MAD Scientist Associates, LLC

December 18, 2019 In May, Jenna Odegard, Aquatic Ecologist, became state certified to perform freshwater mussel surveys in Group 1 and 3 streams. Freshwater mussels are among the most endangered organisms in North America due to their sensitivity to aquatic pollution, especially sedimentation of river systems. Because of their cryptic lifestyle (both camouflaged and benthic), their diversity and distribution in Ohio waterways is poorly defined. If projects include proposed alterations/impacts to streams, a mussel reconnaissance survey should be performed to determine their presence or probable absence from the stream. If necessary, Jenna can relocate mussels as a means to preserve local populations.  This fall, Jenna led her first full mussel survey and relocation (accompanied by Restoration Specialist, Jim Palus and intern, Kate Gorman) in Lake […]

December 18, 2019 In August, Jenny Adkins welcomed her second child, Asa James Adkins. Not long after in late September, Jackie Kopechek welcomed her first child, Lewis Michael Kopechek. Both families are doing well. Asa and Lewis have already made appearances at the MAD office, and Asa attended his first Ohio Wetlands Association meeting (resulting in his first wetland excursion)!

December 18, 2019 This year our largest mitigation site to date began construction in Richland County, Ohio. This site includes over 11 acres of emergent and forested wetlands and over 16 acres of upland buffer. Final grading was completed in August, with planting scheduled for the spring of 2020. This winter, MAD developed (with the assistance of Northpoint Engineering) a formal bid set for planting activities. MAD will oversee the planting of tens of thousands of rooted wetland plugs, bareroot,  and container trees. Our client generously agreed to fund the salvage of native hydric soils, plant material, and wildlife from the proposed wetland impact areas. Salvage efforts may include volunteer opportunities for local K-12 school groups to participate in plant identification, transplanting, and experience with […]