The 2023 Schedule is posted below but is still in development. Please check back for updates.

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 10 2023

DAY 1

9:00 am - 11:00 am Early Session

Brownfield Bus Tour

Wayne Cropp (Baker Donelson); Bart Kempf (BABC); Evan Spann (TDEC); Troy Keith (TDEC); Pat Gribben (TDEC)Offsite

The 2023 Brownfield Tour will focus on a single multi-faceted site steeped in Chattanooga history—the former Standard Coosa Thatcher Mill. The Standard Coosa Thatcher Mill, which is a former hosiery mill and a key piece of Chattanooga's industrial past, is currently undergoing mixed use redevelopment. The tour will focus on the technical and legal challenges that come with multiple uses, developers, Voluntary Agreements, Land Use Restrictions, contaminants, exposure pathways, EPA grants, and regulatory governing authorities. Participants can register for the tour here.Brownfield: https://forms.office.com/g/cDsGGxMBDy

Wed 9:00 am - 11:00 am

Wastewater Bus Tour

Offsite

Once known as the most polluted city in America, Chattanooga is in the “clear”. Come explore elements of the City of Chattanooga’s Clear Initiative. Clear Chattanooga is the City’s community-wide wastewater improvement plan. Join us as we visit the Moccasin Bend Environmental Campus (MBEC).  We’ll stop at the new Hamm Road wet weather equalization station and then tour part of MBEC to learn about major energy efficiency upgrades and capacity improvements in the works. Participants are encouraged to wear comfortable closed-toed shoes. We’ll make two stops during this tour and will arrive back at the convention center at 11. Participants can register for the tour here. MBWWTP: https://forms.office.com/g/J3Y39cb3wB

Wed 9:00 am - 11:00 am

1:15 pm - 2:30 pm : Breakout Session 1

1.1 Rolling on the River: Brownfields Grants Support Riverfront Revitalization

Moderator: Camilla Warren, EPA; Speakers: Dan Gibson, Natchez, MS; Steve Stanley, Sheffield, ALRoom 16/17

Roundtable Discussion with mayors on riverfront revitalization. These rural community mayors will share their experiences in planning riverfront revitalizaton and how EPA Brownfields Grants are used in this process.

Wed 1:15 pm - 2:30 pm
Brownfields / Land Use

1.2 Small Changes, Big Impacts: Zero Waste Goals for Climate Change Action

Moderator: Julie Hall, Weaver Consultants Group; Speakers: Jennifer Harrman, Nashville's Zero Waste Plan; Kate Howe, Weaver Consultants GroupRoom 9/10

Nashville's Zero Waste Plan; Finding value within sustainability: A Circular Economy approach; Sustainability and climate change in the solid waste industry.

Wed 1:15 pm - 2:30 pm
Sustainability / Circular Economy

1.3 Transportation Electrification

Moderator: Molly Cripps, TN Office of Energy; Speakers: Alexa Voytek, TN Office of Energy; Drew Frye, TVA; Rob Ferber, Xos Trucks; Rich Davies, Oak Ridge National LaboratoryRoom 13

This panel will provide state government, utility, and research perspectives on transportation electrification at scale, and across multiple use cases and applications. Panelists will highlight considerations tied to vehicle and infrastructure deployment, insights from case studies and related research, and upcoming funding opportunities that can be leveraged to support or catalyze projects.

Wed 1:15 pm - 2:30 pm
Energy / Transportation

1.4 Remediation Technologies

Moderator: Jordan Knight, Land Science; Speakers: Andrew Alexander, BLE; Daniel Pile, REGENESIS; Bruce Kennington, RambollRoom 18/19

Enhanced Bioremediation of PCE in Groundwater using Milk Solution; Hydrocarbon Plume Remediation Using PetroFix - A Micron Scale Activated Carbon Fluid; Engineering Design to Thermally Treat a Deep TCE Source Beneath an Active Manufacturing Facility.

Wed 1:15 pm - 2:30 pm
Remediation

1.5 Specialty Air Analysis

Speakers: Chris Johnson, Pace; John Hawkins, PaceRoom 14

Pace Labs will discuss the latest specialty parameters now being tested in air with an emphasis on TO15A

Wed 1:15 pm - 2:30 pm
Air / Climate

1.6 Returning Leachate Sump Levels to Compliance with Drilled Vertical Risers

Speakers: Tamara Perkin, Weaver Consultants Group; Brandon Richardson, WM; Jayson Gray, Diversified Engineering Inc.Room 12

Case study of installing a vertical sump riser through 140’ of waste to replace an existing crushed slide slope riser pipe. Installation involved using precise drilling techniques and down-role radar to accurately place the pipe into the sump to achieve compliance.

Wed 1:15 pm - 2:30 pm
Solid Waste

1.7 GIS Projects Supporting Water Resource Management

Moderator: Brian Ham, TDEC; Speakers: Rebecca Ransom, USGS; Jeremy Hooper, TDEC DSWM; Yolanda Jane McDonald, Vanderbilt UniversityRoom 15

Highlights from current projects using geographic system information tools to support water resource regulatory programs and understanding hydrologic systems and characteristics in the State of Tennessee.

Wed 1:15 pm - 2:30 pm
Water

3:00 pm - 4:15 pm : Breakout Session 2

2.1 Tips for Rural Brownfield Communities

Moderator: Camilla Warren, US EPA Region 4; Speakers: Mary Hashem, Adaapta; Sherry Weedman, Tetra Tech; TBD, TDECRoom 16/17

This panel discussion will focus on the components a rural community should consider regarding the All Appropriate Inquiry (AAI) as it relates to consideration of acquiring, properly assessing, remediating, managing, re-use planning, and post-revitalization considerations of a brownfield property with a complicated environmental history. This discussion will be based on a current US EPA Office of Brownfields and Land Revitalization (OBLR), Land Revitalization (LR) Technical Assistance Case Study provided by US EPA OBLR Technical Consultants Tetra Tech and Adaapta, US EPA Region 4, and TDEC. This project is a collaborative effort (OBLR, EPA Region 4, TDEC, City of Bolivar, Tetra Tech, and Adaapta) that identified the needs of the rural community of Bolivar, TN, specifically focusing on a site that historically operated as a Tannery. The discussion will provide an approach that any Small Town, USA could use as a model for successful acquisition and revitalization of brownfields with an environmental past, emphasizing the importance of conducting a Phase I ESA prior to property transfer.

Wed 3:00 pm - 4:15 pm
Brownfields / Land Use

2.2 Going Beyond Phase I: Environmental and Social Due Dilligence

Moderator: Ronne Adkins, TDEC; Speakers: Dawn Santoianni, Haley & Aldrich; Peter Baty, ALO AdvisorsRoom 9/10

Environmental, social, and governance (ESG) issues are influencing how companies assess transactional risks. Climate vulnerability, sustainability, and impacts on local communities have become significant considerations in corporate strategy and financing decisions. Evolving European Union and U.S. policies on social issues and human rights have become key drivers for companies to expand due diligence beyond ASTM Phase I assessments. Panelists will give practical examples of how ESG factors are being integrated to identify transactional risks and mitigation measures, and methods for tracking residual risks.

Wed 3:00 pm - 4:15 pm
Sustainability / Circular Economy

2.3 Alternative Remediation

Moderator: David Heicher, GeoImaging Systems; Speakers: Dylan Crouch, AECOM; J. Todd Mcfarland, WSP; Matt Adkins, CSX Transportation; Andrew Kiggen, REGENESISRoom 18/19

Re-purposing and Closing Surface Impoundments Using Solidification, Consolidation, and Engineered Turf Cover at active Refining Catalysts Manufacturing Facility; A Tank Car Fire for the Fourth of July - Rapid Site Characterization and Remediation following the release of Acrylonitrile; In-Situ Treatment of PFAS using Colloidal Activated Carbon.

Wed 3:00 pm - 4:15 pm
Remediation

2.4 Air Quality Digital Assurance Monitoring and Visible Emissions Observations

TBDRoom 14

Discussing applying digital technology to automate compliance assurance monitoring and the cost savings that goes with it.

Wed 3:00 pm - 4:15 pm
Air / Climate

2.5 Landfill Capping and Closure Costs: How Much is Enough?

Speaker: John Gardner, Smith GardnerRoom 12

A discussion of how to calculate accurate third party closure and post-closure care estimates for landfills.

Wed 3:00 pm - 4:15 pm
Solid Waste

2.6 Recycling of Wind Turbine Blades, Solar Panels, and EV Batteries

Moderator: Rob Ashe, TDEC DSWM; Speakers: Jared Lynn, Nissan; David Morgan, Carbon Rivers; Jeremy Hooper, TDEC DSWM; Brett Harris, TDEC DSWMRoom 15

Increasing interest in minimizing human impacts on the environment has resulted in significant growth in the renewable energy sector. Wind turbines, solar panels, and electric vehicles are increasing globally, including in Tennessee. However, managing waste from renewable energy presents a major environmental challenge. This panel will discuss these challenges, with a focus on recycling wind turbines, solar panels, and electric vehicle batteries. The discussion will include the practical challenges, regulations, and environmental implications of recycling these materials.

Wed 3:00 pm - 4:15 pm
Hazardous Waste

2.7 PFAS Regional and Federal Updates

Moderator: Laurel A. Royer, Carinalis Consulting and Research; Speakers: Aaryn Jones, US EPA; Frannie Nilsen, North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality; Sonja Favors, Alabama Department of Environmental ManagementRoom 13

The panel discussion will feature representatives from the 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.

Wed 3:00 pm - 4:15 pm
Contaminants of Emerging Concern

4:30 pm - 5:45 pm : Breakout Session 3

3.1 Brownfields Voluntary Oversight and Assistance Program Update

Speakers: Troy Keith, TDEC; Evan Spann, TDECRoom 16/17

TDEC Remediation professionals will lead a discussion of the VOAP program with emphasis on new developments and opportunities.

Wed 4:30 pm - 5:45 pm
Brownfields / Land Use

3.2 Getting the Lead Out of Drinking Water

Moderator: Paula Mitchell TDEC DWR; Speakers: Sophia DeMarse, TDEC; Seth McCormick, TDEC; Chris Lambert, Clarksville Water SystemRoom 9/10

This session will provide an overview of the LCRR and proposed LCRI rules, assist regulated water systems with LSL Inventories (LSLI) and compliance monitoring, and highlight funding assistance opportunities for LSLI and replacement projects.

Wed 4:30 pm - 5:45 pm
Water

3.3 Vapor Intrusion in Tennessee

Speakers: Ahmet Bulbulkaya, TDEC; Thomas Hatton, Clean VaporRoom 14

This joint presentation will cover the fundamentals of a Vapor Intrusion Mitigation System. Mr. Hatton will provide an overview of a VIMS from planning through long-term, response-driven management and monitoring. Mr. Bulbulkaya will provide an overview of the recent TDEC Vapor Mitigation Guidance and explain how the guidance relates to the Brownfields Voluntary Cleanup Oversight and Assistance Program, as well as its overall applicability to vapor intrusion sites. He will also provide a preview of subject areas that will be expanded upon in the next update of the guidance planned for 2024.

Wed 4:30 pm - 5:45 pm
Air / Climate

3.5 Landfill Air Compliance: What You Need to Know

Speaker: Julie Hall, Weaver Consultants GroupRoom 12

A comprehensive discussion and update of current federal landfill air emissions regulations and standards.

Wed 4:30 pm - 5:45 pm
Solid Waste

3.6 OBOD and National Implications

Moderator: Rick Whitson, TDEC DSWM; Speaker: Terri Crosby-Vega, EPA Region 4Room 15

Discussion of rulemaking efforts to reduce open burning and open detonation (OB/OD) of waste explosives.

Wed 4:30 pm - 5:45 pm
Hazardous Waste

3.7 Harnessing the Power of Environmental Data

Speakers: Alex Antonison and Ryan Otter, Middle Tennessee State University; TBD, American Cleaning InstituteRoom 13

Environmental assessments generate large volumes of data. In many cases, these datasets are generated and used in silos, even when it’s produced for public consumption. As a result, the potential power of these datasets is not fully realized due to limited data analytics skillsets, and more critically, the awareness of the tools, technology, available to delineate trends, and outcomes for environmental assessment and management decision-making. This session will introduce example tools that make environmental data more accessible and usable by all stakeholders across the environmental and human health landscape. The goal is to stimulate a discussion on critically evaluating, “do we need more data?” and how we harness already generated data to better identify the gaps and better define parameters for collecting new data.

Wed 4:30 pm - 5:45 pm
Contaminants of Emerging Concern

Thursday May 11 2023

DAY 2

9:30 am - 10:45 am : Breakout Session 4

4.1 Brownfield Case Studies and Creative Reuse

Moderator: Patrick Mulligan, RSIEnTech; Speakers: Kevin Ironside, RSIEnTech; Lydia Birk, S&ME; Tim Hendrick, ETDD; Brian Kvam, StantecRoom 16/17

Reindustrialization of K-25 Gaseous Diffusion Plant with Kevin Ironside; Overview of ETDD EPA Brownfield Coalition; and a Case Study in Residential Adaptive Reuse.

Thu 9:30 am - 10:45 am
Brownfields / Land Use

4.2 Next Generation: Role of Advanced Nuclear in De-carbonizing Energy

Moderator: Dawn Santoianni, Haley & Aldrich; Speakers: Dan Stout, Ultra Safe Nuclear; Brian McDermott, TVARoom 9/10

Decarbonizing the energy sector will require next generation technologies, and advanced nuclear holds the promise to provide flexible, zero carbon, reliable
electric power to reach climate goals. This panel will explore the attributes of advanced nuclear technologies that support a decarbonized power system and
provide other sustainability benefits including smaller environmental footprint. Panelists will discuss efforts to commercialize, site, and permit advanced reactors.

Thu 9:30 am - 10:45 am
Energy / Transportation

4.3 Accelerated Landfill Recovery/CTI

Speaker: Te-Yang Soong, CTI and AssociatesRoom 12

Presenting Next Generation Total Organic Waste (MSW, food waste, yard clipping, septage, etc.) Management Concept and Zero Emssion Waste-to-Energy approaches.

Thu 9:30 am - 10:45 am
Solid Waste

4.4 Leveraging the CSM for Better Remedial Outcomes

Moderator: Bertisabel Custer, WSP; Speakers: David Winchell, WSP; Joe Ricker, WSP; Robin Mikeal, AECOM; Duane Guilfoil, AST EnvironmentalRoom 18/19

Groundwater Plume Analytics® Tools for Evaluating Remedy Effectiveness.

Thu 9:30 am - 10:45 am
Remediation

4.5 TDEC Air Quality Permitting Workshop

Speaker: Jimmy Johnston, TDECRoom 13

This presentation will cover improvements and changes to Tennessee’s air quality permitting process including new permit shells, standard conditions, combined construction and operating permits, permitting timelines, completeness checklist, operational flexibility, and fees.

Thu 9:30 am - 10:45 am
Air / Climate

4.6 Treatment Methods for PFAS (Montrose)

Moderator: Dania Rodriguez, ASTSWMO; Speaker: Nicole Bolea, ECT2Room 15

Hazardous leachate treatment is a challenging subset of water treatment.  As communities grapple with trucking cost escalation and potential regulation around PFAS, treatment onsite may be a viable option. This presentation will give a high-level overview of treatment technologies for leachate.  We’ll also dig into options for PFAS removal from leachate both as a pre-treatment step prior to sewer discharge or direct discharge. The presentation will include the treatment of PFAS impacted soil with a presentation of a case study of a recently completed soil washing project at a federal site.

Thu 9:30 am - 10:45 am
Hazardous Waste

4.7 Scientific Data Quality Integrity Plenary Follow-up Session

Moderator: Camilla Warren, US EPA Region 4; Speakers: John Blevins US EPA Region 4; Aaryn Jones, US EPA Region 4; Lucas Barroso-Giachetti, S&ME; Robert Wilkinson, TDECRoom 14

EPA will discuss EPA Scientific Integrity Policy in greater detail following the Thursday Morning Plenary. Topics will include Scientific Integrity and Data Quality from Sampling Plan to Decision-making in addition to any topics that may arise in Breakfast Plenary.

Thu 9:30 am - 10:45 am
Sustainability / Circular Economy

11:00 am - 12:15 pm : Breakout Session 5

5.1 What Can Brownfield Funding Do For You?

Moderator: Olga Perry, EPA; Presenters: Paula Middlebrooks, TDEC; Dwan Austin, City of Chattanooga; Sam Saieed, SETDD; Troy Keith, TDEC; Bill Pollard, Brightbridge, Inc.Room 16/17

This session will focus on the intergovernmental and private sector cooperation needed to transform brownfields in Chattanooga, by highlighting the deal structures, stories, and how the EPA Brownfield RLF (Revolving Loan Fund) was a critical piece of the puzzle. The presentation will highlight several case study deals that used the RLF Funding, including the environmental and economic impacts that the investments brought to Chattanooga.

Thu 11:00 am - 12:15 pm
Brownfields / Land Use

5.2 Innovation By Battery: Creating New Opportunities for EVs and Electric Grid Storage

Moderator: Meghan Ploch, TDEC; Speakers: Austin Devaney, Piedmont Lithium; Harrison Kreafle, NOVONIX Anode MaterialsRoom 9/10

Advances in battery storage holds the promise for higher efficiencies, longer duration energy storage, and reduced emissions. This panel of experts will discuss
the latest battery technologies and chemistries, and how they will be potential game changers for decarbonizing the electric grid and spurring electrification of the transportation sector.

Thu 11:00 am - 12:15 pm
Energy / Transportation

5.3 Realize the Full Potential of Your Dataset

Speaker: Eric Tlachac, RambollRoom 12

Leveraging the recent advancement and expansion of data visualization tools, such as Microsoft’s Power BI, to facilitate the creation of efficient workflows to connect chemical analytical, geospatial, field, and statistical data collected for groundwater compliance reporting at coal combustion residuals (CCR) management facilities to reduce data presentation effort, leaving more time for data evaluation and decision-making.

Thu 11:00 am - 12:15 pm
Solid Waste

5.4 Trends in PFAS Litigation and Risk Management Strategy

Speakers: Tiffany Thomas, Haley & Aldrich; Nicole Bolea, ECT2; Daniella Landers, Womble Bond DickinsonRoom 13

In addition to litigation surrounding the use and disposal of AFFF, other products and processes known or suspected to have employed PFAS-containing materials are facing increasing scrutiny. This panel will present an overview of other PFAS-related litigation and topics of regulatory inquiry with respect to non-AFFF sources and products. Effective strategic management practices will also be discussed, and will include possible action items that may be undertaken to assess potential risks associated with PFAS usage prior to the execution of a sampling program.

Thu 11:00 am - 12:15 pm
Contaminants of Emerging Concern

5.5 Wildlife Habitat Landscapes: Certification Options for Onsite Land Management

Moderator: Greer C. Tidwell, Jr., TDEC Bureau of Conservation; Speakers: Michael Butler, TN Wildlife Federation; Don Gentilcore, Waste Management; Christine Justice, Bridgestone Americas; Joleen Shiroma, GM Spring HillRoom 18/19

Learn about proactive conservation management strategies at corporate properties and company facilities that reflect advanced practices and enhanced habitat for animals, plants, and trees. Hear from conservation groups (certification organizations) that provide guidance, direction and validation of these practices – plus foster educational opportunities for employees, residents and students.

Thu 11:00 am - 12:15 pm
Natural Resources / Conservation

5.6 ESG Panel: Career Trends/State of ESG

Moderator: Dawn Santoianni, Haley & Aldrich; Speaker: Dodd Galbreath, Lipscomb University, Institute for Sustainable PracticeRoom 14

Environmental and social governance (ESG) has been one of the fastest growing sustainability related professions in the last two years and recently the subject of a presidential veto to defend a new ESG ivesting rule. This panel will cover ESG topics such as consulting, investor expectations, and credentiaing/academic degree perspectives, as well as potential differences between ESG and sustainability.

Thu 11:00 am - 12:15 pm
Sustainability / Circular Economy

5.7 Corrective Action Orders vs. Permits and Redevelopment of RCRA Facilities

Moderator: Beverly Philpot, TDEC DSWM; Speaker: David Egetter, EPA Region 4; Brian Bastek, EPA Region 4Room 15

RCRA Sites and Facilities are often overshadowed by Superfund or Brownfields redevelopment success stories. But RCRA sites are just as primed if not more so than CERCLA sites for redevelopment, reuse, continued use, or revitalization. Permits and Orders provide their own unique redevelopment pathways, in this session we’ll discuss the challenges and opportunities of redevelopment and Long Term Stewardship of RCRA Corrective Action sites and facilities.

Thu 11:00 am - 12:15 pm
Hazardous Waste

2:00 pm - 3:15 pm : Breakout Session 6

6.1 Brownfields Redevelopment, Tax Credits, and Opportunity Zones

Speakers: Lamont Price, TNECD; Debbie Clabo, TNECD; Logan McCoy, TNECD; Paula Middlebrooks, TDECRoom 16/17

The repurposing and redevelopment of brownfields present opportunities in rural and urban communities by targeting blight removal, boosting historic preservation efforts, and providing affordable, senior and market-rate housing, among others. Learn how incentives can be leveraged to stimulate investment in these potential projects. The session will be kicked off with a Brownfields 101 discussion and transition into a discussion on how Qualified Opportunity Zone incentive and the Brownfields Tax Credit align with Brownfields redevelopment in Tennessee.

Thu 2:00 pm - 3:15 pm
Brownfields / Land Use

6.2 Advancing Sustainability and Resilience Through Innovation

Moderator: Caleb Powell, TDEC; Speakers: Don Haynes, Florim USA; Ben Chandler, Haley & Aldrich; Steve Seifried, AmerescoRoom 14

ESG and sustainability challenges provide new opportunities for value creation. Emerging technologies, digital transformation, and data analytics have to potential to reduce costs, streamline ESG reporting, and solve tough compliance issues. Additive manufacturing technologies, stormwater management and reuse, and life cycle approach to product stewardship can provide emissions, water, and waste reduction benefits.

Thu 2:00 pm - 3:15 pm
Sustainability / Circular Economy

6.3 Remediation and Characterization Tools to Achieve Site Closure

Moderator: Bertisabel Custer, WSP; Speakers: Kit Carson, Ramboll; PJ Nolan, WSP; Cole Mayer, WSP; Gunkan Sikri, Haley & AldrichRoom 18/19

Expedited Geophysical and Drilling Supplemental Site Characterization Investigation of a Karstic Gasoline Release; Next-generation, high-resolution methods of characterization of solid samples for Environmental Source Demonstrations; Risk-Based Closure as a Tool for Managing Remedial Liability.

Thu 2:00 pm - 3:15 pm
Remediation

6.4 VI Best Practices

Speakers: Jim Fineis, Total Vapor Solutions; Jordan Knight, Land ScienceRoom 13

Help with increasing efficacy in conceptual site models (CSM), along with the most up to date technological improvements to vapor barrier technology and how to implement them.

Thu 2:00 pm - 3:15 pm
Air / Climate

6.5 Incinerator Issues Nationwide and Impact of Generators

Moderator: John Webb, TDEC DSWM; Speakers: Tita LaGrimas, Tradebe; Angie Martin, Heritage Environmental ServicesRoom 15

They Why, How, Where, and When of Hazardous Waste Incineration…And Where Do We Go From Here? The commercial hazardous waste incineration market has been at capacity for several years. We will discuss why, how, and where waste is incinerated, and what does the future hold?

Thu 2:00 pm - 3:15 pm
Hazardous Waste

6.6 Liquid Release Test Methods for Landfills

Speaker: Eric Chiado, Civil & Environmental ConsultantsRoom 12

The Liquid Release Test (LRT) is a laboratory test designed to determine if liquids will be released from wastes when they are subjected to overburden pressures in a landfill. This important test enables landfill operators to estimate several aspects about the waste that are important to landfill operations and profitability - such as adequacy of solidification mixes, volumes of liquid released under landfill loads, and screening for waste acceptance.

Thu 2:00 pm - 3:15 pm
Solid Waste

6.7 TDEC Water Wells Program Update

Speakers: Ashby Barnes and Richard Rogers, TDEC Division of Water ResourcesRoom 9/10

The session will provide a program overview, discuss current public facing GIS and database applications available for use by all Tennessee stakeholders, and future goals for the Water Wells Program.

Thu 2:00 pm - 3:15 pm
Water

3:30 pm - 4:45 pm : Breakout Session 7

7.1 Making the Economic Case for Hydrogen

Moderator: Jesse Brown, Burns & McDonnell; Speakers: Andrew Campbell, TVA; Will James, Battelle Memorial InstituteRoom 9/10

A hydrogen hub in the Southeast can help spur the development of this important energy resource, leading to both economic development and helping decarbonization efforts across sectors. Hear from members of the Southeast Hydrogen Hub Coalition and other stakeholders working to secure funding, establish the business case, and develop hydrogen infrastructure to achieve net zero emissions.

Thu 3:30 pm - 4:45 pm
Energy / Transportation

7.2 U.S. EPA Region 4 Air and Radiation Division Update

Speaker: Todd Rinck, US EPA Region 4Room 13

EPA regulatory update with national and regional perspectives.

Thu 3:30 pm - 4:45 pm
Air / Climate

7.3 Producer Liability and Disposal at End of Life

Moderator: Jenn Tribble, Policy Director; Speaker: Matt Taylor, TDECRoom 15

This presentation will provide an overview of Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR), the landscape across the country, and recent EPR efforts in Tennessee. EPR is a policy approach that shifts the responsibility for a product’s end-of-life back to producers. Over the last decade a range of EPR programs have been developed in states across the country, covering products from paint to packaging to carpet and more. In Tennessee, we have seen EPR-centered legislative proposals in the 2022 and 2023 sessions.

Thu 3:30 pm - 4:45 pm
Hazardous Waste

7.4 PFAS and Beyond: DNAPL, Chlorine Solvent Plumes, and Endocrine Disruptors

Moderator: Tim Fitzpatrick, SGS AXYS Analytical Services; Speakers: Joe Rossabi, Redox Tech; Jeff Paul, WSPRoom 14

Part 1: Remote DNAPL and Implications of Chlorine Solvent Plumes: DNAPL data show that contrary to the common assumption that persistent contamination in large chlorinated solvent plumes is always due to back diffusion of contaminants out of the solid matrix, there is the possibility of small, dispersed DNAPL far from the source release area. Instead of remedial efforts being limited by the rate of diffusion, more effective and less expensive in situ remediation is possible. Part 2: Beyond PFAS: Pharma and Personal Care Disruptors: The occurrence of endocrine and other biological disruptors in the environment from Pharma and personal care products is increasing. Suggestions of when and where to look for these disruptors, their interaction with nutrients and biota in subsurface and surface waters, and some mitigation and remediation approaches will be presented.

Thu 3:30 pm - 4:45 pm
Contaminants of Emerging Concern

7.5 Effective Engagement With Water Boards

Moderator: David Jackson, Regulated Community Perspective; Speakers: Dodd Galbreath, State Water Board Chair and Metro Nashville Stormwater Committe Chair; Michael Hunt, Metro Nashville/Davidson County Water Services; J. Jeremy Swilley, City of Chattanooga Public WorksRoom 16/17

This session will provide insight and lessons learned from leading, managing, and interacting effectively with regulatory boards whether you are a current board member or applicant for a regulatory variance, a permit appeal, or a board appeal to an enforcement action.

Thu 3:30 pm - 4:45 pm
Water

7.6 Hiking and Helping: Corporate Volunteering and Support of TN State Parks

Moderator: Christina Treglia, TDEC Bureau of Conservation; Speakers: Justine Cucchiarra, Seven Islands State Birding Park; Gina Hancock, Tennessee State Parks Conservancy; Christian Spears, TN Brew WorksRoom 18/19

Learn how companies, corporations and organizations can support our system of nationally recognized state parks and help elevate them beyond their budget. Identify the successful components of a beneficial relationship that provides volunteers, support, and meaningful enhancement to these important places.

Thu 3:30 pm - 4:45 pm
Natural Resources / Conservation

7.7 CCR Remediation and Relocation

Speaker: Heath Lockley, Republic ServicesRoom 12

Discussion of the landfill design challenges during the planning of the CCR remediation by removal project at South Shelby Landfill. Review of the project start and operational challenges will also be discussed.

Thu 3:30 pm - 4:45 pm
Solid Waste

Friday May 12 2023

DAY 3

9:30 am - 10:45 am : Breakout Session 8

8.1 The Role of Nature-based Solutions in Achieving Carbon Neutrality

Moderator: Dodd Galbreath, Lipscomb University; Speakers: Dwayne Estes, Southeastern Grassland Institute and Austin Peay University; John McFadden, Green Interchange; Jeff Barrie, TN Environmental CouncilRoom 13

Carbon sequestration is a “hot” topic today given global climate change and impacts to communities, economies, and quality of life. Natural infrastructure offers a host of “co-benefits” in addition to current and increasing carbon capture. Several studies have suggested natural infrastructure as one mechanism that should be utilized as a method to address carbon issues in the atmosphere. This panel discussion will explore the potential value natural infrastructure provides in the Carbon sequestration arena, including addressing the many different types of natural infrastructure (e.g., soil, trees, yards etc.) and how they could be included into community policy and practice.

Fri 9:30 am - 10:45 am
Sustainability / Circular Economy

8.2 Achieving Environmental and Financial Sustainability in Transportation with Propane

Moderator: Stephen Whaley, Propane Education and Research Council; Speakers: Candace Long, Net Trans; Lisa McAbee, McAbee Trucking; Billy Moon, Grundy County SchoolsRoom 16/17

The future of transportation is one that not only prioritizes efficiency and safety, but also sustainability through low-emissions energy solutions. As a multimodal energy source, propane is a clean and affordable option for business leaders and government agencies to adopt today to achieve environmental sustainability without compromising on financial sustainability. This session will provide insight into how fleet managers can easily transition to propane in a variety of applications that impact the transportation industry, including light- and medium-duty vehicles, school buses, cargo handling equipment, power generators, and microgrids.

Fri 9:30 am - 10:45 am
Energy / Transportation

8.3 Leachate Management and Evaporation

Speaker: Nelson Breedon, Waste ConnectionsRoom 12

This presentation will focus on some onsite leachate treatment solutions including Evaporation, PFAS removal, “black goo” elimination.

1. Evaporation: This segment will focus on two leachate evaporators that Waste Connections has utilized in Tennessee as manufactured/operated by Skagen Energy Services. The good, the bad, and how we made it work as a team.

2. PFAS Removal: This segment will focus on a field demonstration project that occurred at a Waste Connections landfill in Tennessee utilizing emerging technologies to source remove PFAS from landfill leachate.

3. “Black Goo”: What is it, what causes it, and how can it be prevented or treated onsite?

Fri 9:30 am - 10:45 am
Solid Waste

8.5 PFAS and Organic Fluorine/Best Practice for PFAS Precursor Investigation and Remediation using Total Oxidizable Precursor (TOP) Assay

Moderator: Tim Fitzpatrick, SGS AXYS Analytical Services; Speakers: Lindsay Boone, Pace; Dora Chiang, WSPRoom 15

Part 1: The EPA consistently updates regulations both proposed and enforceable on PFAS in a wide array of sample matrices. Of note, the EPA announced a proposed rule to designate Perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and Perfluorooctanesulfonic acid (PFOS) as hazardous substances under the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act (CERCLA)—also known as Superfund. The EPA also plans to use available programs to address environmental contamination from leachate and other sources, and plans to leverage ELG Preliminary Plan 15 to conduct a detailed study of PFAS in wastewater discharge from landfills. In addition, landfills are covered by National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permitting and required to report PFAS discharged into the environment under the EPA’s Toxic Release Inventory (TRI) program. Therefore, it is of the upmost importance for environmental professionals to understand the most up to date PFAS methods available to utilize at their project sites. We will cover both speciated PFAS methods such as EPA 1633 and Total Oxidizable Precursor Assay (TOPS) as non-speciated organic fluorine methods (TOF, AOF, EOF, TF). We will also compare data from the historical PFAS by Isotope Dilution Method, also know as 537M to data generated from EPA Draft 1633. This presentation will aid in analytical decision making at PFAS impacted sights for cost efficiency and time management. Part 2: While current analytical methods are capable of quantitatively measuring a number of specific PFAS, they do not provide a complete picture of the thousands of PFAS that are utilized in commercial products and potentially released into the environment. These unmeasured PFAS include many PFAS precursors, which may be converted into regulated PFAS through the course of a degradation process. The Total Oxidizable Precursor (TOP) assay offers a means of bridging this gap by oxidizing unknown PFAS precursors and intermediates and converting them into stable PFAS with established analytical standards. The application of the TOP assay to samples from PFAS-contaminated sites has generated several new insights, but it has also presented various technical challenges for laboratories. This presentation outlines the benefits and challenges of using the TOP assay for site assessments and suggests ways to address some of its limitations.

Fri 9:30 am - 10:45 am
Contaminants of Emerging Concern

8.6 Lamp Recycling Facility Operations and RCRA Permits

Moderator: Beverly Philpot, Program Manager, TDEC DSWM; Speaker: Denard Mickens, TDECRoom 14

Discussion on RCRA Exemptions. What are they, and how do they apply? What is a conditional exemption and what are the requirements? What does it mean if a condition is not met?

Fri 9:30 am - 10:45 am
Hazardous Waste

8.7 Community Engagement in Land Conservation and Outdoor Recreation

Speakers: Patrick Dean, Mountain Goat Trail Alliance; Bill Jones, Southeastern Trust for Parks and Lands; Liz McLaurin, The Land Trust for TennesseeRoom 18/19

Hear a variety of effective approaches to land conservation in a range of communities – urban, suburban and rural – that produce or facilitate expanded, high quality outdoor recreation opportunities for residents and visitors.

Fri 9:30 am - 10:45 am
Natural Resources / Conservation

11:00 am - 12:15 pm : Breakout Session 9

9.1 Environmental Justice and RCRA

Moderator: Lisa Hughey, TDEC; Speakers: Alan Newman, EPA Region 4; Larry Lamberth, EPA Region 4; Carol Kemker, EPA Region 4, Sheryl Good, USEPARoom 14

- Environmental Justice (EJ) defined
- Brief history at EPA and TN
- How EJ has been used
- Demo of EJ screening tool
- EPA's Administrator's and the Regional Administrator's agenda and how it relates to EJ
- EJ and Justice 40

Fri 11:00 am - 12:15 pm
Hazardous Waste

9.2 Disaster Debris Management Planning

Room 12

Fri 11:00 am - 12:15 pm
Solid Waste

9.4 Using Drones for Detecting Land-Based Methane Leaks and Quantifying Emissions

Speaker: Arthur Mohr, Sniffer RoboticsRoom 13

Discussion of using drones for measuring gas emissions at ground surfaces. This method can detect concentrations accurately, is over 90% accurate in identify leak sources, and 50% faster than manual inspection of large areas.

Fri 11:00 am - 12:15 pm
Solid Waste

9.6 Water Regionalization

Moderator: Paula Mitchell, TDEC; Speakers: Ross Colona, TN Comptroller of the Treasury; John Greer, Tennessee Association of Utility Directors (TAUD); Vena Jones, TDEC Division of Water ResourcesRoom 18/19

The session will feature three perspectives for water system regionalization challenges and benefits with a particular focus on small distressed systems.  Presenters will share regulatory perspective, strategies to support systems transition toward regionalization and improving TMF capacity, and feature a funding opportunity for utilities for planning, design, and construction.

Fri 11:00 am - 12:15 pm
Water