Texas is home to tens of thousands of native plant and animal species, thanks to its diverse landscapes—from deserts to pine forests to coastal marshes. That variety also means the state has a long list of rare and threatened species that depend on very different ecosystems. As of recent counts, Texas is home to around 97 endangered or threatened plant and animal species, ranging from orchids to bats to freshwater mussels. Many of these species are found nowhere else on Earth. More than 169,000 species worldwide are currently listed as threatened on the International Union for Conservation of Nature’s (IUCN) Read More »
Improperly maintained detention ponds are one of the most common causes of regulatory violations and unexpected repair costs for property owners. Detention ponds are crucial in flood prevention and stormwater mitigation. Improperly maintained detention ponds could result in local flooding and property damage. Their purpose is to reduce peak stormwater runoff rates by providing temporary storage and mitigating discharge into other storm water systems. Detention ponds are essential in stormwater management efforts. Below are a few types of ponds: Wet detention pond: designed to have a remaining permanent pool of water after a storm event, also called an Amenity Pond Read More »
In today’s fast-paced real estate and development market, time is everything. Delays in environmental due diligence can stall transactions, increase costs, and create unnecessary uncertainty. That’s where we come in. At SSCI, we specialize in delivering Phase I and Phase II Environmental Site Assessments (ESAs) with unmatched speed and precision—often in just a few business days. Our clients count on us not only for accuracy and compliance, but also for the confidence that comes with knowing their projects won’t be slowed down by lengthy turnaround times. Rapid Turnaround: We understand deadlines. Our streamlined processes and experienced team allow us to Read More »
SSCI Environmental is here to help you and your business stay prepared and compliant during hurricane season. Here are some tips aimed at protecting your facility, your property and family, plus preventing environmental spills. Weather can change in an instant – will you be ready? Here are some essential tips to help: 1. Review Your Emergency Response Plan: Ensure your facility’s emergency response plan is up-to-date and includes specific procedures for hurricanes. Conduct regular drills with your team to ensure everyone knows their roles and responsibilities. 2. Secure Hazardous Materials: Properly store and secure all hazardous materials and chemicals 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 »
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 »
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 »