In planning a taxiway relocation, Roseburg Regional Airport needed to improve safety by extending the culvert through which Newton Creek crossed under the existing taxiway. Because several fish species migrated through the creek, our engineering team carried out an environmental assessment. Then, our water resources engineers worked with our teaming partner to design a culvert extension using fish passage techniques typically associated with fish passage for dams.
The final design is a concrete step-pool structure, which met requirements while allowing the desired access to upstream habitat. The unique design improves fish passage conditions during low flows and maintains water flow under pressure and culvert capacity during high flows. Our team expertly navigated the permitting process and supported the client’s grant funding application. We also provided oversight during construction to support permit compliance. As a result, the finished project satisfied both the client and the regulatory agencies.
