Constructing a walking bridge and dealing with the powers that be

[stavebuyer]

7'x2' at normal flow is a sizeable stream and must involve a considerable drainage area to sustain that kind of flow. The powers that be also take a dim view of structures that alter or impede the flow of water in a flood plain. There is no cheap and easy fix to this problem. It has been suggested by myself and others that you get in touch with the water quality specialists at your local USDA Farm Service Agency. Water is Federal and the experts in that office are well versed on what you can and can't do. They get paid to help you and if they design the project, you will have no issue with the enforcement people at your state EPA who enforce the various water quality statutes you will be in violation of by proceeding without permits and approvals. It will cost you nothing to visit the local FSA office and ask for guidance. You don't need to be a farmer.

Vermont State Office

[Southside]

They can actually be quite helpful.  My fed water guy one time pointed to an aerial of my farm and said "What you need to do is dig a pond right here" - and he pointed to a spot on the map - "because if that stream breaks the ground between your irrigation pond and it's bank and runs through your pond, there is nothing I can do about that."    Guess what I did?

[chesterspal]

The powers that be also take a dim view of structures that alter or impede the flow of water in a flood plain.

The proposed crossing location is not in a flood plain. The local zoning official verified that (using online maps) and the reason I do not need a permit from the town for the project.

There is no cheap and easy fix to this problem....

Actually there is. If you read through my postings you will find it.

[stavebuyer]

Best of luck with your project. ;D

[chesterspal]

Seems we have run this thread into the ground by this point.

All comments and suggestions were appreciated.

I will report back in the Spring how I made out, in case anyone is still interested.

Thanks much 

[Freedy201]

You are a good man,be proud of yourself.