Loading…
arrow_back View All Dates
Thursday, July 17
 

8:30am EDT

"WOTUS NOTICE: The Final Response to SCOTUS"!!
Thursday July 17, 2025 8:30am - 10:10am EDT
Over the last 10 years, the nation has been subject to frequent definition changes to the Waters of the United States (WOTUS), resulting in extreme uncertainty in the jurisdiction of Section 404 jurisdiction under the Clean Water Act. The changes have been brought on by the last four administrations and significantly affected by a stalwart couple from Idaho and the federal court system. In March of this year, we were gifted with perhaps the BEST (measured by the humor of its title, even if you disagree on the content) joint memorandum ever issued by the US EPA and US Army Corps of Engineers. In this course, a panel of WOTUS experts will discuss the latest revisions to the definition and the implications for practitioners in Florida. Come with your questions. Audience participation is encouraged!
Speakers
avatar for Herschel Vinyard

Herschel Vinyard

Partner, Adams and Reese LLP
avatar for Mike Dennis

Mike Dennis

President, Breedlove, Dennis & Associates
avatar for Matt Leopold

Matt Leopold

Partner, Hunton Andrews Kurth LLP
Matt advises and defends clients across industries with the strategic insights as former General Counsel for the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, former General Counsel for the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, and a former environmental litigator at the U.S. Department... Read More →
Thursday July 17, 2025 8:30am - 10:10am EDT
Calusa 4-5

8:30am EDT

FDEP Regulatory and Policy Update
Thursday July 17, 2025 8:30am - 10:10am EDT
Always a timely and useful course to provide updates on the most current information and activities with the Department of Environmental Protection which we feel will be of most interest to our attendees; includes review and analysis of rules and policies recently adopted or under development, including the latest updates on the Stormwater Rule, OSTDS and domestic wastewater rules, and any published reports; key/practical tips for all private/public regulated interests; course format is designed for extensive audience participation.
Speakers
avatar for Tim Bahr

Tim Bahr

Director, Division of Waste Management, Department of Environmental Protection
avatar for John Coates

John Coates

Director, Division of Water Resource Management, Department of Environmental Protection
John Coates currently serves as the Director of the Division of Water Resource Management, for the Department of Environmental Protection. He has a combination of biology, chemistry, and engineering degrees, and is licensed as a civil engineer in Florida. John started working in the... Read More →
HR

Hastings Read

Department of Environmental Protection
avatar for John Truitt

John Truitt

Deputy Secretary, Department of Environmental Protection
Thursday July 17, 2025 8:30am - 10:10am EDT
Calusa 8-9

8:30am EDT

Wetlands Mitigation Banking Latest Updates
Thursday July 17, 2025 8:30am - 10:10am EDT
The growth of Florida’s mitigation banking industry has resulted in over 100 permitted banks providing mitigation to 4,000+ projects throughout the state. As the industry evolves, changes in regulatory and policy standards are inevitable. This course focuses on recent changes on a national and state level that affect the mitigation banking industry and associated development in Florida. Prospective and current mitigation bankers and users of mitigation bank credits need to understand these changes to ensure compliance and to achieve efficient and timely permit processing. Updates will be provided on USACE’s new Mitigation Banking Instrument, new Financial Assurance requirements, changes in the definition of Waters of the United States (WOTUS) and mitigation challenges associated with Florida DOT projects.
Speakers
avatar for Kae Hovater

Kae Hovater

President, EcoCredit Marketing
avatar for Penny Cople

Penny Cople

Principal Scientist, Breedlove, Dennis & Associates
avatar for Chris Tanner

Chris Tanner

Attorney, Manson Bolves Donaldson Tanner, P.A.
avatar for Cory Wilson

Cory Wilson

Lead Biologist, Mitigation Programs Team, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
avatar for Tim Rach

Tim Rach

Program Administrator, Department of Environmental Protection
Environmental Resource Permitting; State 404 Program; Use of Sovereign Submerged Lands; wetlands; marina permitting; living shorelines
Thursday July 17, 2025 8:30am - 10:10am EDT
Calusa 2-3

8:30am EDT

Avoiding Public Hearing Pitfalls: Preparation, Presentation, And Legal Challenges
Thursday July 17, 2025 8:30am - 10:10am EDT
This panel provides practical and legal insights into managing public hearings before local governments from both the private party and local government perspectives. It specifically addresses issues arising in connection with public hearings and how to deal with denials by and challenges to local government decisions. This presentation will focus on strategic matters, provide useful tips, examine new and developing legal issues, and address technical issues. Attendee participation will be encouraged.
Speakers
avatar for John Chibbaro

John Chibbaro

Partner, Greenberg Traurig
John focuses his practice on complex environmental and land use matters. He advises developers, utilities, and other clients on virtually all aspects of development, from initial permitting and entitlement strategy, contamination assessment and remediation, through government approvals... Read More →
RC

Randy Coen

President, Coen & Company
avatar for Rick J.  Melchiori

Rick J. Melchiori

General Manager, Becker Holding Corporation
Mr. Melchiori brings over 30 years’ experience in land acquisition, entitlement, permitting, design, and construction of industrial, commercial, and highly amenitized residential and mixed use projects. Early in his career, he founded an architectural and engineering firm and through... Read More →
avatar for Aaron Dunlap

Aaron Dunlap

Shareholder, Carlton Fields
Land Use, Zoning, Real Estate Development, Areas of Critical State Concern, Developer-Side HOA and Condo Issues, Construction and Lending Due Diligence, Fiction, Film, Greyhounds.
Thursday July 17, 2025 8:30am - 10:10am EDT
Calusa 11

8:30am EDT

Florida Beach Management and Coastal Program Update
Thursday July 17, 2025 8:30am - 10:10am EDT
Beaches are a valuable resource in Florida, as they provide storm protection to upland infrastructure, nesting habitat to sea turtles, and recreational value to tourists and locals. Since coastal development and navigation inlets have interrupted the natural littoral drift of sediment along much of Florida’s coastline, it is necessary to nourish these sandy beaches on a recurring basis. Additional development within this dynamic and sensitive coastal beach environment requires a special permit from the Florida Department of Environmental Protection. This course examines the regulatory framework and practical aspects of Florida’s beach management and Coastal Construction Control Line programs and covers current agency procedures and practices; emerging agency policy; and special permitting considerations for storm impact planning and emergency response, including appropriate use of coastal armoring structures. Always a timely and informative course.
Speakers
avatar for Fred Aschauer

Fred Aschauer

Shareholder, Lewis, Longman & Walker, P.A.
avatar for Penny Cutt

Penny Cutt

Senior Director, Cummins Cederberg
Talk to me about...County, state, and federal environmental regulationsEnvironmental permitting strategyMarina feasibilityBeach and inlet managementResilient waterfront park designPermit complianceMitigation assessment and negotiationEcological assessment and monitoringGrant Funding... Read More →
DS

Darwin Stubbs

Vice President, Isiminger & Stubbs Engineering, Inc.
Darwin Stubbs is a Florida licensed professional engineer and certified floodplain manager.Darwin is a coastal engineering consultant and his expertise includes analysis, design, permitting, and floodplain management in the coastal/marine environment.
avatar for Lainie Edwards

Lainie Edwards

Department of Environmental Protection
LS

Laura Shepherd

Sr. Environmental Project Manager, Moffatt & Nichol
Thursday July 17, 2025 8:30am - 10:10am EDT
Calusa 1

8:30am EDT

Waste Management Programs Overview
Thursday July 17, 2025 8:30am - 10:10am EDT
The Division of Waste Management touches many areas, ranging from Brownfields and emerging contaminants to solid and hazardous waste regulation. It also formulates policy and coordinates with the six regulatory Districts on enforcement and compliance assistance. This is a class to introduce a wide audience to one of the largest operations units of FDEP. You will learn what are the Division’s several programs and how they are implemented throughout the State and relate to ensuring that as Florida grows, the Division keeps pace with its mission. Has compliance assistance paid dividends on RCRA, USTs, solid waste, and other programs’ compliance? What are the most common violations on several programs? What do their data and 2024 dashboards show, particularly in the Petroleum Restoration Program? Where does FDEP see the PRP evolving to now that the last batch of sites will be assessed in the next few years? How can most RCRA, UST, and solid waste violations be avoided? As several cleanup programs mature, what will be emerging contaminants that all stakeholders will have to be prepared for (hint… like to start developing a PFAS groundwater primary standard in 2025. How are the Division and industry reacting to these? How does the Division relate to other Divisions? Our panel will consist of past and present state regulatory leaders, private corporate leaders, consultants, and attorneys who will give their impressions and encourage audience participation.
Speakers
avatar for Joseph Ullo, Jr.

Joseph Ullo, Jr.

Shareholder, Carlton Fields
Joe Ullo counsels large and small business owners, landowners, private companies, and county and municipal governments statewide in all aspects of federal, state, and local environmental law, regulations, and processes that govern the consideration and usage of land, management of... Read More →
CL

Claudia Listopad

President, Applied Ecology, Inc.
avatar for Todd Kafka

Todd Kafka

SENIOR PRINCIPAL, Geosyntec Consultants
Todd Kafka, PG, is a Senior Principal Hydrogeologist in Geosyntec's Tampa office and is the co-Branch Manager of the firm's eight offices in Florida.  Todd obtained his MS in Geology from Washington State University in 1995 and has a BA in Environmental Studies/Geology from Middlebury... Read More →
avatar for Stephen Tilbrook

Stephen Tilbrook

Akerman LLP
NL

Natasha Lampkin

Department of Environmental Protection
Thursday July 17, 2025 8:30am - 10:10am EDT
Calusa 12

8:30am EDT

Unlocking Florida's Water Future: Innovative Solutions for Supply and Reuse (Part 1 of 2)
Thursday July 17, 2025 8:30am - 10:10am EDT
Join us for an exciting, in-depth two-part course where top water policy experts dive into Florida’s rapidly growing demand for water and explore innovative solutions to secure its future. This course focuses on how water reuse can revolutionize the state’s approach to water management. In 2020, DEP was directed to develop potable reuse rules based on the Potable Reuse Commission recommendations. After four years, Florida adopted new rules for direct potable reuse and revising indirect potable reuse rules. These changes are paving the way for a more sustainable and reliable water supply in the face of growing challenges.

Throughout this course, you'll listen to expert presentations and participate in dynamic panel discussions with water policy leaders, engineers, and innovators who are shaping the future of water supply in Florida and beyond. This course will leave you with a deeper understanding of how water reuse can help “grow the water pie” while protecting the environment and ensuring Florida's water future. Don’t miss out on this vital conversation about one of the most pressing issues of our time!
Speakers
avatar for Laura Donaldson

Laura Donaldson

Shareholder, Manson Bolves Donaldson Tanner, P.A.
avatar for Randy Brown

Randy Brown

President, Eagle Utility Management
CD

Chuck Drake

Vice President, Tetra Tech
avatar for Kerry Kates

Kerry Kates

Deputy Director, Orange County Utilities
avatar for Mandi Rice

Mandi Rice

Assistant Executive Director, Southwest Florida Water Management District
avatar for Lynn Spivey

Lynn Spivey

Director of City Utilities, City of Plant City
Thursday July 17, 2025 8:30am - 10:10am EDT
Calusa 10

8:30am EDT

Endangered Species Act Compliance Tools Under Section 10: Habitat Conservation Plans and Conservation Benefit Agreements (Part 1 of 2)
Thursday July 17, 2025 8:30am - 10:10am EDT
This course provides an overview of the latest developments and best practices in tools available to non-federal entities to comply with the federal Endangered Species Act. Section 10 of the ESA allows for incidental take permits or enhancement of survival permits that provide durable, long-term regulatory assurances that are not available under the federal consultation process of ESA Section 7. These tools have been widely used across the country but less so in Florida. This course will provide a roadmap for how to consider these tools for your projects, lessons learned from successful plans, and pitfalls to avoid. The panel will also discuss how recent court decisions and regulatory changes may influence this key provision of the ESA. Highly relevant case studies will be provided from Florida, the eastern United States, and around the country.
Speakers
avatar for Niki Desjardin

Niki Desjardin

Co-President, Ecological Associates, Inc.
Niki has over 20 years of experience managing protected species monitoring programs and coordinating/conducting field work in Florida. Her expertise is in sea turtle nesting beach management, shorebird/seabird conservation, and habitat conservation planning. Please ask Niki about... Read More →
avatar for Brian Levey

Brian Levey

Counsel, Hunton Andrews Kurth LLP
Brian advises clients on matters that arise under the Clean Water Act (CWA), Endangered Species Act (ESA), National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) and other environmental statutes. He assists applicants in obtaining and defending federal permits for complicated energy and development... Read More →
avatar for Holly Andreotta

Holly Andreotta

Lead Wildlife Biologist, Permitting and Compliance, South Florida Water Management District
Holly Andreotta has over 20 years of experience overseeing permitting and compliance for multiple large-scale Everglades restoration projects at the South Florida Water Management District with an emphasis on managing, protecting, surveying, and monitoring of protected state and federal... Read More →
avatar for Raoul Boughton

Raoul Boughton

Lead Ecologist, Mosaic
I am a scientist and believe in the science method and facts over conjecture.  My personal goal is: To discover solutions for humans, their industries and lifestyles, to co-exist with the amazing world of wildlife and habitats with whom they share the planet.  I am energetic, easy... Read More →
avatar for David Zippin

David Zippin

Practice Lead, Habitat Conservation Planning, ICF
I lead ICF's large Practice in habitat conservation planning and implementation, including state and federal Endangered Species Act compliance for state and local governments, utilities, energy companies, and private developers. I oversee and lead large, complex biodiversity and habitat... Read More →
avatar for Jose Rivera

Jose Rivera

Manager, Division of Environmental review, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
Jose started his Federal career as a student Park Ranger with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (Corps) at Saylorville Lake, in Johnston, Iowa in 1998. After a few years working in recreation, interpretation, water safety and natural resource management, he headed South to Florida... Read More →
avatar for Tim Day

Tim Day

Deputy Director, Escambia County
Habitat Conservation Plan (HCP) plan development and implementation, coastal restoration, beach nourishment, listed species protection/regulation, wetland restoration
avatar for Crissy Sutter

Crissy Sutter

Principal Bat Biologist, ICF
Crissy Sutter, serves as the Principal Bat Biologist and bat subject matter expert at ICF, where she leads efforts across energy, transportation, and conservation planning projects. She provides strategic, science-based guidance to clients navigating the evolving regulatory landscape... Read More →
Thursday July 17, 2025 8:30am - 10:10am EDT
Caxambus 1-2

10:30am EDT

Agricultural Water Policy: The Latest Updates from FDACS
Thursday July 17, 2025 10:30am - 12:10pm EDT
This course will give you the latest information on water quality BMPs, water use and reuse on agricultural lands, and other policy changes resulting from the Legislative Session and implementation by the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, including adoption of new BMP Manuals. Come hear from West Gregory, the Water Policy Director, and a panel of water policy experts on the latest updates affecting agriculture and Florida’s water resources.
Speakers
RW

Robert Williams

Lewis, Longman & Walker, P.A.
avatar for Mike Register

Mike Register

Executive Director, St. Johns River Water Management District
 
avatar for Lennart Lindahl

Lennart Lindahl

MacVicar Consulting Inc.
avatar for West Gregory

West Gregory

Director of Agricultural Water Policy, Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services
Thursday July 17, 2025 10:30am - 12:10pm EDT
Calusa 11

10:30am EDT

Federal Environmental Regulation and Enforcement Update
Thursday July 17, 2025 10:30am - 12:10pm EDT
Come listen and learn from a panel of experts as they discuss the latest changes to federal environmental policies and regulations under the Trump Administration. This session examines how the policies and roles of the federal agencies are changing across a wide spectrum of issues such as WOTUS and other water issues, endangered species, enforcement, agency size, and climate change. The experts will also discuss how the regulated community, the state, and advocacy groups are responding to such changes including the potential for citizen enforcement. These and other federal issues will be discussed by our well-informed panel. Come prepared to listen, learn and participate.
Speakers
avatar for Rafe Petersen

Rafe Petersen

Partner, Holland & Knight
Rafe Petersen is a partner in Holland & Knight's Washington, D.C. office and is a member of the firm's Government Section. He primarily focuses on litigation and counseling in administrative, environmental and energy fields. Mr. Petersen's environmental practice includes environmental... Read More →
avatar for Bernadette Rappold

Bernadette Rappold

Shareholder, Greenberg Traurig
Bernadette M. Rappold focuses her practice on federal and state regulatory issues related to energy, manufacturing, and the environment. Bernadette has substantial litigation experience and advises clients on regulatory compliance as well as the environmental, safety, and health aspects... Read More →
avatar for Melissa Meeker

Melissa Meeker

Chief Executive Officer, The Water Tower
Melissa Meeker is the chief executive officer of the Water Tower in Buford, Georgia, a non-profit focused on advancing water utilities through applied research, technology advancement, workforce development, and public engagement. Melissa previously served as the chief executive officer... Read More →
BH

Bobby Halbert

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
Thursday July 17, 2025 10:30am - 12:10pm EDT
Calusa 4-5

10:30am EDT

WMD Planning, Regulatory, and Policy Update
Thursday July 17, 2025 10:30am - 12:10pm EDT
An excellent course designed to provide insight into the regulatory, planning, and water supply development programs of Florida’s five water management districts; includes a discussion of water resource development and water supply planning; adoption and implementation of MFLs; development of water reservations; Environmental Resource Permitting updates; secondary and cumulative impacts; discussion of changes to water management district budgeting and cooperative funding for water quality and water supply; and other emerging programs and issues; audience participation encouraged.
Speakers
avatar for Eric Olsen

Eric Olsen

Shareholder, Gunster
Inside and outside of Florida, Eric assists myriad business and individual clients on environmental law and regulatory matters. A Florida native, for nearly three decades Eric has focused his practice on wetland regulation, mitigation banking, stormwater regulation, consumptive use... Read More →
BA

Brian Armstrong

Executive Director, Southwest Florida Water Management District
avatar for Nicolas Porter

Nicolas Porter

Shareholder, de la Parte & Gilbert, P.A.
avatar for Brad Purcell

Brad Purcell

Chief of Staff, St. Johns River Water Management District
avatar for Jennifer Smith

Jennifer Smith

Chief of Staff, South Florida Water Management District
Thursday July 17, 2025 10:30am - 12:10pm EDT
Calusa 8-9

10:30am EDT

Keeping Your Eye On The Ball: Scoping The Appropriate Environmental Due Diligence For The Project
Thursday July 17, 2025 10:30am - 12:10pm EDT
The panelists will discuss appropriate scoping of the environmental due diligence process, taking into consideration current and prior land uses and the user’s project objectives; the panelists will also discuss the importance of the environmental professional’s opinion and when and how to recommend additional investigation; in closing land transactions when there are unresolved issues and how to address those issues and much more; audience participation encouraged.
Speakers
avatar for Tom Mullin

Tom Mullin

Bilzin Sumberg Baena Price & Axelrod
avatar for Kelly Eger-Smith

Kelly Eger-Smith

President/Owner, American Environmental Consulting
In 2012, I founded American Environmental Consulting, Inc. (AEC), a 100% woman-owned small business. My vision was to build an environmental engineering firm that provides practical, cost-effective, business-minded solutions to real property environmental issues. I strategically employ... Read More →
avatar for Vince Yarina

Vince Yarina

Principal/Vice President, Langan
RT

Rob Toth

Vice President, Birkitt Environmental Services
EI

Elaine Imbruglia

President, Modica & Associates
Thursday July 17, 2025 10:30am - 12:10pm EDT
Calusa 1

10:30am EDT

Florida Wetland Delineation Methodology
Thursday July 17, 2025 10:30am - 12:10pm EDT
If you want to know precisely how state wetland jurisdiction is determined in Florida, and the nuances of the uniform statewide wetland methodology, this is your course! This course addresses the initial concept and formulation of 62-340, F.A.C., the wetland jurisdictional methodology, recent rule interpretations and policy. This experienced panel will discuss and analyze the application of vegetation, soils and hydrologic indicators in determining presence of state regulated wetlands; the methodologies used in the various tests; application to altered and non-altered sites; practical applications and dispute resolution. Examples and case studies will be discussed. This course is designed for extensive audience participation.
Speakers
avatar for Mike Dennis

Mike Dennis

President, Breedlove, Dennis & Associates
avatar for Ed Murawski

Ed Murawski

Program Manager, Kleinfelder
Mr. Murawski has 25 years of experience in the environmental consulting field in the areas of wetlands, protected species and land use permitting. He serves as the Program Manager for Tampa Florida office and supervises a team of up 20 employees. Ed has managed projects throughout... Read More →
avatar for Mike Nichols

Mike Nichols

President, MJ Nichols & Associates
Mike has an extensive background conducting jurisdictional wetland determinations and other wetlands permitting and mitigation design projects in his over 40 year career in environmental assessments. He has been employed by Florida DEP and Broward County for about half of his career... Read More →
avatar for Debbie Madden

Debbie Madden

Attorney, Gunster
Deborah Madden is an attorney whose practice focuses on the area of environmental law.Deborah represents a broad range of clients, including developers, agricultural interests and public and private companies.Deborah has experience providing legal support to clients in permitting... Read More →
avatar for Tim Rach

Tim Rach

Program Administrator, Department of Environmental Protection
Environmental Resource Permitting; State 404 Program; Use of Sovereign Submerged Lands; wetlands; marina permitting; living shorelines
Thursday July 17, 2025 10:30am - 12:10pm EDT
Calusa 2-3

10:30am EDT

Emerging Issues In Pollution Liability and Technological Innovations
Thursday July 17, 2025 10:30am - 12:10pm EDT
Environmental enforcement in Florida continues to evolve, with regulatory agencies placing increasing emphasis on accountability over compliance assistance. This policy shift is especially evident in the regulation of solid and hazardous waste, soils, and water quality—and it has intensified the scrutiny on both permitted activities and private property transactions. As enforcement tightens, new technologies are entering the market to help regulated entities manage liability, reduce costs, and comply with stricter standards. This course explores recent legal and technical developments affecting pollution liability, including case studies and real-world implications for property owners, facility operators, and transactional stakeholders. New this year is a presentation from Sedron Technologies on their advanced biosolids processing system now under construction in Martin County. The system offers a sustainable, chemical-free method to transform wastewater biosolids into Class A fertilizer and recover clean water, with added benefits such as PFAS destruction and reduced greenhouse gas emissions. Course attendees are encouraged to engage in interactive discussion with environmental attorneys, technical experts, and innovators addressing today’s most pressing pollution liability challenges.
Speakers
avatar for Ralph DeMeo

Ralph DeMeo

Guilday Law
Environmental Land Use Administrative and Animal Law.
avatar for Jim Oliveros

Jim Oliveros

Principal, Mechling Engineering & Consulting
I’ve spent most of my career working on cleanup of contaminated sites, hydrogeology, waste management compliance, and environmental permitting. I have a particular interest in RCRA, especially dealing with unusual wastes and waste generating processes. I really like Dad jokes... Read More →
avatar for Nicholas Meros

Nicholas Meros

Partner, Shutt & Bowen
SJ

Stanley Janicki

Sedron Technologies
BP

Brad Pekas

CIP Solutions
Thursday July 17, 2025 10:30am - 12:10pm EDT
Calusa 12

10:30am EDT

Unlocking Florida's Water Future: Innovative Solutions for Supply and Reuse (Part 2 of 2)
Thursday July 17, 2025 10:30am - 12:10pm EDT
Join us for an exciting, in-depth two-part course where top water policy experts dive into Florida’s rapidly growing demand for water and explore innovative solutions to secure its future. This course focuses on how water reuse can revolutionize the state’s approach to water management. In 2020, DEP was directed to develop potable reuse rules based on the Potable Reuse Commission recommendations. After four years, Florida adopted new rules for direct potable reuse and revising indirect potable reuse rules. These changes are paving the way for a more sustainable and reliable water supply in the face of growing challenges.

Throughout this course, you'll listen to expert presentations and participate in dynamic panel discussions with water policy leaders, engineers, and innovators who are shaping the future of water supply in Florida and beyond. This course will leave you with a deeper understanding of how water reuse can help “grow the water pie” while protecting the environment and ensuring Florida's water future. Don’t miss out on this vital conversation about one of the most pressing issues of our time!
Speakers
avatar for Laura Donaldson

Laura Donaldson

Shareholder, Manson Bolves Donaldson Tanner, P.A.
CD

Chuck Drake

Vice President, Tetra Tech
avatar for Randy Brown

Randy Brown

President, Eagle Utility Management
avatar for Lynn Spivey

Lynn Spivey

Director of City Utilities, City of Plant City
avatar for Mandi Rice

Mandi Rice

Assistant Executive Director, Southwest Florida Water Management District
avatar for Kerry Kates

Kerry Kates

Deputy Director, Orange County Utilities
Thursday July 17, 2025 10:30am - 12:10pm EDT
Calusa 10

10:30am EDT

Endangered Species Act Compliance Tools Under Section 10: Habitat Conservation Plans and Conservation Benefit Agreements (Part 2 of 2)
Thursday July 17, 2025 10:30am - 12:10pm EDT
This course provides an overview of the latest developments and best practices in tools available to non-federal entities to comply with the federal Endangered Species Act. Section 10 of the ESA allows for incidental take permits or enhancement of survival permits that provide durable, long-term regulatory assurances that are not available under the federal consultation process of ESA Section 7. These tools have been widely used across the country but less so in Florida. This course will provide a roadmap for how to consider these tools for your projects, lessons learned from successful plans, and pitfalls to avoid. The panel will also discuss how recent court decisions and regulatory changes may influence this key provision of the ESA. Highly relevant case studies will be provided from Florida, the eastern United States, and around the country.
Speakers
avatar for Niki Desjardin

Niki Desjardin

Co-President, Ecological Associates, Inc.
Niki has over 20 years of experience managing protected species monitoring programs and coordinating/conducting field work in Florida. Her expertise is in sea turtle nesting beach management, shorebird/seabird conservation, and habitat conservation planning. Please ask Niki about... Read More →
avatar for Brian Levey

Brian Levey

Counsel, Hunton Andrews Kurth LLP
Brian advises clients on matters that arise under the Clean Water Act (CWA), Endangered Species Act (ESA), National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) and other environmental statutes. He assists applicants in obtaining and defending federal permits for complicated energy and development... Read More →
avatar for Jose Rivera

Jose Rivera

Manager, Division of Environmental review, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
Jose started his Federal career as a student Park Ranger with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (Corps) at Saylorville Lake, in Johnston, Iowa in 1998. After a few years working in recreation, interpretation, water safety and natural resource management, he headed South to Florida... Read More →
avatar for Tim Day

Tim Day

Deputy Director, Escambia County
Habitat Conservation Plan (HCP) plan development and implementation, coastal restoration, beach nourishment, listed species protection/regulation, wetland restoration
avatar for Crissy Sutter

Crissy Sutter

Principal Bat Biologist, ICF
Crissy Sutter, serves as the Principal Bat Biologist and bat subject matter expert at ICF, where she leads efforts across energy, transportation, and conservation planning projects. She provides strategic, science-based guidance to clients navigating the evolving regulatory landscape... Read More →
avatar for Holly Andreotta

Holly Andreotta

Lead Wildlife Biologist, Permitting and Compliance, South Florida Water Management District
Holly Andreotta has over 20 years of experience overseeing permitting and compliance for multiple large-scale Everglades restoration projects at the South Florida Water Management District with an emphasis on managing, protecting, surveying, and monitoring of protected state and federal... Read More →
avatar for Raoul Boughton

Raoul Boughton

Lead Ecologist, Mosaic
I am a scientist and believe in the science method and facts over conjecture.  My personal goal is: To discover solutions for humans, their industries and lifestyles, to co-exist with the amazing world of wildlife and habitats with whom they share the planet.  I am energetic, easy... Read More →
avatar for David Zippin

David Zippin

Practice Lead, Habitat Conservation Planning, ICF
I lead ICF's large Practice in habitat conservation planning and implementation, including state and federal Endangered Species Act compliance for state and local governments, utilities, energy companies, and private developers. I oversee and lead large, complex biodiversity and habitat... Read More →
Thursday July 17, 2025 10:30am - 12:10pm EDT
Caxambus 1-2

12:10pm EDT

Thursday Luncheon with Keynote or Door Prize Drawings by Sponsors
Thursday July 17, 2025 12:10pm - 1:30pm EDT
Thursday July 17, 2025 12:10pm - 1:30pm EDT
Banyon Ballroom

1:30pm EDT

Florida's Environment, Water Policy, the 2025 Legislature and Beyond
Thursday July 17, 2025 1:30pm - 3:10pm EDT
Absolutely the most current and reliable information available on what the 2025 Legislature passed (or considered but failed to pass) and why; assessment of Florida’s changing political landscape with respect to environmental and water policy issues; comprehensive preview of what’s expected with respect to the implementation of 2024 legislation with a look ahead to the 2026 session and beyond. This course is designed for audience participation, so come with your questions for the panelists!
Speakers
avatar for Larry Sellers

Larry Sellers

Partner, Holland & Knight
avatar for Laura Donaldson

Laura Donaldson

Shareholder, Manson Bolves Donaldson Tanner, P.A.
avatar for Alexandria Kernan

Alexandria Kernan

Senior Advisor, Arrow Group
With over a decade of legislative, executive, and political experience, Alex focuses on client support in legislative and public policy, as well as providing clients with guidance on the integration of government relations, communications, and issue management. Alex brings substantial... Read More →
avatar for Lori Killinger

Lori Killinger

Executive Shareholder, Lewis, Longman & Walker, P.A.
Ms. Killinger’s practice focuses on Legislative, Administrative and Governmental representation. She represents clients before legislative and executive branches of government, regulatory agencies at the state and local levels, the Florida Cabinet and legislative and gubernatorial... Read More →
avatar for Jon Steverson

Jon Steverson

Senior Policy Advisor, Holland & Knight
Jonathan Steverson is a senior policy advisor in Holland & Knight's Tallahassee office and a member of the firm's Public Policy & Regulation Group. Mr. Steverson handles a variety of topics within Florida government advocacy, with a specific focus on matters related to energy, environment... Read More →
avatar for Frank Walker

Frank Walker

Executive Vice President of Government and Political Relations, Florida Chamber of Commerce
Thursday July 17, 2025 1:30pm - 3:10pm EDT
Calusa 4-5

1:30pm EDT

Lake Okeechobee And The Estuaries: A Water Management Balancing Act (Part 1 of 2)
Thursday July 17, 2025 1:30pm - 3:10pm EDT
In this extremely popular panel of experts on Lake Okeechobee, the panel is again presenting on critical issues affecting Lake Okeechobee and the Northern Estuaries.
Part 1 This year, numerous developing issues are affecting the Lake, including the new lake schedule “LOSOM” being implemented by the US Army Corps of Engineers and the ASR program north of the lake. In this 2-part course, the panel will focus on these latest developments, as well as the Herbert Hoover Dike Rehabilitation, endangered species, water quality, and the status of the Comprehensive Everglades Restoration Plan projects that affect the Lake.
Part 2 The panel represents a diverse cross-section of government, private landowners, tribal entities, and environmental and agricultural interests. The panel will discuss how Lake management decisions affect their differing interests and obligations and the varying issues that must be balanced to make effective decisions.
Speakers
avatar for Luna E. Phillips

Luna E. Phillips

Shareholder, Gunster
Luna Phillips is a Florida Bar board certified Gunster shareholder who practices in the area of environmental, administrative and governmental law. She leads the firm’s Environmental practice.Prior to joining the firm, Luna was a senior attorney for the South Florida Water Management... Read More →
avatar for Ernie Barnett

Ernie Barnett

Owner, Water and Land Advisors, Inc.
avatar for Michelle Diffenderfer

Michelle Diffenderfer

President, Lewis, Longman & Walker, P.A.
Michelle Diffenderfer is the President and a Shareholder of Lewis, Longman & Walker, P.A., a statewide environmental law firm. Mrs. Diffenderfer assists landowners, businesses and governments with local, state and federal, environmental, natural resource and land development legal... Read More →
avatar for Drew Bartlett

Drew Bartlett

Executive Director, South Florida Water Management District
avatar for Adam Blalock

Adam Blalock

Deputy Secretary fro Ecosystems Restoration, Department of Environmental Protection
AU

Anna Upton

CEO, Everglades Trust
BB

Brandon Bowman

U.S. Army Corps of Engineer - Jacksonville District
Thursday July 17, 2025 1:30pm - 3:10pm EDT
Caxambus 1-2

1:30pm EDT

FRESH FROM FLORIDA: Emerging Issues in Agriculture and Their Effect on the Environment
Thursday July 17, 2025 1:30pm - 3:10pm EDT
Florida agriculture plays a significant role in meeting the food and commodity needs of a growing world population and in environmental stewardship. This course will discuss new and ever-evolving topics – including land use management and preservation, water use, and wetland and wildlife conservation – and their effect on Florida’s agricultural community. Expect the expert panelists to discuss recent state and federal legislation affecting agriculture in Florida, best management practice (BMP) developments, industry trends, historic and predicted changes in water use and availability, permitting strategies, and more! Don’t miss it!
Speakers
avatar for Felicia Kitzmiller

Felicia Kitzmiller

Stearns Weaver Miller Weissler Alhadeff & Sitterson
My practice involves all aspects of land development - environmental permitting and enforcement, land use, and real estate - with a particular emphasis on natural resources and the extraction industry. I have experience in mineral rights due diligence and litigation, wetland permitting... Read More →
avatar for Cortney Cortez

Cortney Cortez

Senior Economist, Balmoral Group
Cortney Cortez is Senior Economist of The Balmoral Group, an economic and engineering firm focused on public policy, socioeconomic impacts, and design within infrastructure, water resources, and the environment.
avatar for West Gregory

West Gregory

Director of Agricultural Water Policy, Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services
avatar for Ansley Tilley , PE

Ansley Tilley , PE

Principal, Southwest Ag Environmental
Ansley is a Principal Engineer with EcoStasis, LLC focused on large landscape solutions and nature based solutions in water resources.  
avatar for Steven Hall

Steven Hall

Executive Director, Citrus Research and Field Trials (CRAFT) Foundation
Thursday July 17, 2025 1:30pm - 3:10pm EDT
Calusa 1

1:30pm EDT

Drawing Wetland Lines Using Federal Delineation Methodology
Thursday July 17, 2025 1:30pm - 3:10pm EDT
This course addresses how to delineate a federal wetland using the 1987 Wetland Jurisdictional Manual and 2010 Regional Supplement. If you want to know precisely how a wetland jurisdictional boundary is set at the federal level, and the subtle and not so subtle differences and nuances of Federal wetland methodology, this is your course! The panel will discuss and analyze the application of vegetation, soils and hydrologic indicators in determining presence of federal regulated wetlands; the methodologies used in the various tests; and practical applications. Other federal guidance and tools will be discussed, including the Federal Ordinary High Water Line Manual and the new Delineation Data Form.
Speakers
avatar for Mike Dennis

Mike Dennis

President, Breedlove, Dennis & Associates
avatar for Ed Murawski

Ed Murawski

Program Manager, Kleinfelder
Mr. Murawski has 25 years of experience in the environmental consulting field in the areas of wetlands, protected species and land use permitting. He serves as the Program Manager for Tampa Florida office and supervises a team of up 20 employees. Ed has managed projects throughout... Read More →
SC

Steven Currie

Soil Scientist, Wetland Technical Specialist, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
avatar for Mallory Tatum

Mallory Tatum

Senior Environmental Scientist, Zev Cohen & Assoc.
Thursday July 17, 2025 1:30pm - 3:10pm EDT
Calusa 2-3

1:30pm EDT

Florida Brownfields: Strategies for Smarter Cleanup and Stronger Communities
Thursday July 17, 2025 1:30pm - 3:10pm EDT
This course will provide environmental engineers, attorneys, and other brownfield stakeholders with a practical, detailed overview of how to navigate the redevelopment of contaminated sites in Florida. Participants will learn how current state and federal rules, including recent changes from the 2025 Florida Legislative Session, directly impact liability management, site cleanup, and redevelopment financing. The panel will walk through replicable processes for addressing risk, satisfying regulatory requirements, and structuring public-private partnerships that align with legal and technical best practices. Case examples will be used to illustrate how successful projects have been executed, with a focus on the technical, financial, and legal strategies that made them work. By the end of the course, attendees will have a clear understanding of how to approach brownfield redevelopment projects efficiently and in compliance with applicable laws.
Speakers
avatar for Michael Goldstein

Michael Goldstein

Managing Partner, The Goldstein Environmental Law Firm, P.A.
Michael R. Goldstein is the Managing Shareholder of The Goldstein Environmental Law Firm, P.A., president of the Goldstein Brownfields Foundation, president of the Goldstein Brownfields Group, co-CEO of Goldstein Kite Environmental Redevelopment Partners, former Chairman of the Miami-Dade... Read More →
avatar for Robyn Neely

Robyn Neely

Chair, Environment and Natural Resources Practice, Akerman LLP
Robyn Neely focuses her practice on environmental site contamination issues related to real estate and corporate sales and acquisitions, and leases, including pre-acquisition, pre-leasing and pre-foreclosure due diligence analysis. Her practice also includes managing the investigation and remediation of contaminated properties and brownfield... Read More →
avatar for Maribel Nicholson-Choice

Maribel Nicholson-Choice

Shareholder, Greenberg Traurig
Maribel is a shareholder with Greenberg Traurig’s Tallahassee office with a concentrated practice in local government, environmental, and land use law. With 30 years of experience which includes local government, environmental, land use, brownfields, construction with an emphasis... Read More →
avatar for Tim Bahr

Tim Bahr

Director, Division of Waste Management, Department of Environmental Protection
MS

Michael Spievack, PE

Senior Project Manager, Langan
Thursday July 17, 2025 1:30pm - 3:10pm EDT
Calusa 12

1:30pm EDT

Florida MS4 And NPDES Update
Thursday July 17, 2025 1:30pm - 3:10pm EDT
The panel of experts will provide a timely update on procedural and substantive considerations in permitting under the NPDES program, including stormwater; numeric nutrient criteria; program administration; case law update, including Sackett v. EPA regarding Waters of the U.S.; enforcement and citizen suits; additional compliance considerations; how to interpret complex regulations; examples of industrial and construction applications; implementation of stormwater NPDES; MS4 program; current agency practices; and emerging trends and issues. Audience participation is encouraged!
Speakers
avatar for Greg Munson

Greg Munson

Shareholder, Gunster
Greg Munson is a shareholder with the Gunster firm and represents regulated industries in the industrial, agricultural, mining, and utility sectors in all areas of state and federal environmental law. He represents clients before Florida’s executive branch agencies, the state’s... Read More →
MK

Matt Knoll

Florida Department of Environmental Protection
avatar for Jana Ash

Jana Ash

Scientist IV, RES
After RES (Resource Environmental Solutions) acquired E Sciences in 2022, I am thrilled to continue my focus on major environmental restoration and water quality improvement projects in Florida.As the nation’s largest nature-based solutions company, RES is restoring a resilient... Read More →
RP

Robert Potts

Geosyntec Consultants
Thursday July 17, 2025 1:30pm - 3:10pm EDT
Calusa 8-9

1:30pm EDT

Using Public-Private Partnerships to Solve Florida's Water Challenges
Thursday July 17, 2025 1:30pm - 3:10pm EDT
Florida is faced with significant local and regional water supply, water quality and other water resource challenges in the coming decades unless proactive actions are taken. The need for new investments in water infrastructure is growing, while local governments and other governmental agencies are faced with fiscal, risk-based and capability constraints. Private sector expertise and financing is needed to play a key role in replacing and expanding Florida’s water infrastructure. Part of the solution may be public-private partnerships (P3) through the development of contractual arrangements. In 2019, federal, state, and local governments spent well over $500 billion to design, build, operate, and maintain transportation and water infrastructure in the United States. The panel will discuss P3 opportunities, legislative initiatives at the state and federal level, as well as case studies in meeting Florida’s future water resource needs. This is a timely and highly recommended course!
Speakers
avatar for John Fumero

John Fumero

Shareholder, Nason Yeager Gerson Harris & Fumero P.A.
John J. Fumero has over 30 years of experience in the areas of environmental, water, land use, administrative and governmental law. Mr. Fumero, formerly General Counsel of the South Florida Water Management District, provides strategic counsel to landowners, developers, industry... Read More →
avatar for Ernie Cox

Ernie Cox

President, Family Lands Remembered, LLC
avatar for Cari Roth

Cari Roth

Vice President of Governmental & Regulatory Affairs, Lykes Bros. Inc.
Cari is an experienced attorney and governmental relations professional now leading governmental and regulatory matters for Lykes Bros. Inc., formerly a long time client. Most of her career was in private practice with a four year stint as the General Counsel of the Department of... Read More →
avatar for Maricruz Fincher

Maricruz Fincher

General Counsel, South Florida Water Management District
avatar for Michael Knowles

Michael Knowles

Director of Engineering, Peace River Manasota Regional Water Supply Authority
Heading up the engineering department for the Peace River Manasota Regional Water Supply Authority.  We are in the process of going from 34.7 mgd to 52.7 mgd AADF through a $800M Capital Program.
Thursday July 17, 2025 1:30pm - 3:10pm EDT
Calusa 10

1:30pm EDT

Overview Of Regulations And Emerging Issues Affecting Imperiled Species
Thursday July 17, 2025 1:30pm - 3:10pm EDT
Many imperiled wildlife species spend some if not all of their life-cycles in Florida. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission has been working closely with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service in developing effective regulations that promote the conservation and management of imperiled species and habitats in Florida. The members of this panel have been actively involved in the development and implementation of these important management practices, policies, guidelines, and regulations. The panel will review current federal and state regulations, and discuss emerging issues affecting imperiled wildlife species and habitat and how those issues could affect land uses in Florida. Bring your questions—this panel encourages panelist collaboration and audience participation!
Speakers
avatar for Jeff Collier

Jeff Collier

Shareholder, Stearns Weaver Miller Weissler Alhadeff & Sitterson
avatar for Gisele Colbert

Gisele Colbert

Principal Scientist, Smart-Sciences, Inc.
Ms. Colbert is the founder of Smart-Sciences and has 26 years of experience in managing and supervising technical projects and in leading inter-disciplinary teams consisting of engineers, geologists, ecologists and other technical experts. Ms. Colbert has extensive experience in all types of environmental permitting in the State of Florida (including Environmental Resource Permits (ERPs), Local Wetlands Permitting, Coastal Construction Permitting, Tree Permitting, Water Use Permit (WUP), industrial wastewater), as well... Read More →
LW

Larry Williams

State Supervisor for Ecological Services, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
avatar for Colleen M. Reilly

Colleen M. Reilly

Principal, EcoWild Consulting Group, LLC
avatar for Raoul Boughton

Raoul Boughton

Lead Ecologist, Mosaic
I am a scientist and believe in the science method and facts over conjecture.  My personal goal is: To discover solutions for humans, their industries and lifestyles, to co-exist with the amazing world of wildlife and habitats with whom they share the planet.  I am energetic, easy... Read More →
avatar for Josh Cucinella

Josh Cucinella

Land Use Planning Administrator, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission
I oversee FWC's Land Use Planning (LUP) Program. LUP coordinates the review of regulated land use changes statewide and provides technical assistance on projects with the potential to affect fish and wildlife species. We coordinate with public planners, agency staff, private landowners... Read More →
Thursday July 17, 2025 1:30pm - 3:10pm EDT
Calusa 11

3:30pm EDT

Environmental Permitting and Enforcement Update
Thursday July 17, 2025 3:30pm - 5:10pm EDT
Timely and informative update on permitting and enforcement procedures utilized by environmental agencies; beginner to intermediate course; covers permits and permit renewals; construction and operation permits; time limitations; monitoring; agency enforcement of permit conditions; fines and other penalties; legal and ethical considerations; other emerging trends and issues including legislative review of agency rules and ratification of proposed rules; audience participation encouraged.
Speakers
avatar for Silvia Alderman

Silvia Alderman

Partner, Akerman LLP
Board Certified in State and Federal Government and Administrative Practice. Practicing Environmental and Land Use law since 1977
avatar for John Truitt

John Truitt

Deputy Secretary, Department of Environmental Protection
avatar for Nicole Gough

Nicole Gough

Environmental Manager, Dewberry
avatar for Julia Lomonico

Julia Lomonico

Managing Attorney, South Florida Water Management District
avatar for Dorothy Watson

Dorothy Watson

Partner, Foley & Lardner LLP
Dottie Watson is a partner with Foley & Lardner where her practice focuses on providing compliance advise and enforcement defense for a variety of environmental and transportation matters, including air and water permitting, hazardous materials transportation, and chemical regulatory... Read More →
Thursday July 17, 2025 3:30pm - 5:10pm EDT
Calusa 11

3:30pm EDT

Lake Okeechobee And The Estuaries: A Water Management Balancing Act (Part 2 of 2)
Thursday July 17, 2025 3:30pm - 5:10pm EDT
In this extremely popular panel of experts on Lake Okeechobee, the panel is again presenting on critical issues affecting Lake Okeechobee and the Northern Estuaries.
Part 1 This year, numerous developing issues are affecting the Lake, including the new lake schedule “LOSOM” being implemented by the US Army Corps of Engineers and the ASR program north of the lake. In this 2-part course, the panel will focus on these latest developments, as well as the Herbert Hoover Dike Rehabilitation, endangered species, water quality, and the status of the Comprehensive Everglades Restoration Plan projects that affect the Lake.
Part 2 The panel represents a diverse cross-section of government, private landowners, tribal entities, and environmental and agricultural interests. The panel will discuss how Lake management decisions affect their differing interests and obligations and the varying issues that must be balanced to make effective decisions.
Speakers
avatar for Luna E. Phillips

Luna E. Phillips

Shareholder, Gunster
Luna Phillips is a Florida Bar board certified Gunster shareholder who practices in the area of environmental, administrative and governmental law. She leads the firm’s Environmental practice.Prior to joining the firm, Luna was a senior attorney for the South Florida Water Management... Read More →
avatar for Ernie Barnett

Ernie Barnett

Owner, Water and Land Advisors, Inc.
avatar for Drew Bartlett

Drew Bartlett

Executive Director, South Florida Water Management District
avatar for Adam Blalock

Adam Blalock

Deputy Secretary fro Ecosystems Restoration, Department of Environmental Protection
BB

Brandon Bowman

U.S. Army Corps of Engineer - Jacksonville District
avatar for Michelle Diffenderfer

Michelle Diffenderfer

President, Lewis, Longman & Walker, P.A.
Michelle Diffenderfer is the President and a Shareholder of Lewis, Longman & Walker, P.A., a statewide environmental law firm. Mrs. Diffenderfer assists landowners, businesses and governments with local, state and federal, environmental, natural resource and land development legal... Read More →
AU

Anna Upton

CEO, Everglades Trust
Thursday July 17, 2025 3:30pm - 5:10pm EDT
Caxambus 1-2

3:30pm EDT

What's New in Environmental Resource Permitting
Thursday July 17, 2025 3:30pm - 5:10pm EDT
Think Environmental Permitting in Florida is an old hat? Think again! This important area of law is constantly evolving, formally or otherwise. This extremely informative (and perhaps even a little fun) course combines the legal principles of ERP permitting, including policy and rulemaking updates, with practical tips for achieving compliance and avoiding process “pitfalls” from regulators and practitioners. The presentation will be led by lawyers and scientists from the public and private sector who will engage in free flowing dialogue with the audience whenever possible. Questions are highly encouraged! The course assumes a working knowledge of the ERP process and criteria, and it is intended to examine emerging issues that make or break applications, including those subjected to the extraordinary scrutiny of an administrative hearing, and what those issues mean for ERP applicants.
Speakers
avatar for Amelia Savage

Amelia Savage

Shareholder, Stearns Weaver Miller Weissler Alhadeff & Sitterson
avatar for Michelle Hopkins

Michelle Hopkins

Regulation Division Director, Southwest Florida Water Management District
I am the Regulation Division Director at the Southwest Florida Water Management District, overseeing the Environmental Resource Permitting (ERP), Water Use Permitting (WUP) and Well Construction Permitting (WCP) programs. I have more than 30 years of water resources engineering experience... Read More →
avatar for John Fumero

John Fumero

Shareholder, Nason Yeager Gerson Harris & Fumero P.A.
John J. Fumero has over 30 years of experience in the areas of environmental, water, land use, administrative and governmental law. Mr. Fumero, formerly General Counsel of the South Florida Water Management District, provides strategic counsel to landowners, developers, industry... Read More →
avatar for Shannon Gonzalez

Shannon Gonzalez

Senior Ecologist/Principal, Flatwoods Consulting Group, Inc.
Flatwoods Consulting Group Inc. (Flatwoods) is a Florida-based Small Business Enterprise (SBE) that assists clients in navigating complex environmental regulation. Our vision is to provide the highest quality consultation to our clients in a cost-effective manner. Our team of highly... Read More →
JS

Julie Sullivan

Vice President, Southeast Regional Director, ESA
Thursday July 17, 2025 3:30pm - 5:10pm EDT
Calusa 4-5

3:30pm EDT

Planning And Execution For Successful Environmental Outcomes
Thursday July 17, 2025 3:30pm - 5:10pm EDT
Back by popular demand, the focus of this interactive discussion is facilitating sure and positive communication with both stakeholders and environmental regulatory agencies at the local, state and federal levels. Preparation, organization, as well as an in-depth understanding of the legal framework and processes of regulation, go a long way to ensuring a smoother and certainly more positive outcome. Here’s your chance to interact with the panel, using real case studies, and discuss which techniques were successful (or not) and receive expert advice from four instructors who’ve gotten results.
Speakers
avatar for Amy Tracy

Amy Tracy

Fl Water Resources Leader, Dewberry
My career focuses solely on improving the quality of Florida’s water resources. A stormwater aficionado who developed a love for reclaimed water, I’m passionate about judging water by its "quality, not its history". An advocate of treating water to its appropriate end use, I've... Read More →
avatar for Anna Long

Anna Long

Of Counsel, Dean Mead
avatar for Liz Johnson

Liz Johnson

Environmental Program Administrator, Environmental Protection Division, Orange County Government
Elizabeth R. JohnsonAssistant Manager, Orange County Environmental Protection Division EDUCATION:Orlando College; Winter Park, Florida, 1993Masters in Public Administration - Graduated Magna Cum LaudeRollins College; Winter Park, Florida, 1986B.A. Environmental SciencePROFESSIONAL... Read More →
avatar for Jeff Prather

Jeff Prather

Director of Regulatory Services and Planning, St. Johns River Water Management District
AS

Ann Shortelle

Bio-Tech Consulting
Thursday July 17, 2025 3:30pm - 5:10pm EDT
Calusa 12

3:30pm EDT

Comprehensive Watershed Management Reimagined: Blending Infrastructure, Innovation, and Policy
Thursday July 17, 2025 3:30pm - 5:10pm EDT
Course updated for 2025! The panel of experts will provide an in-depth examination of watershed management as a means of comprehensively integrating a variety of planning and regulatory programs currently implemented by FDEP and the water management districts, including TMDLs, MS4s, NPDES, PLRGs, Water Quality Credit Trading, and both structural and non-structural floodplain planning and management. The discussion will also touch on the emerging role of Urban Forest Management Plans (UFMPs) as a component of green infrastructure in municipal watershed strategies. The panel will discuss practical considerations and any changes to current agency practices. Audience participation is encouraged, so bring your questions!
Speakers
avatar for Debbie Madden

Debbie Madden

Attorney, Gunster
Deborah Madden is an attorney whose practice focuses on the area of environmental law.Deborah represents a broad range of clients, including developers, agricultural interests and public and private companies.Deborah has experience providing legal support to clients in permitting... Read More →
avatar for Ahmed Hamed

Ahmed Hamed

Senior Engineer, Geosyntec Consultants
Ahmed Hamed is a Senior Engineer with Geosyntec Consultants, specializing in stormwater management. He has extensive experience in developing and managing flood risk models and flood protection projects across rural and urban watersheds in Florida. Previously, Ahmed was a project... Read More →
avatar for Mike Register

Mike Register

Executive Director, St. Johns River Water Management District
 
avatar for Brian Voelker

Brian Voelker

Senior Environmental Scientist, Chen Moore & Associates
I am a Senior Environmental Scientist specializing in natural resource assessments and permitting, as well as certified arborist services. I provides numerous ecological services to clients, including the following: wetland delineation, function evaluation, mitigation design, monitoring... Read More →
Thursday July 17, 2025 3:30pm - 5:10pm EDT
Calusa 1

3:30pm EDT

Linking Growth With Water Supply Availability
Thursday July 17, 2025 3:30pm - 5:10pm EDT
Discussion of integrating regional water supply plans of local government with the plans and projects of water utilities through a prescribed planning process requiring cooperation between water management districts and local and regional water management districts and local and regional water utilities; regulatory incentives for the development of alternative water supplies; financial assistance for utilities; linking the growth management plans of local governments with the plans and projects of water utilities; applying the principles of consistency with concurrency as set forth in Florida law and implementing rules. Audience participation is encouraged.
Speakers
avatar for Rey Malave

Rey Malave

Associate Vice President, Dewberry
Mr. Malavé is a professional engineer with more than 43 years experience in civil engineering design. His background includes the design and permitting of infrastructure systems, including complex stormwater and utility projects, land development residential and multifamily projects... Read More →
avatar for Matt Wissler

Matt Wissler

Senior Principal Hydrogeologist, Geosyntec Consultants
avatar for Gary Hubbard

Gary Hubbard

Director of Winter Haven Water, City of Winter Haven
DH

Darrin Herbst

St. Johns River Water Management District
avatar for Tabitha Biehl

Tabitha Biehl

Land and Water Natural Areas, Polk County - Parks & Natural Resources
As the Land and Water Natural Areas Manager for Polk County, my team and I cover a variety of disciplines such as tackling regional water quality issues, listed species management/monitoring, public education/outreach, invasive species management, stormwater, wildlife management and... Read More →
Thursday July 17, 2025 3:30pm - 5:10pm EDT
Calusa 8-9

3:30pm EDT

Conservation and Management of Imperiled Species
Thursday July 17, 2025 3:30pm - 5:10pm EDT
The USFWS and FWC carry out their responsibilities for the conservation and management of imperiled species through established regulations, policy, and guidance. These foundations and practices affect the way in which we conduct business while minimizing impacts from known threats, improving habitat, strengthening conservation and recovery efforts and, ultimately, improving the status of Florida’s imperiled species. Comprehensive planning and collaboration are essential to the process and agencies often work in partnership with stakeholders, landowners, and project proponents to achieve these goals. Members of the panel will review the regulations, policy, and programs in place for imperiled species while offering perspective from their role (e.g., agency, landowner, industry, consultant) in discussing creative and new strategies for addressing complex business and conservation challenges, their successes, and future implications. We hope to inspire the audience by contemplating the big picture.
Speakers
avatar for Colleen M. Reilly

Colleen M. Reilly

Principal, EcoWild Consulting Group, LLC
JR

John Renfranz

Florida Power & Light Company
AC

Austin Carroll

President, Wiregrass Ecological Associates
WB

William Burnett

Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission
GC

Grace Campbell

Lykes Bros. Inc.
Thursday July 17, 2025 3:30pm - 5:10pm EDT
Calusa 10

3:30pm EDT

From Vision to Reality: Tools for Advancing the Florida Wildlife Corridor
Thursday July 17, 2025 3:30pm - 5:10pm EDT
This course will focus on the real-world implementation of the Florida Wildlife Corridor —what it takes to turn a conservation vision into tangible outcomes. With nearly half of the 18 million-acre corridor already under conservation management and the rest largely comprised of working agricultural lands, success depends on balancing preservation with landowner partnerships. Panelists will explain how tools like conservation easements, strategic land acquisitions, and payments for ecosystem services are being used to secure and connect critical habitats. Attendees will gain insight into how legislative support, funding mechanisms, and cross-sector collaboration are driving forward one of the state’s most ambitious conservation efforts—and what’s next to maintain momentum.
Speakers
TE

Thomas Eason

Senior Director of Conservation, Live Wildly
avatar for Cari Roth

Cari Roth

Vice President of Governmental & Regulatory Affairs, Lykes Bros. Inc.
Cari is an experienced attorney and governmental relations professional now leading governmental and regulatory matters for Lykes Bros. Inc., formerly a long time client. Most of her career was in private practice with a four year stint as the General Counsel of the Department of... Read More →
MD

Mallory Dimmitt

Florida Wildlife Corridor Foundation
avatar for Jason Houck, GISP, SPWS

Jason Houck, GISP, SPWS

Ecology Group Leader, Ardurra Group
I lead the ecology Group for Ardurra Group out of the Central Florida office. As such, I provide environmental and ecological consulting services to clients primarily consisting of state and local government organizations. Services provided include state and federal environmental... Read More →
Thursday July 17, 2025 3:30pm - 5:10pm EDT
Calusa 2-3
 
Share Modal

Share this link via

Or copy link

Filter sessions
Apply filters to sessions.
Filtered by Date -