As mandated by the California Department of Wildlife (CSOFAW) and Caltrans Special Provisions, the Contractor was required to have a Biologist on site during key phases of the project. The CMP culverts to be rehabilitated were located within or near the habitats of regulated species including the Southern Rubber Boa and several nesting and migratory birds. The Biologist was responsible for preparing a biological information program to inform personnel and to guarantee compliance with the laws and regulations protecting said species The Contractor’s Biologist had to be on site during the pre-construction, clearing and grubbing phase to properly identify the habitat locations. 

Based on the species, the Contractor was required to maintain specific distances from their habitat. In the case of the nesting and migratory birds, no work could be done during the nesting season and could only be executed once the birds had fledged. If any species was harmed by the Contractor’s work or if any other environmental or biological compliances were violated, the Biologist was required to inform Caltrans who would notify the California Department of Wildlife. Based on their assessment, the Biologist would be responsible for recommending alternative staging or construction sites. Additional measures would then be implemented to further protect the habitats. Since SPR™EX is a mechanical, environmentally friendly solution, the rehabilitation process posed no chemical contamination threat to the sensitive area.