Navigating Project Approvals
There’s nothing worse than a project stalled by delayed approvals. MES has the experience and knowledge you need to navigate the complex world of federal, state, and municipal rules and regulations. We manage approvals and obtain all necessary permits early to ensure our projects always move ahead as planned.
Permit Types
MES has in-house expertise in obtaining various types of permits required for construction projects.
Cultural Resource Review
MES will undertake a detailed literature review to determine whether archaeological, architectural, tribal, or other cultural background records exist for the project site (including a one-mile buffer around the area). To do this, we consult the State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) in Lansing, MI and use public databases and records, including treaty records, historic trails and markers, National Register records, and military records.
We compile all relevant information in a Cultural Resource Summary, including Esri and Google Earth maps, with conclusions and avoidance recommendations.
Threatened and Endangered Species Review
MES will review the Michigan Natural Inventory (MNFI) and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Information for Planning and Consultation (IPaC) for data on threatened and endangered species known to occur in or near the project area. We provide our clients with a Threatened and Endangered Species Assessment on the laws, policies, and guidance that may affect the project, along with maps showing habitat surrounding the project area.
Wetland/Floodplain Permits
Our team will gather all project-related wetland, floodplain, and/or stream impact drawings, cross-sections, and details required by Environment, Great Lakes and Energy (EGLE) and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) and submit the joint permit application through MIWaters. Once the application has been submitted, our team will review and respond to any Application Correction Requests (ACR), track the application through the Public Notice (PN) period, and attend the EGLE on-site field inspection. MES can also coordinate wetland mitigation and banking efforts, if required.
Other Permits
MES routinely applies for various other permits, such as:
- Municipal permits
- Railroad permits
- County Permits
- Drain Permits
Contact MES today for a full project proposal.
