INSTREAM FLOW NEEDS
Assessing hydrological, geomorphological, biological and water quality and connectivity parameters of instream flow are essential to understanding the habitat requirements of organisms and of a healthy, functional ecosystem. AAE is experienced in the use of habitat suitability criteria (HSC) and weighted useable area (WUA) methods for assessing instream flow needs and how these relate to environmental management strategies and regulatory frameworks. We have the expertise to conduct comprehensive instream flow needs assessments for any waterbody in Canada.
WATERSHED PLANNING
Watershed plans are integrated management strategies for water-based resources within a given watershed. Effective planning requires a thorough understanding of water regimes within the system, sources and sinks of water, water use and management practices and the participation of all stakeholders for identifying issues and developing solutions.
AAE is experienced in assisting the development of integrated watershed management plans by providing services such as topographic surveys, drainage and hydrological assessments, culvert and ditch inventories and collecting environmental data related to terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems within watersheds. We provide baseline data for the planning and implementation of management solutions in the form of high-quality mapping, environmental assessments and professional recommendations with cost estimates developed by our expert staff and partners.
FLOOD MODELING AND MITIGATION
Flood control and management is an important aspect of the local economies and safety of communities near water. AAE is experienced in conducting topographic surveys and hydrological assessments for identifying vulnerable areas, generating flood projections and developing flood models and mitigation plans for flood sensitive communities throughout Manitoba. Our partnerships with professional engineers and hydrologists provide a wealth of expertise to assist with any project.
HYDRAULIC ASSESSMENTS
AAE Tech Services Inc. is experienced in conducting both large- and small-scale hydraulic assessments and has carried out such works for various communities, organizations and projects across Manitoba and Ontario. We are equipped for and experienced in streambed profiling, substrate analysis, developing velocity profiles and surveying patterns of drainage; all of which are vital for understanding and modeling discharge and flow in the analysis of flood risks and to determine physical demands on instream infrastructure.
DRAINAGE PLANNING
Effective drainage planning is a critical component of development on municipal, commercial, agricultural and residential properties. AAE is experienced in conducting all phases of the drainage planning process. From baseline data collection, to hydrological assessments, environmental mitigation planning and regulatory approvals and compliance, our team is equipped and qualified to provide high-quality drainage planning services. Using state-of-the-art technologies such as our Trimble RTK ground unit and eBee unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV), we can construct detailed, highly-accurate and precise topographic maps and drainage models, and in partnership with expert hydrologists and engineers, we can provide effective drainage solutions that meet municipal, provincial and federal requirements.
FISH PASSAGE AND DESIGN AND MONITORING
Barriers to fish movement, whether anthropogenic (e.g. perched culverts, dams, weirs) or natural (e.g. beaver dams, log jams, rapids and waterfalls), segment fish habitat and prevent access to spawning, rearing, nursery, feeding or refuge habitat. AAE is experienced at identifying and assessing barriers to fish movement and in providing recommendations to improve fish passage and habitat connectivity to benefit fisheries. We have assisted in and conducted works aimed at the removal of barriers and the design and construction of fishways. We are also experienced in the design and implementation monitoring programs using acoustic and radio telemetry, fish tagging and sonar technologies to evaluate fish passage through suspected obstacles.
