Updated August 25, 2023 | complete program
| Monday, September 11 | |
|---|---|
| 1:30 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. |
Field Trip: USFWS San Marcos Aquatic Research Center (SMARC) Those attending should meet in the conference hotel parking lot by 1:30 p.m. and be prepared to have your shoes sanitized prior to entry at SMARC. (Leave the fancy shoes for the conference on Tuesday.) There is no fee for this field trip, however attendance is limited. Please email [email protected] with your interest in attending to reserve your spot on the list. |
| Tuesday, September 12 | |
| 8:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. |
Registration Desk Open |
| 8:00 a.m. – 9:00 a.m. |
Continental Breakfast |
| 8:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. |
Exhibits Open |
| 9:00 a.m. – 10:30 a.m. |
GENERAL SESSION Welcome Keynote North Houston Highway Improvement Project (NHHIP): A Retrospective |
| 10:30 a.m. – 10:45 a.m. |
BREAK |
| 10:45 a.m. – 11:45 a.m. |
GENERAL SESSION NHHIP Panel Discussion |
| 11:45 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. |
LUNCH |
| 1:30 p.m. – 3:15 p.m. |
GENERAL SESSION CONTINUED Environmental Affairs Awards Video District Hot Topics Join us for a fast-paced session where TxDOT Districts will provide a 2-minute highlight of challenges or issues they are facing, best practices they’ve identified, curious/interesting things happening in their area, or other interesting topics. This session is meant to be an icebreaker and encourage discussion outside of the session over the course of the conference. |
| 3:15 p.m. – 3:30 p.m. |
BREAK |
| 3:30 p.m. – 4:30 p.m. |
TxDOT Employee Town Hall |
| 5:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. |
Reception and Poster Session TxDOT will present a poster session that provides information on a variety of short research and regulatory topics. Posters will be available for viewing for an extended period during the conference. The presenters will also be available at the posters to answer questions during the poster session. |
| Wednesday, September 13 | |
| 8:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. |
Registration Desk Open |
| 8:00 a.m. – 9:00 a.m. |
Continental Breakfast |
| 8:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. |
Exhibits Open |
| 9:00 a.m. – 10:15 a.m. |
CONCURRENT BREAKOUT SESSIONS: 1–5 BREAKOUT 1 — The Epic Saga – The Story of State Highway 211 in San Antonio Clayton Ripps, TxDOT The epic saga of SH 211 began in the 1960s as what planners hoped to be a north-south freeway on the far west side of San Antonio. As the lines were drawn on the earliest of the thoroughfare planning maps, little did they know the assortment of environmental challenges the planned new location roadway would eventually encounter over half century later. Through years of persistent coordination, mitigation efforts, and partnerships with the local government and the private sector, SH 211 is now open to traffic in the booming west side of San Antonio. BREAKOUT 2 — Smoothing Out Project Delivery Mike Chavez, Michelle Lueck, and Kimberly Amy, TxDOT This session will concentrate on environmental project delivery by outlining major project constraints, common issues in environmental documentation, items that affect schedules, and how to get to a clean letting. The session will leave ample time for feedback and discussion. BREAKOUT 3 — Metals: Development of Texas-Specific Background Threshold Values Kenneth S. Tramm, PhD, PE, PG, CHMM, Modern Geosciences Dr. Tramm will provide an update on his extensive work developing defensible Background Threshold Values (BTVs) for selected metals in Texas. When the Texas Risk Reduction Program (TRRP) was proposed in 1999, median values for selected metals (e.g., arsenic and lead) were presented as a “starting place.” However, these have become a default criteria that can lead to confusion and significantly affect project costs. BREAKOUT 4 — State Loop 195: An Overview of the Challenges of Section 106 Review and Coordination on a New Location Complex Project in Starr County, Texas Chris Ringstaff, TxDOT This presentation will discuss cultural resource issues on SL 195, a new-location 4-lane divided highway connecting FM 755 at Rio Grande City to US 83 at Roma in Starr County. The new highway encompassed 99 different parcels and landowners. The project is located in the Lower Rio Grande Plains and traverses numerous north-south arroyos that empty into the Rio Grande. This environment was once very attractive to Prehistoric peoples who used these upland settings and, as a result, much of the alignment is considered high probability for archeological sites. The presentation presents an overview of the Section 106 process from desktop GIS review, archeological survey, National Register of Historic Places testing, mitigation of adverse effect to eligible properties, the complexities of project timing, and Right of Entry (ROE) issues. BREAKOUT 5 — Update on TxDOT Drone Program Drones with a Purpose: How Unmanned Aerial Systems Can Support Environmental Projects and Transportation Goals Drones are not only a versatile and cost-effective tool for aerial data collection, but also a powerful ally for environmental projects and transportation goals. In this presentation, we will explore how TxDOT is using drones to help monitor and protect the environment, enhance the efficiency and safety of transportation systems, and support the implementation of sustainable solutions. Drone Boot Camp Come learn about the exciting opportunity to become a TxDOT drone pilot. The training opportunity will be explained, as will the time commitments required to be in the drone program. Hear about the FAA Part 107 Certification test and the adventures at the Austin Community College Public Safety Training Center, a.k.a. “Drone Camp.” |
| 10:15 a.m. – 10:45 a.m. | BREAK (Exhibit Area) |
| 10:45 a.m. – 12:00 noon |
CONCURRENT BREAKOUT SESSIONS: 6–10 BREAKOUT 6 — Hazardous Materials: Initial Site Assessment (ISA) Questions and Answers Terry Dempsey, PG Terry Dempsey and Douglass Mack will hold a questions and answers presentation related to the Initial Site Assessment (ISA) for Hazardous Materials. BREAKOUT 7 — Air Quality Updates Glendora Lopez and Tim Wood, TxDOT This session will examine the following air quality topics: updates related to ozone nonattainment redesignations, the National Ambient Air Quality Standard (NAAQS) reconsideration of particulate matter under 2.5 microns (PM2.5), the status of federal greenhouse gas guidance, updates on air quality research, and updates to TxDOT’s air quality toolkit. Additionally, this session will include timelines and forecasts to inform environmental planners on prospective upcoming changes. BREAKOUT 8 — Beyond the Road: Texas Freedom Colonies Renee Benn and Jason Rivas, TxDOT Did you know there are over 500 freedom colonies in Texas? These communities trace back to settlements founded by formerly enslaved persons, post Emancipation. TxDOT recognizes these cultural sites, partnering with the Texas Freedom Colonies Project Atlas. TxDOT historians will present information about using the Atlas for project review, and ways to recognize these communities. Freedom colonies often coincide with environmental justice communities. This session is for environmental professionals primarily working in central and east Texas. BREAKOUT 9 — Overview of Section 6(f)’s Protections for Certain Outdoor Recreation Lands Patrick Lee, TxDOT Most of us have experience with Section 4(f) of the Department of Transportation Act of 1966. However, few of us have experience with another statute that protects certain public outdoor recreation lands: Section 6(f) of the Land and Water Conservation Fund Act. This session will discuss how Section 6(f) can affect a transportation project, including an overview of when it applies, what it requires, and how it differs from Section 4(f). BREAKOUT 10 — Issues in Endangered Species Overview of the Listing Process Under the Endangered Species Act The presentation will include a general overview of how the Service determines whether a species should be listed as threatened or endangered under the ESA. The overview will include a brief discussion of terms and relevant sections of the ESA, as well as related topics, including petitions to list, Species Status Assessments, and overarching processes and considerations to reach a listing determination. The Endangered Species Act: An Overview and Considerations for TxDOT Projects In recent years many new species have been proposed for federal listing. This has had a significant impact on TxDOT projects and how we evaluate impacts to protected species and interact with regulatory agencies. This session will provide a regulatory framework for the Section 7 listing process and practical ways on how TxDOT plans for and implements projects to comply with the Endangered Species Act. Black Rails—Creative Solutions for Cryptic Species Stantec has been assisting TxDOT to develop a Black Rail Guidance Document for transportation projects in Texas. Due to the cryptic nature of this species and its potential for occupancy across a wide portion of the coast, TxDOT wanted to develop a consistent approach to making habitat determinations, developing conservation measures, and preparing consultations for their projects. |
| 12:00 noon – 1:30 p.m. |
LUNCH |
| 1:30 p.m. – 2:45 p.m. |
CONCURRENT BREAKOUT SESSIONS: 11–14 BREAKOUT 11 — TxDOT is an MS4? Kyle Honnerlaw, TxDOT This session provides a high-level, introductory overview of TxDOT’s Statewide MS4 Permit and the associated Stormwater Management Program (SWMP). BREAKOUT 12 — The Big Picture: How TxDOT Becomes Involved with Research and Conservation The Biology Team in ENV’s Natural Resources Management Section and district staff are involved in a variety of research and conservation efforts. This session will highlight some of the mechanisms for becoming involved in these endeavors with examples from partner agencies and research institutions. Implementing Interagency Contracts for Research…and World Domination Conservation Through Collaboration – Funding Conservation Actions Through an Interagency Contract Evaluating Barrier Permeability and Highway Crossing Locations of Pronghorn in the Marfa Plateau Restoration Area Federal Grants, Not Just for Construction BREAKOUT 13 — Community Impacts: Introduction to the New CIA Tool and EJ Metrics Jason Kord and Spencer Ward, TxDOT Join community impacts and GIS specialists to learn about TxDOT’s updated census data tool and how this information can be used for your projects. In addition to new datasets and mapping features, this session will provide a sneak-peek into the second phase of the tool, along with discussing upcoming policy changes related to environmental justice metrics. BREAKOUT 14 — Synergies in Mussel Memory: Shared Research Opportunities in Biology and Archaeology through Ongoing Excavations and Freshwater Mussel Studies in Texas Dave Buzan, M.S. and Aaron Petty, M.S., Freese and Nichols, Inc. “I wonder if other malacologists know about this kind of data…” This was the comment—made between the presenters while waist-deep in a creek, searching for mussels—that sparked our session. Remnants of freshwater mussels are commonly studied in archeological investigations because they offer insights into ancient environmental conditions. Biologists research living mussels in modern waterways as well, to explore their habitats and ranges, and to manage their numbers in infrastructure development projects; scientists actively considering two distinct research perspectives on the same subject. Can mussel shells in a 3,000-year-old occupation site suggest certain species had a greater range than they do today? Could modern field efforts suggest how long it might’ve taken a pre-contact family to gather enough mussels for a meal? In this session, archeologist Mason Miller and biologists Dave Buzan and Aaron Petty will highlight opportunities for both biologists and archeologists to look over each other’s shoulders and learn from the ongoing study of freshwater mussels. |
| 2:45 p.m. – 3:15 p.m |
BREAK |
| 3:15 p.m. – 4:30 p.m. |
CONCURRENT BREAKOUT SESSIONS: 15–18 BREAKOUT 15 — Navigating ENV Contracts Lauren Young, TxDOT New to contracting opportunities at ENV? Due for a refresher on ENV contracts? This presentation will take a deeper dive into navigating the ENV contracting process, including roles, responsibilities, reminders, and resources. BREAKOUT 16 — Traffic Noise Barrier Constructability Assessments Ray Umscheid and Meredith Worthen, TxDOT Noise barriers proposed in the environmental document are often preliminary and based on schematic-level design. During detailed design and before holding noise workshops, engineering considerations (such as site constraints, utility conflicts, and additional costs) for noise abatement must be evaluated with a Constructability Assessment, which may result in modification or even removal of a barrier proposal. This assessment is important because workshop-approved noise barriers must be added to construction plans (PS&E) before projects can be approved for letting. This session will cover requirements, best practices, and timing for noise barrier constructability assessments. BREAKOUT 17 — Climate Change Hot Topics Jackie Ploch, TxDOT This session will go over latest updates at the federal and state level, electric vehicle (EV) trends, and give an overview for conducting a project level analysis and tools that can be used in the analysis. Bring your questions for the Q&A. BREAKOUT 18 — Water Rundown SCOTUS Sackett Decision on 404 and Beyond Please join the USACE to learn about the recent Supreme Court Sackett decision and more and find out what it means for the definition of Waters of the U.S. and Clean Water Act Section 404 permitting moving forward. 2023 Update: A GIS Model to Predict Wetland/Waters Impacts and Mitigation Needs TxDOT is developing a GIS-based Predictive Wetlands/Waters and Mitigation Modeling Tool (Tool) for use in future transportation projects. This Tool uses ArcGIS Pro, ArcHydro, and other geoprocessors to predict the amount and type of potentially jurisdictional wetlands and waters existing along transportation corridors and estimate the amount of compensatory mitigation required for future project impacts. Currently, the focus is on two pilot HUC8s with development done in such a way as to allow expansion statewide. This session will provide a demonstration of the functionality of the Tool and its associated outputs. Bolivar Ferry Dredging and Beneficial Use Come see how thinking outside the box when it comes to mitigation can provide multiple benefits to environmental resources. The project is a shift from handling dredge material as a waste product and reimagines it as a valuable resource for habitat creation, with benefits including infrastructure protection and recreation. |
| 5:00 p.m. – 6:30 p.m. |
Hands-On Drone Flying Opportunity–Come Fly! Join us for a drone hands-on demo in the conference hotel parking lot. Whether it will be your first time flying, or you are a pro, stop by to fly one of the training drones. You will have the opportunity to fly “free” or try a short obstacle course. A mobile command unit will be on-site for you to visit and learn the benefits of a mobile unit and the type of tools they can contain. There is no fee or registration required for this opportunity, just join us outside. Please email [email protected] with questions. |
| Thursday, September 14 | |
| 8:00 a.m. – 9:00 a.m. |
Registration Desk Open |
| 8:00 a.m. – 9:00 noon |
Continental Breakfast |
| 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 noon |
Field Trip: Spring Lake and The Meadows Center for Water and the Environment at Texas State University Join us for a field trip to the jewel of San Marcos, Spring Lake, and The Meadows Center for Water and the Environment at Texas State University. The field trip includes a guided tour of Spring Lake on a glass bottom boat, a walk through the wetland boardwalk, a visit to the Discovery Center and Aquarium, and a talk on the cultural resources and tribal connection to Spring Lake. The cost of the field trip is $8.50 and the cost to park is $3 and must be paid the day of the trip. Please bring exact cash. The field trip will accommodate up to 60 people. Contact [email protected] to secure your place. |
| 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. |
Public Involvement Training Opportunity: Public Involvement for NEPA Join Anita Bradley and Michelle Lueck for a fun day of training as they teach Public Involvement for NEPA (ENV112). The class will prepare you to develop an effective public involvement program and how to better conduct public involvement efforts for transportation projects. Upon completion of this course, participants will be able to:
Space will be limited, and the class is currently full. To get on the waitlist, contact [email protected]. |