The Public Works Nerds

Latest Episodes:

The State of Recycling with Eureka Recycling's Kate Davenport Jan 16, 2024

Show notes

Discover the transformative power of recycling and how it intertwines with community economics in our latest Public Works Nerds podcast episode. I, Marc Culver, am joined by the insightful Kate Davenport, co-President of Eureka Recycling, who not only shares her personal journey from climate activism to leading a nonprofit recycling enterprise but also sheds light on the game-changing concept of revenue sharing in recycling contracts. Together, we examine the fluctuating tides of commodity prices and the effect they have on the cost of recycling services, giving you a behind-the-scenes look at how to navigate these challenges and turn sustainability commitments into financial wins for communities.
As we discuss the rising tide of extended producer responsibility (EPR) legislation, you'll grasp the profound effects of mandating brands to invest in recycling infrastructure and the push for regulations that demand recycled content in consumer packaging. You'll be swept up in the conversation on the significant role consumer choice plays in driving the demand for sustainable packaging, and the intriguing potential of long-term supply agreements to counterbalance the competition from virgin material manufacturers. Witness the innovative leaps, such as Sprite's move to clear plastic bottles, and the hurdles like non-recyclable packaging that shape the future of the recycling landscape.
Wrapping up our insightful dialogue, Kate and I turn our gaze towards the horizon of recycling and sustainability. We spotlight the essential role mission-driven recyclers like Eureka play in promoting environmental and public good, and how crucial collaboration between municipalities and businesses is to enhance recycling, reuse, and ensure a more sustainable future for all. Tune in to be part of a movement that's redefining our relationship with waste and crafting a greener tomorrow.
Since we recorded this episode, Kate has transitioned into a new role at Eureka as a Strategic Advisor.
https://eurekarecycling.org/

Challenges and Solutions for Water Service Line Inventory with Chelsea Alger and Dave Malm Jan 02, 2024

Show notes

Send us Fan Mail

Unlock the secrets of how cities are combatting the pernicious issue of lead in our drinking water, as Chelsea Alger and Dave Malm from Bolton & Menk join us to dissect the monumental task of lead service line replacement. With the Flint water crisis still fresh in our memories, we explore the complexities of updating water service inventories, the power of GIS technology in this process, and the urgency of securing public funds for these life-essential projects. Chelsea and Dave bring a treasure trove of knowledge, providing an insider's look into the reality of preparing for regulatory deadlines and the scarcity of qualified personnel to undertake such a significant endeavor.
Listen in and learn about available funding and tools for inventory compliance, as well as where we stand in the inventory process. We also talk about the proposed rule change to require replacement of lead service lines within 10 years.
Show Notes:
Lead Service Line Presentation at MN APWA Fall Conference – David Malm and Chelsea Alger, Bolton & Menk, Inc.
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1Luu_RfF-plgcQwpgYO-M6gpKxjY520Zf/view?usp=sharing

Timeline of Flint, MI water crisis
https://www.npr.org/sections/thetwo-way/2016/04/20/465545378/lead-laced-water-in-flint-a-step-by-step-look-at-the-makings-of-a-crisis

EPA Lead and Copper Rule Revisions (LCRR) – Final Rule Effective 6/17/2021 – Rule making docket link
https://www.regulations.gov/docket/EPA-HQ-OW-2017-0300/unified-agenda

EPA
https://www.epa.gov/ground-water-and-drinking-water/revised-lead-and-copper-rule

Minnesota EPA
https://www.health.state.mn.us/communities/environment/water/rules/servlineinventory.html

Iowa

https://www.iowadnr.gov/Environmental-Protection/Water-Quality/Drinking-Water-Compliance/Lead-Service-Line-Inventories

North Carolina
Lead Service Line Inventory | NC DEQ

South Carolina
Revised Lead and Copper Rule | US EPA

North Dakota
Lead & Copper Rule Revisions (LCRR) - North Dakota Department of Environmental Quality (nd.gov)

Wisconsin
Lead Service Line (LSL) Replacements | | Wisconsin DNR

Arizona
Lead and Copper Rule | Drinking Water Compliance Assistance | ADEQ (azdeq.gov)

Colorado
Drinking water Lead and Copper Rule & Revisions | Department of Public Health & Environment (colorado.gov)

Missouri

Lead Service Line Inventory | Missouri Department of Natural Resources (mo.gov)

South Dakota

SD Water Pipes | Lead Service Line Inventory | South Dakota

Alabama<&

Season 1 Recap with Mark Ray Oct 03, 2023

Show notes

Send us Fan Mail

It's our 20th episode! Which is milestone in and of itself. Considering 90% of podcasts don't make it past 3 episodes, we're in pretty good company. I am joined by our first episode guest, Mark Ray, Public Works Director and City Engineer for the City of Crystal, MN. Mark, who is one of the most positive people I know, helps me review the season and highlight several episodes.
I am very thankful for the loyal following we have developed (all, about 70 of you?) and everyone else who has listened in and given us a shot. Thank you to everyone who is listening. Whether that's one episode or 20!
We are going to take a little break and as we gear up for the next season - whatever we decide that's going to be. We hope to be dropping episodes again in November. In the meantime, go back and check out the episodes you may have missed and continue to help us spread the word!
Check out the links to our website and our YouTube page below.
Show Notes:
https://thepublicworksnerds.com/
https://www.youtube.com/@ThePublicWorksNerds

Solid Waste: Organized Collection, Recycling and Organics with Rachel Lindholm Sep 26, 2023

Show notes

Send us Fan Mail

This week we dive into the intricate world of waste management with Rachel Lindholm, the Sustainability Specialist from the City of Richfield, Minnesota. In this episode we talk about how Richfield implemented organized collection, managed recycling services and started both a drop off and curb side organics collection system. Listen in as we nerd out about garbage!
Show Notes:
Richfield, MN Organics Recycling Information
https://www.richfieldmn.gov/residents/garbage_and_recycling/organics_recycling.php
MN PCA Organized Collection Process Flow Chart and Information
https://www.pca.state.mn.us/sites/default/files/w-sw1-16.pdf
Eureka Recycling MRF Video
https://eurekarecycling.org/recycling-services/our-recycling-facility/

A Conversation with the MN Chapter of APWA: Events, Committees, Strategic Plans, and Professional Development Sep 19, 2023

Show notes

Send us Fan Mail

Join us and we talk with the Officers of the Minnesota Chapter of APWA. We talk about the history of the chapter, the committees, conferences, and their strategic plan. This is a lively and fun discussion with some very dedicated and devoted public works nerds!
Our distinguished guests - President Monica Heil, Vice President Jupe Hale, Secretary/Treasurer Mitch Hoeft, Past President Nick Egger, and Chapter Delegate Chris Petree.
Show notes:
https://www.apwa-mn.org/
APWA MN Strategic Plan
http://www.apwa-mn.org/userfiles/ckfiles/files/APWA-MN%20Strategic%20Plan%20Infographic_2022-23.pdf

GIS and GeoAI in the world of Public Works with Adam Carnow and John Shain Sep 12, 2023

Show notes

Send us Fan Mail

In our 17th episode we talk to two GIS Nerds, Adam Carnow from ESRI and John Shain from Bolton & Menk. In the spirit of the AI movement, which we talk about in this episode, specifically GeoAI, I'm going to let the AI generated episode description say the rest - I usually consider this too wordy to use for the actual episode descriptions and end up writing a more succinct version, but we're going to let you see what the AI machine generated for this episode. Enjoy!
From AI:
Prepare for a riveting journey through the world of GIS as we sit down with industry heavyweights, Adam Carnow from Esri and John Shain from Bolton & Menk. With over five decades of combined experience, these mavens of geospatial analysis provide an illuminating discussion on the disruptive influence of AI in their domain. Discover how AI and GIS are redefining public works, from managing sign installations to tracking homelessness, and explore the far-reaching implications of these advancements for the next 25 years.
Unearth the advantages of cloud-based GIS solutions as Adam and John delve into Esri's innovative solutions developed in collaboration with agencies. Learn about the remarkable ease-of-use of these tools, their plug-and-play features, and the limitless possibilities customization offers. Understand the crucial role of user feedback in making these solutions more robust and efficient. Also, unveil the profound impact of AI applications in GIS, as we dig into machine learning and deep learning models and their impact in public works.
The latter part of our conversation takes you through the fascinating world of real-time data and predictive modeling in disaster preparedness. Take a peek into successful AI implementations like Charlotte, North Carolina Water Department's innovative use of cameras for locating water meters. We also reflect on the evolution of Public Works over the past five decades, acknowledging Esri's instrumental role in propelling AI technology forward. This episode promises to be a captivating discussion on GIS, AI, and their transformative impact on public works. Don't miss out!
Show notes:
I wanted to highlight something that Adam said during the podcast because it highlights GIS's prevalence in Public Works, and government operations as a whole:
"GIS is a mission-critical enterprise business system that supports the full range of public works activities."
Six Focus Areas:
· Operations & Maintenance
· Streets, Roads, & Bridges
· Capital Project Design & Engineering
· Field & Fleet Management
· Public Grounds & Facilities
· Emergency Response
Additional links:
APWA Reporter – AI: Friend or Foe? https://apwa.partica.online/reporter/july-2023/marketplace/ai-friend-or-foe
APWA NC Newsletter – Why You Need to Know About GeoAI for Public Works
https://northcarolina.apwa.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/41/2023/06/APWA-Newsletter-2023-June_6-15-23.pdf
NACo Blog: Everything You Need to Know About Artificial Intelligence & GIS
https://www.naco.org/blog/everything-you-need-know-about-artificial-intelligence-and-gis
County Innovates Using GeoAI to Inventory ADA Curb Ramps and Saving Significant Time and Money
https://www.esri.com/en-us/lg/industry/public-works/stories/county-innovates-using-geoai-to-inventory-ada-curb-ramps-saving-significant-time-money

The City Engineers Association of Minnesota and how it helps distribute MN's gas tax with Deb Heiser Sep 05, 2023

Show notes

Send us Fan Mail

In this episode Deb Heiser and I nerd out about the City Engineers Association of Minnesota, a unique organization of municipal engineers. We talk about CEAM's mission, committees and purpose. We also dive into what role CEAM plays in the distribution of Minnesota's gas tax.
We would love to hear from others about how your state's gas tax is distributed to various agencies within the state. And if there are other unique organization's in your state, let us know! Comment on our website, on YouTube, LinkedIn or social media. Let's get a good discussion going!
Show Notes:
CEAM Website
www.ceam.org
Minnesota Highway User Tax Distribution Fund (HUTDF) Summary
https://cms4files.revize.com/dodgecountymn/Highway/stateAidBrochure_2023.pdf

Implementing Adaptive Level Control Systems for Stormwater Ponds with Ross Bintner Aug 29, 2023

Show notes

Send us Fan Mail

Meet Ross Bittner, Engineering Services Manager from Edina, Minnesota, who has an extraordinary passion for water resources and a knack for innovation. Ross and I nerd out in this episode about a new Adaptive Level Control System that the City of Edina is using to create additional storage in a stormwater pond in advance of rain events. Listen in as we discuss the details of this system and Edina's program to create flooding resiliency in their community.
We also talk a bit about how Edina is working to electrify their fleet.
I'm thrilled to have this true Public Works Nerd as my guest for our 15th episode. Enjoy!
Show notes:
Edina Flood Resources:
https://www.edinamn.gov/371/Flooding-and-Drainage
What is my flood risk interactive map: https://edinagis.maps.arcgis.com/apps/webappviewer/index.html?id=3341ff292cdc423cb52b356dc54e7582
Flood Risk Reduction Strategy: https://www.edinamn.gov/DocumentCenter/View/9367/Flood-Risk-Reduction-Strategy_final?bidId=#:~:text=The%20City%20of%20Edina's%20strategy,people%20that%20characterize%20the%20City.
City of Edina water resource chapter of comprehensive plan https://www.edinamn.gov/DocumentCenter/View/8104/07-Water-Chapter-PDF
Morningside flood infrastructure project page: https://www.bettertogetheredina.org/morningside

How To Handle A Public Works Crisis With Nick Egger Aug 22, 2023

Show notes

Send us Fan Mail

This week we are joined by Nick Egger, Public Works Director for the City of Rosemount, MN. Nick steps back to his time with the City of Hastings, MN and the management of a water contamination event in 2018. Nick talks about how they discovered the contamination, lessons learned about communication, and working with the state Department of Health. We also talk about how the water was treated initially and long term.
We then shift gears to his time at the City of Rosemount where he now gets to help manage the construction of a new Public Works and Police facility and Campus.
Finally, we talk about Nick's time as the President of the Minnesota Chapter of the APWA and how important professional societies are to our industry.
Join us for a fun conversation with a proven leader in the Public Works industry.
Show Notes:
Hastings Water Contamination Event:
News Report:
https://www.kare11.com/article/news/city-of-hastings-confirms-ecoli-in-parts-of-water-system/89-597279358

Star Tribune Article:
https://www.startribune.com/hastings-decides-to-permanently-chlorinate-city-s-water-supply-after-e-coli-contamination-last-fall/510947952/

Minnesota Drinking Water Supply Report
https://www.health.state.mn.us/news/pressrel/2023/water050823.html

Rosemount Public Works and Police Dual Campus
https://www.rosemountmn.gov/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=507
Rosemount's UMore Park
https://www.rosemountmn.gov/188/UMore-Development
https://psre.umn.edu/Real-Estate/UMore-Park/About-UMore-Park

Exploring Pipe Condition Assessment and Trenchless Technologies with Paul Pasko Aug 15, 2023

Show notes

Send us Fan Mail

In this episode Marc and guest co-host Deb Heiser talk to Paul Pasko from Electro Scan, Inc. Paul talks about using new technologies to assess the condition of water and sewer pipes. We also talk about using trenchless techniques to rehabilitate pipes and how the future of pipe replacement will be finding small segments to replace/rehabilitate versus replacing the entire length of the pipe.
This is an entertaining episode where Paul shares several stories of his experiences and travels around the world.
Show notes:
https://www.electroscan.com/
Products referenced:
Swordfish Lead and Leak Detection
https://www.electroscan.com/products/swordfish/
ES-620 Probe
https://www.electroscan.com/products/es-620/
Pica Pipe Assessment Tools
https://www.picacorp.com/Technology/Inspection-Technology

Our TOPPODCAST Picks

Follow Us

Stay Connected

Related Podcasts

Links

Stay Connected