Funding for the project came through FEMA’s Public Assistance Program. As a Larimer County project with federal funding, located partly on federal land and in a sensitive habitat, it required coordination with FEMA, USFS, USFWS, CPW, USACE, SHPO, tribes, and the public. Pinyon led this effort to streamline environmental clearances and meet the aggressive schedule.
Pinyon prepared NEPA documentation for FEMA and USFS, including an Environmental Assessment covering floodplain review and Forest Plan compliance. Public scoping and comment responses were also managed by Pinyon. Because the project is in critical habitat for the Preble’s meadow jumping mouse, Pinyon completed a Biological Assessment to meet ESA Section 7 requirements and developed mitigation measures, including a Landscape Plan to restore riparian habitat damaged by flooding and emergency roadway work.
Wetland and riparian habitat were delineated, and Pinyon coordinated with USACE on a Section 404 permitting approach, submitting a Pre-construction Notification for impacts to Waters of the U.S. Pinyon also worked with CPW to address aquatic habitat concerns and obtained Senate Bill 40 certification. A Class III cultural resources survey was completed per a USFS-approved Work Plan, along with SHPO consultation. Finally, Pinyon developed a Stormwater Management Plan aligned with the Landscape Plan to minimize habitat impacts along Buckhorn Creek.
