Green Infrastructure Design Conference 2024

Green Infrastructure Design

Join us at the Green Infrastructure Design Conference to share goals, learn about GI projects and network with experts in the industry!

Carmel Fields by Wedgewood Events

Are you passionate about green infrastructure, eager to connect with industry experts, and curious to explore the latest advancements? Don’t miss this opportunity—register now to attend the Green Infrastructure Conference 2024 in scenic Carmel, CA!Bring your team, insights, challenges, and questions, and be part of this transformative event. This year, GID has assembled a dynamic group of green infrastructure leaders who are shaping the future across various fields. From innovative policy initiatives and cutting-edge training programs to the newest mobile apps for climate adaptation, you’ll engage with professionals ready to answer your questions and share groundbreaking projects and ideas that could spark change in your community.Plus, we’re still accepting presenter abstracts for a limited time! If you have valuable insights to share, now’s your chance to get on the schedule and be part of this exciting event.

Agenda

Robyn DeYoung is a highly respected leading expert in clean air and clean water policy at the U.S. EPA. As the Lead of the Green Infrastructure Program and the Green Infrastructure Federal Collaborative, Robyn has been instrumental in advancing sustainability and resilience goals through effective collaborations, policy development across the country. With her extensive knowledge and deep understanding of environmental policies, Robyn works to craft innovative solutions that not only address today’s ecological challenges but also pave the way for future generations. Robyn plays a key role in safeguarding natural resources and her leadership continues to shape a greener future for communities.

EPA: Lead of Green Infrastructure Program

Now in their 30th year, the California Marine Sanctuary Foundation (CMSF) works to protect the state’s coastal ecosystems in the face of population growth, urban and industrial uses, climate change, and resource extraction.  In collaboration with local communities, government agencies, Tribes, industry, universities, research institutions, and other NGOs, CMSF designs and leads projects that increase ecosystem and community resilience, while promoting stewardship of coastal resources.  This focus on collaboration has led to a much more comprehensive and integrated approach to solving some of California’s most urgent challenges. Robert Mazurek, Executive Director at CMSF, will talk about their approach to conservation and how it led to winning a $71m grant from NOAA to implement climate change adaptation projects across the Monterey Bay region.

California Marine Sanctuary Foundation

Natural Water Filtration Systems and Water Reuse
The Environmental Passive Integrated Conveyance (EPIC) system acts as a storm water filter conveyance.  Drainage and irrigation are combined as EPIC collects storm water from hardscapes to reuse passively in landscapes with significant efficiency and water conservation.  The non-clogging patented offset holes of the EPIC chamber create a passive oil / hydrocarbon separation and bio-degradation due to microbiological processes found in nature.  The presentation will discuss milestone installations and applicable municipal standard plans.

Coastal Erosion and Green Infrastructure Solutions
The Environmental Passive Integrated Conveyance (EPIC) system and water barrier isolates and controls movement of moisture underground. Tomas' presentation will discuss multiple installations in coastal California and Lake Tahoe, along with a green infrastructure proposal discussing a "road filter" of highways to create a new linear reservoir network.

EPIC 

Dr. Daniel M. Fernandez has been a professor at CSUMB since 1996 where he teaches physics and courses in environmental studies.  In 2005 he began a fascination with fog and the possibility of capturing water from it.  Since then he has learned to build what are known as standard fog collectors, which consist of 1.00 square meters of a mesh used to capture the tiny droplets of water that are present in fog, allow them to coalesce, and measure the volumes of water collected.  He has deployed many dozens of these fog collectors around the state since 2009 and has garnered years of data on fog abundance.  He has also been involved in measurements of methyl mercury within fog water as well as specific measurements of the fog droplets to glean a better understanding of the factors that contribute to enhanced fog water collection. Mr. Fernandez will share findings, success stories and have an open Q&A on his studies. 

Fog Catchers 

From Design to Sustain: A Contractor's Perspective on Long-Lasting, Smart, and Sustainable Projects
Justin, owner of K&D Landscaping, will explore the critical role contractors play in designing, building, and maintaining sustainable projects that stand the test of time. Drawing from real-world experiences, Justin will highlight the frequent issues that arise after installation, such as neglect in ongoing maintenance and the lack of proper attention given to ensuring the longevity of these green spaces.
He’ll also delve into the underutilized potential of internet-connected controllers within the landscape industry. Despite the technological advancements, less than 5% of controllers today are connected to the internet, leading to inefficiencies in water usage, especially in drought-prone areas. Justin will share insights on how these smart controllers can drastically improve the sustainability and operational efficiency of landscape projects.

K&D Landscaping 

Norman Tuitavuki serves as the Chief Operating Officer (COO) for the Monterey-Salinas Transit District (MST) – the sole public transportation provider in Monterey County.  Mr. Tuitavuki has worked in the public transportation industry for the past 18 years.  He is responsible for ensuring MST delivers safe, reliable, and friendly public transportation services to the residents of Monterey County and its neighboring regions.                                                                                                                      
 • MST – who we are
• GHG reduction efforts
• Transitioning from diesel to 100% renewable biofuel
• Transitioning to zero-emission buses
• Q & A

Monterey Salinas Transit: Route to Zero Emissions

Paige is the Executive Director of the Sustainable Hospitality and Tourism Management with the College of Business at California State University Monterey Bay.  Paige will be speaking to vital role that green infrastructure plays in the hospitality and tourism industry by adopting sustainable practices, enhancing eco-friendly destination management, and driving economic growth through responsible tourism. Its collaboration with green infrastructure initiatives can lead to innovative solutions that support both environmental stewardship and a positive visitor experience.