuring for the survey.  Again, this can affect the timing and  add cost or delay the survey if the weather prohibits proper measurements.

ALTA/ASCM – While other surveys may have slight variations in how they are presented, the ALTA standards were established to maintain uniformity in the information provided to lenders and Title companies.  This is not so much a type of survey, but a standard set of information that has to be included with the survey that is requested.  It includes a boundary survey and some, if not all of a Topographic Survey.   There are some options as to what is included or not and that is typically determined by the Lending Institution.  Commercial land transactions are the most common reason for an ALTA/ASCM survey.  Overall it is much more detailed survey and higher in cost due to the established standard that is followed.

As in the boundary and Topographic survey, the winter Cold, snow, ice, and frost cause longer monumentation searches when measuring and locating boundaries.  When Extreme cold occurs it can affect equipment calibration and battery life.  Since the ALTA/ASCM has more detailed and exacting standards it is of the utmost importance to have visibility and access to the whole site with few or no obstructions.  Winter conditions can greatly affect the surveyor’s ability to perform.  While it isn’t impossible, these factors can affect the timing and cost of providing this type of survey in the winter months.  A survey of this type will almost always bear a notation that it was performed in winter conditions and may not depict certain features otherwise found in optimum conditions.

While the winter months tend to keep most people indoors, it is nice to know that a surveyor is still able to get out and perform the job.  Just as Snow Drifts can hide features in the winter, a large bush or trees can be an obstruction in the summer.    It is important to consider the type of survey, the level of detail needed and timeframe required.  While there may be a slightly higher cost or a weather delay to consider in the wintertime, a quality surveyor can accomplish the needed survey no matter what time of year.   

Please contact us for more information about our Land Surveying Services or to get pricing.

- By Jonathan Spinazzola , PLS
Edited by Rebecca Luginbill


REFERENCE
*The 2012 Illinois compiled statutes and administrative rules for the practice of professional land surveying in the state of Illinois, published by: Illinois professional land surveyors association

Oswego, IL - State of the Village for 2014

As a business and member of the Oswego Chamber, I attended the 3rd Annual Oswego Chamber of Commerce “State of the Village” address on February 17th featuring Village President Brian LeClercq and Oswego Economic Development Director Vijay Gadde.  The theme of this event was Oswego’s pro-business climate, accomplishments over the past year and future development highlights.   We at MeritCorp Group are excited about these growth opportunities in our area and hope that it will continue to strengthen the economic development in Oswego and the surrounding communities in the coming years.  Following are the Highlights from the breakfast:

- Win Soon, Inc. is planning their second U.S. production facility in 2014 for their Asian style cultured beverages in Oswego, IL in the Kendall Point Business Center.  They expect to create 40 fulltime employment positions the first year and reach 180 by the year 2020.  Read more in the Oswego Patch.
- It is not official yet, but rumor has it that the vacant Lowe’s building finally has a buyer.  The tentative plan is the break it up into multiple retail spaces and Hobby Lobby may be one of the first retailers to fill a large portion of the now empty space.  
- Last year the Village approved a development plan and special use permit for a truck transit facility at 2000 Wiesbrook Drive in the Kendall Point Business Center.  This year the opening of the Sam’s Club logistics center at that location should start with 40 jobs for area residents and hopefully grow to around 100.
- Although Centrella looked at buying multiple Dominicks stores that stand empty at the end of last year, the fate of the empty store remains uncertain. Rumors of different grocery chains (Whole Foods?) are floating around in other markets but given the number of grocers in close proximity to this location that may not be the case in Oswego. The possibility of breaking the retail space up to suit smaller businesses is more likely for this location.  Vijay Gadde is working with the building’s current owner to help find an end user(s) but ultimately the fate of that space is in the hands of the owner.
- Despite the overall sluggish economy, Oswego has a healthy number  of new residential housing permits and new commercial businesses opened.  For more information on these numbers and the growth and development happening in Oswego visit www.osweoil.org/ed 

- By Todd Roberts
Principal

For  information on the Village of Oswego Visit: http://www.oswegoil.org/ 
For Information on the Oswego Chamber of Commerce: http://www.oswegochamber.org/ 

Great Lakes, Chicago Waterways, and Asian Carp

Asian Carp and the threat they pose to the Great Lakes has been in and out of the news for some time now, and has just recently been spotlighted by a new report prepared by the US Army Corps of Engineers (Army Corps).  “Asian carp are fast-growing, aggressive and adaptable fish that are outcompeting native fish species for food and habitat in much of the mid-section of the United States.¹”

“The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (Corps) submitted to Congress the Great Lakes and Mississippi River Inter-basin Study (GLMRIS) Report Jan. 6, 2014….The report contains eight alternatives, each with concept-level design and cost information, and evaluates the potential of these alternatives to prevent, to the maximum extent possible, the spread of 13 ANS, to include Asian carp...” ²    The  Army Corps, during the Month of January 2014, is in process of hosting public meetings in Chicago, Cleveland, Ann Arbor, Traverse City, St. Paul, St. Louis and Milwaukee to discuss the options available and allow for public comment.  Since all of the options offered require extensive funding, there needs to be public support for any plan put into action.

The Chicago Area Waterway (CAW) system has been the main topic of conversation regarding the threat of Asian Carp entering the Great Lakes. In this new report, the Army Corps identifies 18 other possibilities for passage of Asian Carp and other species into the waterways.  One passage where preventive measures are needed is known as Eagle March, near Fort Wayne, Indiana.

Eagle Marsh is at the headwaters of the Wabash River, which is part of the Mississippi River Basin, and the Maumee River, which is part of the Great Lakes Basin. During flood events, water depths in Eagle Marsh range from 2 feet deep to 10 feet deep. These events last from just days or up to a month, and can occur multiple times during any given year. These events allow for a clear passage for Asian Carp and other species between the two basins.

Several species of Asian Carp are known to be present in the Wabash River, and are within 25-70 miles of Eagle Marsh.  To reach Eagle Marsh, the fish would need to enter Little River and then a series of ditches. Upon reaching Eagle Marsh, the free passage to the Great Lakes (Erie) via the Maumee River can occur. To date, there is no certain evidence that the fish have reached Little River. There is no evidence of Asian Carp in Eagle Marsh either; however there is evidence of common carp, which have made successful passage for decades.  

Several projects are currently in place or in the design phase to prevent passage of these invasive and destructive fish from our waterways.   Currently a temporary chain link fence has been installed between the two basins and is meant to prevent larger fish from gaining free passage. Other possibilities for implementation include structural barriers, chemical treatments, biological controls and physical fish removal. 

Our waterways are an important resource to be protected.  At MeritCorp Group, LLC we want to help our clients make informed decisions and provide information needed to create eco-friendly developments focused on the best use of natural resources.  Some of our services include Flood Control, Stormwater Management, Erosion Control, and Drainage.  For a complete list of the services we offer please see our website.

Please feel free to contact our office with any questions or for more information on the services we provide.

- by James Meier, PE, PLS, CFM

 1.   National Wildlife Federation website:  http://www.nwf.org/Wildlife/Threats-to-Wildlife/Invasive-Species/Asian-Carp.aspx

2. Army Corps of Engineers Report www.glmris.anl.gov

SPECIAL EDITION – HOLIDAY BLOG

The thing about companies that makes a company more than just a name and a logo is the people who work there.    At MeritCorp we have Engineers, Surveyors, and Environmental Professionals, but these same people are also fathers, mothers, friends, brothers, etc.  If you have met Jim Meier on a professional level you will know he has a bevy of letters after his name [PE, PLS, CFM], but did you know he is also a ‘food engineer’?
As our ‘in-house’ foodie we often look to him for our entertaining needs, menu suggestions and more.  This month when I announced I needed more blog content, Jim offered up one of his favorite recipes for the holidays.  As he said it is one of his favorite ‘go-to’ items for those big family gatherings during the season.
This recipe is sure to please the most discerning taste buds and even the fussiest eaters in your family. It might look like a lot of work, but it is really not and cleanup is a snap! It’s a one-pot dish and all of your guests will think you are a master chef when they are done devouring your holiday offering!

We hope you will enjoy this meal with good friends and family and have a safe and Happy Holiday Season and New Year!

BEEF BOURGUIGNON

WHAT YOU WILL NEED:
• A 4 quart heavy-bottomed oven safe cooking vessel is essential, such as a Dutch oven or large pot, with a tight lid, A baking sheet
• Utensils, including a slotted spoon, spatula, whisk and tongs
• Kitchen basics, including salt and pepper, corn starch, butter, grape seed (or canola/vegetable) oil, water and aluminum foil
• Stovetop and oven

Ingredients for 12 servings:
• 8 ounces of bacon, minced
• 6 pounds of stew meat - 1” cubes
• 2 carrots, finely diced
• 2 sweet onions, finely diced
• 1 teaspoon of dried thyme, or 1 tablespoon fresh
• 1-750ml bottle of good Cabernet Sauvignon
• 1-32 ounce box of beef cooking stock (not broth)
• 16 ounces of Sautéed mushrooms - optional
• 16 ounces of Boiled and peeled pearl onions  - optional

Procedure:
Preheat the oven to 325F.

Place a 4 quart heavy-bottomed cooking pot over medium heat, add a little bit of the oil and then the minced bacon.   Sautee until crispy and the fat is rendered.  Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving the rendered fat behind.

Pat the stew meat dry, liberally season it with salt and pepper and Sautee in the bacon fat until browned on all sides. Work in batches to avoid overcrowding, otherwise the meat will not brown. Add additional oil, if necessary, as you progress with the batches. Remove the meat and set aside.

Add the carrots, sweet onions and thyme, along with a little more oil if necessary, and season with salt and pepper. Sautee the vegetables until soft, being careful to not brown them, this should take approximately 7-10 minutes.

When the vegetables are soft, add the wine to deglaze and scrape the bits off the bottom. This will flavor the sauce. Return the bacon and stew meat to the vessel, stirring the mixture to combine thoroughly. Add the cooking stock to completely cover the meat. Cover the vessel with the tight lid, and if not tight enough, cover with foil and then the lid. Place the vessel on a baking sheet (for ease of handling) and then into the oven.

Cook at 325F for 2 ½ hours or until the meat is fork-tender but not falling apart.

When cooking is complete, remove the meat from the vessel with a slotted spoon and set aside. Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a measuring cup, add 2 tablespoons of water and 4 tablespoons of corn starch. Stir to combine. Place the cooking vessel on medium heat on the stove, and quickly whisk the butter and cornstarch mixture into the liquid. Bring to a boil and simmer for approximately 5 minutes on lower heat. This will thicken the sauce. When the sauce is thickened, return the meat to the vessel, along with the sautéed mushrooms and boiled onions, stirring to combine.

Keep warm for serving, over mashed potatoes, rice pilaf, or egg noodles. Accompany with your favorite green vegetable, and that’s your holiday dinner!

Happy holidays, and bon appétit!!

ASTM STANDARDS FOR PHASE I ESA – What’s New in 2013?

As of November 6, 2013 – there is a new ASTM Standard in Effect for all Phase I Environmental Site Assessments.  What does this mean?  If you are a lender, property owner, or real estate agent, this new standard can affect your business.

What is a Phase I ESA and Why Do I need one?  A Phase I Environmental Site Assessment (ESA) is a Site Investigation that identifies Recognized Environmental Conditions [REC]on or at a property. The Phase I ESA is generally considered the first step in the process of environmental due diligence and is typically prepared based upon the American Society for Testing Materials (ASTM) Standard.  This standard was established to meet the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) requirements for an ‘All Appropriate Inquiry’ (AAI) on a property.  When purchasing or financing a property, it is an important precaution for owners and lenders to know that they are covered by the ‘Innocent Landowner Defense’ and that they have done their due diligence on the property in question.

An ESA does not guarantee that a site is clean or eliminate risk, however knowing about a REC will help users identify property value impacts;  account for potential delays on property transactions due to site remediation ;and identify potential owner cash flow constraints due to remediation Costs.
[The Innocent Landowner Defense was established by the Superfund Amendments and Reauthorization Act (SARA) on October 17, 1986, holding that “the defendant must have undertaken at the time of acquisition an all appropriate inquiry (AAI) into the previous ownership and uses of the property consistent with good commercial or customary practice in an effort to minimize liability.”]

 If requested, testing for  asbestos-containing materials and lead-based paint can be added to the Phase I ESA scope-of work.  The analysis typically addresses both the underlying land; the physical improvements to the property; and the adjacent properties.  Phase I ESAs are often required by lenders for commercial, industrial and multi-unit residential property transactions and are a great way for potential purchasers, developers and/or lenders to do their due diligence prior to purchasing a property.

The ASTM E1527 – 05 Standard was updated as of November 6, 2013.  Most of the changes in 2013 are clarifications / additions to terminology that will help clients better understand the report and set the best practices in the industry as a minimum requirement.

CHANGES TO THE ASTM:

REC Redefined – The new REC Definition is: “the presence or likely presence of any hazardous substances or petroleum products in on or at a property: (1) due to any release to the environment; (2) under conditions indicative of a release to the environment; or (3) under conditions that pose a material threat of a future release to the environment”

Historical REC – ASTM updated definition:  The HREC definition has been revised to clarify that the scope and application of an HREC is limited to include only past releases that have been addressed to unrestricted residential use.

New Classification - CREC: Controlled Recognized Environmental Condition (CREC)- new terminology added for clarification purposes to differentiate sites:  A ‘Controlled Environmental Condition’ describes the condition where previous releases at properties that underwent risk-based closures were addressed, but contaminants are allowed to remain in place under certain restrictions or conditions.

Example:  If the property is cleaned up, but has a restriction to commercial /industrial because of contamination remaining – that would be a CREC.   If the property is cleaned up w/ no restrictions and could even be used for Residential use– it is a HREC.   This clarification makes a differentiation between items that are closed w/ no restrictions and those that still have regulation on them.

Activity and Use Limitations (AULs) Revised:  A Client Requirement that needs to be done by a Title Professional – Wording modified to highlight the need to also search Judicial records on top of deeds and liens.

Regulatory File Reviews (Section 8.2.2) Revised – Reviews may increase due to rewording that is intended to have the Environmental Professional explain in greater detail their rationale for when a regulatory file review is or is not warranted.  The idea is that ‘more information is better than less’.

Vapor Intrusion Revised: New language added to reinforce that this type of contamination needs to be considered, however it does NOT require ASTM E2600 which is a separate, more comprehensive assessment of vapor migration.  The revised definition of ‘migrate/migration’ specifically includes vapor migrations.  This revision clarifies that releases of contaminants that migrate via vapor in the subsurface or in soils are recognized environmental concerns (REC).  Prospective property owners will have the added assurance that releases that migrate onto a subject property via a vapor pathway will be identified as recognized environmental conditions.

Need to know more or want help understanding what this all means for you?  Contact us at 630-554-6655.