Limestone plateaus, hills, and valleys create unique natural resources, including cave-adapted species and aquifers. Because these karst and cave formations are highly susceptible to erosion and dissolution, they require specific management practices and environmental permits.
As one of the few firms that holds a scientific permit from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, SWCA conducts terrestrial and cave ecology studies to determine relationships between karst- and cave-dwelling species and their habitats. We use ground-penetrating radar to detect caves and a genetic bar-coding technique that allows us to sequence the DNA of species for identification and classification purposes.
Through our geological mapping and assessments, our geology consultants can determine the impact our clients’ projects may have on geologic features and develop mitigation plans accordingly. We help our clients in all phases of a project, from cave identification and biological surveys to mitigation and preservation planning.
Relevant Services
- Geological, Soil, and Mineral Assessments
- Property Surveys to Identify Karst Features, Caves, and Lava Tubes
- Karst Feature Excavation
- Cave Habitat Assessments and Sampling for Invertebrates
- Endangered Species Presence/Absence Surveys
- Cave Preserve Management and Monitoring Plans
- Hydrogeologic Studies
- Environmental Assessment/Habitat Conservations