Completing RES’ Permittee-Responsible Mitigation (PRM) project for Gallo Wineries is a testament to meticulous planning, collaboration, and ecological expertise. Located on a 501-acre site, the project not only addresses environmental impacts from Gallo’s manufacturing expansion but also contributes to long-term conservation through innovative restoration techniques. The recent transfer of the restored property to the South Carolina Department of Parks, Recreation & Tourism (SCPRT) and the Catawba Indian Nation marks a significant step forward for the environment and local communities.
A Technical Triumph in Mitigation
RES undertook the challenge of restoring approximately 8,000 linear feet of stream and enhancing an additional 10,598 linear feet. According to Chris Ryan, RES' Project Manager, this involved designing and constructing a stable, meandering channel that meets stringent width-to-depth ratios and stabilizes the banks. Key techniques included invasive species removal, native riparian planting, and bioengineering methods like Rosgen stream stabilization.
“The site was ideal for this project,” said Ryan. “It’s adjacent to Landsford Canal State Park and features unique ecological assets, including river frontage and the endangered shoal lily (Hymenocallis coronaria), a plant native to the Catawba River.”
Beyond stream restoration, the team removed a dam and restored hydrology, reconnecting upstream and downstream ecosystems. This effort opened up fish passage and enhanced aquatic habitats, incorporating features such as constructed riffles, brush toes, log and rock sills, and pools of varying depths.
From Design to Execution
The road to completion was not without its challenges. “This project involved a lot of stakeholders, including Chester County, the South Carolina Department of Commerce, and the I-77 Alliance,” Ryan noted. “The timeline was aggressive, and nearly every RES team in the Carolinas contributed at some point.”
Key milestones included:
- Permitting: Navigating a complex regulatory process required collaboration with agencies like the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and local authorities.
- Construction: The project was built to rigorous specifications, culminating in an as-built monitoring event during which agencies confirmed that the restoration met approved standards.
- Land Transfer: With the ecological restoration completed, the property was transferred to SCPRT and the Catawba Indian Nation. This included addressing public access requirements for future park use.
A Legacy for Future Generations
A significant portion of the property, approximately 32 acres, was donated to the Catawba Indian Nation. The remaining land expands the adjacent Landsford Canal State Park, preserving critical habitats and offering new opportunities for public recreation.
Ryan emphasized the importance of this milestone. “Closing out construction and transferring the land are huge accomplishments. While we’ll continue monitoring the site for the next few years, this project has already achieved its ecological goals and laid the groundwork for long-term stewardship.”
Looking Ahead
RES’s commitment doesn’t end with the transfer. Monitoring and maintenance will continue to ensure the site meets its success criteria. Once regulatory obligations are fulfilled, the property will transition fully to SCPRT for long-term management.
This project highlights the power of collaboration, technical innovation, and a shared vision for sustainability. By restoring streams, wetlands, and riparian habitats, RES has not only met regulatory requirements but also created a lasting environmental and community asset.
