Attendees win big in Reno

The enthusiasm, sharing, learning, and networking enjoyed by attendees at Environmental Connection 2009 (EC09), the International Erosion Control Association’s (IECA) annual conference and expo, attest that the event was a resounding success. A variety of factors contributed to this success: Remodeled facilities and a new skybridge improved access to the spacious Reno, Nev., Convention Center; the educational program of peer-reviewed topics was of the highest caliber; and most importantly, the quality and engagement of attendees was the highest ever. Overall attendance numbers were down slightly, but exhibitors said that the attendees were the best quality group they have seen. EC09 drew 1,855 total attendees and 140 exhibitors, with most attendees spending more time in the trade show than in previous years.

Following is a recap of some of the events and highlights of the week.

International Reception and networking—The conference started with a new event, the International Reception. After hors d’oeuvres and beverages together, smaller groups visited local restaurants, allowing attendees to meet each other and talk over dinner. The first Sediment Basin was introduced at EC09, giving attendees a place to unwind at the end of a busy day to visit with colleagues, plan the evening, and compare notes on the day’s events. The Sediment Basin will return next year in Dallas, along with a few new twists.

Chapters Survivor Challenge and EC09’s best shots—Congratulations to the Pacific Northwest and Mountain States Chapters team. Together they worked to win the Survivor Challenge by assembling their team’s puzzle and solving a riddle. This exemplifies the great minds and teamwork that come together at IECA’s conferences.

The Photo Contest, always a hit with attendees, provided education in a fun way. Each year, IECA members and non-members submit photos of their work to be voted on by attendees in one of four categories: Erosion Control Bloopers, Before and After, Impacts of Erosion, and Technology in Action. Attendees can view project photos to see what has worked and what hasn’t. View the winners’ and finalists’ photos in each category on IECA’s website at www.ieca.org/photocontest.

IECA leadership—IECA’s board of directors installed two new directors: Phil Handley, REM, CPESC, and Rick Morse, CPESC, CPSS, CEnvP, and elected Michael Chase, CPESC, CPSWQ, CESSWI, as the new IECA president. Leadership training seminars were held prior to the conference, attended by about 20 current and future IECA and chapter leaders. This first-ever training will be repeated in the future as an added benefit for those who are willing to volunteer for IECA.

Western Chapter provided a personal touch—The Western Chapter, which served as the host chapter this year, made sure EC09 attendees felt that personal touch. The chapter enlisted many fun and engaging volunteers for a variety of duties; had a welcome booth to assist with providing membership information, local directions, and details about points of interest; and generally made everyone feel welcome in Reno.

Grassroots efforts in Brazil—Terezinha Galvao gave a keynote presentation on the Manuelzão Project in Belo Horizonte, Brazil. This project has been an excellent example of a grassroots movement that elevated into government action to clean up a river. This project has provided teaching experiences, research, and community service for a better environment, a cleaner river, and a more informed and active population.

Exhibitor and sponsor support—The Expo exhibit hall was busier than ever, due to the attendees’ desire to maintain a competitive edge. In these times, new technology, new ideas, and new contacts are priceless. IECA thanks Presenting Sponsor Profile Products and Premier Sponsor ScourStop for their valuable support.

Dallas in 2010
Environmental Connection 2010 (EC10) is scheduled for Feb. 14-18, in Dallas at the Hilton Anatole Hotel. The theme of the conference is Discover New Frontiers. IECA welcomes submittal of presentations that showcase innovative products, cutting-edge research, and revolutionary technology shaping the erosion and sediment control and stormwater industries. More information and submittal instructions are available online at www.ieca.org. Abstracts are due by May 15, 2009.


Russell A. Adsit, FASLA, is executive director of the International Erosion Control Association (www.ieca.org). He can be contacted at director@ieca.org.