The 2021 GSI Designer Survey – the data, the results and what do we need to consider moving forward?

Robert Woodman, PE, CPESC

In June 2021, Rob prepared a 30 question simple survey for designers of GSI – both civil engineers and landscape architects to complete answering question about their typical design process, engagement and involvement in installation and the connection between (or lack thereof) between the designer and post installation ongoing maintenance. Are specifications for plant establishment included in the bid package?, are prebid meetings mandatory?, Is the designer involved in construction oversight?, Does maintenance capabilities of Owner effect BMP selection?, Are post project forensics completed prior to starting the next project?, and a general question: What is the biggest challenge in the furtherance of green infrastructure?. Well – the results are in. Designers from states across the country have completed the survey and some interesting feedback has been compiled. This presentation with provide a summary of the results for all 30 questions and draw suggested conclusions on specific common threads and the need for a more collaborative approach to GSI projects from concept through to completion.

Presented by Robert Woodman, PE, CPESC

Ferguson Waterworks

Rob graduated in Civil Engineering from the University of Wollongong, Australia. He spent the first 10 years as design and project engineer for a private engineering consulting firm, gaining experience and expanding his knowledge of the industry on a wide variety of civil and stormwater engineering design projects for private and public sector clients throughout New England. In 2014 Rob took an opportunity to leverage his expertise in innovative stormwater and green infrastructure treatment systems and transitioned from consulting to the product, solution and innovation side of the industry. Rob now serves Ferguson Enterprises (who recently acquired ACF Environmental (where Rob has worked since 2015)) as the National Urban Green Infrastructure Manager and supports engineers, landscape architects and designers on site development and green infrastructure systems overcoming design and permitting challenges with a suite of innovative solutions. He is a Registered Professional Engineer in Maine and Pennsylvania, a Certified Professional in Erosion and Sedimentation Control, Maine DEP Certified Stormwater Inspector, an ASCE member, Master Gardener, and entrepreneur. Rob lives in Gorham, Maine with his wife, Jessi and four children – Elle (13), Sadie (11), Gracie (9) and Judah (6).