Cost Effective Strategies for Stormwater Compliance with Ken Kristofferson from CAL-Storm

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Key Topics 

Guest Introduction
Ty introduces Ken Kristoffersen and outlines his extensive background.

Design as the Foundation of Cost Control
Ken explains why stormwater designs must reflect real-world site conditions and field experience, not purely theoretical approaches.

BMP Selection and Material Quality
Discussion on how improper BMP selection and low-quality materials lead to higher long-term costs.

Installation Matters
Ken shares examples of incorrect BMP installation, why inspectors reject them, and how proper installation prevents wasted effort and expense.

Maintenance and Inspection Realities
A breakdown of why even properly installed BMPs require ongoing maintenance.

Training and Field Judgment
Ken emphasizes the need for inspectors to develop critical thinking skills and field awareness, not just classroom knowledge.

Water and Air Quality as Public Goods
A broader discussion on why clean water and air are essential to quality of life.

Public Awareness and Education
Conversation shifts to educating the public and younger generations.

Building Career Pathways in Stormwater
Ken discusses gaps in professional development and the need for structured training for new industry entrants.

Final Takeaways and Call for Industry Engagement
Ken and Ty wrap up with reflections on accountability, continuous improvement, and engaging the broader stormwater community.

Quotes

• Ken Kristoffersen: “Design documentation has to reflect the real world, not something invented in an ivory tower by someone who has never been in the field.”

• Ken Kristoffersen: “What was the point of doing it the first time if you cannot do it right?”

• Ken Kristoffersen: “You can have all the gold in the world, but you cannot drink it. Water is a finite resource.”

In this episode of the Stormwater World Podcast, host Ty Garmon speaks with Ken Kristoffersen, founder and president of CalSTORM Compliance, about practical ways to control the cost of stormwater compliance while still protecting water quality. Ken explains that cost control starts with realistic, field-informed design, followed by selecting the right BMPs, using quality materials, and ensuring proper installation and maintenance. Drawing on decades of hands-on experience, he highlights how poor design decisions, low-quality products, and lack of follow-up often lead to higher costs over time. The conversation also explores the importance of inspector training, professional judgment, and public awareness, emphasizing that stormwater professionals play a critical role in safeguarding clean water and air and improving overall quality of life.

 

The views expressed are that of the individual and do not represent the opinions of any companies past, present or future.

Connect with Ken Kristofferson, MBA/CDSEC/CISEC/CPESC/QSP/QSD/ToR:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ken-kristoffersen-mba-cdsec-cisec-cpesc-qsp-qsd-tor-8a311420/

Email: kkristoffersen@calstormcompliance.com

CAL-Storm: https://calstormcompliance.com/

Ecopliant: https://ecopliant.org/

 

Connect with Ty Garmon, LEED AP: 

Connect with Ty on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tygarmon/

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