S. W. Cole Engineering, Inc. was retained to design a 25-foot high, double-sided, mechanically-stabilized earthen (MSE) wall across a drainage gully that was underlain by soft compressible marine clays. The purpose of the wall was to provide support to new utilities and a new road associated with expansion of the Topsham Fair Mall commercial/retail subdivision.

S. W. Cole technicians use field tests to assess the characteristics of concrete, grout, soil, asphalt and other construction materials in the field.

S. W. Cole scientists assess the ecological and natural resources features for proposed projects. Our scientists have expertise in wetland science, soil science, wildlife and botany.

S. W. Cole scientists provide natural resources and ecological services for clients on a variety of projects.

S. W. Cole wetland scientists conduct vernal pool assessments and for approximately six weeks each spring. These seasonal bodies of water are host to wood frogs, spotted and blue spotted salamanders and fairy shrimp. Wood frogs and salamanders lay their eggs in these gelatinous masses which are counted as part of the criteria used to determine whether a vernal pool is significant.

Plastic cylinder molds are used to make concrete specimens at a construction site when concrete is poured for building foundations, dams, abutments and other applications. The cylinders cure and are tested in our laboratories for strength and other characteristics.

S. W. Cole scientists work with conservation groups to provide baseline documentation of the natural resources features of land put into conservation trust.