Avoiding and Minimizing Impacts to Aquatic Resources through Construction Design Standards

Swedberg, Dusty; Willink, Phillip; Schelsky, Wendy

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https://hdl.handle.net/2142/128064 Copy

Description

Title

Avoiding and Minimizing Impacts to Aquatic Resources through Construction Design Standards

Author(s)

• Swedberg, Dusty
• Willink, Phillip
• Schelsky, Wendy

Issue Date

2025-05

Keyword(s)

• Aquatic Life
• Bridges and Culverts
• Aquatic Organism Passage
• Design Practices

Date of Ingest

2025-05-02T15:35:06-05:00

Abstract

The primary objective was to summarize best management practices that avoid and minimize impacts on aquatic resources through construction design standards. The study involved a literature review and discussions with experts to identify knowledge gaps regarding the effects of road and bridge construction on aquatic resources. We examined how other states responded to similar challenges and the standard specifications they used. These recommendations were based on findings from different states and best practices accepted by regulatory agencies. The research reviewed each state’s processes and guidelines for stream-road crossings, focusing on culvert and bridge designs that affect aquatic resources. We identified that impacts on aquatic resources were commonly framed from the context of aquatic organism passage. Our report emphasizes the importance of bridges and culvert design specifics for maintaining ecological connectivity and the long-term health of aquatic ecosystems while also considering road crossings’ structural integrity and safety. Information on the design specifics of culverts and bridges is described within our report. We provided a foundation for future studies and improvements to construction standards, aiming to reduce adverse effects on aquatic resources while meeting public safety and use demands.

Publisher

Illinois Center for Transportation/Illinois Department of Transportation

Has Part

ISSN: 0197-9191

Series/Report Name or Number

FHWA-ICT-25-001

Type of Resource

text

Genre of Resource

technical report

Language

eng

DOI

https://doi.org/10.36501/0197-9191/25-001

Sponsor(s)/Grant Number(s)

IDOT-R27-SP67

Copyright and License Information

No restrictions. This document is available through the National Technical Information Service, Springfield, VA 22161.

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