As of March 12th, 2025, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Army Corps of Engineers released a new Memorandum that provides clarity and guidance on the term “continuous surface connection” as related to the definition of Waters of the United States (WOTUS) under the Clean Water Act (CWA). The Memorandum adds new limitations on the EPA’s enforcement abilities and revises older policies and interpretations. The EPA and the Army Corp of Engineers are stepping back from previous interpretations that allowed jurisdiction over wetlands with connections through “discrete features” not natural connectivity. Now, wetlands that are not directly connected to Read More »
With temperatures rising into the triple digits, heat exposure is a serious concern for us all. Extreme heat is the leading cause of weather-related death in the United States. Heat-related illnesses may include cramping, exhaustion, syncope (fainting or dizziness), nausea, rashes, muscle breakdown, and/or stroke. Sensitive populations — such as the elderly, children, and those with diabetes — are highly susceptible to heat–related illnesses. Individuals should wear light-colored, lightweight, and loose-fitting clothing to minimize the effects of heat exposure. Hydration is a key. According to the US National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine, fluid intake should be about 3.7 liters of fluids Read More »
Engineering services Environmental services Safety
Hurricane Season 2025 Is Here – Are You Prepared?
Don’t Get Blown Away—Stay Storm-Ready with SSCI Environmental Helping You Prepare, Prevent, and Protect – June 1 to November 30 Predictions released as of May 13 predict an above-normal number of named tropical systems, ranging from: Named storms: 13-21. Hurricanes: 7-10. Major hurricanes: 3-5 The 2025 Atlantic Hurricane Season officially starts June 1st, and NOAA is predicting another above-average season. For businesses and industrial facilities across the Gulf Coast, that means now is the time to revisit emergency procedures, inspect equipment, and double-check compliance. At SSCI Environmental, we understand the risks storms pose to your operations—and we’re here to help you prepare before Read More »
“Stand With SSCI: Defend Texas Against Invasive Threats” When we say rodents don’t give a dam, we mean it—but they’re just the beginning. Invasive species are spreading fast across Texas, and their impact on our ecosystems, infrastructure, and industry is nothing short of devastating. At SSCI Environmental, we’ve seen firsthand how invasive species can damage retention ponds, destabilize construction sites, flood entire areas, and cost millions in repairs. It’s time we all take a stand. Beavers & Nutrias Dam storm drains and clog retention systems Erode detention pond banks with burrowing Causes expensive flooding and structural failures More on these rodents Read More »
🚧 Fueling Progress, Powering Communities – Built by SSCI’s Engineering Experts 🚧 At Separation Systems Consultants, Inc. (SSCI), we don’t just support fuel infrastructure—we engineer it for performance, safety, and long-term success. Our Engineering Team leads the charge in delivering turnkey fueling solutions that support critical infrastructure across Texas and beyond. Whether it’s installing new Petroleum Storage Tanks (PSTs) or upgrading existing systems, SSCI brings together permitting, design, and compliance into one streamlined process. End-to-end engineering and permitting for fueling infrastructure Construction-ready design plans & compliance verification Construction oversight, project management, and safety monitoring Post-installation restoration, inspections, and maintenance Custom Read More »
Environmental Compliance Starts with Smart Stormwater Management Separation Systems Consultants, Inc. (SSCI) is proud to offer industry-leading Stormwater Quality Management Plan (SWQMP) services, supporting developers, municipalities, and industrial clients in achieving regulatory compliance and environmental stewardship. With over 39 years of experience, SSCI delivers customized SWQMP solutions that are both practical and sustainable, ensuring our clients meet applicable local, state, and federal regulations. Plan Development SSCI develops tailored SWQMPs that align with the specific needs of your site and regulatory requirements. Our thorough site assessments and pollutant source evaluations guide the development of effective, results-driven stormwater strategies. Technical Drawings Our Read More »
Texas has its fair share of rodents. Typically small, they scurry around with minimal effects on our day-to-day lives. Few, however, are big enough to cause trouble for human engineering endeavors, specifically stormwater collection systems. Many people have seen both beavers and nutrias before but aren’t aware of the problems they can cause for these systems. Known as ecosystem engineers, these flat-tailed rodents create elaborate dam structures that create a sanctuary for other individuals in the community. They are stubborn creatures that hyper-fixate on building their dams in a certain spot and will continue to build even if destroyed. Some Read More »
Spring is a perfect time to reduce your risk: Be Environmentally Vigilant As time goes on, properties with past studies and documentation that establishes their environmental status will have enhanced value, compared to properties with undocumented pasts. Environmental Sites Assessments (ESA) include: The most basic ESA is performed by a professional that meets ASTM Standards. Testing materials or samples obtained at the property are not typically included. An examination of specific concerns identified in Phase I often includes sampling and laboratory analyses and, when necessary, an investigation of the viability of specific cleanup plans. A detailed plan is developed, then Read More »
As the temperatures start to warm in Texas, outdoor enthusiasts are gearing up for recreational activities. Off-road vehicles (ATVs, dirt bikes, and other all-terrain machines) offer an exhilarating way to explore nature, but they also pose significant risks to our wetlands and waters. Tire Tracks and Habitat Destruction – Off-road vehicles can damage wetlands by tearing up soil and vegetation. This destruction leads to erosion, habitat loss, and the displacement of native species. Click here for more information. Water Pollution and Soil Disruption – When wetlands are disturbed, soil and pollutants can wash into nearby streams and lakes, affecting water Read More »
Petroleum Storage Tanks (PSTs) Stay Compliant & Optimize Your Fuel Systems Notice of Construction (NOC) Submission Get instant acknowledgment by submitting a Notice of Construction (NOC) via STEERS EPermits. This system allows submissions for both new and existing facilities. Only the latest TCEQ-0495 Underground & Aboveground PST Construction Notification (NOC) will be accepted. Forms with a revision date before June 2024 (lower left corner) will no longer be processed. Fill out all sections except Part G: Consultant Information. Faster Processing with STEERS We highly recommend using STEERS EPermits to submit: Renewals Owner/operator updates Tank updates, including: Temporarily Out of Service Read More »