Miles Sand and Gravel Mine Expansion
GeoEngineers helps owners expand mine, allay public concerns and protect fisheries resources
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Aerial view of the Miles Sand and Gravel expansion site
Expertise
Market
Location
- Ecological
- Geologic
- Permitting
- Planning
Market
- Water & Natural Resources
Location
- Roy, Washington
Overview
Miles Sand and Gravel sought to expand its 400-acre Roy, Washington operation. Because the site for the intended expansion is located in an area of shallow groundwater and is bisected by the salmon- and trout-bearing Murray Creek and the City of Yelm railroad, the project required thorough and detailed study of potential environmental impacts.
GeoEngineers’ geology, hydrogeology, ecology and permitting services for the mine expansion spanned several years. The project team coordinated closely with Pierce County and a third-party reviewer substantiated the team’s findings.
Approach
GeoEngineers performed detailed site investigations to address potential impacts to groundwater, wetlands, streams, air quality and wildlife:
- Installed wells to collect data for groundwater quality and elevation
- Studied Murray Creek for fisheries habitat and conditions to document run strength and habitat stability
- Prepared and secured approval of a supplemental Environmental Impact Statement
- Developed a public involvement process that addressed public perceptions and opposition
Results
- Collected, evaluated and presented detailed information in public forums to complete the required permitting processes
- Completed important mitigation measures to protect and enhance fisheries resources
- Permits were issued and the mine expansion is operational with no appeals pending.
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