The wetland project at the site of a former power plant in Cheswick, Pa., was completed in October 2023.
CEC had the opportunity to participate in an extraordinary project in collaboration with Duquesne Light Co. focused on the installation of a new wetland near the site of a former power plant in Cheswick, Pa.
Our Pittsburgh, Monroeville, and Bridgeport offices have all worked on this initiative, which not only aims to passively treat a legacy site discharge, but also enhances the environmental quality of the area. Scott Rasmussen is the Principal in charge of the project and Megan Ponzo is the Project Manager in charge of engineering and permitting.
During the project, CEC was responsible for various critical tasks, including construction inspection services throughout the build phase. Our team conducted detailed calculations to determine the optimal size and layout of both the wetland and the manganese removal bed, which also functions as the discharge channel.
“It’s similar to what’s used for mine drainage,” Scott says. “We figured out how to treat it in a passive way, requiring no power and no day-to-day maintenance.”
The project site is adjacent to the Rachel Carson Trail and required specific plants. “We ordered more than 300 live, 3- to 4-inch plants from a Pennsylvania greenhouse specializing in wetland plants.” A variety of rush species are better at removing metals in the water.
The wetland project was finished in October 2023. “We are able to control the water level and bring it up to protect the plant roots from freezing. It overwintered well,” Scott says. “In April, the wetland was pretty green. It’s doing what it’s supposed to do.”
Looking forward, Monroeville staff will be tasked with conducting bi-monthly water sampling in accordance with the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permit requirements.
Scott adds that while the NPDES permit allows for a year to get the wetland fully functional, samples are already meeting the permit limits.
Additionally, CEC will carry out periodic inspections of the wetland to ensure its continued health and regulatory compliance through the end of 2025.
Duquesne Light has been negotiating with Springdale Township to convert the remainder of the property into a municipal center, with the potential for additional wetlands to be used for educational purposes.
This collaborative endeavor exemplifies our and our client’s commitment to environmental stewardship and sustainable practices within the region.
Check out the CBS News segment discussing this project.
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