Biological Assessment – Franklin County, Kentucky

The project includes stream restoration and riparian corridor enhancement targeting impaired stream reaches to restore natural channel stability, ecological function, and water quality. Restoration activities will utilize natural channel design techniques and best management practices (BMPs) to improve habitat, reduce erosion, and enhance long-term stream resilience. Following construction, mitigation areas will be revegetated with a diverse mix of native trees, shrubs, and herbaceous species, and permanently protected under a conservation easement to ensure long-term ecological success and regulatory compliance.

Waypoint initiated coordination with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service through the Information for Planning and Consultation (IPaC) system to identify federally listed species and critical habitat within the project area. The IPaC review identified eight threatened and endangered species, which are addressed in detail within the Biological Assessment (BA) in accordance with the Endangered Species Act (ESA) and Section 7 consultation requirements.

As part of the due diligence and environmental review process, a comprehensive desktop analysis was conducted prior to fieldwork. This included evaluation of U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) topographic maps, land use and land cover data, historical aerial imagery, geologic mapping, and previously completed environmental and cultural resource surveys. This multi-source review supports accurate site characterization, impact assessment, and regulatory permitting under applicable federal and state guidelines.