Course Descriptions (Agenda subject to change)
PS1. Global Program Management
Course Description: This interactive training course will analyze the evolution of “projects” into “programs” in the International arena. The challenges and best practices of migrating what starts out as a project and evolves into a full scale program of work will be discussed using real life scenarios across diverse project and program types. Participants will leave with actionable “best practices” in hand. This two hour course is aimed at senior level managers of projects and programs, executive managers, and their stakeholders.
Moderator: Paula Wagner, MBA, PMP - Author / Senior Program Manager, Global Program Management / Turner Broadcasting Systems.
Speakers: Paula Wagner, MBA, PMP - Author / Senior Program Manager, Global Program Management / Turner Broadcasting Systems. Karon Brown Gilmore, PE - Senior Principal & US Program Manager, MACTEC Engineering and Consulting, Inc. Buddy Allgood - Senior Project Manager & Program Manager for Afghanistan and Southwest Asia, MACTEC Engineering and Consulting, Inc.
Topic Coordinator: David Mook
Offered: 8/25 | PreSchool Session | 10:00am - 12:00pm
Sponsored by Centergy Group Project Management
PS2. Alternative Fuels and Vehicles Workshop
Course Description: Clean Cities Atlanta and Middle Georgia Clean Cities presents the Alternative Fuels and Vehicles Workshop at the 5th Annual Georgia Environmental Conference. The workshop is designed to give Attendees a better understanding of the technologies and support in place to encourage the adoption of alternative fuels and vehicles in Georgia. National, regional and local alternative fuel leaders will present information through panel discussions. Topics included: availability of alternative fuels and vehicles, availability and installation costs of refueling infrastructure for natural gas, propane, biofuels and electric drive vehicles. Clean Cities Atlanta and Middle Georgia Clean Cities Coalitions lead the statewide effort to promote the economic and environmental benefits of alternative fuels and vehicles through education, advocacy and industry support. Our members are working together to create a sustainable energy economy for Georgia. The organizations are non-profits affiliated with the US Department of Energy Clean Cities Program.
Schedule: 8:00a - 8:15a: Welcome & Introductions; 8:15a - 10:00a: Fuel Related Panel Discussion & Individual Presentations; 10:00a - 10:15a: Break; 10:15a - 12:00p: Vehicle Related Panel Discussion & Individual Presentations.
Moderator: Don Francis - Executive Director, Clean Cities Atlanta.
Speakers: April Dents - Regional Sales Manager Southern Region, CleanFuel Holdings, Inc.. Ian Skelton - Director, Major Accounts & New Technology, AGL Resources. Larry Breeding - Biodiesel Sales Manager, Renewable Energy Group. Les Seagraves - VP Marketing & Legislative Counsel, Wheego Electric Cars.
Topic Coordinator: Don Francis
Offered: 8/25 | PreSchool Session | 8:00am - 12:00pm
Sponsored by Clean Cities Atlanta & Middle Georgia Clean Cities
PS3. Southern Solar Summit
Course Description: Georgia Solar Energy Association (GSEA) proudly presents the Southern Solar Summit in Savannah, GA at the 5th Annual Georgia Environmental Conference. The summit is designed to give a broad range of participants a rich understanding of the technologies and incentives now in place to promote the adoption of solar energy in Georgia. National, regional and local solar leaders will share their expertise through panel discussions. Topics included: Solar Thermal Hot Water, Solar Photovoltaics, Solar & Utilities/Smart Grid, Government Solar Policy, Solar Training & Green Careers, Solar Economics, Solar Architecture & Built Environment, and Solar & Georgia State Policy. The Georgia Solar Energy Association (GSEA) leads the statewide effort to promote the economic and environmental benefits of solar energy through education, advocacy and industry support. Our members are working together to create a sustainable energy economy for Georgia and meet each month in pursuit of this goal. The organization is a non-profit affiliated with the American Solar Energy Society (ASES). Learn how you can join GSEA today.
Moderator: TBA.
Speakers: TBA.
Topic Coordinator: James Marlow
Offered: 8/25 | PreSchool Session | 8:00am - 12:00pm
Sponsored by Georgia Solar Energy Association
1. Forest Sustainability
Course Description: The 24.8 million acres of forests in Georgia are one of our most precious natural resources. The Georgia Forestry Commission recently completed a Statewide Forest Assessment looking at the sustainability of our forests and the pressures and threats affecting them. During this session the assessment will be discussed along with the impacts from the growth of bioenergy industry and other topics affecting the sustainability of Georgia's forests.
Moderator: TBA.
Speakers: TBA.
Topic Coordinator: Lauren Newsome Bush
Offered: 8/26 | Session IV | 11:00am - 12:30pm
2. Sustainable Agriculture Solves Environmental Problems
Course Description: Moderator will give an introduction to how the large swaths of agricultural land can help solve environmental issues such as climate change while producing nutritious food. 1st speaker - Give an overview of sustainable agriculture. 2nd speaker - Sustainable practices in vegetable production. 3rd speaker - how dairies can return nutrients to the soil and produce nutritious milk.
Moderator: Julia Gaskin - Coordinator - Sustainable Agriculture, University of Georgia.
Speakers: Julia Gaskin - Coordinator - Sustainable Agriculture, University of Georgia. Relinda Walker - Owner & Farmer, Walker Farms. Nick Hill - Professor of Crop and Soil Science, University of Georgia.
Topic Coordinator: Susan Varlamoff
Offered: 8/26 | Session VI | 3:35pm - 5:00pm
3. Tougher Air Quality Standards and Their Possible Implications
Course Description: Implementation strategies are speculation at this early stage, so we have people addressing what could happen, rather than what will happen. What does seem to be coming is some tougher air quality standards – ozone maybe going to 65 ppb down from 76 ppb which was down from 85 ppb just a few years ago and 125 ppb a little more than a decade ago – and a roadside NOx standard, but not so clear how that might be implemented yet.
Moderator: Dr. Michael Chang - Georgia Tech.
Speakers: Dick Schutt - US EPA. EPD Branch Chief - GA EPD.
Topic Coordinator: David Mook
Offered: 8/26 | Session V | 2:00pm - 3:30pm
4. The Clean Air Act and CO2 – new tricks for an old dog?
Course Description: Without any climate legislation in place, the courts defining CO2 as a pollutant that can be regulated under the clean air act makes this a totally new animal to deal with.
Moderator: Dr. Michael Chang - Georgia Tech.
Speakers: David Meezan - Mowrey Meezan Coddington Cloud LLP. Carol Kemker - US EPA.
Topic Coordinator: David Mook
Offered: 8/26 | Session III | 9:00am - 10:30am
5. Recycling Collection Innovations - PET Wanted
Course Description: Coca Cola Recycling (CCR) has developed and launched several novel recycling systems in 2010. The panelists in this session are not looking for “Fluffy” or “Rover” they are looking for your beverage containers. Representatives from Georgia based industries will discuss their plans and efforts to recycle PET beverage containers into usable products. Panelist will discuss their efforts to work with local governments and others to boost the recovery rate of beverage containers and how these efforts support the Green initiatives of their respective companies.
Moderator: TBA.
Speakers: TBA.
Topic Coordinator: Randy Hartmann
Offered: 8/27 | Session VII | 9:35am - 11:00am
6. The Business Case for Sustainability
Course Description: DNR's Sustainability Division helps Georgia businesses achieve better environmental results and a better bottom line. Case studies of Georgia companies going green and sharing the costs, benefits, best practices and lessons learned will demonstrate the business case for sustainability. Companies will include members of the Division's Partnership for a Sustainable Georgia, plus others.
Moderator: Marlin Gottschalk - Director, Georgia Department of Natural Resources, Sustainability Division.
Speakers: Bruce Hagenau - President, Metcam. Steven Levetan - Senior Vice-President, Pull-A-Part, LLC. Patrick Monhan - Assistant Manager, Chatham County, Georgia. Brandon Pelissero - Chief Operating Officer, Ecolink.
Topic Coordinator: Marlin Gottschalk
Offered: 8/26 | Session V | 2:00pm - 3:30pm
7. The Greening of Economic Development in Georgia
Course Description: Georgia has always focused on economic development - attracting new industry and encouraging new business - in order to spur job creation and strengthen the local economy. In recent years, there has been a dramatic shift to encourage "green" development across the state. Whether its incenting a biofuels plant, redeveloping brownfield sites, or encouraging home owners to make their homes energy efficient, Georgia has made great strides to keep the State green. This panel will discuss the policy drivers behind this shift and the entrepreneurs implementing the development.
Moderator: TBA.
Speakers: Jill Stuckey - Director of the Center of Innovation for Energy, Georgia Environmental Facilities Authority. Christie Todd Whitman - Co-Chair, Clean and Safe Energy Coaltion. William G. Lais, P.E. - Senior Engineer, HSW Engineering, Inc.
Topic Coordinator: Vicki Foster Potter
Offered: 8/26 | Session IV | 11:00am - 12:30pm
8. Climate Change in Georgia - Impacts, Awareness & Adaptation Planning
Course Description: Many experts expect that some degree of future climate change will occur regardless of future greenhouse gas emissions. This panel will explore potential climate change impacts in Georgia, such as potential sea level rise along Georgia's coast, as well as the adjustment in natural or human systems in Georgia in response to actual or expected climatic changes.
Moderator: TBA.
Speakers: TBA.
Topic Coordinator: Jonathan Wells
Offered: 8/25 | Session II | 4:30pm - 6:00pm
9. Greenhouse Gas and Clean Energy Initiatives
Course Description: EPA has issued regulatory actions under the Clean Air Act and in some cases other statutory authorities to address issues related to emissions of greenhouse gases (GHGs). This session will provide an update on finalized and proposed GHG-related rules that may affect Georgia business, including the mandatory reporting rule for GHGs, mobile source GHG emission standards, and rules limiting GHG emissions from stationary sources. In addition to GHG regulations, this session will provide an update on clean energy issues relevant to Georgia business, including information on energy efficiency, stimulus funds, green jobs, and clean energy supply options. The major climate and energy bills pending in Congress will also be discussed.
Moderator: Kenneth L. Mitchell, Ph.D. - Senior Climate Change Advisor, US EPA, Region IV.
Speakers: Kenneth L. Mitchell, Ph.D. - Senior Climate Change Advisor, US EPA, Region IV. Gary Garrett - Senior Technical Analyst, Southern States Energy Board. David Gipson - Director, Energy Division, Georgia Environmental Facilities Authority. Justin Fickas / Aimee Andrews - Managing Consultant, Trinity Consultants, Inc.
Topic Coordinator: Connie Dempsey
Offered: 8/26 | Session IV | 11:00am - 12:30pm
10. Wetlands Regulatory Update
Course Description: The Regulatory Program of the US Army Corps of Engineers is extremely dynamic, which is the result of frequent programmatic changes with each new Federal Rulemaking process and the need to consider new case law. This session will explore some of the recent changes in the Regulatory Program in Georgia including the new Compensatory Mitigation Guidelines and updates to the Savannah District Mitigation Standard Operating Procedures; changes to the In-Lieu-Fee program so that it complies with the 2008 Mitigation Rule; and changes in processing jurisdictional determinations (JD) and new JD field guidance. We will also discuss new initiatives including AVATAR and RIBITS, automated tools to help the regulated public. There will also be a presentation on agricultural and silvicultural exemptions.
Moderator: Jeffrey King - US Army Corps of Engineers.
Speakers: Russ Kaiser - Regulatory Division Chief, US Army Corps of Engineers. Carol Bernstein - Chief of Coastal Branch, US Army Corps of Engineers. Richard Morgan - Special Projects Section Chief, Coastal Branch, US Army Corps of Engineers. Bill Sapp - Senior Attorney, Southern Environmental Law Center.
Topic Coordinator: Jeff King
Offered: 8/25 | Session I | 2:30pm - 4:00pm
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11. Regional Comprehensive Plan - Coastal
Course Description: Coastal Georgia’s abundant and valuable resources continue to attract new residents and tourists to the region and provide sustenance to those who call it home. This session provides an update on implementation of the Coastal Comprehensive Plan ordered by Governor Perdue in 2005 to prepare for the region’s future growth and sustainable development. Learn about the plan’s framework for addressing the region’s infrastructure, intrinsic resources, economic development and growth management as well as model ordinances and other implementation tools for siting and developing projects in ways that protect and preserve the region’s unique landscape. This session also examines the Coastal Supplement to the Georgia Stormwater Manual, which provides comprehensive guidance for Georgia's coastal communities on an integrated, green infrastructure-based approach to natural resource protection, stormwater management and site design.
Moderator: Patty McIntosh - Melaver McIntosh.
Speakers: Tricia Reynolds, AICP - Director of Planning & Government Services, Coastal Regional Commission. Shawn Bliss, RLA LEED AP - Principal, Prosser Hallock. Bill Hodgins - City of Savannah Stormwater Management. Alice Vick - Georgia Environmental Protection Division.
Topic Coordinator: Patty McIntosh
Offered: 8/26 | Session VI | 3:35pm - 5:00pm
12. Atlanta Beltline Program
Course Description: Presentation on what the program is about, its progress to date, its challenges ahead, and what it means to future development in the Atlanta area.
Moderator: Jim Kutzman.
Speakers: Brian Leary - President & CEO, Atlanta Beltline, Inc. Dan Grogan - Environmental Division Manager, MACTEC Engineering & Consulting. Matthew Robbins - Land Revitalization Coordinator, US EPA Region IV. Gerald Pouncey - Partner, Morris, Manning & Martin, LLP.
Topic Coordinator: Jim Kutzman
Offered: 8/25 | Session I | 2:30pm - 4:00pm
13. Georgia's Legislative Update
Course Description: This Session will further discuss the Legislative updates that will be given during the State of the State Address at the Lunch General Session.
Moderator: David Word - Tanner and Associates.
Speakers: Todd Edwards - Association County Commissioners of Georgia. Jill Johnson - Georgia Conservation Voters. Katie Kirkpatrick - Metro Atlanta Chamber of Commerce.
Topic Coordinator: Todd Edwards
Offered: 8/26 | Session V | 2:00pm - 3:30pm
14. Developing Power in Georgia
Course Description: During this session the panel members will discuss the challenges associated with developing power in an economically feasible and environmentally acceptable manor in Georgia. Both conventional and alternative power will be discussed.
Moderator: Jim Kutzman.
Speakers: Dean Alford - President & CEO, Allied Energy Services, Inc. Rich Marotte - Project Manager, MACTEC Engineering & Consulting. Les Oakes - Attorney, King & Spalding.
Topic Coordinator: Jim Kutzman
Offered: 8/26 | Session V | 2:00pm - 3:30pm
15. Energy Efficiency and GHG Reduction / Carbon Footprinting
Course Description: Improving energy efficiency is the first and most important step toward achieving sustainability in buildings and organizations. Energy efficiency helps control rising energy costs, reduces environmental footprints, and increases the value and competitiveness of buildings. Leaders across all kinds of organizations – municipalities, universities, schools, hospitals, and corporations – are increasingly trying to get their arms around the principles of sustainability, and to develop the best plans to improve their performance on this important metric. Developing a sustainability plan requires understanding the range of possible options, deciding what dimension of sustainability to pursue, accepting some trade-offs, and moving the organization forward. / (DNR's Sustainability Div. and others)
Moderator: Michael Migliaccio - Johnson Controls.
Speakers: Sandra Neuse - Assistant Vice Chancellor, Compliance & Operations for the University System of Georgia. Jennifer Layke - Director of Building Energy and Sustainability, Johnson Controls. PJ Newcomb - Utilities Manager, Georgia Environmental Facilities Authority.
Topic Coordinator: Michael Migliaccio
Offered: 8/26 | Session VI | 3:35pm - 5:00pm
16. Alternative Transportation Fuels In Georgia
Course Description: In the past, demand for alternative fuels seemed to only exist as the price of oil and gasoline reached historic levels. While prices for oil may be relatively stable at the moment, we all realize this may not always be the case. In order to make real shifts away from a gasoline-based transportation economy, many companies are making significant investments in alternative transportation fuels. This panel will discuss fuels available to the market and the infrastructure and technology that will be required to make an alternative fuel vehicle an attractive choice, not just for the average consumer, but also for fleets across the State.
Moderator: TBA.
Speakers: Joe Hoyt - Director, Commercial Development, AGL Resources. TBA - Vehicle Manufacturer. TBA - Biofuel Producer.
Topic Coordinator: Vicki Foster Potter
Offered: 8/26 | Session V | 2:00pm - 3:30pm
17. Renewable Energy at MSW Landfill Facilities - STATIONARY
Course Description: This session will address: landfill gas-to-energy projects (generation of electricity; conversion to compressed natural gas); integration of solar power for closure strategies; regulatory drivers and regulatory impediments. Tentative presentation topics include (subject to change): (1) Converting Landfill Gas to Compressed Natural Gas for use as Alternative Vehicle Fuel; (2) Landfill Gas to Energy Projects in the US; (3) Alternative Landfill Caps – Solar Cap Technology; and (4) Flat Panel Photovoltaic Solar Power Systems on Landfills.
Moderator: Majdi Othman - Geosyntec Consultants.
Speakers: Dave Heitz - Geosyntec Consultants. Arthur Mohr, Jr. - Carlisle Energy Services, Inc. Kurt Johnson - SunPower.
Topic Coordinator: Terry Cheek
Offered: 8/25 | Session I | 2:30pm - 4:00pm
18. Sustainable Energy: Georgia's Renewable Energy Resources
Course Description: This panel will discuss the economic and environmental benefits of capturing solar and wind energy directly from the source vs. growing biomass material and converting it to energy. The panel will quantify the solar, wind, and biomass energy potential for the state and discuss the benefits to local governments of working toward energy independence. A model ordinance for local governments to include wind turbines in their planning and zoning codes will be discussed and presented. Panelists will discuss the benefits we can derive from making all state, county, and city buildings more efficient and providing incentives for residential and commerical energy upgrades. Tybee Island's plan to take Memorial Park off-grid with a combination of efficiency and renewable generation will be presented. Panelists will assess the potential for developing wind and solar generation systems, how much of the state's power needs could be met, and at what cost.
Moderator: Paul Wolff - City Councilman, Tybee Island.
Speakers: Keith Freeman - Vice President/CTO, OneWorldSustainable. Mary Hunt - Strategic Energy Institute, Georgia Institute of Technology. Bill McMullen - Manager, Renewable & Green Strategies, Georgia Power. Jill Stuckey - Director, Center of Innovation for Energy, Georgia Environmental Facilities Authority (GEFA).
Topic Coordinator: Randy Hartmann
Offered: 8/25 | Session II | 4:30pm - 6:00pm
19. Environmental Management & Compliance at Federal Facilities
Course Description: This topic focuses on hot button issues relevant to Georgia's large federal facilities (i.e., Robins Air Force Base, Ft. Stewart/Hunter Army Airfield, and Moody AFB). A variety of issues will be addressed including recent new USEPA Section 438 Guidance to help federal agencies minimize the impact of federal development projects on nearby waterbodies. The guidance was issued in response to a change in law and an Executive Order signed by President Obama, which calls upon all federal agencies to lead by example to address a wide range of environmental issues, including stormwater runoff. Presentations will include: (1) The Benefits of Implementing Low Impact Development (LID) For DoD Facilities; and (2) Stormwater Management Challenges at DoD Facilities.
Moderator: Mark Robertson - Federal Facility Program Manager, United States Environmental Protection Agency.
Speakers: Russell Moncrief - Stormwater Program Manager, Fort Stewart/Hunter Army Airfield. Richard Woodham, P.E. - Weston Solutions, Inc. Russell Adams - Program Manager, Water Quality, Robins AFB. Ganesh Krishnan, P.E. - Associate, Geosyntec Consultants.
Topic Coordinator: Terry Cheek
Offered: 8/26 | Session IV | 11:00am - 12:30pm
20. Environmental Program Financing
Course Description: This session explores how the recent economic downturn and Georgia’s budget shortfalls have impacted state and local financing of environmental infrastructure. Particular focus will be on water and sewer systems, the 2010 selloff of GEFA’s Georgia Fund assets, its impacts, and alternative financing options for local governments.
Moderator: Todd Edwards - Association County Commissioners of Georgia.
Speakers: Brooke Anderson - General Manager, Etowah Water and Sewer Authority. Stacey Isaac Berahzer - Environmental Finance Center. Representative Ben Harbin - Chairman, House Appropriations Committee. Commissioner Elmo Richardson - Bibb County, GEFA Board of Directors.
Topic Coordinator: Allie Kelly
Offered: 8/26 | Session III | 9:00am - 10:30am
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21. Energy and Environment Stimulus Funds Update
Course Description: This session would describe the energy related stimulus programs and where they stand in their implementation - what has been accomplished in terms of jobs created and energy saved/generated. $63M in State Facilities retrofits, $120M in Weatherization, $122 Million in Clean Water and Drinking Water revolving loan funds for local governments, $22M in Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grants, $16M in clean energy rebates and grants.
Moderator: PJ Newcomb - GEFA.
Speakers: David Gipson - GEFA. Mandy Mahoney - City of Atlanta. James Marlow - Georgia Solar Energy Association / Radiance Solar. Kevin Kelly - Senior Program Manager, GEFA.
Topic Coordinator: David Mook
Offered: 8/27 | Session VII | 9:35am - 11:00am
22. Impacts of Locally Grown Food to Georgia's Economy
Course Description: 1st speaker - the value of locally grown food to Georgia's Economy 2nd speaker - Georgia's local food movement and barriers 3rd speaker - restaurant owner will discuss his experiences.
Moderator: Susan Varlamoff - Director, UGA College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, Office of Environmental Sciences.
Speakers: Kent Wolfe - Agricultural Economist, University of Georgia. Jonathan Tescher - Farmer Services Coordinator, Georgia Organics. Chef Matthew J. Roher - Owner, Cha Bella, Savannah.
Topic Coordinator: Susan Varlamoff
Offered: 8/25 | Session II | 4:30pm - 6:00pm
23. Organics Needed
Course Description: Whether it is fighting a drought, enhancing soil productivity, or diverting over 60% of what is disposed in Georgia landfills -- composting is a sustainable alternative to landfill disposal. Georgia's Environmental Protection Division is developing new permitting requirements for composting facilities. Communities across the state are developing zero waste zones in restaurants and entertainment districts, at colleges, and special events. All of which rely upon strong composting infrastructure and markets. Learn how local governments and private industry are working together to “grow” the composting industry in the state. Panel speakers will discuss what it takes to site and operate a composting facility and how compost products can be used in Green Infrastructure and Low Impact Development.
Moderator: Jennifer Szabo - Program Coordinator, Georgia Recycled Organics Council.
Speakers: Dr. Britt Faucette - Filtrexx International. Michael Snipes - Laurens County Solid Waste Management Authority. Tim Lesko - Greenco Environmental.
Topic Coordinator: Randy Hartmann
Offered: 8/26 | Session III | 9:00am - 10:30am
24. Georgia's Conservation Assistance Programs
Course Description: There are more than 20 conservation programs from the State of Georgia that provide education, outreach, and assistance to communities, individuals, and businesses. During this session, you will learn about the latest initiatives and how they may be of assistance to you.
Moderator: TBA.
Speakers: Andrea Schroer - State Energy Project Manager, Georgia Environmental Facilities Authority.
Topic Coordinator: Sarah Dearman
Offered: 8/26 | Session VI | 3:35pm - 5:00pm
25. Reduce Your Carbon Footprint the Easy Way – Recycle!
Course Description: Implementing a recycling program in your business is one of the easiest ways you can effectively reduce your carbon footprint. Presenters will discuss how they have successfully implemented a recycling program in their business, including how they trained their employees and promoted their efforts to their customers. Learn how easy it is to recycle and support your efforts to be a Green Business. In addition, representatives from Germany will discuss the dynamics of recycling and climate change. Presenters may discuss topics ranging from the differences in their recycling programs in the US and Germany and why these differences exist or how their recycling efforts are earning them energy or carbon emission credits or how the German recycling industry is impacted by US exports and demands in China and India and how this material exchange affects climate change.
Moderator: Gloria Hardegree - Director, Georgia Recycling Coalition.
Speakers: TBA.
Topic Coordinator: Randy Hartmann
Offered: 8/25 | Session I | 2:30pm - 4:00pm
26. Navigating Ethical Dilemmas: Environmental Reporting and Disclosure Requirements
Course Description: Professor Steve Olson and Lewis Jones will lead a case study exploring ethical and professional dilemmas created by environmental reporting requirements under the Georgia Hazardous Sites Response Act. This course has been approved by the State Bar of Georgia and will award 1 hour of Ethics credit and 0.5 hours of Professionalism credit to those who attend. Attendees must sign the official State Bar of Georgia Continuing Legal Education Form located at the Conference registration booth.
Moderator: Lewis B. Jones - King & Spalding LLP
Speakers: Professor Steve Olson - Director of the Center for Ethics & Corporate Responsibility, Georgia State University.
Topic Coordinator: Lewis Jones
Offered: 8/26 | Session VI | 3:35pm - 5:00pm
27. Georgia's New Voluntary Remediation Program - A "Win-Win" Opportunity for Cleaning Up Contaminated Sites
Course Description: One year ago, the VRP Act was passed by virtually unanimous vote of the Georgia General Assembly, and this year it is finally being implemented. The VRP establishes a privatized program by which private parties use registered professionals to more quickly and cost-effectively investigate and remediate contaminated sites. This panel presentation provides a regulatory update and progress report, including technical and legal considerations for maximizing risk-based corrective action at VRP sites.
Moderator: TBA.
Speakers: Doug Cloud - Partner, Mowrey Meezan Coddington Cloud LLP. Robert Mowrey - Partner, Mowrey Meezan Coddington Cloud LLP. Larry Neal - MACTEC. Neven Kresic - Senior Principal, MACTEC.
Topic Coordinator: David Meezan
Offered: 8/26 | Session II | 4:30pm - 6:00pm
28. Construction Waste
Course Description: The construction industry generates a tremendous amount of waste each year. Conservation and recycling efforts that address construction waste are excellent means to immediately incorporate sustainable practices into our projects. The starting point for reduction of construction waste is in the design phase of each project. We'll discuss a number of design solutions and specifications that we can use to reduce our consumption of new materials and make more efficient use of the materials we bring on-site. These techniques can yield points in green building programs and lower our material costs. We'll discuss how to develop an effective communication plan for the bidding and construction phases so everyone is working toward a common goal of less waste. We'll conclude with a series of metrics and talking points we can share with owners and other project team members to show the value of dealing with construction waste responsibly. Learning Objectives Include: 1. Identify design solutions that yield less construction waste through conservation and valuing of source. 2. Address the logistical issues that result from construction waste recycling. 3. Develop a construction waste education plan for project team members, project site neighbors and the community.
Moderator: TBA.
Speakers: Ryan Taylor, AIA - President, taylor28design LLC.
Topic Coordinator: David Mook
Offered: 8/27 | Session VII | 9:35am - 11:00am
29. Stream & Mitigation Banking - What have I gotten into?
Course Description: This session is designed to provide an overall look into how Stream and Wetland Mitigation Banks work including; identification of different mitigation options; planning and designing of the Banks; permitting and legal issues of on-site versus off-site mitigation; hydrologic design criteria; maintenance of the banks; water quality; wildlife planning and how the new Regulatory Program will affect these banks. Additionally, this discussion is aimed at clarifying short, medium, and long term obligations associated with mitigation banking and will address potential options that may be available to bankers once the project has been completed. Different Case studies will be used to demonstrate these features.
Moderator: Rhodes Robinson - Chief Executive Officer, Environmental Services, Inc.
Speakers: Steve Jones - Division Director of Stream Restoration, Environmental Services, Inc. Michael DeMell - Division Manager of Ecology, Environmental Services, Inc. Yancey McLeod.
Topic Coordinator: David Mook
Offered: 8/27 | Session VII | 9:35am - 11:00am
30. Transit in Georgia
Course Description: This year, the Georgia General Assembly broke a three year legislative logjam to advance transportation funding legislation. Thanks to the passage earlier this year of HB 277, the Transportation Investment Act of 2010, voters in 12 regions throughout the state will be asked to approve a 1% sales tax and a list of transportation projects in the state's general primary in February of 2012. Panelists consider the opportunities this mechanism may offer to fund transit investments in metro Atlanta and other areas of the state as well as other mechanism that might support transit and transit-supportive land uses in the future.
Moderator: TBA.
Speakers: Ray Christman - Executive Director, Livable Communities Coalition. Butch McDuffie - President, Georgia TRansit Association and Director, Athens Transit. Erik Steavens. Dan Foth.
Topic Coordinator: Michael Halicki
Offered: 8/26 | Session III | 9:00am - 10:30am
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31. Groundwater Sustainability in Georgia
Course Description: This in-depth session will focus on the availability and sustainability of one of Georgia's most valuable resources: Groundwater. State Geologist Dr. Jim Kennedy will (a) review groundwater resource assessments recently completed as part of the State-wide Water Management Plan, which evaluated modeled groundwater sustainable yields for several prioritized aquifers throughout the State. In addition, Dr. Kennedy will review the status of the Georgia Coastal Sound Science Initiative including (b) the Savannah-Hilton Head Island area saltwater intrusion modeling results and (c) Brunswick withdrawal permitting issues. Doug Wilson, Executive Director of the Georgia Water Planning & Policy Center, will review (d) municipal/industrial and (e) agricultural groundwater use issues throughout the Georgia Coastal Plain, including the importance of irrigation to the agricultural community, the challenges of managing demand, and conservation and efficiency practices employed and the incentives to do so.
Moderator: Nils Thompson - Associates, Leggette, Brashears & Graham, Inc.
Speakers: Jim Kennedy - State Geologist, Georgia EPD. Doug Wilson - Executive Director, Georgia Water Planning & Policy Center.
Topic Coordinator: Nils Thompson
Offered: 8/26 | Session VI | 3:35pm - 5:00pm
32. Metro District Water Plan
Course Description: Since its creation by the Georgia General Assembly in 2001, the Metropolitan North Georgia Water Planning District (Metro Water District) has worked with local governments, water, wastewater, and storm water professionals, and stakeholders, to carry out the District’s central mission; the development of comprehensive regional water resource plans that – for waters in and downstream of the region – protect water quality, water supply, as well as the recreational values of those waters, and work to minimize potential adverse impacts that may be caused by development. While the Metro Water District is considered one of the State Water Plan regional water planning councils, the state law governing formation of the Metro Water District contained many specific requirements. This session will discuss the updated District plans, compare and contrast the Metro Water District with other regional water planning councils, and provide a local county perspective on plan implementation. The Metro Water District is also working with others to develop a new water conservation educational campaign called “I’m In”.
Moderator: Jeff Larson - GA DNR, Environmental Protection Division.
Speakers: Corey Babb - Senior Environmental Planner, Metropolitan North Georgia Water Planning District. Kathy Nguyen - Senior Project Manager, Cobb County Water System. Linda MacGregor - GA DNR, Environmental Protection Division.
Topic Coordinator: Jeff Larson
Offered: 8/26 | Session III | 9:00am - 10:30am
33. Multi-State Watershed Planning
Course Description: The long-term management of water resources on a watershed scale is incredibly complex. However, the difficulty in watershed planning and management increases exponentially when water resources are shared by multiple states. This session will explore many of the planning and management issues that have arisen when confronted with multi-state interest in select watersheds. A history of multi-state water resource challenges, issues and legal ramifications, which are specific to the Apalachicola, Chattahoochee and Flint River Basins (ACF) and Alabama, Coosa and Tallapoosa Basins (ACT), will be shared with the audience. Attendees will also gain the perspective of resident stakeholders and learn about their initiatives to ensure long-term sustainability of water resources in these watersheds. Finally, a case study specific to the Savannah River Basin (SRB) will focus on the collaboration of Federal and state agencies that worked to meet watershed scale objectives for conserving reservoir storage during a record drought; this effort was accomplished while still meeting downstream minimum flow requirements.
Moderator: Jeffrey King - US Army Corps of Engineers.
Speakers: Gil Rogers - Senior Attorney, Southern Environmental Law Center. Jason Ward - Hydrologist, Savannah District, US Army Corps of Engineers. Wilton Rooks - Representative of ACF Stakeholders, ACF - Apalachicola, Chattahoochee, Flint Rivers.
Topic Coordinator: Jeff King
Offered: 8/26 | Session V | 2:00pm - 3:30pm
34. New Developments in Stormwater Management
Course Description: This course will include three presentations as described below. (1) Effluent Limitation Guidelines (ELG) for Stormwater Runoff from Construction Sites. Abstract: In December 2009, USEPA published ELGs to control the discharge of pollutants through stormwater runoff from construction sites. The ELGs for Construction and Development (also known as the C&D rule) became effective on February 1, 2010 after which all permits issued by USEPA or States must incorporate the requirements of the rule. (2) New Developments in MS4s. Abstract: In February 2010, USEPA announced a proposal to significantly expand the Municipal Separate Storm Sewer Systems (MS4s) program governing storm water discharges under the Clean Water Act. David Moore will present information on the scope of the MS4 regulatory programs, anticipated changes in requirements and their connection to engineering design and practices, stormwater fees and utilities, compliance, and how properly designed programs can act to enhance water quality and aquatic habit protection. (3) Making it all work - Emerging Design Practices. Abstract: Over the last four years the various conservation friendly design (LEED, LID, EHCP, etc.) elements have evolved. The speakers will discuss how to successfully implement such design in a heightened regulatory environment.
Moderator: Ganesh Krishnan - Associate, Geosyntec Consultants.
Speakers: Charles H. McMillan, PE, LEED AP - President, AEC, Inc. Thomas H. Robertson, PE, AICP, RLS - President, Cranston Engineering Group, P.C. Cory Taylor - Environmental & Safety Compliance Manager, Beazer Homes USA. David Montgomery Moore - Attorney, Balch & Bingham LLP.
Topic Coordinator: Terry Cheek
Offered: 8/25 | Session II | 4:30pm - 6:00pm
35. Northwest Georgia Regional Water Resources Partnership
Course Description: Presentations on what the partnership's purpose is and how it functions will be given. Discussions on the accomplishments to date and future issues will be included.
Moderator: Jim Kutzman.
Speakers: Mark Marlowe - Vice Chairman, Northwest Georgia Regional Water Resources Partnership. Dave Howerin - Northwest Georgia Regional Commission. Dean Trawick - US Army Corps of Engineers. Margaret Tanner - Project Manager, MACTEC Engineers & Consultants.
Topic Coordinator: Jim Kutzman
Offered: 8/26 | Session IV | 11:00am - 12:30pm
36. Southeastern States Water Allocation Programs
Course Description: The southeastern United States is an area of abundant water supply but rapid population growth. As the southeastern states try to attract and accommodate economic growth, they may face growing legal and political battles over conflicting water management strategies. Speakers for this course will compare water management and allocation practices in southeastern states and address how they may enhance or impede development, and harm or support the environment.
Moderator: Rob McDowell - Carl Vinson Institute of Government, University of Georgia.
Speakers: David Still - Executive Director, Suwannee River Water Management District.
Topic Coordinator: Rob McDowell
Offered: 8/27 | Session VII | 9:35am - 11:00am
37. Tackling Water Issues from a Local Prospective / TMDLs and What You Need To Do
Course Description: Tackling Water Issues from a Local Prospective / Water/Wastewater Regulations and What You Need To Do Course Description: Learn from some of the best in the state about what if takes to address the numerous water issues facing our communities. Who knows better how to face these challenges of addressing TMDLs, impaired streams, safe and reliable drinking water supplies, flood control, etc then local government staff and officials? Through the WaterFirst Program, many communities have jumped out ahead of legal requirements and tackled these issues head on, being both proactive and innovative. Learn from the best as water professionals and elected officials discuss how they are tackling the difficult water issues in their communities.
Moderator: Deatre Denion - WaterFirst Coordinator, Georgia Department of Community Affairs.
Speakers: Brant Keller - City of Griffin. Ken Jacob - Operations Manager, Cobb County Water System. Bob Scanlon (invited) - City of Savannah. Billy Edwards (invited) - City of Hinesville.
Topic Coordinator: Randy Hartmann
Offered: 8/26 | Session III | 9:00am - 10:30am
38. Georgia Water Plan #1
Course Description: Regional water planning is in full swing in Georgia, with the ten water planning councils actively engaged with construction of Water Development and Conservation Plans (WDCPs) for their respective areas. Councils share surface water and groundwater resources and so must jointly plan for proper management of these resources as they build their planning out to 2050. Planning contractors from CDM, Jacobs Engineering Group and CH2MHill will discuss the current status of development of the regional WDCPs for five Georgia water planning councils (Savannah/Upper Ogeechee, Coastal Georgia, Altamaha, Upper Oconee, and the Suwannee-Satilla) who share in some fashion the Savannah and Ogeechee River Basins, and the Upper Floridan, Cretaceous, and Crystalline Rock Aquifers.
Moderator: Brian Baker - Georgia DNR, Environmental Protection Division.
Speakers: Bill Martello - Jacobs Engineering Group. Doug Baughman - CH2MHill. Rick Brown - CDM. Linda MacGregor - Georgia DNR, Environmental Protection Division.
Topic Coordinator: Jeff Larson
Offered: 8/25 | Session I | 2:30pm - 4:00pm
39. Georgia Water Plan #2
Course Description: Georgia’s ten regional water planning councils are each led by a Chair and Vice-Chair that guide their respective councils in deliberating issues associated with construction of each Council’s regional Water Development and Conservation Plan (WDCP). Council leaders must conduct the Council meetings and assist Council members with meeting goals and objectives for WDCP development – from building consensus on council vision and goals, to evaluating water demand forecasts and developing management practices, to finalizing pages of the regional plan. This panel discussion will focus on challenges associated with regional WDCP development from the perspective of five council chairs: Ron Cross-Savannah/Upper Ogeechee Water Planning Council (WPC); Ben Thompson-Coastal Georgia WPC; Brinson Lanier-Altamaha WPC; Richard Bentley-Upper Oconee WPC; and Darvin Eason-Suwannee-Satilla WPC
Moderator: Jeff Larson - Georgia DNR, Environmental Protection Division.
Speakers: Ron Cross - Savannah / Upper Ogeechee WPC. Ben Thompson - Coastal Georgia WPC. Darvin Eason - Suwannee - Satilla WPC. Brinson Lanier - Altamaha WPC. Richard Bentley - Upper Oconee WPC.
Topic Coordinator: Jeff Larson
Offered: 8/25 | Session II | 4:30pm - 6:00pm
40. What is the plan for July 18, 2012? 23 months and counting…
Course Description: On July 17, 2009, Judge Paul A. Magnuson entered an injunction that, if upheld on appeal, will completely eliminate or severely curtail the sole source of water supply for over 3.5 million people in metropolitan Atlanta. This panel will provide an update on the effort to mitigate the damage inflicted by this order by developing alternative water supplies.
Moderator: Lewis B. Jones - King & Spalding LLP.
Speakers: Katie Kirkpatrick - Vice President for Environmental Policy, Metro Atlanta Chamber of Commerce. Harold Reheis - Senior Vice President, Tanner & Associates. Kathy Nguyen - Senior Project Manager, Cobb County Water System.
Topic Coordinator: Lewis Jones
Offered: 8/26 | Session IV | 11:00am - 12:30pm
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Stan Meiburg is the Acting Regional Administrator for EPA Region 4 in Atlanta, Georgia. Stan came to Region 4 as Deputy Regional Administrator in April 1996, following service as Deputy Regional Administrator in EPA’s Region 6 office in Dallas, Texas. He has served as Acting Regional Administrator during transitions in both Region 4 and Region 6. .jpg)
Tad Davis assumed his duties as the Deputy Assistant Secretary of the Army on October 17, 2005. Mr. Davis provides executive leadership for all Army sustainability, environment, natural resources, safety and occupational health programs including Army National Guard and Reserve activities. His responsibilities span a global organization that includes an over $1.5 billion annual environmental program and oversight for the safety and occupational health of over 1.2 million Soldiers and Army Civilian employees worldwide. Mr. Davis works with key personnel in the Army, the Department of Defense, and other Federal and state agencies in developing and advocating Army policies for sustainability, environment, natural resources, safety, and occupational health programs in support of the Department of Defense (DoD) and Army missions. Mr. Davis provides executive leadership for the Army Environmental Policy Institute and the Army's four Regional Environmental Offices. He serves as the Executive Agent for the DoD National Defense Center for Energy and the Environment and the DoD Formerly Used Defense Site Cleanup Program. .jpg)
Jim Stokes is president of Sustainable Solutions Georgia which works in the areas of energy, transportation and water. 
F. Allen Barnes was appointed Director of the Environmental Protection Division of the Georgia Department of Natural Resources on Oct. 28, 2009.
Senator Thorborn “Ross” Tolleson, Jr. from the 20th District was first elected to the Senate in 2002. He represents the citizens of Bleckley, Dodge, Johnson, Laurens, Pulaski and Telfair counties. He also represents part of Houston and Wilcox counties.
Representative Lynn Smith is no stranger to public office! Before being elected to the Georgia House of Representatives in 1997, she served her area’s constituents in several other ways: She was chairman of the Newnan - Coweta Chamber of Commerce, the Newnan - Coweta Carnegie Public Library, the Coweta Economic Development partnership, and the Shenandoah Georgia Youth Science and Technology Center. She was also president for both the Newnan Junior Service League and the Driftwood Garden Club. She was a board member of the Newnan - Coweta United Way Board and the Newnan Hospital Board. She continues to serve as a member of the Newnan Rotary Club and as a Georgia Master Gardener.
As Commissioner of Natural Resources, Chris Clark is the fifth person to head the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) and its 2500 employees. DNR has statewide responsibilities for the management and conservation of Georgia’s natural, historic and cultural resources, including air and water quality, fish and wildlife, land conservation, coastal resources, historic preservation, sustainability initiatives, and more. DNR protects and conserves Georgia’s diverse wildlife populations and provides quality outdoor recreation through its management of more than one million acres of public lands in state parks, natural areas, public fishing areas and wildlife management areas. 