The Tennessee Environmental Network Steering Committee is pleased to present the TENSOS 2022 topical program as listed below. Please note, we are still adding details to these sessions and appreciate your patience as we finalize the program!
Click into the box for the topic description and speakers. Please make note of of your topics of interest by “starring” them for future reference.
Wednesday May 11 2022
DAY 1
1:15 pm - 2:30 pm : Breakout Session 1
1.1 Solid Waste Management-Local Government: Solid Waste Safety
Presenters: Morgan Thomas, Municipal Equipment; Don Gentilcore, WMI; Moderator: William Anderson, Franklin CountyRoom 3
Ensuring safety at solid waste management facilities including the most dangerous and most consistent safety violations, safety at the landfill, and general safety in the industry.
1.2 The Future of Beneficial Reuse in Tennessee
Presenters: George Garden, TDEC-DWR; Denise Funk, Brown & Caldwell; Cindy Wheeler, TDEC; Moderator: Robert O'Dette, TDECRoom 9/10
The status of beneficial reuse of treated wastewater in Tennessee will be discussed, including nonpotable reuse, future potable reuse, and piloting potable reuse. The panel will also address emerging technology for monitoring new contaminants of concern as part of reuse.
1.3 Energy Development: Impact on Climate and the Environment
Presenters: Liz Upchurch, TVA; Scott Holladay, UT Baker Center; Brenda Brickhouse, Electric Power Research Institute; Moderator: Maria Gillen, TVARoom 7/8
This session will cover: Impact of historical generation sources on the climate (i.e. methane and carbon emissions both atmospherically and environmentally, decommissioning efforts, EPA regulatory changes); Path to Net Zero generation portfolio; How the Net Zero generation portfolio could affect Local Power Companies; Impact of Distributed Energy Resources and uptick in weatherization/energy efficiency
1.4 Brownfields to Greenbacks
Presenters: Merrie Salyers, TDEC; Bart Kempf, Bradley; Ethan Collier, Collier Construction; Moderator: Sonja Favors, AL Dept of Environmental MgmtRoom 6
Developers and investors have historically steered away from redeveloping Brownfield properties. This panel discussion will focus on revealing various financial and other incentives for redeveloping Brownfields properties.
1.5 Annual Reporting Changes and Common Mistakes
Presenters: Stephanie Day, TDEC DSWM HW; Nina Vo, TDECRoom 5
The speakers will provide information relative to completing the annual hazardous waste report to ensure that the regulated community understands what is needed in each section. The discussion will include details related to recent regulatory changes that impact reporting.
1.6 PFAS Remediation Update
Presenters: Chad Northington, REGENESIS; James Feild, Wood Environment & Infrastructure SolutionsRoom 18/19
Dr. Jim Feild will present on Groundwater remediation and treatment options associated with PFAS/PFOA and similar emerging contaminants including Current Status and Challenges of Characterizing and Treating PFAS in Landfill Leachate. Chad Northington will discuss the implementation of an in-situ barrier of colloidal activated carbon to increase the natural retardation factor for PFAS, providing passive plume management and a risk-based approach that removes PFAS from the mobile phase while eliminating the route of exposure to downgradient receptors.
1.7 Air Compliance Workshop
Presenters: Tiffany Cutshall, TDEC; Amanda Davis, TDEC; Martie Carpenter, TDEC; Alvin Pratt, TDEC; Travis Blake, TDECRoom 4
The workshop will provide an overview of critical elements environmental professionals and consultants focus on to ensure compliance with air permits. From what to expect during an inspection to stack testing to report reviews and TDEC’s Self-Reporting Policy, environmental practitioners will be provided with information and tools to assist them in working to ensure compliance or meet requirements if noncompliance should occur.
1.8 New Developments in Water Law
Presenters: George Nolan, Southern Environmental Law Center; Stephanie Durman, TDECRoom 20/21
This panel will discuss recent developments in federal and state water law affecting Tennessee. George Nolan will discuss the status of the waters of the United States (WOTUS) rule, the impact of the County of Maui decision on NPDES permitting and groundwater, and developments on the Section 401 rule. Stephanie Durman will address recent changes in the Water Quality Control Act of 1977 and water rules affecting NPDES permits, state operating permits, and water quality. *1.25 GENERAL CLE hours.
3:00 pm - 4:15 pm : Breakout Session 2
2.1 Solid Waste Management-Local Government: Solid Waste Planning
Presenters: Doug Giles, Maury County; Abby Goldsmith, Goldsmith Resources; Amber Greene, Chester County; Moderator: William Anderson, Franklin CountyRoom 3
This session will explore how local governments can keep their solid waste plans current in changing times.
2.2 Regulatory Update
Presenters: Tara Jones LeGros, TDEC; Mark Jordan, TDEC; Carol Kemker, EPA R4; Meredith Anderson, EPA R4; Keriema Newman, EPA R4; Alan Newman, US EPA; Moderator: Amy Katcher, TDECRoom 5
The speakers will discuss the recent changes to the hazardous waste rules since the Generator Improvement Rule and the Pharmaceutical Rule have become final and are in effect. Topics discussed will include Solvent Wipes, CCR, OBOD, HW Permitting, and Enforcement.
2.3 Low Cost Air Sensors: A New Frontier in Understanding Air Quality
Presenters: Michelle Oakes, TDEC; Rachelle M. Duvall, US EPARoom 4
Air sensors are increasingly being utilized by private industry, government, and the public as tools to acquire quick, real-time information about air quality. This panel will focus on air sensor research conducted in varied settings to better understand these tools and their potential uses.
2.4 Municipal Stormwater and Good Housekeeping
Presenters: Karina Bynum, TDEC-DWR; Mitch Underwood, City of Chattanooga Municipal Stormwater Program; Mary Halley, Wood E&IS; Moderator: Paula Mitchell, TDECRoom 9/10
The presenters will discuss new developments and best practices in municipal stormwater management in Tennessee. Subjects will include good housekeeping for municipal facilities, updates to postconstruction stormwater management, and related topics.
2.5 We Have a Grant for That!
Presenters: John Hargraves, PM; Sam Saieed, SETDD; Dawn Michelle Foster, City of Knoxville; Paula Middlebrooks, State of TN Division of Remediation; Moderator: Olga Perry, US EPARoom 6
Assessment the Brownfield way... Cleanup the Brownfield way... What Brownfield has done for Tennessee.
2.6 Sustainable Management of Food: Farm to Fork and Beyond
Presenters: Thomas Daniel, Nutrien Ag Solutions; Corinna Baban, Agreeta; Ashley Cabrera, TDECRoom 7/8
This session will provide a discussion of the sustainability practices along the full spectrum of food production from agricultural sustainability to food manufacturing sustainability to food consumer sustainability practices/programs.
2.7 Urban stormwater: 6PPD-Q the Next Emerging Contaminant
Mike Ehlebracht, Haley & Aldrich; Laurel Royer, DeSimone Consulting Engineers; Moderator: Tim Fitzpatrick, SGS AXYS Analytical ServicesRoom 18/19
Urban stormwater runoff occurs everywhere with regulated and unknown contaminants. On the west coast 6PPD-Q (a tire additive that mixes with ozone) is gaining significant regulatory attention due to the potential effects on the salmon and trout populations. These potential impacts could also affect ecological populations in the southeast. This session will provide what is currently know about this emerging topic including testing capabilities.
2.8 State Legislative Updates
Presenters: Blair Beaty, TDEC; Horace Tipton, TDECRoom 20/21
This presentation will focus on policy and legislative updates across Tennessee. *1.5 GENERAL CLE hours
4:30 pm - 5:45 pm : Breakout Session 3
3.1 Solid Waste Management-Engineering: Recent Developments in Solid Waste Engineering
Presenters: Kevin Wolfe, CEC; Adam Bonomo, TDEC; Ivan Cooper - CEC; Jeremy Hooper, TDEC; Moderator: Pat Flood, TDECRoom 3
This session covers bioreactor design, recent developments, and performance, along with PFAS info, and Federal and state activity updates regarding landfills, leachate, and WWTPs.
3.2 Solid Waste Management-Non-Governmental Organizations: Recycling in Tennessee
Presenters: Khann Chov, Keep Knoxville Beautiful; Jeff Barrie, Tennessee Environmental Council; Moderator: Christina Perez, TDECRoom 9/10
The role of the NGO Community in improving/expanding recycling in Tennessee.
3.3 State and Regional Air Quality Updates
Presenters: Lynorae Benjamin, US EPA Region 4; Michelle Walker Owenby, TDEC; James Johnston, TDECRoom 4
EPA Region 4 and Tennessee Air leadership will provide updates on relevant program activities, such as regional or state initiatives, monitored air quality, significant State Implementation Plan developments like Regional Haze, etc.
3.4 Brownfields: The Strategy of Redevelopment
Presenters: Bob Witsell, General Electric; Ed Callaway, Waller; Todd McFarland, Wood E&IS; Moderator: Bertisabel Custer, Wood E&ISRoom 6
Panel on repurposing with a purpose.
3.5 Accessing Info Through TDEC and EPA
Presenters: Brianna Rives, TDEC; Ben Almassi, TDEC; Ashley Pulley, TDEC; Vojin Janjic, TDEC; Alan Newman, EPARoom 5
This session will discuss how the public can access info through the various datavewers used by TDEC as well as EPA. The discussion will also let the public know what is contained in the databases - and what may not be found in them, but is available through a FOIA request. Due to the size of some files not all information is available on the TDEC dataviewer.
3.6 Solar Energy Development and the TVA NEPA Process
Presenters: J. Taylor Johnson, TVA; Robyn Susemihl, Burns & McDonnell; Moderator: Jesse Brown, Burns & McDonnellRoom 7/8
Presenters will provide an overview of TVA’s typical NEPA process for a solar project from project concept to issuance of a final approval. The audience will be provided with practical examples on how to minimize delays in the process.
3.7 PFAS Regional and Federal Updates
Presenters: Frannie Nilson, NCDEQ; Sonja Favors, ADEM; Aaryn Jones, US EPA Region 4; Moderator: Laurel Royer, DeSimone Consulting EngineersRoom 18/19
The panel discussion will feature representatives from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Alabama Department of Environmental Management (ADEM), and North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality (NCDEQ) who will present their perspectives on the status of PFAS regulations as well as ongoing and future action plans.
Thursday May 12 2022
DAY 2
9:30 am - 10:45 am : Breakout Session 4
4.1 Solid Waste Management-State Government: Landfill Gas Regulatory Updates
Presenters: David Thorley, WMI; Travis Blake, TDEC; Matt Stutz, Weaver Consulting; Moderator: Craig Almanza, TDECRoom 3
What you need to know about landfill air regulations.
4.2 Interface between HW, Air, Water, SW, and DOR
Presenters: David Jackson, BDY; Ed Callaway, Waller; Donovan Grimwood, TDEC; Crystal Warren, TDECRoom 5
This session will discuss how the various programs are interlinked when the regulated community may be building a new facility or applying for various permits.
4.3 An Overall Look at Sustainability in the Recycling Industry including Recovered Materials
Presenters: Amber Greene, West TN Regional Recycling Hub/Chester County; Josh Russell, Town of Collierville; Will Sagar, SERDC; April Carlock, Grief; Moderator: Larry Christley, TDECRoom 9/10
Common Suite of Materials, Contamination at the Mills and the related impacts and costs. Speakers will use the value of presort/dual/single stream as a transition discussion. Additionally, Chester County will speak on their Hub and Spoke.
4.4 Land Revitalization Technical Assistance for Brownfields and Lessons Learned
Presenters: Camilla Warren, US EPA; Nichole Rodgers, US EPA ; Moderator: Scott Anderson, Haley & AldrichRoom 6
EPA has developed new Land Revitalization Technical Assistance for Brownfields that supports technical, financial and outreach effort to create successful Brownfields Reuse and Land Revitalization projects. Following a brief presentation about regional examples, including one in Bolivar, TN, there will be sufficient time for Q and A. There are numerous types of EPA Land Revitalization Technical Assistance, and several will be covered. See https://www.epa.gov/land-revitalization for background on EPA’s Land Revitalization Program.
4.5 The Effects of President Biden's Agenda as it Relates to Air Regulations and Climate Change
Presenters: Kelli Calhoon, Ramboll US Consulting; Katie Poss, National Ready Mixed Concrete Association; Thomas Hammell, Merrill LynchRoom 4
A high level view of how the current regulatory agenda is impacting the legal, financial, and regulatory arenas in relation to air quality regulations and climate change policy. Representatives from the financial sector, industrial (regulated) community, and technical (consulting) fields will provide insight into the changing environment on air and climate issues including ESG issues and how they foresee it playing out in the years to come. Kelli Calhoun will speak on ESJ within the regulatory/legal/technical arena; Katie Poss will provide an industry’s perspective on how public policy is impacting the built environment and its supply chain; and Thomas Hammell will speak on sustainable and impact investing.
4.6 Resiliency in the Southeast: Action Plans and Adaptation Solutions
Presenters: Rebecca Tolene, TVA; Dawn Santoianni; Haley & Aldrich; Brandon Robinson, Balch & Bingham; Moderator: Mark Miesfeldt, Haley & AldrichRoom 7/8
This session will provide an overview and discussion of resiliency from the perspectives of electric grid reliability and protecting critical infrastructure from extreme weather and other natural disasters. Panelists will discuss strategies for assessing vulnerabilities to facilities and assets, action plans to mitigate climate risks, and engineering solutions to enhance resilience.
4.7 Lead Waste in Tennessee
Presenters: Rashad Taylor, TDEC; Adrianne White, TDEC; Paulette Barton, TDECRoom 18/19
Revised EPA and HUD dust-lead hazard standards, dust-lead action levels, and dust-lead clearance levels. What risk assessors and inspectors should know when identifying lead-based paint and determining lead hazards in regulated projects. management and proper disposal of waste generated from lead-based paint activities.
4.8 Mississippi v. Tennessee – Middle Claiborne Aquifer
Presenters: David Bearman, Baker, Donelson, Bearman, Caldwell & Berkowitz; Kristine Roberts, Baker, Donelson, Bearman, Caldwell & BerkowitzRoom 20/21
This session will provide a behind the scenes examination of the Mississippi v. Tennessee U.S. Supreme Court case involving the Middle Claiborne Aquifer. The presentation will include a review the history of the litigation, including the case initiated by the State of Mississippi in federal district court, and the subsequent original jurisdiction action. The positions of each side in the litigation will be reviewed, including those taken in the recent argument before the Supreme Court. Panelist will also detail the geologic character of the Middle Claiborne Aquifer. *1.5 GENERAL CLE hours
11:00 am - 12:15 pm : Breakout Session 5
5.1 Solid Waste Management-State Government: Chronic Waste Disease in TN Deer Update
Presenters: Daniel Grove, TWRA; Garrett Clevinger, TWRA; Jeremy Hooper, TDEC; Moderator: Pat Flood, TDECRoom 3
Historical overview of CWD in TN, where we are today, and what the future may hold for infected carcass disposal and future incinerator.
5.2 Coordinating Historic Federal Infrastructure Investments: Anticipated Energy and Transportation-related Impacts and Opportunities for Tennessee
Presenters: Kendra Abkowitz Brooks, Nashville/Davidson County; Molly Cripps, TDEC; Erik Schmidt, City of Chattanooga; Moderator: Alexa Voytek, TDECRoom 7/8
The Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act/Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (IIJA/
BIL), passed in 2021, will result in billions of dollars of infrastructure-related
investments in Tennessee and other states. As guidance about these significant
investments continues to emerge from Washington, state and local government
representatives will provide an overview of anticipated energy and transportation
related impacts and opportunities for Tennessee.
5.3 The Strategy and Management of PCB Projects
Presenters: Jennifer McLeod, US EPA; Brad Glisson, Wood E&IS; Paul Diss, US EPARoom 18/19
Discussion will include: PCB remediation waste clean up and disposal, EPA regulatory update; TSCA PCB compliance for electrical equipment; Demolition or re-purpose how to evaluate lead and PCBs in buildings.
5.4 TDEC-DoR Vapor Intrusion Risk Criteria
Presenters: Ahmet Bulbulkaya, TDEC; Moderator: Travis Johnson, Pace AnalyticalRoom 6
In 2016, TDEC-DoR developed a Risked-Base Vapor Intrusion Mitigation Matrix for New Construction. TDEC DoR has revised the matrix to include existing buildings, post installation system performance monitoring, and O&M inspection reporting requirements.
5.5 Climate Change: Upgrading to a Sustainable Power Grid and System
Presenters: Rebecca Tolene, TVA; Eric Grau, TVA; Gary Brinkworth, TVA; Ryan Keel, Chattanooga Electric Power Board; Moderator: Joe Hoagland, TVARoom 9/10
Sustainable grid investment programs in the Southeast. This session will address: Regional Grid Transformation pilot projects with Local Power Companies partners focused on reimaging the grid; How sustainable power grid of the future can positively impact the environment (energy efficiency, lessened reliance on fossil fuels as load grows but stretches farther); How climate change is used in decision making from a TVA and LPC perspective; Electric Power Research Institute carbon tracking projects & efforts; Grid Resiliency in the future.
5.6 Plastics and Our Waterways: An Overview and Positive Direction Forward
Presenters: Jay Peters, Haley & Aldrich; Tim Musick, Eastman; Nena Shaw, US EPARoom 4
What are microplastics and why should we care about them from a health and environmental perspective? Jay Peters will provide general information concerning microplastics and why they are an emerging contaminant. Operation Clean Sweep (OCS) is a voluntary stewardship program for facilities that handle plastic materials. The program, in its 30th year of existence, is designed to raise awareness on efforts to keep plastics (pellets, flake, powder) out of our waterways. Tim Musick will provide an Eastman overview of Operation Clean Sweep, OCS Blue, and Eastman’s journey. Nena Shaw will speak on EPA opinion/perspective and potential future regulatory applicability.
5.7 Strengthening Enforcement in Communities with Environmental Justice Concerns
Presenter: Carol Kemker, US EPA Region 4Room 5
This session will provide information to the public about how EPA is considering EJ concerns when addressing enforcement.
5.8 Legal Ethics Part 1
Presenters: Alex Long, University of Tennessee College of Law; Paula Schaeffer, University of Tennessee College of LawRoom 20/21
Join two law professors who will provide a practical session on ethics. This interactive presentation will include a wide cross section of recent ethics dilemmas from the news, with panelists examining these dilemmas and answering questions posed by attendees. *1.25 DUAL CLE hour
2:00 pm - 3:15 pm : Breakout Session 6
6.1 Solid Waste Management-Federal: Coal Combustion Residual Issues in Tennessee
Presenters: Gabriel Lang, AECOM; Scott Turnbow, TVA; Matt Taylor, TDEC; Moderator: Karl Chance, CTI & AssociatesRoom 3
Closing CCR ash ponds beneficial use of ash. CCR removal and disposal at the Allen Fossil Plant. Status of state CCR permit program.
6.2 Asbestos Regulations Update
Presenter: Adrianne White, TDECRoom 18/19
Tennessee Asbestos Accreditation Rule and regulatory update.
6.3 Workforce Development for the Electric Vehicle (EV) Ecosystem: Who’s Going to Build and Service My EV?
Presenters: Rebecca Ashford, Chattanooga State Community College; Chris Desautels, Spring Hill Ultium Cells, LLC; Victoria Hirschberg, TNECD; llker Subasi, VW Americas; Michael Torrence, Motlow State Community College; Moderator: Ann Thompson, TNECDRoom 7/8
Tennessee continues to lead EV growth in the Southeast, causing manufacturers, suppliers, and education partners to mobilize across the state to support the exceptional growth of high quality, good paying jobs in a dynamic industry. Leaders will discuss what is being done to support labor supply chains for production and service competencies regarding EVs, batteries, and charging infrastructure in Tennessee.
6.4 Tennessee Brownfield Association (We Can Do It!)
Presenters: Russ Griebel, United Consulting; Jason Lichtstein, Akerman LLP; John Spinrad, Arnall Golden Gregory LLP; John Hargraves, PM; Bart Kempf, Bradley; Moderator: Russ Griebel, United ConsultingRoom 6
Have you ever wanted to be a person that precipitates an event? Attend this session and you will be part of the catalyst that will result in the formation of the Tennessee Brownfield Association.
6.5 Tennessee Metropolitan Air Quality Successes and Challenges
Presenters: Larry Smith, Shelby County Health Department; Brian Rivera, Knox County Health Department; Ron Drumeller, Chattanooga-Hamilton County Air Pollution Control Bureau; Moderator: J. Wayne Cropp, Baker, Donelson, Bearman, Caldwell & BerkowitzRoom 4
In Tennessee, there are four (4) local metropolitan air pollution control agencies with air quality control primacy: Chattanooga, Knoxville, Nashville and Memphis. These agencies will participate in a panel discussion regarding their respective air quality, enforcement, and permitting challenges and successes.
6.6 Chemical Recycling: a Big Step Toward a Smaller Footprint
Presenters: Jayme Leita, Eastman; Larry Christley, TDEC; Moderator: Greg Young, TDECRoom 9/10
Tennessee’s 2015-2025 Solid Waste and Materials Management Plan provides a solid path to reducing waste going to landfills, embracing new technologies, and putting the state on the path to a sustainable future. Larry Christley will inform us as to how this important plan lays out sound objectives and strategies that are foundational to the plan’s success. Chemical recycling opens new markets, opportunities, and opens the doors to further build our integrated solid waste management system infrastructure. Chemical recycling gets talked about as if it’s one technology, but it’s actually a catch-all for a wide variety of waste management. So, what are all of those different approaches? Jayme Leita will give a technology 101, discussing the pros and cons of chemical recycling, what technologies work best for which materials, the infrastructure challenges that need to be solved to get more chemical recycling technologies operating at scale, and what you can do to help be a part of the solution for the plastic waste and climate crisis.
6.7 Pharmaceutical Rule
Presenters: Tara Jones LeGros, TDEC; Ed Callaway, Waller; EPA R4 RepRoom 5
The session will provide information related to the Pharmaceutical Rule and the impact to the Hazardous Waste rules in Tennessee. Information about the rule will include what is the same in the Tennessee rule as in the federal version of the rule, and any differences between the Tennessee rule and the federal version.
6.8 Legal Ethics Part 2
Presenter: Steven Christopher, Tennessee Board of Professional ResponsibilityRoom 20/21
In this session, the Deputy Chief Disciplinary Counsel in the Investigations Section of the Tennessee Board of Professional Responsibility will discuss recent actions by the organization and ethics updates. The presentation will include real cases and scenarios, with an emphasis on topics relevant to Environmental Law practitioners. Questions from attendees are encouraged. *2 DUAL CLE hours total
3:30 pm - 4:45 pm : Breakout Session 7
7.1 Solid Waste Management-Industry: Recycling in a Changing Market
Presenters: Lincoln Young, Rockwood Recycling; Jared Lynn, Nissan; Troy Vaughn, WM; Moderator: Mallorie Kirby, TN Chamber of Commerce & IndustryRoom 3
A presentation on the challenges and ways to overcome the challenges of the current recyling market.
7.2 Solid Waste Management-Federal: Solid Waste Management at DOE's Oak Ridge Reservation
Presenters: Roger Petrie, DOE; Stephen Kenworthy, Strata-G; Kent Fortenberry, UCOR; Moderator: Karl Chance, CTI & AssociatesRoom 4
EMDF low level radioactive waste landfill and ROD and modeling to support waste acceptance. Solid waste management challenges during demolition at Y-12.
7.3 eManifest System
Presenters: Tita Lagrimas, Tradebe; Stephanie Day, TDEC; Nina Vo, TDEC; Rob Reimer, US EPARoom 5
This session will discuss any issues generators may be encountering in the use of the eManifest system and how these have been dealt with by the generator. TDEC will provide information on how the eManifests are accessed by TDEC staff and how the information is used.
7.4 Brownfield Regulatory Update
Presenters: Evan Spann, TDEC; Ashley Pulley, TDEC; Ellery Richardson, TDEC; Moderator Russ Griebel, United ConsultingRoom 6
TDEC has been busy! This session will provide an overview of recent changes within the Brownfield Voluntary Cleanup Oversight and Assistance Program, to include items such as Consent Orders, Notice of LURs, Beneficial Reuse, and BVAs.
7.5 American Rescue Plan and State Revolving Fund Issues
Presenters: Vena Jones, TDEC; John Greer, TAUD; Tiffany Heard, City of Dyersburg; Moderator: Paula Mitchell, TDECRoom 9/10
This panel will discuss the unprecedented funding opportunity to invest in water, wastewater, and stormwater infrastructure.
7.6 Emerging Contaminants in Source Air
Presenters: Bill Walsh, SGS Galson Laboratories; Courtney Adkins, Eurofins TestAmerica; Moderator: Tim Fitzpatrick, SGS AXYS Analytical ServicesRoom 18/19
Ethylene oxide: Bill Walsh, CIH from SGS Galson Laboratories will discuss sampling and analytical challenges of EtO as well as understanding its current use and challenges faced with replacement compounds. PFAS: Due to the unique chemical and physical properties of PFAS compounds and the complex nature of stationary source emissions, developing a method for the collection and analysis of these compounds presents a unique challenge. Courtney Adkins will cover method development, data trends, and explore the relationship between the sampler and the laboratory.
7.7 Developing a Statewide EV Charging Infrastructure Network: Will I Be Able to Power Up When Driving My EV Across Tennessee?
Presenters: Drew Frye, TVA; Elizabeth Hammitt, EPB; Alexa Voytek, TDEC; Moderator: Jonathan Overly, Executive Director, East TN Clean Fuels CoalitionRoom 7/8
Throughout the US, states are bolstering public charging infrastructure, electrifying fleets, expanding charging stations at government facilities, and promoting greater consumer options in mobile transportation. This panel will provide an update on Tennessee’s Fast Charge TN Network, the National EV Infrastructure Program, and how the DriveElectricTN initiative is supporting the adoption and expansion of EV transportation choices through education and awareness.
7.8 Legal Ethics Part 2-cont'd.
Presenter: Steven Christopher, Tennessee Board of Professional ResponsibilityRoom 20/21
In this session, the Deputy Chief Disciplinary Counsel in the Investigations Section of the Tennessee Board of Professional Responsibility will discuss recent actions by the organization and ethics updates. The presentation will include real cases and scenarios, with an emphasis on topics relevant to Environmental Law practitioners. Questions from attendees are encouraged. *2 DUAL CLE hours total NOTE: Part 2 of session continues until 4p.
Friday May 13 2022
DAY 3
9:30 am - 10:45 am : Breakout Session 8
8.1 Supplemental Environmental Projects and Consent Orders
Presenters: Joe Sanders, TDEC; Bill Penny, Burr & Forman; John Dawson, Bass, Berry & SimsRoom 5
This panel will discuss their experience in working with TDEC or EPA where SEPs are used, and the pros and cons versus upfront payment of penalties.
8.2 Four-Letter Words in the News: Lead, PFAS, HABs, DBPs
Presenters: David Money, TDEC; Gary Emmert, University of Memphis; Heidi Wilkinson, TN Dept of Ag; Jeremy Hooper, TDEC; Moderator: Paula Mitchell, TDECRoom 9/10
Presenters will discuss the four hot topics in drinking water in the Southeast: Lead, PFAS (perflouroalkyl substances), DBPs (disinfection/disinfectant byproducts) and HABs (hazardous algal blooms). All four issues directly pose source water quality, treatment and distribution system challenges for the present and foreseeable future. Ample time will be given for Q&A.
8.3 Sustainability Careers and Trends in 2022
Presenter: Dodd Galbreath, Lipscomb University; Kelsey Davis, TDEC; Brad McAllister of WAP Sustainability; Madison Rollings, Green SpacesRoom 7/8
Professor Galbreath will present an overview of the current explosion in sustainability jobs and careers. Three Lipscomb University masters degree sustainability alumni from the private sector, government, and a non-profit organization will also reflect on their educational and career insights.
8.5 Brownfields Technologies and Challenges
Presenters: Todd McFarland, Wood E&IS; Keith Ziobron, Stantec; Tom McComb, Barge Design Solutions; Moderator: Bertisabel Custer, Wood E&ISRoom 6
Discussion will include: high resolution site characterization - 3D conceptual site model; Brownfield site disposition strategy plans: a tool to drive development; and the Copper Basin, history of a successful brownfield site.
8.7 Solid Waste Management-Engineering: EWS Site Closure
Presenters: Chris Murray, CEC; Brian Wolf, CEC; Nick Lytle, TDEC; Rob Burnette, TDEC; Reese Yontz, TDEC; Moderator: Pat Flood, TDECRoom 3
Design and construction performed after the EWS landfill filed for bankruptcy; status of annual and triannual engineering reports, issues with reports, and areas of future focus.
8.8 Déjà vu All Over Again: EPA’s Clean Act Regulatory Reversals from the Previous Administration
Presenters: Khurshid Mehta, TVA; Molly Cripps, TDEC; Steven Stout, TDECRoom 20/21
Discussion on developments and updated regulations involving recent EPA actions. *1.25 GENERAL CLE hours
11:00 am - 12:15 pm : Breakout Session 9
9.2 TNH2O: Water Withdrawals in Tennessee
Presenters: April Grippo, TDEC; Robert Baker, TDEC; Victoria Hirschberg, TN Department of Economic and Community Development; Moderator: Elaine Boyd, TDECRoom 9/10
The TNH2O report was developed through extensive stakeholder engagement and serves as a roadmap to sustainable water resources in Tennessee. The panel will discuss the Duck River Pilot Project, an initiative to cooperatively balance the water needs of local communities with ecological goals in a river that supports one of the most diverse freshwater ecosystems in the US.
9.3 Solid Waste Management-Industry: Sustainable Programs and Partnerships for the Present and Future
Presenters: Ryan Jenkins, TDEC; Julie Lucas, GM; Moderator: Stacey Cothran, WMRoom 3
This session will consist of brief presentations from panelists regarding sustainable initiatives at GM (including LYRIQ all-electric vehicle and new battery plant) as well as the Duck River Watershed Education Partnership between Friends of Henry Horton State Park and GM, followed by a panel discussion (including Q&A) regarding GM's corporate sustainability initiatives and their strategic sustainability partnerships.
9.4 Solid Waste Management-Non-Governmental Organizations: The Role of Non-Governmental Organizations in Driving Improvements to Tennessee's Solid Waste Management
Presenters: Jeffrey Barrie, Tenness Environmental Council; Cash Daniels, The Conservation Kid; Bill Moll, Sierra Club-TN Chapter; Will Sagar, Southeast Recycling Development Council; Missy Marshall, Keep Tennessee Beautiful; Moderator: Holli AlexanderRoom 4
Non-Government Organizations play a critical role in driving improvements in conservation, waste management, and recycling in the State of Tennessee. In this session, we’ll learn about NGOs who are creating positive change in our state. These actions range from mobilizing kids to make a difference to establishing pollinator habitats to influencing impactful legislation to driving collaborations for recycling projects. We’ll hear from each organization and then have time for Q/A to learn more about their initiatives and how we all might work together.
9.6 PFAS Panel: Understanding the Latest Legal and Toxicological Efforts to Address "Forever Chemicals"
Presenters: Charlie Denton, Barnes & Thornburg LLP; Laurel Royer, De-Simone Engineers; Shanna Alexander, US EPARoom 18/19
Panel discussing the current regulatory efforts and challenges and the latest toxicological data associated with PFAS/PFOA and similar emerging contaminants.
9.7 OSHA Update for Environmental Professionals
Presenter: Michael Mallen, Attorney at LawRoom 20/21
In this session, an industry expert will discuss important updates to workplace safety measures, with a particular emphasis given to considerations for environmental professionals. Topics covered will include regulatory compliance, worksite assessment, and how to identify and manage hazards and design, and implement policies and procedures for ensuring compliance. *1.25 GENERAL CLE hour