EMPSi is a leader in water resources and is working on some of the West's most significant water-related projects 

Rivers, streams, and other waterbodies are the connecting threads between human health, ecosystem integrity, and economic livelihoods. We face an ever-growing set of complex challenges, including climate change and prolonged drought, inequity in access to safe, reliable drinking water, and aging of the infrastructure that is the backbone of our current water systems. EMPSi uses collaborative approaches and sound science to reach solutions that balance the needs of all—municipalities, Tribes, farmers, ranchers, industry, citizens, and wildlife.

SELECT PROJECTS

Colorado River Basin Salinity Control Project EIS and Supporting Studies, CO

  • Analyzed the largest project in the Colorado River Basin Salinity Control Program

  • Facilitated expert review panels

  • Conducted visual surveys and prepared visual simulations

 

Leavenworth Fish Hatchery Diversion Improvements, WA

  • Prepared 12 resource reports and a BA examining potential impacts on Bull Trout and gray wolf

  • Conducted virtual public meetings and created websites to inform the public about the project and impacts

 

Taos Pueblo Water Rights Settlement Environmental Compliance, NM

  • Analyzed the effects of resolving water rights in the Taos region

  • Conducted cultural and biological clearance surveys

  • Streamlines future site-specific NEPA compliance for 14 individual projects

 

KACHESS SAFETY OF DAMS STUDIES AND EA, WA

  • Conducted pre-NEPA field studies for proposed safety improvements

  • Performed sensitive species surveys and archaeological investigations

  • Completed wetlands delineation and completed a wetlands rapid functional assessment

 

Truckee Basin Water Management Options Pilot Study, CA/NV

  • Developing options for improved reservoir/flood control to account for changes in runoff patterns

  • Facilitating intensive virtual alternatives development workshops

  • WaterSMART project

 

Little Thompson river Flood Rehabilitation Project, co

  • Reestablished and improved floodplain, riparian vegetation, and fish passage on the Little Thompson River after a massive flood

  • Informed restoration plans and obtained necessary permits for restoration-related impacts

 

Platte River ESA Compliance Program EA/BA, CO/NE/WY

  • Prepared a joint EA/BA for habitat restoration actions to conserve avian and aquatic species under the ESA

  • Coordinated closely with the US Fish and Wildlife Service in preparing the comprehensive multi-species BA

 

Rio Grande Operating Agreement EIS, NM

  • Agreement involves interstate and international water rights

  • Projected environmental impacts based on multiple climate change scenarios

  • Incorporated agricultural and socioeconomic forecasts