This dual-culvert configuration provides additional hydraulic resilience without compromising the surrounding ecosystem. Wayne emphasizes that the choice of a threemetre diameter culvert was both strategic and innovative. “We knew that we had to work within the constraints of an already delicate ecosystem,” he explains. “By focusing on a ‘hard to deliver’ targeted solution, we could provide an installation that was both efficient and sustainable. Our design had to ensure that fish are once again able to migrate upstream to their spawning grounds while meeting the engineering requirements of the project.” The solution was particularly important because Jerry Creek is recognized as a critical watercourse with specific environmental regulations. With a Restricted Activity Period (RAP) in place to protect the sport fish habitat— from April 16 to July 15—it was imperative that construction activities did not interfere with the natural life cycles of the aquatic species. In order to work around these environmental constraints, the GeoMetrix team adopted advanced construction techniques that minimized on-site disruption. Adding a diversion channel to allow for off-line construction during the RAP to accelerate construction was one of those important design decisions. The culvert installation itself was executed using a trenchless method called ‘guided boring’ that reduced the need for extensive excavation while allowing for precision placement. Use of guided boring not only reduced cost by allowing for more competitive bidding but also minimized the ecological footprint of the project. The innovative nature of this technique underscores GeoMetrix’s APRIL 2025
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