DU Engineering
Yes, thats correct DU does have Engineers on staff. We have an expert staff
of engineers and engineering technicians scattered across 15 states that make
up the Southern Regional Office of Ducks Unlimited.
 A
typical project would start with a site visit from a DU engineer and biologist.
The biologist will look at the site and the species use and recommend such
things as water depths, management schemes, and habitat needs. The engineer
is then responsible for incorporating this data into the design of the project.
On most sites a topographic survey of the site is needed to determine surface
features and where to locate levees and water control structures.
In the southern region, DU has 6 survey grade Global Positioning Systems
(GPS) units with rovers. These units are a much higher grade than the standard
hand-held GPS units. They compute the elevation, latitude, & longitude
via satellite with sub-centimeter accuracy. DU engineering technicians use
GPS to perform the necessary surveys of the site. The data is then electronically
downloaded to the regional office where engineering technicians will post
process the data and generate a contour map with contour lines on .5 feet
intervals. This map is then sent back to the engineer for design.
The engineer will layout the design for the levee and water control structure
based upon the contour map and site visit.  Engineering
technicians will complete the final drafting using Autocad software. The final
step involves the construction and administration of the project. DU technicians
will stake the levee and excavation areas for the contractor and perform final
construction checkout of the site. Engineers and engineering technicians oversee
the construction of the project, approve payment requisitions, and make change
orders to insure that the project is built according to design.
The majority of projects that DU engineers are involved with are shallow
water areas for waterfowl, but DU engineers also design and oversee construction
of projects for water quality, water quantity, coastal erosion, and mitigation
of wetland losses. Whether its using a wetland for water purification, protecting
a coastal marsh or storing water to prevent downstream flooding, DU has the
staff and equipment necessary to provide complete engineering services for
any wetland project.
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