The Stormwater World Podcast

Ty Garmon

After over twelve years in the stormwater industry, I feel like I’ve only scratched the surface. There is more to learn than ever! Whether you are brand new to the industry or a seasoned veteran, I’m sure you feel the same way. I’m talking to subject matter experts across the industry, so you don’t have to. My name is Ty Garmon, and I’ll be your host. Join me as we learn together about what is happening in the Stormwater World! read less
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Earth SciencesEarth Sciences

Episodes

Creating the MS4CECI Online Course with Luke Owen from NPDES Training Institute
1w ago
Creating the MS4CECI Online Course with Luke Owen from NPDES Training Institute
Stormwater World Episode 034: Creating the MS4CECI Online Course with Luke Owen from NPDES Training Institute. Did you know that this podcast is produced by Digital Stormwater? Digital Stormwater B2B Visibility & Digital Marketing, making a difference in stormwater 1 click at a time! They do all things digital. Check them out at DigitalStormwater.com because the best-known beats best every time. Key Points Discussed [00:01:00] Introduction to MS4CECI: Luke explains the acronym and how the course covers both compliance and enforcement aspects of the MS4 operator's job. "The MS4 operator has to comply with their permits, but they also have to enforce as part of their job." — Luke Owen[00:03:00] The Role of Effective Training: Luke shares his belief that effective education and training are critical for clean surface water, emphasizing the importance of motivational techniques in teaching. "I really believe that we all want clean water... you've got to connect with people and inspire them along the way." — Luke Owen[00:05:30] The Evolution of Stormwater Regulations: Luke reflects on his experience working in different states and the differences in stormwater enforcement across regions, particularly in the West and Southeast U.S. "When I moved here [Georgia] 20 years ago, I had no idea the impacts of stormwater." — Luke Owen[00:17:00] Transitioning to Online Training: Despite initial reluctance, Luke discusses the challenges and successes of moving from in-person training to creating the MS4CECI online course. "I thought you cannot be as effective online, but you do the best you can." — Luke Owen[00:20:00] Course Structure and Target Audience: Luke talks about who the MS4CECI course is designed for, from DOTs to military bases and private consultants. "It's not just cities and counties; it's military bases, DOTs, and consultants." — Luke Owen[00:32:00] The Importance of Understanding Permits: Luke highlights how inspectors need to understand their permits thoroughly and adapt to their specific regional conditions. "The procedure doesn’t change, but the permit conditions vary across the country." — Luke Owen[00:41:00] Final Thoughts on the Course: Ty and Luke wrap up the discussion, emphasizing the importance of ongoing training and how this course serves as a tool to equip MS4 inspectors. "Gratitude drives compliance. The MS4 inspector is the foundation of our future water quality." — Luke Owen Notable Quotes: Luke Owen: "Effective training digs down into more than just presenting data. You’ve got to hit the motivation within all of us." "The MS4 inspector is the foundation of our future water quality." "It’s really tough to continue traveling. I thought, what if I could package all my knowledge and deliver it to the masses?" In this episode of the Stormwater World Podcast, host Ty Garmon speaks with Luke Owen, founder of NPDES Training Institute, about the creation of the MS4CECI (Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System Compliance and Enforcement Certified Inspector) online course. Luke shares insights from his 30 years of experience in stormwater management and explains how this course is designed to train MS4 inspectors on both compliance and enforcement. He discusses the challenges of transitioning from in-person to online training and emphasizes the importance of effective, motivational education for stormwater professionals. The episode highlights the course's practical applications for inspectors across various sectors, including cities, counties, DOTs, and private consultants. The views expressed are that of the individual and do not represent the opinions of any companies past, present or future. Connect with T Luke Owen: LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/npdestraining/ Website: https://npdestraining.com/ Course: https://npdestraining.com/ms4-compliance-and-enforcement-certified-inspector-online/ email: tlowen@npdestraining.com Phone: (678) 469-5120 Luke’s Previous Episode: https://stormwaterworld.com/podcast/do-you-care-about-water-luke-owen-president-of-npdes-training-institute/   Connect with Ty Garmon, LEED AP:  Connect with Ty on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tygarmon/ Sign up to be a guest: https://forms.gle/whijSz9Tio3iZda57 Check out The Stormwater World Podcast on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC9hVXVJ5oXplf_V9XOPpR6A Podcast Website: https://stormwaterworld.com Stay Informed! Sign-up for the Stormwater World Newsletter: https://stormwaterworld.com/newsletter-sign-up/ Please don't forget to rate, comment, and subscribe to Stormwater World Podcast on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts!
Lake Management & Stormwater with Sonja (That Pond Girl) Wixom, MS from TIGRIS
Oct 8 2024
Lake Management & Stormwater with Sonja (That Pond Girl) Wixom, MS from TIGRIS
Stormwater World Episode 033: Lake Management & Stormwater with Sonja (That Pond Girl) Wixom, MS from TIGRIS.   Did you know that this podcast is produced by Digital Stormwater? Digital Stormwater B2B Visibility & Digital Marketing, making a difference in stormwater 1 click at a time! They do all things digital. Check them out at DigitalStormwater.com because the best-known beats best every time. Key Points Discussed [00:00:00] Introduction Ty introduces Sonja and shares her background in lake and stormwater management, including her work with TIGRIS Aquatic Services. [00:03:00] The Importance of Communication in Lake Management Sonja discusses how communication is crucial for lake and stormwater management.Quote: “No one knows what you're doing unless you're communicating about it.” — Sonja Wixsom [00:06:00] Differences Between Lake Management and Stormwater Sonja breaks down the distinctions between lake management and stormwater services, highlighting the different stakeholders and challenges.Quote: “People come to lake managers with problems that they need help with.” — Sonja Wixsom [00:09:00] The Disconnect Between Lake Management and Stormwater A discussion about the lack of awareness and the disconnect between stormwater professionals and lake managers.Quote: "I do see it as being totally separate fields." — Sonja Wixsom [00:12:00] Managing Stormwater Ponds vs. Natural Lakes Sonja explains the blurred lines between stormwater ponds and lake management, and the challenge of community expectations.Quote: “People want their pond to be a lake. Sometimes it's just about managing expectations.” — Sonja Wixsom [00:26:00] Common Issues in Lake and Pond Management Sonja highlights national water quality concerns, invasive species, and harmful algal blooms.Quote: “Water quality and harmful algal blooms have really risen to the top.” — Sonja Wixsom [00:32:00] Sonja’s Work with Tigris and Advice for Pond Owners Sonja shares advice for pond owners, stressing the importance of understanding water inputs and building relationships with knowledgeable professionals.Quote: "Google isn’t always your friend. Reach out to professionals near you and build a good relationship.” — Sonja Wixsom “What would I tell a pond owner for management? One point I’d like to make is that management is an ongoing task for as long as the pond is there. It’s not a one and done action.” — Sonja Wixsom In this episode of the Stormwater World Podcast, host Ty Garmon and guest host Maryella Begley-Garmon deep dive into the complexities of lake management and how it intersects with stormwater services with That Pond Girl, Sonja Wixom, MS. Sonja shares her insights from working across different regions, emphasizing the critical role of communication and proper management strategies. From handling invasive species to bridging the gap between stormwater and lake management, this episode offers a wealth of knowledge for professionals in the field. Whether you’re a pond owner or a lake management expert, Sonja’s experience provides practical advice and valuable takeaways. The views expressed are that of the individual and do not represent the opinions of any companies past, present or future. Connect with Sonja Wixom, MS from TIGRIS: Connect with Sonja on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sonja-wixom-that-pond-girl/ Email: swixom@tigrisusa.com TIGRIS Website:https://tigrisusa.com/ Women of Aquatics: https://womenofaquatics.org/ That Pond Girl Podcast: https://thatpondgirlpodcast.buzzsprout.com/   Connect with Maryella Begley-Garmon, PE:  Connect with Ty on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/maryella-begley-garmon-p-e-16772157/ Email: maryella@digitalstormwater.com Digital Stormwater Website: https://digitalstormwater.com/   Connect with Ty Garmon, LEED AP:  Connect with Ty on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tygarmon/ Sign up to be a guest: https://forms.gle/whijSz9Tio3iZda57 Check out The Stormwater World Podcast on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC9hVXVJ5oXplf_V9XOPpR6A Podcast Website: https://stormwaterworld.com Stay Informed! Sign-up for the Stormwater World Newsletter: https://stormwaterworld.com/newsletter-sign-up/   Please don't forget to rate, comment, and subscribe to Stormwater World Podcast on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts!
Digital Site Box with Thomas Strange, IV & Neal Fogleman
Sep 23 2024
Digital Site Box with Thomas Strange, IV & Neal Fogleman
Did you know that this podcast is produced by Digital Stormwater? Digital Stormwater B2B Visibility & Digital Marketing, making a difference in stormwater 1 click at a time! They do all things digital. Check them out at DigitalStormwater.com because the best-known beats best every time. Key Points Discussed [00:02:00] Introduction: The host introduces Thomas Strange and Neal Fogleman, co-founders of Digital Site Box, and provides a quick overview of their backgrounds in civil engineering and stormwater management. [00:05:00] The Archaic System of Paper Documentation: Neal Fogleman describes the inefficiencies of the traditional documentation process: "We pull up to a site, and all our documentation is scattered across the ground from the storm the night before." – Neal Fogleman [00:07:00] Contractor and Municipal Inspector Responsibilities: Thomas Strange outlines the typical contractor responsibilities and how inspections take place. He also introduces the role of the municipal inspector. "It’s the contractor's job to ensure that the permit box is up and available, with all documentation there." – Thomas Strange, IV [00:14:00] The Digital Site Box Solution: Neal explains how Digital Site Box allows for remote access to documents and simplifies compliance. "The municipalities can access all the documents they need from anywhere without visiting the site. It's transparency for everyone involved." – Neal Fogleman [00:18:00] Eliminating Paperwork and Physical Inspections: Thomas dives deeper into how the software allows inspections to be completed remotely, saving significant time and reducing the need for physical paperwork. [00:22:00] Rain Logs and Real-Time Data Access: The co-founders discuss how the software integrates with weather data to automatically track rainfall, eliminating the need for manual rain logs. [00:25:00] Homebuilders and Safety Applications: Neal highlights how Digital Site Box has extended its use cases beyond stormwater to homebuilders and safety compliance. "Homebuilders saw it and said, 'Man, I have to post my permit on the window, and now I can do it digitally.'" – Neal Fogleman [00:35:00] Pricing and Affordability: The founders discuss the pricing structure of Digital Site Box, emphasizing its affordability and value compared to traditional documentation methods. "For $75 per site per year, you eliminate thousands in printing and courier costs." – Thomas Strange, IV [00:39:00] What’s Next for Digital Site Box: The episode wraps up with a teaser about future developments and integrations with other major software platforms. Notable Quotes: "The Achilles heel of my job site used to be paper." – Thomas Strange, IV "We’re replacing the plastic box, so it doesn’t need to be thousands of dollars." – Neal Fogleman In this episode of the Stormwater World Podcast, host Ty Garmon explores the world of site inspections, compliance, and stormwater management with two experts: Thomas Strange, IV, and Neal Fogleman, co-founders of Digital Site Box. Their innovative software streamlines site documentation, ensuring better communication between contractors and municipalities. They discuss how Digital Site Box replaces outdated permit boxes and allows for real-time access to essential documents. Tune in to learn how this tool saves time, cuts costs, and enhances compliance in the construction and stormwater industries. The views expressed are that of the individual and do not represent the opinions of any companies past, present or future. Connect with Thomas Strange, IV, Co-Founder of Digital Site Box: Connect with Thomas on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thomas-strange-iv-770a161b0/ Email: thomasiv@digitalsitebox.us   Connect with Neal Fogleman, Co-Founder of Digital Site Box: Connect with Chad on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/neal-fogleman-160347298/ Email: pnf@aldllc.net   Digital Site Box Website: https://digitalsitebox.us/landing Digital Site Box LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/digital-site-box   Connect with Ty Garmon, LEED AP:  Connect with Ty on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tygarmon/ Sign up to be a guest: https://forms.gle/whijSz9Tio3iZda57 Check out The Stormwater World Podcast on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC9hVXVJ5oXplf_V9XOPpR6A Podcast Website: https://stormwaterworld.com Stay Informed! Sign-up for the Stormwater World Newsletter: https://stormwaterworld.com/newsletter-sign-up/ Please don't forget to rate, comment, and subscribe to Stormwater World Podcast on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts!
Outdated Procurement Processes and more with Chad Smeltzer from Bidcurement
Sep 6 2024
Outdated Procurement Processes and more with Chad Smeltzer from Bidcurement
Stormwater World Episode 031: Outdated Procurement Processes and more with Chad Smeltzer from Bidcurement.   Did you know that this podcast is produced by Digital Stormwater? Digital Stormwater B2B Visibility & Digital Marketing, making a difference in stormwater 1 click at a time! They do all things digital. Check them out at DigitalStormwater.com because the best-known beats best every time. Key Points Discussed [00:00:00] - Introduction and Overview Chad discusses the use of AI in stormwater management to identify and score pipe defects. Quote from Chad: "You put these cameras in there, and now you use AI to look at all the cracks and all the codes in these pipes." [00:01:00] - Digital Marketing for the Stormwater Industry Ty introduces Digital Stormwater's services and emphasizes their impact in the stormwater sector. Quote from Ty: "We put more stormwater people in front of your stormwater products and services." [00:02:00] - Meet Chad Smelter Introduction to Chad Smelter and his extensive experience in the public works sector. Quote from Ty: "Chad's got over 15 years of experience in the public work sector, and he's a serial entrepreneur." [00:03:00] - Chad’s Journey and Early Career Chad shares his career path, from working in public works at a young age to starting his own company. Quote from Chad: "I started out working at public works when I was 15 with my dad at a water wastewater treatment facility." [00:04:00] - Innovations in Sewer Management Discussion on the evolution of sewer management and the development of new technologies to handle grease control and root control. Quote from Chad: "We started treating with bacteria, and it started working really well." [00:10:00] - Challenges in Infrastructure Management The challenges faced in the public works sector, particularly in managing infrastructure and maintenance. Quote from Chad: "We have an issue here with the engineering firms and the utilities—they didn't know exactly where their sewers were." [00:13:00] - The Role of AI in Infrastructure Management Chad explains how AI is used to assess the condition of pipes and prioritize repairs. Quote from Chad: "They train a model based on the defects, and if the defects are consistent throughout the country... you start to build a model that every time it goes through their system, it'll pick out that image." [00:22:00] - Introducing Big Curement Overview of Chad's new venture, Big Curement, and its goal to simplify the procurement process in public works. Quote from Chad: "There's gotta be a better way to write specifications and bid on projects more efficiently." [00:31:00] - Challenges in Stormwater Infrastructure Ty and Chad discuss the importance of addressing stormwater issues, from flooding to pollution. Quote from Ty: "How do we now turn the messaging around to get it to the public... because water is going to become this crazy commodity." [00:44:00] - Final Thoughts and Contact Information Chad shares his final thoughts on the importance of adopting technology and networking in the public works sector. Quote from Chad: "Get uncomfortable with using social media... It's a great tool to get your content out there." In this episode of the Stormwater World Podcast, host Ty Garmon interviews Chad Smelter, a seasoned public works professional and entrepreneur, to discuss innovations in stormwater and sewer management. They explore the use of AI technology to identify and prioritize pipe defects, highlighting the importance of modernizing infrastructure and procurement processes. Chad shares his journey from working in public works to founding Bidcurement, a company focused on improving procurement through technology. They also discuss the broader challenges and opportunities in stormwater management, emphasizing the need for better public awareness and infrastructure design to address flooding and pollution issues. The views expressed are that of the individual and do not represent the opinions of any companies past, present or future. Connect with Chad Smeltzer, President and CEO at Bidcurement: Connect with Chad on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chadsmeltzer/ Bidcurement Website: https://bidcurement.com/ Email: Chad@bidcurement.com Infrastructure Hot Seat Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@theinfrastructurehotseat   Connect with Ty Garmon, LEED AP:  Connect with Ty on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tygarmon/ Sign up to be a guest: https://forms.gle/whijSz9Tio3iZda57 Check out The Stormwater World Podcast on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC9hVXVJ5oXplf_V9XOPpR6A Podcast Website: https://stormwaterworld.com Stay Informed! Sign-up for the Stormwater World Newsletter: https://stormwaterworld.com/newsletter-sign-up/   Please don't forget to rate, comment, and subscribe to Stormwater World Podcast on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts!
From the Field to The Classroom: Industrial Stormwater with Brad Flack, SME and Sr. Instructor from StormwaterOne
Aug 22 2024
From the Field to The Classroom: Industrial Stormwater with Brad Flack, SME and Sr. Instructor from StormwaterOne
Stormwater World Episode 030: From the Field to the Classroom: Industrial Stormwater with Brad Flack, SME and Sr. Instructor from StormwaterOne.   Did you know that this podcast is produced by Digital Stormwater? Digital Stormwater B2B Visibility & Digital Marketing, making a difference in stormwater 1 click at a time! They do all things digital. Check them out at DigitalStormwater.com because the best-known beats best every time. Key Points Discussed [00:00:00] - Introduction The host introduces Brad Flack, who has over 20 years of experience in stormwater management. The conversation will cover adult education, fieldwork, and Brad's journey in the stormwater industry. [00:02:00] - Brad's Journey into Stormwater Quote: "I didn't create this economic boom... I just surfed the heck out of it." - Brad FlackBrad shares how he accidentally entered the industry and his early experiences with on-the-job training. [00:06:00] - Transition to Education and Training Quote: "I have been studying in my craft and my industry to know what I'm talking about." - Brad FlackDiscussion on how Brad moved from hands-on fieldwork to focusing on training and education, including the certifications he's earned. [00:09:00] - Field Experience and Ongoing Client Work Brad talks about maintaining a small number of clients to stay connected with the real-world applications of stormwater regulations. [00:12:00] - Developing an Industrial Stormwater Course Quote: "We're literally in the final throes of getting all the last... exams and all the knowledge checks and all that stuff." - Brad FlackBrad discusses the upcoming launch of an industrial stormwater course, detailing the efforts to make it engaging and informative. [00:20:00] - Practical Tips for Site Inspections Quote: "If it rains right this second, will this pollutant discharge off my site?" - Brad FlackBrad provides a crash course on key considerations for site inspections, emphasizing the importance of proactive management of potential pollutants. [00:29:00] - Memorable Experiences Brad shares stories from his time as a stormwater consultant at the Houston Zoo, including a rescue of a turtle and an encounter with a baby elephant. [00:35:00] - Benefits of Online Training Quote: "We're trying to qualify you from nothing or from very little to now." - Brad FlackDiscussion on the advantages of online stormwater training and how it helps professionals gain practical, applicable knowledge. [00:44:00] - State of the Stormwater Industry Quote: "It's very short-sighted to be like, 'Well, I need special permission'... You're not helping." - Brad FlackBrad shares his thoughts on the challenges facing the stormwater industry and the importance of personal responsibility in environmental protection. [00:49:00] - Hands and Feet Mission Work Quote: "I can't fix the world, but I can help out 200 people now have access to clean drinking water." - Brad FlackBrad talks about his missionary work in Honduras and the Dominican Republic, highlighting the impact of providing clean water access. [00:50:00] - Conclusion and Upcoming Events Brad lists upcoming speaking engagements and training sessions. He also invites listeners to connect with him on LinkedIn or via email for further discussion. Quotes Highlight "If it rains right this second, will this pollutant discharge off my site?" - Brad Flack"We're trying to qualify you from nothing or from very little to now." - Brad Flack In this episode of the Stormwater World Podcast, host Ty Garmon interviews Brad Flack, a seasoned stormwater expert with over 20 years of experience.  Brad shares his journey from hands-on fieldwork to becoming a leading educator in the industry. He discusses the importance of proactive site management, the challenges of maintaining compliance, and the value of ongoing education through programs like those offered by StormwaterOne. Brad also recounts memorable experiences from his career, including unique challenges at the Houston Zoo, and highlights his passion for missionary work in Honduras and the Dominican Republic, where he helps provide clean drinking water to communities in need. The views expressed are that of the individual and do not represent the opinions of any companies past, present or future. Connect with Brad Flack, (QPSWPPP QCIS QISM CESCL CPESC CESSWI QSM) SME and Sr. Instructor at StormwaterOne: Connect with Brad on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bradflack/ StormwaterOne Website: https://stormwaterone.com/ Email:    Mission Organizations: Hands and Feed Honduras closed down during COVID. Living Waters International: https://water.cc/ Harvest Community Church: https://harvestcc.net/   Where to find Brad: StormCon: https://www.stormcon.com/sc24 IECA South Central Conference & Expo: https://whova.com/web/IxmqNIZiZ9OkjrSHH2xo%40coM2Ps8HlvXWMLT1GPCBHY%3D/   Connect with Ty Garmon, LEED AP:  Connect with Ty on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tygarmon/ Sign up to be a guest: https://forms.gle/whijSz9Tio3iZda57 Check out The Stormwater World Podcast on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC9hVXVJ5oXplf_V9XOPpR6A Podcast Website: https://stormwaterworld.com Stay Informed! Sign-up for the Stormwater World Newsletter: https://stormwaterworld.com/newsletter-sign-up/   Please don't forget to rate, comment, and subscribe to Stormwater World Podcast on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts!
Stormwater Awareness Week with John Teravskis & Rebekah Burnett with WRG Southwest, Inc.
Aug 7 2024
Stormwater Awareness Week with John Teravskis & Rebekah Burnett with WRG Southwest, Inc.
Stormwater World Episode 029: Stormwater Awareness Week with John Teravskis & Rebekah Burnett with WRG Southwest, Inc.   Did you know that this podcast is produced by Digital Stormwater? Digital Stormwater B2B Visibility & Digital Marketing, making a difference in stormwater 1 click at a time! They do all things digital. Check them out at DigitalStormwater.com because the best-known beats best every time. Key Points Discussed [00:01:00] Ty introduces the podcast and its parent company, Digital Stormwater. "We put more stormwater people in front of your stormwater products and services." - Ty [00:02:00] Introduction of guests, John Teravskis and Rebekah Burnett. "I'm super excited to share with you an event that's coming up later this year called Stormwater Awareness Week." - Ty [00:03:00] John and Rebekah introduce themselves and discuss their involvement in stormwater awareness. "Stormwater Awareness Week is coming up. It's the last week of September." - John Teravskis [00:06:00] Emphasis on the event being free for both hosts and attendees. "It's free. It's completely free for everyone involved." - Rebekah Burnett [00:08:00] Registration details for attendees and hosts. "Registration opens to the public on September 2nd." - Rebekah Burnett [00:10:00] Requirements for hosting a workshop. "You need to have a topic. It needs to be a one-hour discussion." - John Teravskis [00:17:00] The history and evolution of Stormwater Awareness Week. "We started very simply back in 2012." - John Teravskis [00:21:00] Expansion of the event during the COVID-19 pandemic. "We shifted from 25 percent online to a hundred percent online and Stormwater Awareness Week, 2020 happened." - John Teravskis [00:22:00] Growing national and international participation. "We had over 30 individuals from over 30 states attending." - Rebekah Burnett [00:25:00] Encouraging general public involvement. "One year we had a workshop that was a kayak tour of a local lake." - Rebekah Burnett [00:28:00] Emphasis on the event's inclusivity and neutrality. "We truly believe this belongs to everyone." - John Teravskis [00:31:00] Call to action for listeners. "Consider giving a workshop, tell somebody about Stormwater Awareness Week, and attend a workshop." - John Teravskis Quotes Highlight "How do we create engaging workshops that the general public may actually be willing to listen to?" - John Teravskis"It's free. It's completely free for everyone involved." - Rebekah Burnett"We truly believe this to belong to everyone." - John Teravskis In this episode of the Stormwater World Podcast, host Ty Garmon interviews John Teravskis and Rebekah Burnett about Stormwater Awareness Week, a free educational event aimed at promoting stormwater knowledge. They discuss the event's history, which began in 2012, and its evolution to include online workshops, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic, leading to nationwide and international participation. The guests emphasize the inclusivity and neutrality of the event, encouraging listeners to host or attend workshops and spread the word. The event is set to take place from September 23-27, with registration opening on September 2. The views expressed are that of the individual and do not represent the opinions of any companies past, present or future. Connect with John Teravskis and Rebekah Burnett: Connect with John on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-teravskis-5aaa9339/ Connect with Rebekah on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rebekah-burnett-64b6b5207/ Stormwater Awareness Week on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/events/7198777181257240576/comments/ Website: https://www.stormwaterawareness.org/ Sign up for Monthly Dirt and/or The Rain Events newsletters: https://wgr-sw.com/lists/?p=subscribe&id=1   Connect with Ty Garmon, LEED AP:  Connect with Ty on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tygarmon/ Sign up to be a guest: https://forms.gle/whijSz9Tio3iZda57 Check out The Stormwater World Podcast on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC9hVXVJ5oXplf_V9XOPpR6A Podcast Website: https://stormwaterworld.com Stay Informed! Sign-up for the Stormwater World Newsletter: https://stormwaterworld.com/newsletter-sign-up/   Please don't forget to rate, comment, and subscribe to Stormwater World Podcast on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts!
Nature Ignores Design That Ignores Nature! with Tom Mortensen, PLA, ASLA, from raSmith
Jul 24 2024
Nature Ignores Design That Ignores Nature! with Tom Mortensen, PLA, ASLA, from raSmith
Stormwater World Episode 028: Nature Ignores Design that Ignores Nature! with Tom Mortensen, PLA, ASLA from raSmith   Did you know that this podcast is produced by Digital Stormwater? Digital Stormwater B2B Visibility & Digital Marketing, making a difference in stormwater 1 click at a time! They do all things digital. Check them out at DigitalStormwater.com because the best-known beats best every time. Key Points Discussed [00:00:00] - Introduction "Engineers do want to very efficiently get to a solution, which I totally understand and respect." - Tom Mortensen"I work as this liaison between the right brain, left brain, construct and design." - Tom Mortensen [00:01:00] - Digital Stormwater Overview Services offered: Social media management, Google, LinkedIn, and meta ads, SEO and content creation, website builds and updates, AI automations, consulting, and more. [00:02:00] - Guest Introduction "Tom Mortensen has over 35 years of experience in site design, landscape architecture, and related design and construction in the construction professions." - TyTom’s experience includes work with the U.S. Forest Service, National Park Service, Boy Scouts of America, Native American Tribes, and the U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs. [00:03:00] - Rainfall Integration and Stormwater Management "Rainfall integration, which is also known as stormwater management." - Tom MortensenDiscussion on green infrastructure and its early challenges and developments. [00:04:00] - Nature and Design "Nature ignores design that ignores nature." - Tom MortensenImportance of taking cues from nature in design to create sustainable solutions. [00:10:00] - Collaboration in Design "So this thing called design, what happens is we all get together to do that design, and then you engineer that design, and then you landscape that design, and then you build that design." - Tom MortensenEmphasis on multidisciplinary approach and early collaboration to save time and create effective designs. [00:14:00] - Grant Funding for Green Infrastructure "There's grant funding available to implement GI, and so if you're going to add 5,000 square feet of impervious on a site, you have to implement some form of GI." - Tom MortensenExample of a successful project on a college campus receiving $1.3 million in funding. [00:20:00] - Project Examples Colectivo Coffee: "On one half of the roof that drains to the east, we took that roof water, that rainwater, and we put it through a series of troughs and created a big water feature." - Tom MortensenChallenges and successes in managing urban sites with creative stormwater solutions. [00:34:00] - Natural Design Principles "If you go back to that picture I just showed you, all the trees are on the side slopes, in the uplands. That's where the trees grow. They don't grow down in a low flow channel." - Tom MortensenImportance of mimicking natural landscapes in stormwater design. [00:39:00] - Relationship to Water and Future Outlook "The earth is not green, it's blue. And I think we need to start thinking differently about our relationship to water." - Tom MortensenDiscussion on the ongoing challenges and progress in water management and sustainability. In this episode of the Stormwater World Podcast, host Ty Garmon and Tom Mortensen, a senior project manager and landscape architect with over 35 years of experience, discuss the integration of nature into design, emphasizing the importance of green infrastructure and sustainable stormwater management. Tom shares insights on how to effectively balance creative and technical aspects in site planning, the benefits of multidisciplinary collaboration, and the necessity of understanding natural systems. He highlights successful projects and the role of grant funding in promoting green infrastructure, concluding with thoughts on the evolving relationship between humans and water management. The views expressed are that of the individual and do not represent the opinions of any companies past, present or future.   Connect with Tom Mortensen: Connect with Tom on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tommortensen1/ Email: tom.mortensen@rasmith.com Website: https://www.rasmith.com/ Presentation:    Connect with Ty Garmon, LEED AP:  Connect with Ty on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tygarmon/ Sign up to be a guest: https://forms.gle/whijSz9Tio3iZda57 Check out The Stormwater World Podcast on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC9hVXVJ5oXplf_V9XOPpR6A Podcast Website: https://stormwaterworld.com Stay Informed! Sign-up for the Stormwater World Newsletter: https://stormwaterworld.com/newsletter-sign-up/   Please don't forget to rate, comment, and subscribe to Stormwater World Podcast on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts!
Stormwater Monitoring Devices & Systems with Dan Penczak, from OTT HydroMet
Jul 10 2024
Stormwater Monitoring Devices & Systems with Dan Penczak, from OTT HydroMet
Stormwater World Episode 027: Stormwater Monitoring Devices & Systems with Dan Penczak from OTT HydroMet   Did you know that this podcast is produced by Digital Stormwater? Digital Stormwater B2B Visibility & Digital Marketing, making a difference in stormwater 1 click at a time! They do all things digital. Check them out at DigitalStormwater.com because the best-known beats best every time. Key Points Discussed [00:00:00] - Introduction and Overview of Stormwater Monitoring Importance of monitoring water levels and predicting problemsOverview of the podcast and shout out to Digital Stormwater [00:01:00] - Services offered by Digital Stormwater Social media management, Google, LinkedIn, and Meta adsSEO and content creation, website builds and updates, AI automations, consulting [00:02:00] - Introducing Dan Penczak from Ott HydroMet Dan’s background in water industries and monitoring applicationsHis role at Ott HydroMet and personal interests [00:03:00] - Basics of Stormwater Monitoring Reasons for monitoring stormwaterRelationship between weather and water monitoring [00:04:00] - Specific Monitoring Devices and Their Functions Examples of devices like InfoTracker and Pave DrainHow Ott HydroMet approaches monitoring and specific devices used [00:07:00] - Use of Water Level Monitoring Methods for measuring water level: pressure transducer, radar, bubblerImportance of water level data for flood prediction and management [00:10:00] - Data Collection Methods and Real-time Monitoring Options for data collection: periodic retrieval, telemetry, cellular or satelliteUse of real-time data for immediate action and alerts [00:12:00] - Urban Flood Warning and Critical Asset Protection Applications of monitoring in urban flood warning systemsImportance of protecting critical infrastructure and downstream assets [00:14:00] - Ideal Monitoring Station Components Components of an ideal monitoring station: level sensor, data logger, weather sensorsAddition of cameras for visual confirmation and comprehensive monitoring [00:15:00] - Continuous Monitoring for Water Quality Importance of continuous monitoring for parameters like pH, turbidity, conductivityEmerging contaminants like PFAS and the challenges in monitoring them [00:17:00] - Tips for Effective Stormwater Monitoring Programs Being intentional about monitoring goals and locationsStarting with critical areas and expanding as needed [00:20:00] - Budget-friendly Monitoring Solutions Affordability of monitoring solutions for municipalitiesOptions for short-term rentals and their use cases [00:22:00] - Use Cases for Rental and Loaner Packages Examples of rental scenarios: short-term projects, long-term studiesBenefits of renting equipment for specific needs [00:23:00] - Training and Technical Support for Monitoring Devices Availability of training and technical support for usersIntuitive design of devices for ease of use [00:24:00] - Solar Radiation Monitoring and Other Weather Parameters Monitoring solar radiation and its applicationsUse of weather data in stormwater monitoring [00:25:00] - Example of a Long-standing Flood Warning System in Texas Example of a flood warning system in Harris County, TexasCollaboration and evolution of the system over time [00:26:00] - Contact Information for Dan Penczak and Additional Resources Best ways to contact Dan Penczak for more informationMention of Stormwater Professionals Group on LinkedIn for industry connections Quotes Dan Penczak: "Data can be used to not only identify problem areas, but you could also start to try to predict when problems are going to occur." [00:00:00] Dan Penczak: "The majority of what we do is streams. We do a lot with the federal government and dams, monitoring critical assets." [00:11:00] Dan Penczak: "We are seeing more and more of what I'd call adaptive stormwater control and folks reaching out to us for sensors, data loggers, and programming." [00:12:00] Host: "If it were me, I'd have stuff all over the place if I was running a program. I'd want to know everything going on." [00:18:00] Dan Penczak: "While these solutions are pretty robust and scientific grade, they are made affordable to the average municipality that is strapped for budget." [00:19:00] In this episode of the Stormwater World Podcast, host Ty Garmon discusses the importance and applications of stormwater monitoring devices and systems with Dan Penczak from Ott HydroMet. Dan shares his extensive experience in water industries, focusing on the importance of monitoring stormwater control measures. He explains the various technologies used to monitor water levels and quality, their benefits, and how they can predict and mitigate flooding. Dan emphasizes the importance of data in identifying problem areas, ensuring compliance, and protecting critical assets. He also highlights Ott HydroMet's range of monitoring solutions, from simple sensors to advanced real-time data collection systems, and underscores the affordability and practicality of these tools for municipalities. The views expressed are that of the individual and do not represent the opinions of any companies past, present or future. Connect with Dan Penczak: Connect with Dan on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/danpenczak/ Stormwater Professionals: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/127166/ Email: dan.penczak@otthydromet.com Website: https://www.otthydromet.com/en/ Presentation: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1rUJOJbtD56dX3mjDuPUioJqDqYYiIWL9/view?usp=sharing   Connect with Ty Garmon, LEED AP:  Connect with Ty on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tygarmon/ Sign up to be a guest: https://forms.gle/whijSz9Tio3iZda57 Check out The Stormwater World Podcast on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC9hVXVJ5oXplf_V9XOPpR6A Podcast Website: https://stormwaterworld.com Stay Informed! Sign-up for the Stormwater World Newsletter: https://stormwaterworld.com/newsletter-sign-up/   Please don't forget to rate, comment, and subscribe to Stormwater World Podcast on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts!
Deep Infiltration Systems with Alex Bennet From Torrent Resources
Jun 20 2024
Deep Infiltration Systems with Alex Bennet From Torrent Resources
Stormwater World Episode 026: Deep Infiltration Systems with Alex Bennett, Technical Marketing Engineer at Torrent Resources   Did you know that this podcast is produced by Digital Stormwater? Digital Stormwater B2B Visibility & Digital Marketing, making a difference in stormwater 1 click at a time! They do all things digital. Check them out at DigitalStormwater.com because the best-known beats best every time. Key Points Discussed [00:00:00] Introduction Host Ty Garmon welcomes Alex Bennett from Torrent Resources.Overview of the topic: deep infiltration systems and dry wells. [00:01:00] About Alex Bennett Alex's background in stormwater compliance and water quality.Educational background: Master's degree in Environmental Science from UC Santa Barbara. [00:02:00] Basics of Deep Infiltration Alex explains deep infiltration and its benefits."A lot of folks, even in places where dry wells are used commonly, aren't familiar with them." [00:03:00] Infiltration Systems Overview Comparison between surface level and deep infiltration systems.Importance of treating stormwater to match pre-development drainage patterns. [00:04:00] Designing Dry Wells Alex describes the design and sizing of dry wells."We're basically taking the same zone of infiltration you would see with a surface level basin, and locating it vertically within the soil column." [00:06:00] Soil Considerations Role of geotechnical reports in designing dry wells."The geotech is your friend." [00:08:00] Infiltration Depth Factors influencing the depth of dry wells.Minimum and maximum depths based on soil and groundwater conditions. [00:12:00] Installation and Performance Typical dry well installation process and dimensions."We see really favorable infiltration rates due to the combination of hitting varying soil layers and having a significant column of water." [00:15:00] Site Constraints and Benefits Advantages of dry wells in constrained spaces."Dry wells can fit into a site and a stormwater treatment train really easily." [00:17:00] Maintenance Maintenance requirements for dry wells."Maintenance is just done via standard VAC truck... it's really easy." [00:22:00] Cost Effectiveness Cost comparison of dry wells versus other BMPs."If we have good infiltration rates, dry wells are more cost-effective." [00:25:00] Regulatory Considerations Regulatory challenges and successes in approving dry wells."The next step is statewide guidance on how to size these dry wells." [00:28:00] Combining BMPs Integration of dry wells with other BMPs."A very common layout is pretreatment BMP leading into a big detention tank, leading into one to three dry wells." [00:32:00] Design Tools Torrent Resources’ design tool for dry wells."We have a great online tool to get a quick unit count." [00:36:00] Final Thoughts Importance of working with geotechnical engineers."There's no one size fits all approach for infiltration or stormwater treatment." Quotes Ty Garmon: "It's interesting, you can go vertical instead of horizontal. That's really interesting." Alex Bennett: "Infiltration of stormwater, once you're getting it into the soil system, there is a significant amount of absorption, adsorption, natural treatment of the standard suite of stormwater pollutants." In this episode of the Stormwater World Podcast, host Ty Garmon discusses deep infiltration systems with Alex Bennett from Torrent Resources. They explore the design and benefits of dry wells, which are vertical stormwater infiltration systems that maximize space efficiency and improve stormwater management. Alex highlights the importance of soil conditions and geotechnical reports in designing effective systems, and explains how dry wells can be integrated with other Best Management Practices (BMPs). The conversation also covers maintenance requirements, cost considerations, and regulatory challenges, providing a comprehensive overview of deep infiltration as a stormwater solution. The views expressed are that of the individual and do not represent the opinions of any companies past, present or future. Connect with Alex Bennett: Connect with Aaron on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexbennett2/ Email: alex.bennett@oldcastle.com Website: https://torrentresources.com/   Connect with Ty Garmon, LEED AP:  Connect with Ty on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tygarmon/ Sign up to be a guest: https://forms.gle/whijSz9Tio3iZda57 Check out The Stormwater World Podcast on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC9hVXVJ5oXplf_V9XOPpR6A Podcast Website: https://stormwaterworld.com Stay Informed! Sign-up for the Stormwater World Newsletter: https://stormwaterworld.com/newsletter-sign-up/ Please don't forget to rate, comment, and subscribe to Stormwater World Podcast on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts!
Innovation Does Not Mean New or Unproven! With Aaron Fisher, PhD from Ernest Maier
Jun 6 2024
Innovation Does Not Mean New or Unproven! With Aaron Fisher, PhD from Ernest Maier
Did you know that this podcast is produced by Digital Stormwater? Digital Stormwater B2B Visibility & Digital Marketing, making a difference in stormwater 1 click at a time! They do all things digital. Check them out at DigitalStormwater.com because the best-known beats best every time. Key Points Discussed Innovation and Its True MeaningTy Garmon (03:15): "Innovation is one of those keywords that you get into management and you just like to throw around... There's a certain kind of person that like looks at something and says, it needs to be better."Dr. Aaron Fisher (05:41): "Management likes to give permission to innovate, but it's not always as simple as just saying, here's your permission slip to innovate." Challenges of Innovation in CorporationsTy Garmon (07:50): "So it's the fear of getting yelled at. And certainly in regulations, stormwater regulations and stormwater and like just engineering in general, it's I've done this before. It worked."Dr. Aaron Fisher (10:13): "We don't have a lot of middle management...a lot of people are aligned with the bottom line." Fiberglass Rebar as an Innovative ProductDr. Aaron Fisher (19:13): "What we've done with concrete is we've added a second material into a mega composite... But one of the big struggles with concrete is the corrosion that occurs."Ty Garmon (21:33): "If you're going to build a stormwater structure and you're not considering this, you're overlooking it." PaveDrain SystemDr. Aaron Fisher (28:36): "It's a heavy-duty, low maintenance, permeable pavement...it's a second generation system."Ty Garmon (35:55): "Innovation in the stormwater world does not mean new and untested." Cultural and Organizational InertiaDr. Aaron Fisher (44:59): "If you recognize people for innovating, regardless of whether the innovation was a success, that's rewarding, that's recognition for trying things." Future of Stormwater ManagementTy Garmon (54:20): "You need to challenge yourself without necessarily breaking the bank because yes, can we build a sea wall that can resist 10 feet of sea level rise? Yeah, we just built an 11 foot sea wall." Quotes Ty Garmon: "Innovation is not the greatest thing since sliced bread, but it can help a lot of things. It can help you avoid a lot of things." Dr. Aaron Fisher: "We're trying to sell a product category that we've never sold before and we're innovating and we didn't have a plan for this." In this episode of the Stormwater World Podcast, host Ty Garmon talks with Dr. Aaron Fisher, Vice President of Business Development at Ernest Maier, about innovation in the stormwater industry. They explore the true meaning of innovation, the challenges faced within corporate structures, and the importance of fostering a culture that encourages innovative thinking. Dr. Fisher highlights two key products, fiberglass rebar and the PaveDrain system, discussing their benefits and the hurdles in promoting new technologies. The conversation underscores the need for practical, tested solutions to address evolving stormwater management challenges and emphasizes that innovation doesn't always mean unproven but rather improved and reliable methods. The views expressed are that of the individual and do not represent the opinions of any companies past, present or future. Connect with Aaron Fisher, PhD, PMP: Connect with Aaron on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aaron-fisher-phd-31020811/ Email: afisher@emcoblock.com Website: www.ernestmaier.com   Connect with Ty Garmon, LEED AP:  Connect with Ty on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tygarmon/ Sign up to be a guest: https://forms.gle/whijSz9Tio3iZda57 Check out The Stormwater World Podcast on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC9hVXVJ5oXplf_V9XOPpR6A Podcast Website: https://stormwaterworld.com Stay Informed! Sign-up for the Stormwater World Newsletter: https://stormwaterworld.com/newsletter-sign-up/ Please don't forget to rate, comment, and subscribe to Stormwater World Podcast on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts!
Extreme Weather! with Andy Erickson, PhD, PE from St. Anthony Falls Laboratory
May 21 2024
Extreme Weather! with Andy Erickson, PhD, PE from St. Anthony Falls Laboratory
Stormwater World Episode 024: Andy Erickson, PhD, P.E. is the Research Manager at St. Anthony Falls Laboratory, University of Minnesota, Chair - ASTM Committee E64 on Stormwater Control Measures; Chair - University of Minnesota Water Council.   Did you know that this podcast is produced by Digital Stormwater? Digital Stormwater B2B Visibility & Digital Marketing, making a difference in stormwater 1 click at a time! They do all things digital. Check them out at DigitalStormwater.com because the best-known beats best every time.   00:00-01:01 -  Introduction Host Ty Garmon introduces the topic of extreme weather events and their impact on stormwater infrastructure, highlighting the frequent occurrences and aging infrastructure across the country. 01:01-03:22 - Guest Introduction Introduction of Dr. Andy Erickson, his credentials, background in stormwater research, and his contributions to stormwater management literature and community education. 03:22-05:35 - Discussion on Extreme Weather Events and Infrastructure Dr. Erickson discusses the increase in extreme weather events and the challenges it presents to existing stormwater infrastructure. Quotes:"Extreme weather events are a big challenge and everybody sees it. It's in the news. It doesn't matter where you live." - Dr. Andy Erickson"Our infrastructure is aging and wearing out and we have to replace it, it's undersized for what we see today." - Dr. Andy Erickson 05:35-07:49 - Technological Advancements in Stormwater Management Discussion on advancements in stormwater management technology and smart systems. Quotes:"Smart systems...can do this through algorithms and through automated ways... It all is actuated remotely in the cloud." - Ty Garmon 07:49-09:45 - Statistical Insights and Future Projections Dr. Erickson shares statistical insights on the increasing frequency and intensity of rain events and the need for updated infrastructure designs to accommodate these changes. 09:45-12:12 - Adaptation Strategies for Existing Infrastructure Strategies for adapting existing stormwater infrastructure to cope with increased rainfall and extreme events, including the use of smart systems for better management. 12:12-14:33 - In-depth Technical Discussion Detailed discussion on specific technologies and methods for enhancing stormwater management, including smart ponds and green infrastructure. 14:33-16:55 - Conclusion and Final Thoughts Ty Garmon wraps up the discussion, highlighting the key points discussed and the importance of adapting stormwater management practices to meet future challenges. Quote:"We're basically saving the world from extreme weather today." - Ty Garmon This episode explores the increasing challenges posed by extreme weather events on aging and undersized stormwater infrastructure. Dr. Erickson, an expert in stormwater research from the University of Minnesota, explores the impact of frequent extreme precipitation events and the technological advancements in stormwater management, such as smart systems and green infrastructure. Throughout the episode, he shares insights on the necessity for updated design standards and adaptive strategies to better manage stormwater in the face of changing climate patterns, emphasizing the integration of new technologies and the reevaluation of existing systems to enhance resilience and efficiency. The views expressed are that of the individual and do not represent the opinions of any companies past, present or future. Links Andy mentioned during the Pod: "Climate Change Adaptation ofUrban Stormwater Infrastructure." MnDOT Report no. MN 2023-21. https://www.cts.umn.edu/research/project/climate-change-adaptation-of-urban-stormwater-infrastructure https://researchprojects.dot.state.mn.us/projectpages/pages/projectDetails.jsf?id=23871&type=CONTRACT https://mdl.mndot.gov/items/202321 Links to signup for newsletters: https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/su/y4awdPX  or http://z.umn.edu/MNStormwaterSeminarSignup   Connect with Andy Erickson, PhD, P.E.: Connect with Andy on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrew-j-erickson-ab64a413/ Email: eric0706@umn.edu   Connect with Ty Garmon, LEED AP:  Connect with Ty on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tygarmon/ Sign up to be a guest: https://forms.gle/whijSz9Tio3iZda57 Check out The Stormwater World Podcast on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC9hVXVJ5oXplf_V9XOPpR6A Podcast Website: https://stormwaterworld.com Stay Informed! Sign-up for the Stormwater World Newsletter: https://stormwaterworld.com/newsletter-sign-up/ Please don't forget to rate, comment, and subscribe to Stormwater World Podcast on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts!
AI is NOT a Buzzword! with Kristin Kautz, CPSM from Jam Idea Agency
Apr 25 2024
AI is NOT a Buzzword! with Kristin Kautz, CPSM from Jam Idea Agency
Did you know that this podcast is produced by Digital Stormwater? Digital Stormwater B2B Visibility & Digital Marketing, making a difference in stormwater 1 click at a time! They do all things digital. Check them out at DigitalStormwater.com because the best-known beats best every time.   00:00 - Introduction Host Ty Garmon introduces the topic of artificial intelligence (AI) and its relevance both within and beyond the field of stormwater. Ty discusses the pervasive impact of AI and introduces the guest, Kristen Kautz. 05:15 - Kristen Kautz on AI's Integration and Impact Quote: "AI has been around since the 1950s... People have already been interacting with it and using the technology, even if they didn't know they were using the technology." - Kristen Kautz 3:05 - Discussion on AI Development and Generative AI Quote: "When they launched this platform called ChatGPT... it just fit into the way that I already look at tech. We're techno-optimists." - Kristen Kautz 5:00 - AI in the Workplace and Misconceptions Quote: "It's not just a search engine, but people who get it, and we're starting to get that kind of those networks around us." - Kristen Kautz 8:53 - Future of AI and Ethical Considerations Quote: "We may be getting all over the place here, but people ask me too, like when they generate something from chat GPT or any AI model, what are the chances that you and I will get the same answer? It's almost infinitesimally non-existent that will happen because of the way how AI dissolves and rebuilds." - Kristen Kautz 11:57 - AI and Job Automation Kristen elaborates on how AI can aid in reducing workload and freeing up human resources for more critical tasks. 12:27 - Practical Applications of AI Kristen talks about the multimodal capabilities of AI platforms and how they can handle tasks like reading images and automating responses. 50:25 - Closing Remarks Ty and Kristen conclude the discussion by emphasizing the significance of embracing AI technology to enhance operational efficiency and innovation in various sectors. 53:11 - End of Podcast This episode explores the nuances of AI and its transformative impact on industries, emphasizing its longstanding presence and evolving capabilities. The quotes chosen illustrate Kristen Kautz's insights on the integration and potential of AI in modern practices.   The views expressed are that of the individual and do not represent the opinions of any companies past, present or future. Links Kristin mentioned during the Pod: ChatGPT: https://chat.openai.com/ Claude AI: https://claude.ai/ Perplexity: https://www.perplexity.ai/   Connect with Kristin Kautz, CPSM: Connect with Kristin on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristinkautz/ Jam Idea Agency: https://www.jamideaagency.com/#/ KLK@JAMIdeaAgency.com   Connect with Ty Garmon, LEED AP:  Connect with Ty on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tygarmon/ Sign up to be a guest: https://forms.gle/whijSz9Tio3iZda57 Check out The Stormwater World Podcast on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC9hVXVJ5oXplf_V9XOPpR6A Podcast Website: https://stormwaterworld.com Stay Informed! Sign-up for the Stormwater World Newsletter: https://stormwaterworld.com/newsletter-sign-up/   Please don't forget to rate, comment, and subscribe to Stormwater World Podcast on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts!
*Special Edition* - Digital Stormwater an Origin Story with Maryella Begley-Garmon, P.E.
Apr 11 2024
*Special Edition* - Digital Stormwater an Origin Story with Maryella Begley-Garmon, P.E.
Did you know that this podcast is produced by Digital Stormwater? Digital Stormwater B2B Visibility & Digital Marketing, making a difference in stormwater 1 click at a time! They do all things digital. Check them out at DigitalStormwater.com because best known beats best every time.   Special EditionEpisode: “Who doesn’t love a good origin story?” In this episode, host, Ty Garmon and Maryella Begley-Garmon, P.E. discuss how their company, Digital Stormwater, and the Stormwater World Podcast got started.   “What I've always loved about being an engineer, is the things that I did actually made a difference in making people's lives better.” Maryella is a civil engineer with over 25 years of experience in stormwater and drainage. When she was a “baby engineer” just out of college, she had a project that had a profound impact on her personally and how she looked at the work she was doing. “I just remember…realizing what I was doing was actually making an impact in individual lives. And that was so powerful for me as a young engineer. I was like this is what I want to do. I want to make a difference to people.” That is where her passion comes from and why the work she does with Digital Stormwater is important to here: bringing awareness in the stormwater industry to products that need greater visibility so they can make the impact they are supposed to make. “It doesn't matter how great your product is, if nobody knows it's there, it's not going to have the impact that it could have, it's not going to do its job to make stormwater cleaner to make people's lives better, if nobody knows that it exists.”   “It's important to keep in mind, just the whys about everything, you know why you do a lot of things,” Ty explains. “ I tell that to people all the time, you can't be in this industry for 12 years and not get it on. 12 years ago, I really didn't know a whole lot about stormwater. I didn't really understand the impacts. Now I definitely care about water in general and then specifically, what's going on in stormwater, way more than I did 12 years ago, when I ventured into this industry.” Ty went down the digital rabbit hole looking for ways to market the product he was selling at the time. He felt like digital was the way to go. Conferences are great, but there are so many people who can’t go to them and then never hear about the products that are exhibited at them. He was talking with his friend Doug Buch from PaveDrain about his ideas for social media “And Doug said, ‘yeah, man, whatever you're talking about, I need to do that. Whenever you do, let me know.’” So that is how Digital Stormwater began in 2019. What began as a 1 man effort on nights and weekends is now a full blown digital marketing agency. Ty explains, “So we take on all things. So what was an idea that was built around social media and exposure has come full blown business to business visibility for everyone in the stormwater industry. And it doesn't matter what you need, if it's digital, we can provide it for you.”    Quotes: “ What we're trying to do is we're impacting stormwater one click at a time” (00:05 | Ty)“ What I've always loved about being an engineer, is the things that I did actually made a difference in making people's lives better.” (2:27 | Maryella) “I think it's important to keep in mind, just the whys about everything, you know why you do things.” (5:36 | Ty)“It doesn't matter how great your product is, if nobody knows it's there. It's not going to have the impact that it could have, it's not going to do its job to make stormwater cleaner to make people's lives better, if nobody knows that exists.” (06:57 | Maryella) “We all need to put our heads together and get that information out to the general public because they still don't have a clue.” (12:16 | Ty) The views expressed are that of the individual and do not represent the opinions of any companies past, present or future. Connect with Maryella Begley-Garmon, P.E.: Email: maryella@digitalstormwater.com LI: https://www.linkedin.com/in/maryella-begley-garmon-p-e-16772157/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/digitalstormwater/ Website: https://digitalstormwater.com/   Connect with Ty Garmon, LEED AP:  Connect with Ty on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tygarmon/ Sign up to be a guest: https://forms.gle/whijSz9Tio3iZda57 Check out The Stormwater World Podcast on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC9hVXVJ5oXplf_V9XOPpR6A Podcast Website: https://stormwaterworld.com Stay Informed! Sign-up for the Stormwater World Newsletter: https://stormwaterworld.com/newsletter-sign-up/ Please don't forget to rate, comment, and subscribe to Stormwater World Podcast on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts!
Let's Talk TREES!!! with John Palmer ISA Board Certified Master Arborist & Consultant
Mar 22 2024
Let's Talk TREES!!! with John Palmer ISA Board Certified Master Arborist & Consultant
Did you know that this podcast is produced by Digital Stormwater? Digital Stormwater B2B Visibility & Digital Marketing, making a difference in stormwater 1 click at a time! They do all things digital. Check them out at DigitalStormwater.com because best known beats best every time. Episode 022: “People think about a tree person or an arborist they think, ‘Well, yeah, he's a tree hugger.’ Yeah, okay, fine. I am. But it's just because they make me feel good. The benefits of trees have actually been qualified and quantified.” John Palmer is an ISA Board Certified Master Arborist. In this episode, John and host, Ty Garmon, discuss how trees impact stormwater in urban environments and how to keep those trees healthy.  “When it comes to the practical, and when you're talking stormwater, trees, remove pollutants from water. They actually increase infiltration into soils… Trees can pull an amazing amount of water out of saturated soils. There are some estimates that a large tree can pull 100, maybe more, gallons of water a day out of saturated soils. So trees are actually a stormwater control measure. They are a stormwater utility,” John explains. There are different aspects of what the trees do in our stormwater environment that also include erosion control and streambank stabilization. “Tree roots grow differently than the way most people think. Mature trees do not have deep roots, and most tree roots are in the top 18 inches of soil. Just imagine a wine glass on a dinner plate. You have canopy, trunk, and roots. Roots do not just stop at the edge of the drip line or the canopy, they can actually extend two to three times the diameter, and they don't grow deep,” John explains. This is how trees help with erosion control. A single tree has a large root structure that helps hold soils in place. As we continue to build, it is important to educate both designers and constructors how to properly protect existing trees and how to choose the correct new trees to be planted, and how to plant them correctly. There are 10 volumes of ANSI standards on how to do this. “It's more important to save a large tree than it is to plant new trees…because you're already getting large benefits. You plant a small tree, you get small benefits. When you plant a new tree, it's not a tree, in my mind, it's a shrub on a stick. And that's the benefits that we're getting from it,” John explains. Putting a root protection zone 20 feet from the trunk of a tree with an 80 foot canopy doesn’t work because the roots extend out 2 to 3 times the diameter of the canopy. Driving construction equipment over the roots compacts the soil around them, damaging the roots and the tree. Quotes: “I call it the pinball effect. When a raindrop hits the top of the tree, it bounces, it splits, it runs off, and it's like a pinball, the old pinball games” (15:48 | John)“ It's more important to save a large tree than it is to plant new trees.” (24:50 | John)“I think that tree protection zone with the orange snow fence, that's a that's a false sense of security that allows somebody to check a box, but it's not really protecting the tree at all..” (24:50 | John)“The more we understand the less damage that we can do.” (34:21 | John) The views expressed are that of the individual and do not represent the opinions of any companies past, present or future. Links John mentioned during the Pod: ANSI A300 Standards for tree care: https://tcimag.tcia.org/tree-care/standards-regulations/introducing-the-newly-designed-ansi-a300-tree-care-standards/ ISA: http://www.treesargood.org/ Morton Arboretum: https://mortonarb.org/plant-and-protect/benefits-of-trees/#overview   Connect with John Palmer: Email: treephd@protonmail.com https://www.gotostage.com/channel/9cf935c1e5f24639954d2bf77fb41a9f https://www.linkedin.com/in/veritymediatreetraininglecturesandconsulting/ https://twitter.com/CrankyArborist   Connect with Ty Garmon, LEED AP: Connect with Ty on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tygarmon/ Sign up to be a guest: https://forms.gle/whijSz9Tio3iZda57 Check out The Stormwater World Podcast on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC9hVXVJ5oXplf_V9XOPpR6A Podcast Website: https://stormwaterworld.com Stay Informed! Sign-up for the Stormwater World Newsletter: https://stormwaterworld.com/newsletter-sign-up/ Please don't forget to rate, comment, and subscribe to Stormwater World Podcast on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts!
Meet the Clean Water Freak! with Joe Moore, Co-founder and Chief Ambassador of Siltworm & ECS
Mar 7 2024
Meet the Clean Water Freak! with Joe Moore, Co-founder and Chief Ambassador of Siltworm & ECS
Did you know that this podcast is produced by Digital Stormwater? Digital Stormwater B2B Visibility & Digital Marketing, making a difference in stormwater 1 click at a time! They do all things digital. Check them out at DigitalStormwater.com because best known beats best every time.   Episode 021: “I have inadvertently turned into what some people would call a stormwater nerd, or I call myself a clean water freak because I think it's way cooler to be excited about it.” Joe Moore has had an interesting journey from unintentional polluter to informed advocate actively making decisions to clean up stormwater. The construction industry was hot at the time Joe graduated from college, and he got a job with a large homebuilder. He was working near the Stillwater River in Cincinnati so he was able to do the things he loved like fishing and canoe trips. Joe is an outdoorsman at heart, going back to when he was around 5 and his dad would take him out to the shores of Lake Michigan. “I didn't realize the impact I was having as a polluter to a waterway that I was using. And so I look back on all that now and say what a blessing or what an opportunity that I got to see that,” Joe says of that time. Then Joe started his own construction company and found that he was being required to buy and use products that simply didn’t work.    That was the birth of Siltworm.  It wasn’t that he didn’t want to comply with stormwater regulations, he did. He just wanted to do it in a way that actually made a difference. Joe’s construction company was being forced to spend literally thousands of dollars on products and methods that didn’t work, so he decided to create something that would. Joe started looking at filter sock technology using compost for sediment control. At first, they kept it under the envelope of their construction company as a pet project. As regulations started to change and catch up to address what was and wasn’t working, they realized that their pet company project could be helpful to others in the industry. They didn’t just stop with what they had, they dug in to make it better. They split the construction business from Siltworm and doubled down on it.    It was a process of failing forward. “When we were filling with compost, our sediment retention numbers were in the mid 60s to low 70s.” The data for silt fencing products were sometimes as low as the mid 20s. Problems arose because the composted material was having organic growth, so they started looking at alternatives. There was an opportunity to recycle wooden pallets to use as the filter filling instead of compost. This also increased the sediment capture rate by 10-15 basis points. Looking into the differences between the materials to understand the sediment capture difference, Joe decided to try kiln dried softwoods and the sediment capture numbers went up to 97%! When you look back at why you are doing what you do, this addressed so many things. “Being able to have a clean product, recycled, kiln, dried softwoods gave us an opportunity to keep a lot of material that was going to a landfill out of it. We're really proud of this. In five years, we've kept over 60 million tons of that material from going into landfills.” Joe and Siltworm are continuing to innovate, most recently with the introduction of Bioworm and the regional installation company, Storm Water Pollution Prevention Services. Joe is creating a legacy in an industry he is quite passionate about, where he gets to protect this limited resource we have in our waterways.   Quotes: “I call myself a clean water freak because I think it's way cooler to be excited about it, right?” (01:23 | Joe)“I made a decision to get in this industry because I was spending a bunch of money on something that wasn't working,” (32:46 | Joe) “Stormwater is gross. Stormwater should be taught, treated just like wastewater. As far as I'm concerned, we need to fix the water for everybody.” (52:48 | Ty)“I've still never met someone who doesn't want clean water.” (48:07 | Joe) The views expressed are that of the individual and do not represent the opinions of any companies past, present or future. Check out these Conferences Joe mentioned during the Pod: Ohio Stormwater Conference: https://ohstormwaterconference.com/ Indiana Stormwater Conference: https://www.inafsm.net/2024-annual-conference Indiana MS4 Annual Meeting: https://www.indianams4.org/2024-annual-meeting   Connect with Joe Moore: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joemoore6/ jmoore@siltworm.com   Connect with Ty Garmon, LEED AP:  Connect with Ty on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tygarmon/ Sign up to be a guest: https://forms.gle/whijSz9Tio3iZda57 Check out The Stormwater World Podcast on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC9hVXVJ5oXplf_V9XOPpR6A Podcast Website: https://stormwaterworld.com Stay Informed! Sign-up for the Stormwater World Newsletter: https://stormwaterworld.com/newsletter-sign-up/   Please don't forget to rate, comment, and subscribe to Stormwater World Podcast on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts!
Stormwater | One of Our Greatest Overlooked Resources, with Christian Hennessy, Product Treatment Manager from Oldcastle Infrastructure
Feb 5 2024
Stormwater | One of Our Greatest Overlooked Resources, with Christian Hennessy, Product Treatment Manager from Oldcastle Infrastructure
Stormwater World 020: Christian Hennessy | Treatment Product Manager with Oldcastle Infrastructure Did you know that this podcast is produced by Digital Stormwater? Digital Stormwater B2B Visibility & Digital Marketing, making a difference in stormwater 1 click at a time! They do all things digital. Check them out at DigitalStormwater.com because the best-known beats best every time. Episode 020: “My passion for stormwater really stems from my love of the outdoors. I'm an avid hiker and outdoorsman, and I desire to be a steward of that environment.” You can definitely hear Christian Hennessy’s passion for stormwater and environmental stewardship in his conversation with host, Ty Garmon, in this episode. Christian gives a little stormwater 101 where he explains the 4 aspects of stormwater design: directing, storing, cleaning, and transporting. Different sites and geographical areas have different complexities for these components.  “The whole impetus of stormwater is to try to take a built environment and make it act like the pre-developed conditions,” Christian explains. This is more than just the amount of water being released. It encompasses directing water to protect the natural environment and other built infrastructure to get it to the detention facility, infiltration for groundwater recharge, cleaning the contaminates it has picked up along the way, and, in some instances, transporting the water from areas of abundance to areas with significant drought conditions. Christians says “It's all part of the beautiful puzzle of stormwater.” “The most important needs and challenges for the stormwater industry specifically include storing, cleaning and treating the water,” Christian continues. In urban areas where there is a lack of available land area, you need creative solutions to store the runoff until it can be released. This may be under building foundations or parking lots, so then it becomes important to ensure the structural integrity of the infrastructure above the storage. The water also needs to be conveyed for reuse potentially for irrigation, toilet flushing, or other uses. Before it can be used, however, it needs to be treated. Detention aids is cleaning by allowing sediment to settle out. Then other BMPs are used to help further clean the water. “We're seeing a push for improvement in the contaminants that these devices can remove and the overall efficiency they achieved. Most systems on the market are really good at TSS and hydrocarbons but we're seeing a need and demand for emerging pollutants like nitrogen, PFAS, 6PPD quinone,” Christian explains. “It is hard to get people to change, but I think as awareness increases around what stormwater is, and how it ultimately impacts everybody, whether or not they have the direct line of sight to see it, that's gonna push policy.” “We're looking to innovate and improve our treatment technologies.” Christian explains 3 ways this is occuring in the stormwater industry and inside Oldcastle. First is the ongoing effort to create national standards for stormwater BMPs, STEPP. This will give users and designers a true way to compare devices before they are purchased and installed. The first standard is for Trash Capture and should be published by June 2024. Next is the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) passed 4Q2021. This provides funding for a wide array of new and already identified infrastructure projects. And finally, Oldcastle has established an Innovation Fund with $250 million set aside for developing new technologies and are partnering with companies and researchers to develop the next generation of advanced sustainable building products. “Stormwater really is the first line of defense in protecting our environment.” Quotes: “My passion for stormwater really stems from my love of the outdoors. I'm an avid hiker and outdoorsman, and I desire to be a steward of that environment.” (01:15 | Christian)“The whole impetus of stormwater is to try to take a built environment and make it act like the pre-developed conditions,” (4:32 | Christian) “We just need to be smarter about how we are managing stormwater and looking at it as a resource, which it is, instead of just getting rid of it (27:30 | Christian)“Stormwater is very dirty. You know, I don't think people really think about how much pollution is really carried away in stormwater” (27:30 | Christian) The views expressed are that of the individual and do not represent the opinions of any companies past, present or future. Check out these links Christian mentioned during the Pod: STEPP initiative: http://nationalstormwateralliance.org/stepp/ Oldcastle Innovation Fund: https://www.crh.com/media/press-releases/2022/crh-establishes-new-venture-capital-unit Deciphering the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act: https://oldcastleinfrastructure.com/insights/deciphering-the-infrastructure-investment-and-jobs-act-iija/ Connect with Christian Hennessy: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christian-hennessy-38085952/ christian.hennessy@oldcastle.com   Connect with Ty Garmon, LEED AP:  Connect with Ty on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tygarmon/ Sign up to be a guest: https://forms.gle/whijSz9Tio3iZda57 Check out The Stormwater World Podcast on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC9hVXVJ5oXplf_V9XOPpR6A Podcast Website: https://stormwaterworld.com Stay Informed! Sign-up for the Stormwater World Newsletter: https://stormwaterworld.com/newsletter-sign-up/ Please don't forget to rate, comment, and subscribe to Stormwater World Podcast on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts!
Microplastics, YIKES! with Dylan Drudul, CPESC, CESSWI, CBLP from Profile Products, LLC
Jan 15 2024
Microplastics, YIKES! with Dylan Drudul, CPESC, CESSWI, CBLP from Profile Products, LLC
Episode 019: “So I'm a product geek. I'm a stormwater geek. So I just like it when people are innovating and coming up with new solutions.” Dylan Drudul has worked on both sides of the figurative fence in stormwater. Dylan started his career on the regulatory side working for the City of Rockville, MD doing stormwater quality sampling. “I would go through the expo hall and see all these products, but I come back to my office, and I'm doing my inspections, and I'm not seeing these products in the field,”Dylan says. There were all these innovative products that he was seeing on the market, but they hadn’t made it through the local approval process so they weren’t being utilized. A lot of the older products that have existed for 30-40 years work, but there have been improvements that could push the industry to the next level.  “Was there anything that really was a tipping point in any of your projects where you can think of that, that made a difference that you'd like to share?” asked host Ty Garmon. “Yeah, absolutely,” answers Dylan. “I mean, I think just the failures of our standard practices. Look at what we're doing, here's the status quo.” Dylan said he always felt like there was animosity between the regulatory community and the product development community. He didn’t understand why they couldn’t work together for the good of the industry. Sales is education. Product developers and their salespeople have to educate the construction and regulatory communities about what is available and the benefits these new products offer over how things have always been done. Dylan is now on the product side of the stormwater industry. He is the Regional Business Manager of the Mid-Atlantic and Northeast area of the country for Profile Products. Profile Products produce different hydromulches, which are a blanket alternative for erosion control of excavated areas. There's this discussion around microplastics and concern around polypropylene and plastic base erosion control technology; we're actually making an issue from solving another one. We are trying to make water better, keeping stuff out of the water, filtering stuff from the water, and those devices actually polluting the water with micro microplastics. Dylan says, “a big initiative I do nowadays, especially working for Profile and having 100% bio based all natural, biodegradable products… is really that push to try to remove that intentional introduction of plastics into our environment.” There are solutions that exist now to get the same level of performance that do not intentionally introduce polypropylene into the natural environment. “I read an article the other day that said, you actually consume about five grams of plastic every week, it's a credit card. I mean, isn't that wild to think that we're eating that much and drinking and breathing that much plastic in on a weekly basis? It's the next thing that we are really going to have to think about,” said Dylan. Special mention of the IECA, International Erosion Control Association. Dylan and Ty have both served on their local IECA boards, and Dylan has also served on the international board. Find out more at: https://www.ieca.org/ Quotes: “So I'm a product geek. I'm a stormwater geek. So I just like it when people are innovating and coming up with new solutions.” (25:15 | Dylan)“There's just a lot of stuff in our industry that's been used for 30-40 years. And I'm not saying it's, it doesn't work, but it's definitely been improved upon and can be improved upon further to just push our industry to the next level.” (2:37 | Dylan) “I always felt like there was this, this animosity between the regulatory community and the proprietary development products type community…Why can't we all just work together to better this industry, and to move it forward?” (6:27 | Dylan)“I read an article the other day that said, you actually consume about five grams of plastic every week, it's a credit card. I mean, isn't that wild to think that we're eating that much and drinking and breathing that much plastic in on a weekly basis? It's the next thing that we are really going to have to think about.” (10:27 | Dylan) The views expressed are that of the individual and do not represent the opinions of any companies past, present or future. Connect with Dylan Drudul, CPESC, CESSWI, CBLP: http://linkedin.com/dylandrudul ddrudul@profileproducts.com   Connect with Ty Garmon, LEED AP:  Connect with Ty on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tygarmon/ Sign up to be a guest: https://forms.gle/whijSz9Tio3iZda57 Check out The Stormwater World Podcast on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC9hVXVJ5oXplf_V9XOPpR6A Podcast Website: https://stormwaterworld.com Stay Informed! Sign-up for the Stormwater World Newsletter: https://stormwaterworld.com/newsletter-sign-up/ Please don't forget to rate, comment, and subscribe to Stormwater World Podcast on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts! Did you know that this podcast is produced by Digital Stormwater? They do all things digital. Check them out at DigitalStormwater.com
What is a Preserver & How Does It Work? with Lance Hoff, P.E. from Momentum Environmental
Dec 6 2023
What is a Preserver & How Does It Work? with Lance Hoff, P.E. from Momentum Environmental
Episode 018: “The best way to get into what it is and what it does is to talk about the origin story.” Lance Hoff, P.E. created The Preserver over 10 years ago to address the specific issues that his home state of Minnesota found with pretreatment devices in high flow situations. MNDOT was regulated as an MS4 and needed to provide reporting on measurable goals. They started by testing all of the existing infrastructure they had in place. They had a study done at St. Anthony Falls Laboratory at the University of Minnesota. What they found was that the existing units did well at removing sediment at low flows, but did not perform the same at high flows. Trying to find a fix to retrofit the existing equipment was extremely costly. This is how The Preserver was developed, it could be retrofitted into existing sump manholes at a lower cost and worked well at higher flows as a hydrodynamic separator. The high flow events are not the normal events, but did need to be addressed. “The problem is the high flows, everything scours out. How can we take these sump manholes MN DOT has, and make them work better. They were looking for a product that was retrofittable into sump manholes, and could prevent that scour from happening. They [wanted] to have energy dissipators  to prevent the scour and improve removal efficiency at a fraction of the cost, and you don't have to place them offline.” Lance breaks down the exact problems The Preserver was designed to address. Lance says “So The Preserver's a system, it has two components. It has an energy dissipater which goes on the inlet or inlets if you have multiple inlets, and you have a skimmer that goes on the outlet. You're just trapping any floatable pollutants. Functional wise, it's got some benefits in that it's retrofittable and it's adjustable. But function wise, it's just skimming off floatable pollutants, trapping anything that floats trash, oils, greases, hydrocarbons, leaves, and helps with organics. Then the dissipator is a perforated sheet, essentially, that has a curved shape and connects at the inlet. So it's got a bunch of holes in it. Those orifices are what create the energy losses. They also work to control the flow regime and the structure and spread that flow out and makes the sump very quiet.”  Lance and Ty discussed the difficulties for innovative technologies to be recognized and utilized. Everyone knows what they have always done, so that is their first thought when they have a new project. Just because it is what you have always done, doesn’t mean it is the best solution. “So anybody watching this that wants to promote innovation, that's probably the best way to do it, is keep an eye out for new technologies, especially some of these smaller companies, and help support them and promote those products,” Lance states.  To learn more about The Preserver, visit Momentum’s website: https://thepreserver.com Quotes: “If I put my spoon in my glass, and I stir it up, stuff drops to the bottom, perfect. That works. If I blast that same cup with the fire hose doesn't work as well in the big storms.” (10:38 | Ty)“Let's start doing the math. If we can take half of the sediment before it gets in the pond, and just clean it with a vac truck, it’s way cheaper for us in the long run. We maintain a pond every 60 years, instead, every 30 years, and you run the numbers.” (21:13 | Lance) “ The state just finally made a requirement…what they like about it is even different, because they're responsible for the waters of the state, and they are just big picture. If you're pre treating stormwater, everything downstream of it's working better.” (21:13 | Lance)“ So anybody watching this that wants to promote innovation, that's probably the best way to do it, is keep an eye out for new technologies, especially some of these smaller companies, and help support them and promote those products..” (29:58 | Lance) The views expressed are that of the individual and do not represent the opinions of any companies past, present or future. Connect with Lance Hoff, P.E.: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lance-hoff-6817a216/ https://thepreserver.com/   Connect with Ty Garmon, LEED AP:  Connect with Ty on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tygarmon/ Sign up to be a guest: https://forms.gle/whijSz9Tio3iZda57 Check out The Stormwater World Podcast on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC9hVXVJ5oXplf_V9XOPpR6A Podcast Website: https://stormwaterworld.com Stay Informed! Sign-up for the Stormwater World Newsletter: https://stormwaterworld.com/newsletter-sign-up/ Please don't forget to rate, comment, and subscribe to Stormwater World Podcast on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts! Did you know that this podcast is produced by Digital Stormwater? They do all things digital. Check them out at DigitalStormwater.com
The Magical World of Flocculant with Kyla J. Wood, PhD from Applied Polymer Systems, Inc.
Nov 2 2023
The Magical World of Flocculant with Kyla J. Wood, PhD from Applied Polymer Systems, Inc.
Episode 017: “We started this over 25 years ago when nobody knew what it was. It was like magic powder.” Dr. Kyla Wood has spent her whole life in the flocculant and erosion control world. Her father started Applied Polymer Systems, Inc. and she literally grew up in the business. She even attended her first IECA conference when she was 12 or 13. Building on the foundation of learning, she went on to get her Masters from Northern Michigan and her PhD from Clemson University.  “So basically, what a polymer flocculant is, is it's a very long chain molecule. It's a water soluble polymer that's able to bind to particulates in the water, like sediment and metals, forming them into bigger, larger particles that can then settle out of the water column or be captured. So basically, flocculation is just the process of making little particles into big particles so we can get them out of water,” Kyla breaks down Flocculant 101 for us.There are all kinds of flocculants used for different purposes, but the ones used in stormwater sediment control must be safe to be released into the environment without causing damage. APS uses anionic (negatively charged) polyacrylamide (PAM) formulas that do just that. The negatively charged ions will be repelled by the negative charge of fish gills so that they do not clog them and cause adverse effects in natural waterways. It is important to test samples of the water and/or the soil from a location to ensure you use the correct flocculant. Even if it doesn’t hurt the environment, the wrong mixture won’t be effective. Flocculant is also not meant to replace physical BMPs, they work well together to produce better water quality. Kyla says “Our products are not supposed to replace your traditional BMPs.We want to be using our materials in conjunction with all the other good BMPs that we have for sediment and erosion control. We're an enhancement.”  In addition to the more well known uses for flocculants like water treatment and erosion control, there are lesser known uses for which flocculants are extremely effective. Flocculant can be used for dust control, demucking, large scale dredging, removing water from sediment, and pond and lake management. To learn more about these uses, visit APS’s website: siltstop.com Quotes: “It does look like magic when you take 500 NTU cup of water and turn it into near drinking water in 20 seconds. So it is somewhat magical.” (9:15 | Kyla)“ So basically, flocculation is just the process of making little particles into big particles so we can get them out of water.” (5:47 | Kyla) “the other main [point] would be treating our [physical] sediment control BMPs, if you use the, the granular silt stop with those, you basically turn those sediment control devices into water clarification devices.” (14:39 | Kyla)“ I think what sets us apart is that from planning, to implementation to maintenance to completion,  we don't charge for anything but products, [but] we're there every step of the way.” (23:12 | Kyla) The views expressed are that of the individual and do not represent the opinions of any companies past, present or future. Connect with Dr. Kyla Wood, PhD: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kyla-iwinski-wood-phd-958890228/ https://www.siltstop.com/   Connect with Ty Garmon, LEED AP:  Connect with Ty on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tygarmon/ Sign up to be a guest: https://forms.gle/whijSz9Tio3iZda57 Check out The Stormwater World Podcast on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC9hVXVJ5oXplf_V9XOPpR6A Podcast Website: https://stormwaterworld.com Stay Informed! Sign-up for the Stormwater World Newsletter: https://stormwaterworld.com/newsletter-sign-up/ Please don't forget to rate, comment, and subscribe to Stormwater World Podcast on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts! Did you know that this podcast is produced by Digital Stormwater? They do all things digital. Check them out at DigitalStormwater.com
PaveDrain Case Study & DIY with with Tom Batroney, P.E., CFM & Doug Buch from PaveDrain
Sep 21 2023
PaveDrain Case Study & DIY with with Tom Batroney, P.E., CFM & Doug Buch from PaveDrain
Link to the photos mentioned during the podcast: Sidewalk Photos Episode 016: “The majority of our impervious surfaces are not in the public realm, they’re not in the street, they’re on private land,” shares Tom Batroney, P.E., CFM (Professional Engineer and Certified Floodplain Manager).  Tom spends not only his professional life, but also his personal time dedicated to stormwater and improving his impact. In 2020 he needed to repair the damaged sidewalk in front of his home. He looked into replacing it back with slab concrete, but after looking at cost and using his stormwater knowledge, came up with a better solution. “We’re so conditioned to just put it back, to just keep doing it. You got sidewalk, just put the new sidewalk back. And people need to see there’s other ways out there, especially when it’s stormwater. I think it’s a change of mindset,” said Batroney. He used a PaveDrain permeable paving system, which turned out to be less expensive, as well as allowing stormwater infiltration. He still has people stop and ask him about it. Doug Buch with PaveDrain says, “We’re getting into more and more of the residential work every year. We’re doing more driveways, most of them heated, and sidewalks around the country.”    Tom is also on the board for the Upstream Pittsburgh watershed organization. They work with local councils to make sure that residents can put pavers and stormwater management practices on their private property. The work of the organization in helping to get regulations put into place is what allowed Tom to be able to use PaveDrain instead of having to use traditional, non-permeable, concrete paving for his sidewalk project. Be sure to check out their website to see the great things they are doing to help identify smart solutions for our environment that help people live better lives: https://upstreampgh.org/ This is an example of a code they wrote that allows permeable pavers: https://ecode360.com/8423785.   Doug said PaveDrain is working with a group in Milwaukee right now putting out funding for private land owners to implement products like PaveDrain. The challenge is that it’s hard to find those individuals who own 90% of the impervious area. Including 10-20% of a product like PaveDrain in an impervious area like a parking lot will go a long way towards getting a lot of water back into the ground and keeping it out of MS4s as runoff and all the ancillary things that create costs in the public sphere.  Quotes: “Here's Tom’s moto: I don’t point fingers, I point thumbs. I do it myself.” (1:08 | Doug)“I think this is a good opportunity to to remind everybody, those of you maybe that haven't dealt with permeable paving or haven't dealt with pave drain, specifically: permeable paving one on one, the majority of permeable pavers are out there, the blocks themselves is what's permeable. PaveDrain is a permeable system. So the block itself is not permeable, and you don't fill in the joints with any aggregate; that's where the infiltration comes in.” (20:22 | Ty) “The majority of our impervious surfaces are not in the public realm, they’re not in the street, they’re on private land” (35:26 | Tom)“We’re so conditioned to just put it back, to just keep doing it. You got sidewalk, just put the new sidewalk back. And people need to see there’s other ways out there, especially when it’s stormwater. I think it’s a change of mindset.” (30:21 | Tom) The views expressed are that of the individual and do not represent the opinions of any companies past, present or future. Connect with Tom Batroney, P.E., CFM: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tombatroney/ https://tombatroney.github.io/   Connect with Doug Buch: https://www.pavedrain.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/dougbuch/ https://www.hydrocad.net/pavedrain.htm   Connect with Ty:  Connect with Ty on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tygarmon/ Sign up to be a guest: https://forms.gle/whijSz9Tio3iZda57 Check out The Stormwater World Podcast on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC9hVXVJ5oXplf_V9XOPpR6A Podcast Website: https://stormwaterworld.com Stay Informed! Sign-up for the Stormwater World Newsletter: https://stormwaterworld.com/newsletter-sign-up/ Please don't forget to rate, comment, and subscribe to Stormwater World Podcast on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts!