Science-Based Planning

Whether focused on a parcel of land, a watershed, a region, or a state, the best planning documents are informed by sound science and rigorous analysis. Downstream Strategies catalogs current conditions, links policy and management options with scientific data, performs economic benefits analyses, and writes detailed plans to arm our clients with the technical expertise needed to improve and protect vital resources.

Rivers and watersheds

Downstream Strategies provides wide-ranging water resources planning assistance for watershed groups, river management organizations, government entities, and nonprofits.

  • Alternative energy futures and scenario development
  • Analyses of energy-related permits
  • Energy development and market trends analyses

Habitat and conservation plans

We conduct assessments and plans for specific species, habitats, and ecosystems. We also assess and prepare management plans for parcels related to real estate acquisitions.
  • Habitat assessments
  • Conservation plans
  • Tract management plans

Climate adaptation planning

Downstream Strategies offers complete planning services for climate mitigation and greenhouse gas reduction for municipalities and other government entities.
  • Climate adaptation plans
  • Greenhouse gas inventories
  • Climate mitigation and greenhouse gas reduction planning
  • Cost-benefit analyses of alternative reduction and mitigation strategies
  • Analyses and support for purchasing or selling carbon offsets and renewable energy credits

Science-Based Planning Contact

Projects

Watershed Based Plans for the Muddy Creek and Pringle Run Watersheds

These watershed-based plans for Muddy Creek and Pringle Run, two tributaries of the Cheat River, will allow incremental Section 319 funds to be spent in the watershed to clean up nonpoint sources of acid mine drainage. They document the sources and causes of known impairments, estimate remediation costs, propose an implementation schedule for remediation, address technical and financial needs, and document an outreach and education program to aid with implementation.

Morgantown Utility Board Source Water Protection Plan

Downstream Strategies collaborated with Morgantown Utility Board in the development of the utility’s most recent Source Water Protection Plan which helps to ensure clean drinking water for local populations.