watering the lawn with the help of automatic spray systems

Smart Irrigation Starts with Design: How to Maximize Water Conservation Efforts

by Gordon Lemmel, Landscape Architect, WSB

Outdoor water consumption is a pain point for many individuals and communities, and as a landscape architect that designs both the sites and irrigation systems, I wanted to present my approach and the water savings strategies that can be used.

Limiting water usage is often much easier said than done. Properties in arid western climates for example, require some level of irrigation to keep looking nice throughout the year. They need a functional, drought-tolerant, and water-efficient landscape without compromising aesthetic values.

Planting strictly native and drought-tolerant species is an option many choose, but it’s not always practical in all situations. Using a combination of water-saving strategies is the most practical approach that landscape architects can use. We keep the big picture in mind – from initial concept to final construction documents – by focusing on strategies centered on site conditions, efficient irrigation design & technology, & efficient irrigation management.

Site Conditions

Evaluating the existing and proposed site conditions is a critical first step to water conservation on any project.

Is the site facing the hot southwest sun? Are there predominant winds that will dry plants out or carry irrigation water away? Can the soils retain water for use? Does the site slope in a way that runs water away from the plants?

Soils

Starting from the bottom up, amending soils, or using topsoil that has compost is directly correlated to long-term water reduction. Compost is spongy and absorbent, and it facilitates the soil’s water-holding capacity and moisture dispersion.

Soil scientists from the National Sustainable Agriculture Information Service report that for every one percent of organic matter present, each cubic foot of soil can hold an extra 1.5 quarts of plant-available water (Gould, 2012). This increased water retention capability and plant-available water reduces the frequency and intensity of irrigation water.

Drainage Patterns

Understanding existing and proposed drainage patterns inform both plant selection and placement, which can be helpful for reducing water consumption. Plants that prefer wetter areas, for example, can be placed at the bottom of a slope where water collects, and vice versa.

Temperature and Solar Exposure

Both temperature and solar exposure are also important for guiding plant selection and reducing water use. Plants that are selected for projects should be either hardy or adapted to the region. These plants can survive the average high and more importantly, the average low temperatures for the region.

Light conditions (the amount and length of exposure to sun or shade) directly correlate to soil moisture. Correctly placing plants based on solar exposure helps to reduce water consumption by removing the need for supplemental watering (e.g. providing extra water to moisture-loving plants placed in drier, sunnier areas).

Efficient Irrigation Design & Technology

Irrigation efficiencies in the form of design, product selection, and technology are integral to landscape water reduction.

Design

Drip irrigation is the most popular method to efficiently deliver water directly to the root of the plant and unlike broadcast irrigation methods, it reduces applying water to areas of the planting beds that do not require water – like the spaces between plants.

However, many properties have that nice green lawn that is great for recreation. While there are below ground drip irrigation options that can eliminate water waste from evaporation and wind, they are not always possible or the most cost effective. The more common above-ground systems must be designed to reduce overspray, watering of hardscape surfaces, and excessive runoff.

Products

Water conservation efficiencies can also be gained through product selection, such as using pressure-regulated and matched-precipitation sprinkler heads. Pressure regulation is crucial to an irrigation system because it reduces water waste caused by high pressure operation that results in fogging or misting. Pressure regulation also ensures the nozzles run at maximum efficiency and helps support proper distribution uniformity and precipitation rates. The use of match-precipitation sprinklers helps to ensure a uniform application of water over an area and reduces excessively wet and dry areas.

Technology

The water saving technology on most modern irrigation systems uses an Environmental Protection Agency WaterSense “smart” controller that optimizes the timing, quantity, and frequency of water applied to the landscape. One important feature of “smart” controllers is seasonal adjustments. This feature allows the controller to make automatic adjustments to the daily watering schedule based on the season and geographic location.

The irrigation design may also include a variety of sensors to further fine-tune the efficiency of the system. A rain/freeze sensor shuts off the irrigation system during rain and freeze events – not only protecting the irrigation system from potential damage or safety issues, but also preventing the unnecessary application of water during (or directly after) rain events. Likewise, a soil moisture sensor will help the controller make automatic adjustments based on the moisture levels of the soil.

Flow sensors and master valves are often employed to shut off a system with “unscheduled flow events” or “high flow events.” These events are generally caused by some type of damage to the irrigation system. So, rather than letting it run until there is a noticeable issue, the sensor detects abnormal operation, shuts the system down, and can alert a user to it. Some systems can even be designed to help pinpoint where the problem is.

Efficient Irrigation Management

The final part of water conservation comes down to efficient management practices. On particularly nuanced projects, I will work with the contractors or maintenance staff on deploying efficient management strategies, such as cycle and soak irrigation. Cycle and soak programming increases infiltration and reduces runoff by breaking up water applications into shorter time periods.

This article discusses many of the methods that reduce water consumption, but there is much more!

Sites and projects greatly vary, so I always approach water conservation and reduction by being intentional and considering the what, where, and how of a project. There is no single silver bullet, but any of the methods discussed in this article are a great starting point for increasing efficiency, saving water, and saving money.

Gordon’s diverse background is beyond those of a typical landscape architect and allows him to view projects through many different “lenses.” As a former non-profit executive director, he was responsible for land management and acquisition, fundraising, volunteer recruitment and management, and working with a board of directors. This experience feeds into Gordon’s 14-year career helping organizations envision their preferred future, navigate change, lead and facilitate diverse teams, and develop relevant, inclusive, iconic, sustainable, and achievable strategies.

[email protected] | 701.214.9315

WSB announces expansion of forestry management services, hires Emily Ball as forestry program manager

Today WSB, a leading engineering and consulting firm, announced the expansion of their Forestry Management services along with the hiring of Emily Ball as forestry program manager.

The expanded service area of Forestry Management will support clients to maximize their forestry efforts by leveraging all available resources from technology and grants to industry standard best-management practices. Clients will benefit from proactive, long-term planning related to available forestry resources including forest and urban forest management planning, emerald ash borer prevention and planning, and wildfire and community forest storm mitigation.

“There is so much potential that comes with the expansion of this service area for our firm, and most importantly, for our clients,” said Ball. “The future of our industry is about sustainability, community well-being, and being proactive in management and planning of our green infrastructure. WSB is leading the way within the industry, and I look forward to creating a significant, positive impact in my new role for clients and communities.”

As Manager, Ball will help lead the expansion efforts. Ball has nearly 20 years of experience working as a city forester, and previously worked for the city of Lakeville to spearhead the creation of a forestry division for the city. In this role, she will support WSB clients to provide a more sustainable forestry resource plan and help them achieve their long-term goals.

“Emily is a perfect fit for this position,” said Andi Moffatt, vice president of environmental services at WSB. “She is passionate about helping to make a difference for communities. She has great experience working within and managing various forestry projects. Beyond that, Emily has the heart and the drive to create a huge difference within the industry, and we are thrilled to have her on our team here at WSB.”

WSB supports clients in the government, commercial and energy markets with their infrastructure needs. Ball joins the firm’s environmental division. The division provides environmental compliance, natural resources, water resources, investigation and remediation, water reuse and sustainability services throughout the country.

Zweig Group honors WSB with Marketing Excellence Awards

The Zweig Group, the leading research, publishing and advisory services resource for the Architecture, Engineering and Construction (AEC) industry, has honored WSB with three awards in marketing.

Every year, the organization offers an awards program that specifically recognizes outstanding work within the AEC industry throughout North America.

Marketing Excellence Awards

Zweig recently announced winners for the 2022 Marketing Excellence Awards for outstanding, results-driven marketing. Zweig awards the top three firms in each possible category. WSB ranked first place in two categories and second in another.

Award entries are judged by a team of marketing professionals and evaluated based upon overall creativity, messaging, results achieved by the campaign, and level of design.

New Hire Box | Recruitment / Retention Communication | First Place and People’s Choice Award

At WSB, we have six main divisions that our services fall into. Rather than get into the weeds of the 30+ different services we offer and overwhelm our audience, we focused on our divisions to help guide the content. Within the new hire box, there are six items that each represent a division at WSB. To help tell the story, we created a new hire booklet that is included in each Welcome Box. The book also includes a welcome message from our CEO with tips on how to be successful at WSB, our mission and our values. Not only do the items help us communicate our divisions, but they also help the new hire already feel part of the WSB community when they walk through the door on their first day for onboarding.

2021 Year In Review | Internal Newsletter | First Place

Since 2009, WSB has published our annual Year in Review The goal is simple – to tell the story of WSB to our staff. In recent years, we have grown significantly both in staff size and geography. The stories of how we’re building what’s next in infrastructure across the country are important for our staff to hear.

Every year, we explore a different way to tell WSB’s story of the last year. We’ve told our story through our geographies, divisions, service areas, etc. We rebranded in 2018 and since then, our five values have become a strong communications tool. This year, we wanted to tell the WSB story through these five values to reinforce that we bring our values into our work. We are Bold, Visionary, Optimistic, Authentic and Passionate. The content was guided by these values.

Special Edition DigitalPlus | External Newsletter | Second Place

Twice a year, WSB publishes an external newsletter. For over 10 years, WSB has mailed a newsletter highlighting projects, innovations, techniques and news. We feel there is still value in a well-done printed piece. Our WSB External newsletter typically follow a standard content format. With the introduction of DigitalPlus, we created a special edition because we’re introducing a new brand, while also straying from our typical standard format. The special edition newsletter allows us to plant a flag in the ground and tell the story of our commitment to advanced project delivery.

People’s Choice Award

WSB was awarded the People’s Choice Marketing Excellence Award at the Zweig ElevateAEC Conference in Las Vegas for the firm’s New Hire Box. The People’s Choice Marketing Excellence Award is chosen by conference attendees and is based on votes received for all first place Marketing Excellence Award winners in every category.

The complete list of Marketing Excellence Winners can be accessed here: Marketing Excellence Award (zweiggroup.com)

New Mississippi Gateway Regional Park Will Connect Community and Nature

By Jeff Feulner Senior Landscape Architect, WSB

Originally published in the Minnesota Recreation & Parks Magazine Summer 2022 issue

Design work is taking place this year on an exciting project that aims to help people connect with the Mississippi River and nature.

Mississippi Gateway Regional Park, operated by Three Rivers Park District, includes 160 acres of parkland on the western shore of the Mississippi River in the City of Brooklyn Park. Coon Rapids Dam has spanned the river at the location for more than a century; in 1969, Northern States Power Co. gave the dam and 225 acres of surrounding land to what became Three Rivers Park District to establish a regional park on the Mississippi. Three Rivers operates the park on the west side of the river; Anoka County Parks and Recreation owns and operates Coon Rapids Dam Regional Park on the eastern side of the river in the City of Coon Rapids.

For five decades, the park has been a staple in the community, attracting visitors from across the Twin Cities region. Although the park is one of the most unique in the Three Rivers Park District system, it had not undergone significant investment in several years. To revitalize the park and to build better connections with the surrounding communities, in 2017 Three Rivers Park District embarked on developing a new vision for the park.

Nestled just across the road from the park is the city of Brooklyn Park’s Environmental Nature Area, a space full of opportunities to connect with nature. With the parks located adjacent to each other and only separated by West River Road, Brooklyn Park and Three Rivers Park District realized that they could provide better service to residents and park guests by working together.

The agencies developed a joint park master plan to avoid duplication and to provide a greater array of offerings for the public. Combining the park with the nature area would allow for a broader recreational experience for users. The planning process purposefully targeted equity markets that have historically been underrepresented in the visitor base for nature-based parks: minorities, non-English speaking households, new immigrants, low-income households, and people ages 45+. Throughout the master planning process, the project team engaged community residents in many ways – at community events, cultural gatherings and through user groups. The public identified features and amenities that became the basis of the vision for the park. This process made it possible for the park to truly reflect the priorities and values of the people who use it, and the resulting master plan described how together the two parks could be combined to create Mississippi Gateway Regional Park. In December 2020, Three Rivers and the City of Brooklyn Park formalized their partnership by approving a cooperative agreement to design, construct and operate Mississippi Gateway Regional Park.

“This project is the most significant capital investment in a park in the Park District’s history, and it fits perfectly with Three Rivers Park District’s vision that every person can connect with nature every day,” said Three Rivers Park District Commissioner Jennifer DeJournett, whose district includes the park. “Mississippi Gateway will welcome all individuals, whether they’re new to Minnesota or have been here for generations and will offer free and affordable programs to encourage everyone to explore the outdoors.”

With a comprehensive redesign of both areas, and a number of planned new features, the new park was born. Mississippi Gateway Regional Park will bring the vision to life: to connect the community, families, and residents to nature. To develop a strong vision that would cement this iconic park’s legacy, Three Rivers Park District and the city of Brooklyn Park consulted with WSB, a Twin-Cities headquartered design and consulting firm. Through a robust public engagement plan, master planning and design services, a vision and strategy to update the park for current and future generations to enjoy was created.

Connecting New Audiences with Nature

At the heart of this project are people. The goal is that people of all abilities and cultures have access to a fun, welcoming park where they can connect with and explore nature and the river in many ways. The location of Mississippi Gateway Regional Park provides a unique natural environment within the diverse, urban area where it lies. For children and adults alike, parks are a place to learn, exercise, grow and celebrate all Minnesota has to offer.

A major natural feature of the park is the Mississippi River and the unique landscape and habitats that surround it. People may come to the park for a variety of reasons, but all are drawn to the beauty and power of the mighty Mississippi that forms the natural eastern border of the park.

The park means something different to every user, and it will remain a significant landmark that is safe, accessible, convenient, unique and fun for those looking to experience the beauty and wonder of nature and the Mississippi close to where they live.

Commissioner DeJournett added, “We anticipate that the new Mississippi Gateway Regional Park will be a jewel of both the Three Rivers and Brooklyn Park systems and will be a favorite place for residents of the Twin Cities Metro Area as well as visitors from Greater Minnesota and around the country to connect with the Mighty Mississippi and enjoy the outdoors.”

What’s Coming to Mississippi Gateway Regional Park

Meaningful updates and one-of-a-kind experiences will attract visitors and provide significant benefit to the community and region. A new Gateway Center building will offer exhibit areas with learning opportunities focused on the Mississippi River and the park, classroom areas for school groups and park programming, and a space for equipment rentals, allowing further exploration of the park through the use of snowshoes, skis or bikes. A treetop trail, which will be an elevated walkway through the canopies of existing mature trees, will be developed near the Gateway Center. In addition, a nature-themed play tower and nature play nodes will connect to the treetop trail to create exciting play opportunities for all abilities. During the design process, staff from Three Rivers and WSB are engaging with students from Champlin-Brooklyn Park Academy for Math and Environmental Sciences to garner students’ input on the design of the nature play features. A “Mini-Mississippi” interactive water feature will provide a unique opportunity for users to access a stream channel, get their feet wet and manipulate the flow of water to further understand the dynamics of a river. These elements will provide unique perspectives, hands-on experiences, and exciting play opportunities for everyone to explore nature.

Beyond the core development area, Mississippi Gateway Regional Park will provide enhanced trails, gathering places and shelters, nature connection nodes and additional accessible fishing opportunities along the edge of the river. The western part of the park will also include a reservable shelter, playground, off-leash dog area, and an enhanced archery range.

Even with all the planned renovations, keeping a natural feeling in the park is still an achievable goal. The focus will remain on creating accessible opportunities to connect with the natural environment. Native plantings will be included with the restoration efforts throughout the park, while other proposed elements will be nestled within the existing vegetation and terrain.

Throughout the master planning, schematic design and design development phases of the project, the design team was careful to provide solutions that are equally engaging in all seasons of the year. The treetop trail and other trails are designed for year-round use, while cross-country ski and snowshoe trails also weave throughout the landscape.

This is an exciting project that will continue to connect the community with nature. The project is currently transitioning into the construction document phase of design, with a grand opening targeted for 2026. Mississippi Gateway Regional Park will be an inviting, welcoming and vibrant place for everyone to discover nature and the Mississippi River.

Jeff is a landscape architect with over 21 years of professional experience. He has worked on projects of various scales and scope both in private and public sectors. He has significant experience as a project manager directing installations and overseeing project implementation. His experience has led to creative design solutions which acknowledge varied user perspectives by collaborating with private developers, landowners, and business owners, as well as municipal staff. He embraces collaboration to ultimately bring the original vision into functional reality.

[email protected]om | 612.328.6682

WSB named one of the Top 200 Workplaces in Minnesota by the Star Tribune

WSB is honored to be named one of the Top 200 Workplaces in Minnesota by the Star Tribune – ranking #52 on the top Midsize Employers list. For nine years, we have received this prestigious honor, recognizing the most progressive companies in Minnesota based on employee opinions measuring engagement, organizational health, and satisfaction.

From the beginning, we’ve been firm believers that culture drives results and we’re proud of our staff who continue to help us forge ahead. We want to take a moment to publicly thank our staff for strengthening our culture.

As we look to the future, we remain committed to creating an environment where our staff feel valued, have fulfilling work, and feel like they belong. Together, we look beyond the needs of today to the opportunities tomorrow.

Join our Top Workplace! Learn about our career opportunities here.

PHMSA Advisory Bulletin Review

Pipeline Safety & Integrity, as Related to Geohazard Risk

On May 26, 2022, the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) issued an updated advisory bulletin (Docket No. PHMSA-2022-0063) to remind owners and operators of gas and hazardous liquid pipelines about the potential for damage and safety-related issues caused by geologic hazards (geohazards), including earth movements and climate-related hazards. Geohazards are naturally occurring and dynamic processes, capable of causing widespread damage, loss of property and/or injury and loss of life.

Earth movement hazards include slope instability, subsidence, frost heave, soil settlement, erosion, scour, and earthquakes. The causative factors of earth movements are myriad and complex but rooted in the understanding of regional geology, environmental conditions, and human influence. Earth movements can be exacerbated by local surface conditions (variable, steep, and rugged terrain), changing subsurface conditions, and climate-related hazards (e.g. heavy rainfall, flooding, washouts, weakened or unstable soil). It is important to understand that natural geohazards rarely occur in isolation but instead as hazard cascades: events that precipitates another, increasing resultant risks and consequences. Thus, it is imperative to consider and examine all possible geohazard factors when determining risk.

As outlined in 49 CFE 192.103 and 49 CFR 195.110, gas and hazardous liquid pipelines must be designed to withstand external loads, including those imposed by geohazards. In addition, PHMSA requires operators to take preventative and mitigative measures to avoid pipeline failure and consequences, such as those caused by geohazards (49 CFR 192.935 and 49 CFR 195.452). Additionally, integrity requirements pursuant to geohazards can be found under 49 CFR 192.917 and 49 CFR 195.452.

To ensure pipeline safety and integrity against geohazards, operators should consider taking the following actions:

Identify areas surrounding the pipeline which may be prone to earth movement and other geohazards. For each identified location, plans should be developed, with the assistance of geotechnical engineers, outlining design, construction, and monitoring procedures, based on site-specific hazards.
Monitor environmental conditions and changing weather patterns. Note, soil stability can be adversely impacted by changing weather patterns; evaluate soil and surface materials regularly.
Mitigation measures should be designed and implemented, as need be, based on site-specific conditions.

Due to the complexity and variability of geohazards, WSB’s Energy Sciences team recommends comprehensive geohazard risk assessments be performed for energy pipelines on five-year schedules. Our team of scientists and risk assessment specialists can help you identify, mitigate, and manage geohazard risks through services tailored to meet regulatory requirements and individual risk profiles.

WSB places #42 on Zweig’s Hot Firm List

WSB was recently named a 2022 Hot Firm by the Zweig Group for the ninth consecutive year. The list honors the fastest growing firms in the AEC industry in the U.S. and Canada. Firms are ranked based on three-year growth in revenue, by both percentage and growth. WSB ranks #42 on this year’s list, climbing 16 spots from 2021.

Hot Firm #42

The Zweig Group is the leading research, publishing, and advisory services resource for firms in the AEC industry. The Zweig Group’s awards programs recognize and celebrate top AEC industry firms in several categories. Winners will be recognized at the 2021 Elevate AEC Conference in November.

View the complete list of Hot Firm Winners.

WSB Announces Promotion of Do Nam to Director of Traffic Modeling and Technology

Nam will expand the use of artificial intelligence within the traffic analysis industry for the firm.

Engineering and consulting firm WSB announced today that Do Nam has been promoted to director of traffic modeling and technology. As director, Nam will lead and grow the new traffic modeling team by providing services to government clients. Nam joined WSB in 2018, and in his time with the firm has driven the use of artificial intelligence for traffic analysis.

“WSB is on the cutting edge when it comes to developing traffic models that simulate the flow of traffic under different staging scenarios,” said Nam. “These models are being used to determine if there are improvements that need to be made on any surrounding routes to allow for better operations throughout construction. I am excited to continue to work alongside an amazing team in my new role, bringing value to our clients and partners, and helping ensure WSB continues to lead and innovate in our industry.”

In his new role, Nam will focus on expanding the possibilities of artificial intelligence within the industry of traffic analysis. He will oversee his team and help direct and enhance client technological experiences.

“Do is extremely gifted at modeling traffic patterns. He has successfully managed over 30 major transportation and research projects, utilizing traditional macroscopic travel demand forecasting modeling, and state-of-the-art microscopic traffic simulation modeling techniques,” said Travis Wieber, WSB’s vice president of transportation. “Beyond his technical skills and ability, he is a true leader. This promotion is well-deserved.”

WSB’s transportation division supports clients in the government, energy and commercial markets to shape the infrastructure in our communities. WSB’s transportation services include bridge and structure design, intelligent transportation systems, traffic engineering, transportation planning, roadway design, right-of-way services and transit planning.

WSB Announces Paul Sandy as Senior Project Manager in Baxter Office

In new role, Sandy will help expand WSB municipal services in Central Minnesota

Engineering and consulting firm WSB announced today that Paul Sandy will be the new Senior Project Manager in WSB’s Baxter, Minnesota office. The former City Engineer and Public Works Director for the City of Brainerd, Sandy will help expand WSB services in the Central Minnesota market and deliver technically excellent projects for municipal clients.

“With most of my career spent in the public sector, I am excited to bring my skills and experience to WSB. I believe in connecting communities to projects that positively impact the people who live there and the places we call home. I am looking forward to serving clients in my new role and to supporting projects that grow and benefit Central Minnesota,” said Sandy.

Sandy will well-known amongst City Engineers throughout the state, having been elected the 2022 President of the City Engineer’s Association of Minnesota (CEAM).

“A big part of what we do at WSB is partner with our clients to create, grow and manage the spaces and places that support communities and residents. Paul understands the importance of advancing projects that are not only technically excellent, but that also connect with the community and its needs. We are excited for Paul to join WSB in Baxter! I know he will bring his meaningful experience and skillset learned in the public sector to help grow our services and offerings in Greater Minnesota in a way that benefits clients, communities and our state,” said Monica Heil, Vice President of Municipal Services at WSB.

Sandy joins WSB’s municipal division where he will focus heavily on supporting the firm’s government clients. WSB’s municipal team works with cities, counties and agencies with their varying infrastructure needs including city engineering, water, community development, landscape architecture and public engagement.

WSB Promotes Ryan Spencer to Director of Environmental Investigation and Remediation

In his new role, Spencer will help lead and grow the EIR team, providing services to government, energy, and private clients throughout WSB’s footprint.

Engineering and consulting firm WSB announced today that Ryan Spencer has been promoted to director of environmental investigation and remediation (EIR). In his new role, Spencer will help lead and grow the EIR team, providing services to government, energy, and private clients throughout WSB’s footprint. He has more than 14 years of industry experience, including nearly a decade at WSB.

“At WSB, our directors are not only technical experts in their field, but they also bring meaningful leadership to our business development work. Ryan Spencer has been an outstanding resource for our internal and external staff related to brownfield clean up and securing critical grants to fund these projects,” said Andi Moffatt, vice president of environmental services at WSB. “This is a well-deserved promotion, and we know he will continue to provide unparalleled service to clients and guide creative solutions to contamination issues.”

Ryan has led numerous successful environmental due diligence/remediation projects at WSB for government and private sector clients. He is also an active member of Minnesota Brownfields where he serves on their Program Committee.

“I am passionate about investigation and remediation efforts that enhance our communities and protect our environment. I am excited to bring that passion to my new role at WSB and continue to serve clients and guide our EIR team,” noted Spencer.

WSB’s EIR services include brownfield and greenfield project development for commercial, industrial, and residential use, phase I and phase II environmental site assessments, grant funding application assistance, and more. You can learn more about WSB’s EIR services at wsbeng.com/expertise/environment/investigation-remediation.