Logan Simpson is currently assisting APS with permitting of a fiber optic upgrade along 34 miles of the existing Coconino to Verde 230 kV transmission line on the Coconino National Forest. The line upgrades will bring higher speed broadband internet to the communities served by APS and allow for safer and more reliable electrical service.
Surveys were conducted to identify sensitive plant species and noxious and invasive weeds. This required close collaboration between Logan Simpson, APS, and Coconino National Forest biologists and botanists. The project also served as an intersection of multiple jurisdictions (private, local, state, federal) for cultural resources compliance, necessitated by differing regulations for each jurisdiction.
Logan Simpson analyzed potential impacts on four Endangered Species Act-listed species. This analysis determined that the project may affect, but not adversely affect, the Mexican spotted owl, and would have no effect on several other species. To minimize and avoid these effects, Logan Simpson developed conservation measures with APS and the Forest Service.