Critical Areas & Environmental Services

If you’re unsure what level of review your project needs, Cedar Environmental can help you determine the right service based on your property, project type, and permitting requirements.


Site Reconnaissance (small parcels under ~2 acres)

Ideal for early project scoping. We conduct a field visit to identify potential wetlands, streams, wildlife habitat, riparian areas, steep slopes, and other regulated critical areas. We document dominant vegetation, soils, hydrologic indicators, and habitat conditions. You receive a short memo summarizing site conditions and initial observations.


Site Reconnaissance (large or difficult-access parcels)

For larger properties or sites with heavy vegetation or challenging terrain. This includes all components of the small-parcel recon but allows the time needed for more extensive field access. Deliverables include a memo of findings.


Basic Wetland or Stream Delineation (small parcels)

Designed for properties where critical areas are present or suspected and more precise information is needed for planning.
Includes:

  • Background research
  • Field delineation and flagging
  • GPS mapping of boundaries
  • Completion of wetland rating forms or stream typing per jurisdictional standards
  • A concise report outlining methods, results, buffer requirements, and a simple site map

This level of reporting supports basic site planning and mitigation for buffer impacts but does not include a full functional assessment or meet all Department of Ecology full-report standards.


Basic Wetland or Stream Delineation (large parcels)

Same scope as above but intended for sites with larger acreage, denser vegetation, or more complex access needs.


Ordinary High Water Mark (OHWM) Determination

For waterfront properties needing accurate OHWM identification to support shoreline development, structure placement, or regulatory setbacks.
Includes:

  • Review of existing information
  • Field assessment per current state guidance
  • Placement of field flags
  • A letter report and map documenting the determination

Surveying of flagged locations can be arranged if needed.


Full Wetland or Stream Delineation Report

Recommended for complex projects involving buffer reductions, unavoidable impacts, public-facing projects, or when appeals are likely.
This service includes:

  • Full documentation of all indicators and methods used
  • Rating forms and stream typing
  • Functional assessment
  • Detailed site descriptions and data sheets
  • Regulatory analysis, including applicable federal, state, and local permitting requirements

A complete, permit-ready report is delivered. Surveying of delineation flags can be coordinated upon request.



Additional Critical Areas Services

Depending on your project needs, we also provide:

  • Critical Areas Reports with mitigation and restoration plans to support development approval
  • Wildlife habitat assessments and species-specific evaluations
  • Floodplain habitat assessments to support ESA compliance for projects within mapped floodplains
  • Ongoing consulting and on-call support throughout design, permitting, and construction