Scientific Expertise & Education
RiverStone’s ecologists have a diverse range of academic and applied skills. We strive to remain current with recent scientific literature and environmental legislation, maintaining a comprehensive knowledge base for peer-review of ecological studies, expert testimony at Ontario Municipal Board hearings, and other services requiring environmental expertise. We regularly update our certifications and are actively involved in our communities, providing both professional and volunteer support.
Literature and Peer Review, Specialty Work, & Expert Opinion
RiverStone routinely completes peer reviews of ecological studies and reviews of the scientific literature for natural heritage projects. Our Species at Risk specialists are proficient in the preparation of applications for Endangered Species Act permits. Members of RiverStone’s senior staff are highly qualified to provide expert services, including expert testimony at the Ontario Municipal Board and other tribunals.
Our Products and Services
Peer Review of Ecological Studies for Municipalities and Private Clients
Provision of Expert Testimony, Witness Statements, and Supporting Documentation
Assistance in Legal Processes (Ontario Municipal Board and Litigation)
Academic Literature Reviews Species at Risk Expertise — Permit Applications, Peer Review, Expert Opinion, Habitat Modeling, Recovery Plans, and Status Updates
Road Ecology — Road Impact Analyses, Modeling, Specialized Crossing Structures (Ecopassages)
Advanced Statistical Analyses GIS & Mapping
RiverStone is equipped with specialized computer software for organizing, analyzing, and visualizing both the natural and man-made features associated with our projects. We manage data within a powerful GIS environment, allowing us to use high-quality georeferenced imagery in our final products.
Our Products and Services
Spatial Analysis
Database Design
Environmental ModelingEcological Restoration & Naturalization
RiverStone’s ecologists have an in-depth understanding of ecological restoration techniques and best-management practices. We have developed restoration plans to re-naturalize areas following construction, to enhance wildlife habitat to increase biodiversity, and to supplement existing vegetation communities to improve the absorption of stormwater and nutrients.
Our Products and Services
Re-vegetation Plans
Tree Preservation Plans
Watercourse and Shoreline Restoration Wildlife Habitat CreationRain Gardens, Bio-retention Ponds, and Low-impact Development Plans Training & Education
All RiverStone ecologists are effective communicators who are proficient in simplifying complex environmental information into useable formats for private- and public-sector audience events that serve to enhance environmental awareness, develop key skills, and promote good stewardship practices.
Our Products and Services
Educational Talks for Municipalities, Schools, and Lake Associations
Training for Community Groups and Individuals in:
Ecological Restoration
Weed Identification and Management Naturalist Skills, Bird Watching, Wildlife Tracking, and Trail Surveys
Trail Building and Design
Identification of Edible and Medicinal Plants
Ecological Landscaping and Wildlife Habitat Creation