Environmental Planning and Consulting: A Practical Guide

An in-depth overview of the services, challenges, and solutions behind environmental consulting.

Bay West is an environmental consulting firm based in St. Paul, Minnesota, serving clients across the Midwest. We help municipalities, developers, facility owners, and landowners navigate environmental regulations, manage risk, and maintain compliance. With deep knowledge of regional issues — from site redevelopment and soil contamination to wetland permitting — our team understands how local conditions intersect with state and federal requirements. This includes experience with the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency’s remediation and redevelopment programs, the Wetland Conservation Act, and environmental review processes like environmental assessment worksheets.

Below you’ll find answers to common questions about environmental consulting in the Midwest — what to expect with site assessments, remediation, permitting, and long-term compliance — as well as how Bay West can help organizations across the region meet both regulatory demands and broader sustainability goals.

Two field staff in safety vests and hard hats reviewing documents at an active construction or remediation site

Bay West environmental consultants reviewing site documentation at an active planning zone.

1. What is environmental consulting?

Environmental consulting is the process of assessing, managing, and mitigating environmental risks associated with land use, development, industrial activity, or regulatory compliance. Consultants provide expert advice and support to help clients understand environmental impacts and take informed action.

2. Who typically needs environmental consulting services?

Environmental consulting is used by:
  • Property developers and real estate professionals: Navigating due diligence and redevelopment risks
  • Manufacturing and industrial facilities: Managing environmental compliance and hazardous materials
  • Government agencies and municipalities: Overseeing infrastructure and community projects
  • School districts and healthcare institutions: Ensuring safe indoor environments and public health
  • Legal teams: Supporting environmental litigation, permitting, and regulatory guidance

3. What environmental consulting services does Bay West provide?

Our services include:
  • Phase I & II Environmental Site Assessments (ESAs)
  • Hazardous building materials surveys: Asbestos, lead, mercury, PCBs
  • Brownfield redevelopment support
  • Indoor air quality and mold assessments
  • Industrial hygiene and exposure monitoring
  • Regulatory compliance audits and permitting
  • Risk assessments and remediation planning
  • Environmental health and safety (EHS) program development

4. How does environmental consulting support project success?

Environmental consulting helps reduce risk, avoid costly delays, and improve outcomes. By identifying issues early and navigating complex regulatory requirements, our team ensures projects stay on track and aligned with local, state, and federal guidelines.

5. What makes Bay West different from other environmental consulting firms?

Bay West has over 50 years of experience delivering practical, science-based environmental solutions. We combine regulatory insight, technical expertise, and local knowledge to provide cost-effective results for projects of all sizes. Our team is responsive, collaborative, and focused on long-term success.

6. Can Bay West help with redevelopment or contaminated property?

Yes. Bay West specializes in evaluating and managing environmental risks associated with redevelopment projects and brownfields. We assess contamination, coordinate with regulatory agencies, and develop cleanup or mitigation plans that support safe reuse of the site.

7. What’s the difference between Phase I and Phase II Environmental Site Assessments?

  • Phase I ESA: A preliminary, non-intrusive review of a property’s environmental history to identify potential risks
  • Phase II ESA: Involves collecting samples (soil, groundwater, etc.) to confirm or rule out contamination identified in Phase I

8. Do you assist with indoor environmental quality?

Our team conducts indoor air quality assessments, mold investigations, and exposure monitoring for schools, offices, and healthcare facilities. We help identify and address environmental health risks in occupied buildings.

9. What are the benefits of long-term consulting support?

Bay West provides ongoing support for compliance tracking, training, permitting updates, and periodic assessments. This helps clients adapt to changing regulations, prevent violations, and maintain safe, sustainable operations over time.

10. How do I get started with Bay West?

We start by learning about your project, facility, or challenge. From there, we tailor a scope of work that aligns with your goals and budget. Our team is ready to assist at any stage—from initial assessments to complex project planning.

Bay West employee pointing while discussing site plans with a colleague during an environmental oversight project

Bay West environmental consultants overseeing field activities during site evaluation.

Bay West’s environmental consulting team is committed to helping organizations navigate complex environmental challenges with clarity and confidence. From property assessments to indoor air quality and redevelopment projects, our expertise ensures safe, compliant, and cost-effective solutions tailored to your needs.

Contact Us to Learn More

Ensure environmental safety and compliance. Contact Bay West today for environmental planning and consulting services.​

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