Development and Application of an Ecological Linkage Zone Model as a Method to Identify Highway Design and Mitigation Opportunities for Wildlife Crossings. (Status: ongoing, Completed: 1998)
Performer(s):
University of Montana
Sponsor(s):
FHWA
Abstract
The research will examine the characteristics, location, and mapping of ecological zones for movement of animal populations to identify highway design and mitigation opportunities for wildlife crossings.
For more information:
Paul Garrett, U.S. DOT, FHWA, HEPN-30; 555 Zang St., Room 400, Lakewood, CO 80228. Tel: 303-969-5772 x332; Fax: 303-969-6727; Email: Paul.garrett@fhwa.dot.gov.

Development of Functional Model for Hydrogeomorphic Assessment of Intermontane Depressional Wetlands. (Status: ongoing, Completed: 1999)
Performer(s):
University of Montana - Biological Station
Sponsor(s):
FHWA; U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (COE)
Abstract
The purpose of the project is to provide an accurate, concise method of performing functional assessments on wetlands for the Section 404 (Clean Water Act) regulatory program compliance purposes, including determination of requirements for and planning of, mitigation projects. Key characteristics of wetlands were identified and measured to allow rapid evaluation of wetland functional capacity for different wetland functions, such as habitat, water storage, and water quality. The functional capacity values are used in determining wetland impacts due to discharge of fill in or around wetlands, including that required in highway projects. They are also used to determine mitigation requirements, and to design mitigation projects. The resulting manual will be used by the Montana Department of Transportation (MDT), other regional DOT's, and other agencies.
For more information:
Paul Garrett, U.S. DOT, FHWA, Colorado Div. Office; 555 Zang St., Room 400, Lakewood, CO 80228. Tel: 303-969-5772 x332; Fax: 303-969-6727; Email: Paul.garrett@fhwa.dot.gov.

Development of Functional Model for Hydrogeomorphic Assessment of Low Gradient Riverine Wetlands in the Southern Coastal Plain. (Status: ongoing, Completed: 1999)
Performer(s):
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (U.S. EPA)
Sponsor(s):
FHWA; U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (COE)
Abstract
The purpose of the project is to provide an accurate, concise method of performing functional assessments on wetlands for Section 404 (Clean Water Act) regulatory program compliance purposes, including determination of requirements for and planning of, mitigation projects. Key characteristics of wetlands were identified and measured to allow rapid evaluation of wetland functional capacity for different wetland functions, such as habitat, water storage, and water quality. The functional capacity values are used in determining wetland impacts due to discharge of fill in or around wetlands, including that required in highway projects. They are also used to determine mitigation requirements, and to design mitigation projects. The resulting operating manual will be used by State Departments of Transportation and other agencies.
For more information:
Paul Garrett, U.S. DOT, FHWA, Colorado Div. Office; 555 Zang St., Room 400, Lakewood, CO 80228. Tel: 303-969-5772 X332; Fax: 303-969-6727; Email: Paul.garrett@fhwa.dot.gov.

Environmental Excellence Awards. (Status: ongoing,
Performer(s):
FHWA
Sponsor(s):
FHWA (1997); FHWA, HEPN-30 (1999)
To order:
Patricia Cazenas. U.S. DOT, FHWA, HEPN-30, 400 Seventh St., SW., Washington, DC 20590. Tel: 202-366-4085; Fax: 202-366-3409; Email: Patricia.cazenas@fhwa.dot.gov;
Order No.:
Rept. No. FHWA-EP-00-007 (Entry Form) FHWA-EP-99-012 (Calendar) FHWA-PD-95-024 (Brochure) FHWA-PD-96-015 (Entry Form) FHWA-PD-97-039 (Brochure) FHWA-PD-98-012 (Entry Form) FHWA-PD-99-016 (Brochure),
Abstract
This ongoing biennial program was developed in 1995 by the FHWA to honor those partners, projects and processes that excel in meeting growing transportation demands while protecting and enhancing the environment. Anyone may nominate a project, process, person, or group that has used FHWA funding sources to make an outstanding contribution to transportation and the environment. Some of the categories have included wetlands, air quality, scenic byways, community liveability, and transportation enhancements on Federal-aid highways and highway-related facilities. A call for entry is announced the year prior to the selection of winners, with an August 15 deadline. An independent panel of judges from varying backgrounds selects the winning entries, which are announced at the Earth Day ceremony in Washington, DC. Available are a videotape of the awards ceremony, as well as a brochure and calendar showcasing the winners. The entry deadline for the year 2001 awards is August 15, 2000.
For more information:
Patricia Cazenas, U.S. DOT, FHWA, HEPN-30; 400 Seventh St., SW., Washington, DC 20590. Tel: 202-366-4085; Fax: 202-366-3409; Email: Patricia.cazenas@fhwa.dot.gov.

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Environmental Guidebook. (Status: ongoing, Completed: FY 2000)
Performer(s):
Science Applications International Corp. (SAIC)
Sponsor(s):
FHWA, Planning & Environment CBU
To order:
URL: http://www.fhwa.dot.gov/environment/guidebook/contents.htm.
Abstract
The purpose of this guidebook is to collect and present, by subject and chronological order, FHWA's guidance on implementing National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) and the project development process, through policies, procedures, memoranda, and other documentation.
For more information:
Lamar Smith, U.S. DOT, FHWA, HEPE; 400 Seventh St., SW., Washington, DC 20774. Tel: 202-366-8994; Fax: 202-366-7660; Email: Lamar.smith@fhwa.dot.gov.

Evaluate Techniques and Methodologies to Rehabilitate Historic Bridges. (Status: ongoing, Completed: 1999)
Performer(s):
Louis Berger and Assoc., Inc.
Sponsor(s):
FHWA
Abstract
This is a collection of environmental processes and practices that could result in the rehabilitation of historic bridges. This information will be useful as a resource for those seeking to rehabilitate historic bridges.
For more information:
Bruce Eberle, U.S. DOT, FHWA, HEPH-20; 400 Seventh St., SW., Washington, DC 20590. Tel: 202-366-2060; Fax: 202-366-3409; Email: Bruce.eberle@fhwa.dot.gov.

Guidance on NEPA and Transportation Project Development. (Status: ongoing, Completed: 2000)
Performer(s):
FHWA
Sponsor(s):
FHWA
To order:
Council on Environmental Quality (CEQ), Old Executive Office Bldg., Room 360,
Abstract
Since issuance in 1987 of FHWA Technical Advisory 6640.8a--"Guidelines for Preparing and Processing Environmental and Section 4(f) Documents," much has changed in the factors agencies need to consider in addressing the environmental impacts of transportation projects. Given the new emphasis for improving the way State Departments of Transportation (DOTs) consider community and environmental resources in their transportation decisionmaking process, the FHWA has seen the need to update this Technical Advisory (TA) in relation to National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA). The new TA will focus on applying environmental analysis to transportation decisionmaking. Ultimately, the TA must reflect the new environmental regulations that will replace 23 CFR 771 and will be revised concurrently with the new regulations.
For more information:
Fred Skaer, U.S. DOT, FHWA, HEPE-1; 400 Seventh St., SW., Washington, DC 20590. Tel: 202-366-2058; Fax: 202-366-7660; Email: Fred.skaer@fhwa.dot.gov.

Improvement of the FHWA Traffic Noise Model (FHWA TNM). (Status: ongoing,
Abstract
Verification of the FHWA TNM, released in March 1998, was limited; i.e., it included three comparisons with point-source geometry and two comparisons of in-situ measurements of barrier performance along actual highways. This multiyear research study will validate all aspects of the model. The initial phase of validation will include the elements of the model most often used in highway traffic noise analyses; validation of all other elements will follow. Field measurements made to support the model validation will be used to begin study of atmospheric effects on the propagation of highway traffic noise, effects which may be included in the FHWA TNM in the future. The research study will also address problems and inconveniences users have identified subsequent to the release of the FHWA TNM, as well as incorporate improvements in the model's graphical user interface. An interim upgrade of the FHWA TNM was released in September 2000; a final upgrade should be released during 2002.
For more information:
Robert Armstrong, U.S. DOT, FHWA, HEPN-20; 400 Seventh St., SW., Washington, DC 20590. Tel: 202-366-2073; Fax: 202-366-3409; Email: obert.e.armstrong@fhwa.dot.gov

Management of the Discharge and Quality of Highway Runoff in Karst Areas to Control Impacts to Ground Water. (Status: ongoing, Completed: 1999)
Performer(s):
P.E. LeMoreaux & Assoc., Inc.
Sponsor(s):
FHWA
To order:
Turner-Fairbank Highway Research Center (TFHRC), 6300 Georgetown Pike, HRDI-9,
Abstract
This research will develop practical remedial technology for the improvement of the quality of highway runoff in areas dominated by karst terrain. The study consists of laboratory studies and field applications of pollution control technology.
For more information:
Howard Jongedyk, U.S. DOT, FHWA, HNR-20; 400 Seventh St., SW., Washington, DC 20590. Tel: 202-493-3077; Fax: 202-493-3086; Email: oward.jongedyk@fhwa.dot.gov.

Metropolitan Model Deployment Initiative (MMDI) Energy and Emissions Evaluation. (Status: ongoing, Completed: 1999)
Performer(s):
Science Applications International Corp. (SAIC)
Sponsor(s):
FHWA; FHWA, ITSJPO/HVH-1
Abstract
The Environmental Analysis Division (HEP-40) provides technical assistance to the Joint Program Offices for the energy and emissions evaluation of MMDI at four sites. Research funds, supplemental to Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS) funds, are used to assist in the development and implementation of the evaluation.
For more information:
Cecilia Ho, U.S. DOT, FHWA, HEP-40; 400 Seventh St., SW., Washington, DC 20590. Tel: 202-366-9862; Fax: 202-366-3409; Email: Cecilia.ho@fhwa.dot.gov.

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Quantification of Emission Reduction Impacts of Seasonal and Episodic Public Education Programs. (Status: ongoing, Completed: 2000)
Performer(s):
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (U.S. EPA)
Sponsor(s):
California Air Resources Board (CARB); FHWA; U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (U.S. EPA)
To order:
URL: http://www.fhwa.dot.gov/terp.
Abstract
The cooperative agreement with California Air Resources Board (CARB) and U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (U.S. EPA) seeks to gather the necessary information to develop the emission reduction quantification guidelines for episodic and seasonal education programs. The research also will result in development of cost-effective methodologies to evaluate such programs which have been endorsed by both U.S. EPA and U.S. DOT. The project will provide sets of quantification methodologies, using both state-of-the-art tools and less costly approaches, to local jurisdictions involved in such programs. Development of such standard quantification techniques should remove the need for State and local governments to design their own unique frequently costly methods for each program.
For more information:
Mike Koontz, U.S. DOT, FHWA; 10 S. Howard St., Suite 4000, Washington, DC 20590. Tel: 410-962-2362; Fax: 410-962-3655; Email: Michael.koontz@fhwa.dot.gov.

Regional Procedures and Scientific Models to Assess Functions of Wetlands. (Status: ongoing, Completed: 1999)
Performer(s):
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (U.S. EPA)
Sponsor(s):
FHWA; Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS), U.S. Dept. of the Interior (U.S. DOI); National Oceanic & Atmospheric Admin. (NOAA), U.S. Dept. of Commerce (U.S. DOC); Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), U.S. Dept of Agriculture (USDA)
Abstract
Research supports the development of regional wetland assessment models according to the national action for implementing the hydrogeomorphic wetlands assessment method (HGM). Regional guidebooks will be produced which will be applied to the processing of Section 404 permits needed by State Departments of Transportation (DOTs).
For more information:
Paul Garrett, U.S. DOT, FHWA, HEPN-30; 555 Zang St., Room 400, Lakewood, CO 80228. Tel: 303-969-5772 x332; Fax: 303-969-6727; Email: Paul.garrett@fhwa.dot.gov.

Strategic Analysis of Regional Air Quality Options (Phase II). (Status: ongoing, Completed: 1999)
Sponsor(s):
FHWA
Abstract
Phase II of this research effort will examine the emissions profile and specific spatial factors that affect several regions that appear likely to have the most difficulty in reaching and maintaining the national ambient air quality standard for ozone. Phase II will contrast measures that focus on technology versus those measures that focus on driver behavior.
For more information:
Mike Koontz, U.S. DOT, FHWA, RC; 10 S. Howard St., Suite 4000, Baltimore, MD 21201. Tel: 410-962-2362; Fax: 410-962-3655; Email: Michael.koontz@fhwa.dot.gov.

Transportation and Global Climate Change: A Review and Analysis of the Literature. (Status: ongoing, Completed: 1998)
Performer(s):
FHWA
Sponsor(s):
FHWA
To order:
National Technical Information Service (NTIS), 5285 Port Royal Rd., Email: Orders@NTIS.fedworld.gov;
Order No.:
Rept. No. DOTT9703, NTIS No. PB99129132.
Abstract
This preliminary assessment of peer-reviewed literature summarizes key findings of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) and the potential implications of global climate change on transportation. Emissions inventories (by mobile source category) of greenhouse gases, possible mitigation strategies related to surface transportation, and the potential health implications of global climate change are presented. The literature review also discusses the latest US global climate change policy efforts to date between 1988 at the first Earth Summit meeting leading up to the signing of the Kyoto Protocol in December 1997. The Appendix provides internet web sites for obtaining relevant global climate change information, reports, and research.
For more information:
Michael Savonis, U.S. DOT, FHWA, HEPN-10; 400 Seventh St., SW., Washington, DC 20590. Tel: 202-366-2080; Fax: 202-366-3409; Email: Michael.savonis@fhwa.dot.gov.

Transportation Environmental Research Program (TERP). (Status: ongoing,
Performer(s):
FHWA
Sponsor(s):
FHWA
To order:
Mike Koontz. U.S. DOT, FHWA, RC, 10 S. Howard St., Suite 4000, Baltimore, MD 21201. Tel: 410-962-2362; Fax: 410-962-3655; Email: Michael.koontz@fhwa.dot.gov ; URL: http:///www.fhwa.dot.gov/terp.
Abstract
Under the TERP, six university research projects underway in FY 1998 include: 1) Watershed Modeling of Gasoline Oxygenates Used in Transportation; 2) Dynamic Systems Models for Assessing Environmental Impacts; 3) Remove Sensing Detection of Diesel Electric Locomotive Emissions; 4) Alternative Method for Estimating Noise Barrier Insertion Loss; 5) Highway Monitoring and Surveillance Data in Transportation Planning and ITS Applications; and 6) Wetlands Education for Transportation Development: Mitigating Environmental Impact. These projects will be continued indefinitely.
For more information:
Robert Armstrong, U.S. DOT, FHWA, HEPN-20; 400 Seventh St., SW., Washington, DC 20590. Tel: 202-366-2073; Fax: 202-366-3409; Email: Robert.e.armstrong@fhwa.dot.gov.

Ultra-Urban Best Management Practice Assessment and Analysis of Highway Stormwater Runoff (original title)
Stormwater Best Management Practices in an Ultra-Urban Setting: Selection and Monitoring (new title). (Status: ongoing, Completed: 1999)
Performer(s):
Hagler Bailly; Tetra-Tech, Inc.
Sponsor(s):
FHWA
Abstract
The research will compile available literature on ultra-urban best management practices (BMPs) and develop a searchable database on runoff pollution reduction methods suited to limited space application. Included with the database will be a BMP selection criteria and decision support system and appropriate monitoring design and implementation recommendations.
For more information:
Patricia Cazenas, U.S. DOT, FHWA, HEPN-30; 400 Seventh St., SW., Washington, DC 20590. Tel: 202-366-4085; Fax: 202-366-3409; Email: Patricia.cazenas@fhwa.dot.gov.

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Washington State DOT Demonstration Project to Integrate and Enhance Environmental and Transportation Decisionmaking. (Status: ongoing, Completed: 2000)
Performer(s):
Washington State Dept. of Transportation (WSDOT)
Sponsor(s):
FHWA; Washington State Dept. of Transportation (WSDOT)
Abstract
The FHWA is partnering with the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) on an applied research project to develop, pilot, and demonstrate--nationwide--integrated and enhanced environmental and transportation decisionmaking at the Federal, State, local, and tribal levels. This effort will involve a significant change to WSDOT's project development and transportation decisionmaking process, in collaboration with FHWA. The FHWA is interested in this research as a national pilot to demonstrate the following: 1) Integration of the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) process with the planning, predesign stage, and decisionmaking for surface transportation projects at the earliest possible time; 2) Integration of all applicable Federal, State, tribal, and local permitting requirements; 3) Integration of national transportation, social, safety, economic, and environmental goals with State, tribal, and local land use and growth management initiatives; and 4) Consolidation of Federal, State, tribal, and local decisionmaking to achieve the best overall public interest according to an agreed schedule.
For more information:
Fred Skaer, U.S. DOT, FHWA, HEPE-1; 400 Seventh St., SW., Washington, DC 20590. Tel: 202-366-2058; Fax: 202-366-7660; Email: Fred.skaer@fhwa.dot.gov.

Watershed Modeling of Gasoline Oxygenates Used in Transportation. (Status: ongoing, Completed: 1998)
Performer(s):
University of Colorado, Denver
Sponsor(s):
FHWA
Abstract
The research will develop an integrated watershed model that links processes that control the transport and fate of oxygenates such as methyl tertiary butyl ether (MTBE) in the environment.
For more information:
Paul Garrett, U.S. DOT, FHWA, HEPN-30; 555 Zang St., Room 400, Lakewood, CO 80228. Tel: 303-969-5772 x332; Fax: 303-969-6727; Email: Paul.garrett@fhwa.dot.gov.

Wetbirds: An Expert Method for Assessing Habitat Potential for Wetland-Dependent Mammals, Amphibians, and Reptiles. (Status: ongoing, Completed: 1999)
Performer(s):
University of Massachusetts - Amherst
Sponsor(s):
FHWA
Abstract
Wetbirds is a PC-based, expert system program which identifies wetland bird habitat potentials based on descriptions of the physical habitat characteristics at specific sites. The program encompasses the Northeastern United States. It contains habitat characteristics and distribution data for 96 wetland dependent bird species. The program is useful in evaluating the probable presence of bird species within a known habitat type in the region covered, which includes New Hampshire, Rhode Island, Vermont, Maine, Connecticut, and Massachusetts. It can be used in preparing National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) documents, Section 7 biological assessments under Endangered Species Act (ESA) requirements, and wetlands assessments under the Section 404 regulatory program. It is also useful in planning mitigation for wetlands impacts.
For more information:
Paul Garrett, U.S. DOT, FHWA, HEPN-30; 555 Zang St., Room 400, Lakewood, CO 80228. Tel: 303-969-5772 x332; Fax: 303-969-6727; Email: Paul.garrett@fhwa.dot.gov.

Wetlands No Net Loss Database. (Status: ongoing, Completed: 1999)
Performer(s):
Louis Berger and Assoc., Inc.
Sponsor(s):
FHWA
Abstract
The research will develop an interactive tool that can be used by State DOTs to collect, analyze, organize, and periodically update wetland mitigation information as needed for data reporting and management decisions. The information will allow the States and FHWA to determine if stated no-net-loss and net gain wetland goals and policies are being met.
For more information:
Paul Garrett, U.S. DOT, FHWA, HEPN-30; 555 Zang St., Room 400, Lakewood, CO 80228. Tel: 303-969-5772 x332; Fax: 303-969-6727; Email: Paul.garrett@fhwa.dot.gov.