GEI provided various environmental and compliance services to Orsted and New York State Department of Public Service (NYS DPS).
The Qualified Independent Aquatic Environmental Monitor (IAEM) reports directly to NYS DPS, and will provide observation and inspection related to the following:

• Inadvertent returns associated with HDD
• Sensitive biological resources (animal/plant species, wetlands/waterbodies)
• Sediment management, turbidity monitoring, and erosion control
• Water quality sampling and monitoring requirements
• HSE training and certification requirements
• Compliance with regulatory permit conditions
• Stop work authority

GEI’s monitors are always on site when construction activities are taking place. GEI has assembled a team of professionals with the technical qualifications and experience to ensure that the required IAEMs are provided seamlessly throughout the duration of the project. In addition, due to the multi-disciplinary nature of the project, GEI has identified senior personnel with expertise in terrestrial and marine ecology, coastal engineering, geotechnical engineering, geology, hydrology, construction management and spill response, to provide support to the monitors and NYS DPS as needed.

GEI’s IAEMs have in depth knowledge of marine construction methodologies, standard operating procedures, safety protocols, and best management practices for projects undertaken within the aquatic environment. Personnel assigned to the project are trained in the necessary sampling and monitoring techniques for these construction services and will have appropriate technical and safety certifications.

The monitors complete a daily report that is submitted to NYS DPS electronically. We also submit weekly summary and incident reports in real time. The daily report includes:

• A description of weather conditions and site activities completed that day
• Identification of issues encountered and resolution of the issues
• Planned construction activities

GEI implements a series of project controls, for example Geographical Information System (GIS) mapping to track project progress. Establishment of these controls allows the IAEMs to have access to information and project updates in real time, so the project status remains current and readily available for review.