The Stormwater World Podcast

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!

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!

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!

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 Flack
Brad 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 Flack
Discussion 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 Flack
Brad 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 Flack
Brad 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 Flack
Discussion 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 Flack
Brad 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 Flack
Brad 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 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!

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." - Ty
Tom’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 Mortensen
Discussion on green infrastructure and its early challenges and developments.
[00:04:00] - Nature and Design
"Nature ignores design that ignores nature." - Tom Mortensen
Importance 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 Mortensen
Emphasis 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 Mortensen
Example 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 Mortensen
Challenges 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 Mortensen
Importance 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 Mortensen
Discussion 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 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 problems
Overview of the podcast and shout out to Digital Stormwater
[00:01:00] - Services offered by Digital Stormwater
Social media management, Google, LinkedIn, and Meta ads
SEO 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 applications
His role at Ott HydroMet and personal interests
[00:03:00] - Basics of Stormwater Monitoring
Reasons for monitoring stormwater
Relationship between weather and water monitoring
[00:04:00] - Specific Monitoring Devices and Their Functions
Examples of devices like InfoTracker and Pave Drain
How Ott HydroMet approaches monitoring and specific devices used
[00:07:00] - Use of Water Level Monitoring
Methods for measuring water level: pressure transducer, radar, bubbler
Importance 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 satellite
Use 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 systems
Importance 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 sensors
Addition 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, conductivity
Emerging contaminants like PFAS and the challenges in monitoring them
[00:17:00] - Tips for Effective Stormwater Monitoring Programs
Being intentional about monitoring goals and locations
Starting with critical areas and expanding as needed
[00:20:00] - Budget-friendly Monitoring Solutions
Affordability of monitoring solutions for municipalities
Options 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 studies
Benefits of renting equipment for specific needs
[00:23:00] - Training and Technical Support for Monitoring Devices
Availability of training and technical support for users
Intuitive design of devices for ease of use
[00:24:00] - Solar Radiation Monitoring and Other Weather Parameters
Monitoring solar radiation and its applications
Use 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, Texas
Collaboration 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 information
Mention 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!

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!

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!

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!