February 22, 2017 AWRA-WA Dinner Meeting
Ivar’s Salmon House on Lake Union
NOOKSACK RIVER SYSTEM-WIDE IMPROVEMENT FRAMEWORK
David Roberts, Kulshan Services
Whatcom County entered into an agreement with the US Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) in 2013 to develop a System-wide Improvement Framework Plan (SWIF) for the Nooksack River levee systems. The Nooksack River SWIF addresses levee deficiencies identified by the USACE to reduce risk and integrate environmental considerations to comply with the ESA as well as respect Tribal treaty rights. The SWIF also provides a mechanism for the levees to remain eligible for rehabilitation assistance while the deficiencies are prioritized and addressed systematically.
David Roberts of Kulshan Services facilitated the SWIF process involving seven teams and over seventy-five people for over two and one-half years. He also advised County staff on strategies for developing the approach and communicating effectively with diverse audiences in the community. The resulting plan addressed permit streamlining, long-term flood risk reduction, funding issues, and future project development. In addition to bringing the project to completion, the process has led to opportunities for coordination and relationship building and grant applications with greater community support.
David will provide background on the process and outcomes as well as key insights into what made this pilot project successful.
About the Speaker - David Roberts started Kulshan Services in Bellingham five years ago with a focus on assisting clients with sound environmental strategies, compliance support, and effective communications primarily involving watersheds and aquatic ecosystems. He has 33 years of experience in state government, private industry, and consulting. David’s focus has been on environmental policy and planning, program development, land management, clean-up, and restoration. His current projects include facilitation of a number of complex community negotiations. The bulk of David’s work has been in Washington, but he has also worked in Scandinavia and Australia. David completed his Bachelor’s degree in Geology from Washington State University and his Masters degree in Environmental Science and Engineering from University of Washington.
Space is limited, so we encourage you to register early. Please note the definition for students, below.
Event Details:
Wednesday, February 22, 2017
Social Hour 5:30 - 6:30
Dinner 6:30 - 7:00
Presentation 7:00 - 8:00
LOCATION - Ivar’s Salmon House on Lake Union
401 NE Northlake Way
Seattle, Washington
(206) 632-0767
Students: Free (Reserved for student members enrolled full-time, as outlined on the AWRA-WA website, waawra.org)
Member: $30
Non-Members: $40
Cancellation Policy: AWRA-WA will fully refund the registration fee if cancellation notice is received within 5 days of the event.
