Environment

Nature-Based Solutions: Protecting Coastal and Inland Ecosystems

April 30, 2026

By Raul Osorio, Coastal Resiliency Program Manager, WSB 

Celebrated worldwide, Earth Day and the month of April encourage us to reflect on our role in protecting the natural world. As threats from natural hazards, habitat loss, and pollution grow, nature-based solutions emerge as innovative approaches that work in tandem with conventional strategies in favor of the environment. These approaches connect the restorative and protective abilities of ecosystems, offering sustainable solutions to challenges faced by both coastal and inland systems.

Coastal Ecosystems: The Front Lines of Climate Action

Coastal areas, including mangrove forests, tidal marshes, and coral reefs, play an important role in safeguarding the boundary between land and sea. These ecosystems are vital for mitigating the effects of rising sea levels, storm surges, and coastal erosion. For example, mangroves act as natural barriers, absorbing wave energy and reducing the impact of storms on coastal communities. Their natural structure also provides habitat for fish and other marine life, supporting biodiversity and local fisheries.

Nature-based solutions in coastal regions include restoring dunes, protecting mangrove forests, implementing living shorelines, and rehabilitating coral reefs. Such efforts not only preserve habitats and wildlife, but also enhance tourism, fisheries, and livelihoods. Combining natural infrastructure with grey infrastructure, such as living shorelines alongside concrete sea walls, helps improve resilience against climate extremes while preserving the landscape and sustainability of coastal environments.

Inland Ecosystems

Inland ecosystems encompass a variety of systems such as forests, wetlands, rivers, grasslands, and agricultural lands. These landscapes offer a variety of benefits to people and serve as habitats for many species, playing a vital role in ecological health. Forests help by absorbing carbon dioxide and releasing oxygen, which is essential for life. Wetlands act as natural barriers, absorbing excess rainwater and reducing the risk of flooding. Grasslands support pollinators and help keep soils stable, preventing erosion and supporting soil fertility.

Reforestation projects, wetland restoration, and regenerative agriculture represent nature-based solutions implemented within inland regions. These approaches protect, restore, and manage natural ecosystems to address a range of environmental hazards and challenges, contributing to human well-being, biodiversity, improved water quality, and enabling these systems to adapt to future climate risks. By incorporating these practices, communities enhance resilience, promote biodiversity, and maintain food security.

Collaboration and Innovation for a Sustainable Future

Effective nature-based solutions implementation requires collaborative efforts among governments, scientists, private sector, local communities, landowners, and real state professionals. Identifying restoration goals, prioritizing areas, conducting long-term monitoring, and openly sharing information, will support the successful implementation of these strategies to address local needs and encourage broad support.

Innovative policy frameworks and cross-sectors partnerships can help leverage resources and expertise to advance scalable projects that protect both people and the environment. Education and outreach further strengthen these efforts by encouraging individuals to get involved whether by restoring a riverbank, planting native trees or supporting sustainable production.

Earth Month reminds us of our connection to the natural world. By embracing nature-based solutions within our ecosystems, we protect the future of our planet. Let us celebrate Earth Month as an opportunity to reflect and take action to care for, restore, and support the landscapes that sustain us and future generations.

Earth Month 2026: Inspiration from Tribal Collaboration 

April 2, 2026

By Amy Fredregill, Sr. Director of Sustainability, WSB

As we kick off Earth Month 2026, I am reflecting on the collaboration between partners in the Tribal Nations of MN. We have had the opportunity to support idea-sharing on environmental issues between sovereign nations in dozens of ways since last year’s Earth Month celebration, and wanted to share some of my top takeaways. These observations have occurred because over the last year, we at WSB have served as technical assistance providers to MN tribes on behalf of the MN Pollution Control Agency on a multitude of environmental and energy-related efforts. This role has provided us the opportunity to connect with community leaders across disciplines, in different jurisdictions, and around the state.  

Each Tribal Nation advances their own vision of sovereignty for their community. In many instances, they also collaborate with other Tribal Nations across areas of expertise and lived experiences. These conversations have covered such varied topics as sustainable farming, local foods, renewable energy, land conservation, climate protection, water quality improvements, and beyond.  

By coming together, we reinforce and demonstrate an attitude of abundance, instead of scarcity. There are many environmental challenges, and by coming together to share ideas, lessons learned, best practices and resources, we can turn the challenges into opportunities for innovation, growth, community-building and vitality.  

A specific example of fruitful collaboration is demonstrated by the work of the Tribal Advisory Council on Energy, or TACE. This relatively new organization brings together MN Tribal Nations to advance energy sovereignty. TACE members share best practices on renewable energy, collaborate on local community projects, advise on stakeholder conversations with policymakers and utilities, and beyond. By adding capacity and expertise to common efforts, TACE supports its members to go farther, faster, together. 

This Earth Month, you will be hearing more stories from WSB leaders about energy planning, nature-based solutions, coastal resiliency, climate modelling integration into comprehensive planning, and beyond.  We learn by working across systems, communities, cultures and sectors. I am excited to see how these recently planted seeds will grow, and hope to do my part in cultivating these robust conversations. I’m putting a “green flag” in these efforts to circle back over time and observe the cycles of growth, adaptation, calibration, and learnings. 

Five Ways Cities Can Minimize Air and Water Pollution

By Eric Dargan, Director of Municipal Strategy, WSB

September 8th, 2025

Across the country, cities are facing growing challenges related to air and water pollution. Urban development, aging infrastructure, and climate change are intensifying the pressure on municipal systems. From stormwater runoff to vehicle emissions, the sources of pollution are varied and complex. Yet, cities have a unique opportunity to lead the way in environmental stewardship by adopting thoughtful, community-centered approaches. 

1. Invest in Green Infrastructure 

Green infrastructure such as rain gardens, permeable pavements, and vegetated swales can significantly reduce stormwater runoff and filter pollutants before they reach local waterways. These solutions not only improve water quality but also enhance urban aesthetics and biodiversity. 

2. Promote Sustainable Transportation 

Reducing reliance on fossil-fuel-powered vehicles is key to improving air quality and reducing air pollution. Cities can encourage walking, biking, and public transit through better infrastructure and incentives. Supporting the transition to electric vehicles and expanding charging networks also plays a vital role in lowering emissions. 

3. Modernize Wastewater and Stormwater Systems 

Outdated systems can leak contaminants into the environment. Upgrading pipes, treatment facilities, and monitoring technologies helps prevent overflows and ensures compliance with environmental regulations. Proactive maintenance and asset management are essential to long-term success. 

4. Use Data to Drive Decisions 

Environmental monitoring such as air and water quality sensors provides cities with the data needed to identify pollution sources and track improvements. Integrating this data into planning and operations enables smarter, more targeted interventions. 

5. Engage the Community 

Public education and engagement are powerful tools in pollution prevention. Cities can foster community involvement through outreach campaigns, school programs, and citizen science initiatives. When residents understand the impact of their actions, they’re more likely to support and participate in sustainability efforts. 

Cities have a critical role to play in protecting the environment and public health. By embracing innovative practices and engaging their communities, they can make meaningful progress toward cleaner air and water. WSB partners with municipalities to support these efforts bringing technical expertise, strategic planning, and a collaborative spirit to help cities achieve their environmental goals. 

Preparing for the New MS4 Permit Cycle: Steps to take right now

August 29th, 2025

By Kory Bonnell, Director of Environmental Compliance at WSB

The countdown to the release of the updated MS4 Permit has begun. The current MS4 Permit for Minnesota communities will expire on November 15th, 2025. As a new permit expiration date approaches, it’s a good idea for communities to take a few minutes to reflect on MS4 progress made to date.

Here’s what communities can do now:

1. Review and update storm sewer system maps. Take a close look at storm sewer, pond, outfall, and structural stormwater BMP locations and ownership information and complete updates, as needed.
2. Dust off ordinances, written procedures, enforcement response procedures, form templates, and save them in a convenient location – they’ll come in handy for the Part II application.
3. Complete a mock audit. Understanding the current state of the program compared to the existing requirements will better prepare communities for Part II of the application.
4. Organize files and recordkeeping mechanisms. Consider creating a shared drive so everyone can help track and contribute to MS4 activities. If the current set-up isn’t working, now is the time to find a system that works for easy tracking for the next permit cycle.
5. Continue the routine upkeep of your MS4 program to keep operations running smoothly, including staff training, erosion control inspections and enforcement, public education efforts, annual meetings, etc. The permit may be approaching expiration, but implementation of current programs and management of stormwater conveyance systems must main.   

WSB can help manage MS4 programs at every stage. With over a decade of experience supporting communities throughout Minnesota, the WSB team brings valuable expertise to MS4 management. Services include updating system maps, performing audits, and assisting with record keeping and overall program management. By addressing these tasks proactively, communities will be well-prepared to handle whatever the new MS4 Permit may require.

The Next 30 Years of Civil Engineering

Shaping the Future with Innovation, Insight, and Integrity

As WSB celebrates 30 years of innovation and excellence, it’s an opportune time to reflect on the transformative advancements in civil engineering and to look ahead to the exciting future of our industry. Over the past three decades, we’ve witnessed remarkable progress—from the widespread adoption of email and the internet to breakthroughs in materials science and the evolution of CAD software. These innovations have revolutionized how we design, collaborate, and deliver projects.

Future Predictions
The next 30 years promise even greater developments. As infrastructure demands grow, firms that embrace new ways of doing business by leveraging technology, optimizing project delivery methods, and investing in the next generation of engineers will be best positioned for success. Artificial intelligence (AI), automation, and robotics are beginning to transform key aspects of business across various industries. In civil engineering, the enhancements of these tools will accelerate project timelines, improve safety, and elevate creativity through seamless collaboration. Advancements in model-based design and construction management, as well as predictive analytics will continue to enable engineers to model, test, and refine infrastructure systems in a virtual environment before breaking ground, reducing risk and improving outcomes.

Technology as an Empowering Force
It’s important to emphasize that these developments will not be replacing engineers but empowering them. We look at these technologies as valuable assistants to our staff. With data becoming more accessible, engineers will have the insights needed to develop smarter, more sustainable infrastructure while maintaining the critical human expertise that drives innovation. Technology will continue to redefine safety, efficiency, and precision in an industry that once relied on hand-drawn plans and manual machine control. As these tools evolve, they will unlock new possibilities in civil engineering, shaping a future that is more connected and resilient. To stay at the forefront of these industry shifts, WSB is actively partnering with various leading technology companies to develop forward-thinking solutions for our clients. Our commitment to investing in continuous learning and technical training will continue to differentiate us as a leader in the industry.

WSB’s Commitment to the Future
Over the past 30 years, the industrialization of technology has propelled civil engineering forward. The next 30 will be defined by even greater advancements, ethical considerations, and the ability to adapt to new challenges. As we navigate the future of our industry, one thing is certain: WSB will lead our industry through this transformation.

From Alert to Aftermath: Navigating Severe Weather as a Community

June 4, 2025

By: Allison Whitsitt, Planning Manager, WSB

When severe weather strikes, taking swift and informed action is crucial to ensure safety and minimize storm risks. Being prepared and knowing how to respond effectively can make a significant difference.

Stay Indoors & Seek Shelter: During severe weather, it’s essential to follow your preparedness plan by sheltering in a designated safe space, such as a basement or an interior room without windows. If you’re in a public location, avoid large open rooms like gymnasiums and seek shelter away from windows and glass doors. For those caught outdoors, do not attempt to drive, especially in dangerous weather like tornadoes or flash floods. Instead, find sturdy shelter to reduce storm risks. Stay away from overpasses, trees, or other unsecured structures that could pose a risk. If no shelter is available, lie flat in a low-lying area while covering your head and neck.

Stay Alert & Informed: Staying informed during severe weather is critical to managing storm risks. Keep a charged cell phone and a backup battery handy. This ensures you can receive updates and stay connected. Invest in a NOAA Weather Radio to receive real-time emergency broadcasts, even if cellular networks fail. While social media and local emergency management pages can provide valuable updates, they should not be your sole source of information. This is due to the potential for misinformation or network outages. Ensure notifications for weather alerts are enabled on your phone to stay updated on warnings and advisories in your area.

Avoid Complacency: Severe weather often brings multiple alerts over time, leading to what’s commonly known as “weather fatigue.” This constant barrage of warnings can cause people to ignore subsequent alerts, assuming the danger has passed. However, severe weather patterns are unpredictable and can change rapidly, making it crucial to treat each warning seriously to mitigate storm risks. Always listen to official directives, even if the situation seems stable, as conditions can escalate without warning.

Aftermath & Recovery Resources: The aftermath of severe weather can be challenging and require time and effort to recover. Local Emergency Managers are often the first to provide assistance, helping with debris removal, temporary relief efforts, and damage reporting to state and federal agencies. Understanding storm risks is important because immediate assistance might not be available for up to 72 hours. This is because response teams mobilize resources. To facilitate quicker recovery, document all damage by taking photos and videos of your property before discarding any damaged items. These records, along with receipts for repairs or replacements, can be invaluable for insurance claims or applications for disaster assistance.

Beyond personal recovery, building community resilience is a vital part of preparedness. When individuals and families have a plan, and encourage others to develop their own, the entire community benefits. A resilient community can respond more effectively to crises, reduce storm risks, and recover more quickly. Preparedness extends beyond individual safety—it strengthens the bonds within neighborhoods and fosters a collective effort to face and overcome challenges together.

WSB Support for Communities: At WSB, we are dedicated to supporting communities not just in the aftermath of severe weather but also in preparation for it. We work to raise awareness about potential storm risks, provide resources to strengthen preparedness efforts, and assist in recovery. This helps individuals and neighborhoods rebuild stronger and safer. Together, we can create a culture of readiness and resilience, ensuring that no one faces these challenges alone.

Building a Stronger Oklahoma: WSB’s Commitment to Innovation and Community

June 3, 2025

By: Rick Johnson, Vice President of Operations, WSB & Brandon Claborn, Vice President, Environmental, WSB

Oklahoma is a land of resilience, progress, and opportunity—values that align perfectly with WSB’s vision for the future. As a national firm with a deep local presence, we are here not just to work on projects. Instead, we aim to actively shape the landscape of infrastructure and innovation in the state, especially with WSB Oklahoma.

Our journey into Oklahoma was intentional and strategic. Through the acquisition of key firms deeply rooted in the local market, we have been able to integrate their expertise, relationships, and community-driven insights into our broader national vision. This wasn’t simply an expansion—it was an investment in people, in progress, and in the infrastructure that fuels growth managed by WSB Oklahoma.

With nearly 200 dedicated professionals now serving Oklahoma, our multidisciplinary approach ensures we can meet the diverse needs of communities. Whether in government, commercial, or energy markets, we bring together expertise in engineering, environmental, planning, and construction. We deliver comprehensive solutions tailored to the challenges and opportunities unique to the region at WSB Oklahoma.

Infrastructure is more than roads and bridges—it is the backbone of thriving communities. At WSB, we recognize that resilient transportation networks, sustainable water management systems, stormwater & floodplain studies, and forward-thinking design are essential to long-term prosperity. We don’t just build; we innovate. Our commitment to cutting-edge technology is transforming how projects are delivered, and it improves efficiency, sustainability, and impact as facilitated by WSB Oklahoma.

Collaboration is at the core of our approach. We partner with state and local governments, businesses, and community leaders to build a future that is both sustainable and vibrant. Whether expanding a roadway, enhancing water systems, mitigating flood risk, or developing smart city initiatives, we remain focused on delivering solutions that matter. Contributions from WSB Oklahoma play a vital role in these efforts.

Oklahoma’s infrastructure needs continue to grow, and WSB is prepared to meet those demands. Our expansion in the state reflects our belief in its potential—both in available talent and in the opportunity to create meaningful advancements. While the brands EST, Meshek & Associates, and Craig & Keithline are now integrated into WSB, the technical excellence and deep expertise of our team remain unchanged. What has evolved is the access to a broader bench of talent and resources at WSB Oklahoma, which reinforces our ability to support infrastructure needs at every level.

As we look ahead, our commitment to Oklahoma and all the regions we serve remains unwavering. We are not just building infrastructure; we are building the future. By combining local knowledge with national expertise, we create lasting impact and foster growth. We are reimagining how infrastructure is delivered, spearheaded by WSB Oklahoma.

Together, we are building what’s next in infrastructure.

Brandon Claborn appointed vice president of environmental services

February 4, 2025
Claborn will fill a vital leadership role for the firm while fostering collaboration and embracing national growth.

Tulsa, Okla. — WSB, forward-thinking design and consulting firm, today announced that Brandon Claborn has been appointed as the vice president of environmental services. With extensive experience and a proven track record in environmental sciences, Claborn is poised to play a pivotal role in expanding WSB’s environmental services nationwide.

Claborn, former CEO of Meshek & Associates, Inc, will be instrumental in driving the expansion of the firm’s environmental services portfolio across the country, including water resources. His expertise in multidisciplinary teams and his strategic vision will help WSB leverage resources and optimize projects.

“Our environmental division is integral to our success, and we are excited to see Brandon lead this critical area,” said Jon Chiglo, chief operating officer of WSB. “His background will elevate our environmental services and strengthen our position as a leader in the industry. Coupling his industry experience with his leadership, we will better support clients as we grow our presence nationally.”

Claborn is known for his leadership and innovative approaches to flood mitigation and stormwater quality. This background will allow him to elevate WSB’s environmental footprint throughout the U.S., while working across service lines to support client’s infrastructure needs. He led the Meshek team’s contributions to the first every State Flood Plan in Oklahoma and provided leadership to the team working with the city of Tulsa to help them achieve a Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Community Rating System (CRS) rating of 1 which resulted in a 45 percent discount in national flood insurance premiums for residents.

“I am honored to join WSB as the vice president of environmental services,” said Claborn. “I look forward to working with our talented staff to expand our services, embrace new technologies and enhance our support for clients across the nation.”

WSB recently acquired Meshek & Associates, LLC in the fall of 2024. Through this acquisition, WSB has welcomed over 50 staff and many new services to better support its coast-to-coast client base.

Strength Under Pressure

February 26, 2025

WSB’s role in emergency relief & management.

When communities face uncertainty or destruction, a variety of teams emerge to swiftly work to restore normalcy, including civil engineers. From day-to-day environmental challenges to natural disasters, WSB’s expertise in infrastructure recovery plays an essential role in helping communities bounce back. Through various emergency relief and management efforts, our team leverages technical know-how and innovative solutions to promote safety and efficiency in the regions we serve from coast to coast.

From snow drifting management to environmental improvement efforts, WSB offers solutions that maintain the stability and resilience of infrastructure in the face of emergencies.

Snow Drifting Management

Engineering solutIONS for winter challenges

In regions prone to severe winter weather, snow drifting can bring entire transportation networks to a standstill. High winds push snow into drifts that can block highways, railways, and access roads, creating hazardous conditions for travelers and first responders. In addition to impacts to travel, snow drifting also increases maintenance and fuel costs for local departments of transportation.

To mitigate these effects in the Midwest, WSB utilizes advanced software to analyze snow drifts and wind, as well as design solutions, allowing our team to proactively identify and address problem areas. Using natural and synthetic snow fences, berms, and road designs that incorporate strategic cuts and embankments, our team works with departments of transportation to ensure that critical routes remain accessible during snowfall. This foresight eases the effect of winter’s harsh impacts and ensures safer roadways and cost savings for the community.

Hurricane Relief and Recovery

Building resilient communities

When hurricanes strike, they leave behind a trail of devastation: downed power lines, collapsed bridges, blocked roads, and more. Coastal communities are often the most at risk, necessitating a robust emergency response strategy. WSB works hand in hand with emergency response teams to prioritize restoration in hurricane-affected areas. Our team recently partnered with the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) to assist communities in Florida in recovering from the effects of Hurricanes Debby, Helene, and Milton. This included managing cut and toss operations, debris removal, and signals and generators, as well as electronically documenting roadway conditions using GIS technology, prioritizing the reopening of the most critical routes.

The aftermath of a hurricane demands rapid assessments of structural damage and the design of temporary solutions to reconnect communities to essential services. Civil engineers, though often overlooked as responders, play an important role in protecting communities against these natural disasters.

Environmental Investigation and Remediation

Protecting our future

In the chaos of an emergency, environmental risks often take a backseat to immediate recovery efforts. However, those specializing in environmental investigation and remediation know that focusing on these issues are key to long-term community recovery.

WSB’s Environmental Investigation and Remediation team plays a vital role in addressing environmental hazards. From encountering tanks and petroleum spills during roadway construction to providing structural assistance to the U.S. Post Offices in the upper Midwest related to fires or vehicle crashes, asbestos, and more, our team is dedicated to safeguarding public health by conducting comprehensive assessments and developing tailored solutions to mitigate risks. The team works closely with clients, such as DOTs and city agencies to report contamination to EPA associations while providing transparency and thorough investigation. Through these efforts, WSB demonstrates strength and versatility in emergency management. Our commitment to innovation and collaboration means that we’re always prepared to face new challenges and protect our communities.

Resident Problem Reporter

Ensuring safety and transparency through real-time communication

Through innovative technology, WSB has successfully deployed, configured, and automated an integrated resident problem reporter app in Duluth, Minnesota, that allows clear communication between residents and response teams. This system empowers residents by giving them a direct line to report instances as road obstructions and potholes, outages, or damaged infrastructure.

The automated notification email system keeps both the responding team and residents informed about the status of their requests. Using geographic information system (GIS) technology, City teams can prioritize and address the most urgent needs. This proactive approach provides transparency, fosters a sense of security and encourages residents to play an active role in maintaining their community.

A commitment to Community Resilience

In emergency situations, civil engineers and scientists work out of the spotlight, but their contributions are essential. Whether it’s managing snow drifts to keep roadways clear, or addressing environmental hazards post-disaster, it’s the behind-the-scenes efforts of our team that allow communities to rebuild, recover, and thrive.

Innovative Deicing Solutions: The Benefits of Using Beet Juice for City Roads

February 27, 2025
By: Matias Mendez, P.E., Ph.D., Director, Geotechnical and Pavement Services, WSB

The use of salt as a deicing agent on roads has been a common practice for decades. However, it comes with significant drawbacks that cannot be overlooked. The corrosive nature of salt contributes to the deterioration of infrastructure such as bridges and roads, and vehicles, causing costly repairs and replacements. The runoff of salt after winter weather can have detrimental effects on the environment too, affecting vegetation, aquatic ecosystems, and wildlife. Rock salt has also proven to be less effective in single digit temperatures, or when temperatures dip below zero degrees. With these concerns in mind, city governments are increasingly exploring alternative solutions to ensure road safety during winter months.

One promising alternative is the use of beet juice, derived from the sugar beet. Increasingly recognized for its eco-friendly properties, beet juice significantly improves the efficacy of ice melting solutions when mixed with brine. The sugars in beet juice lower the freezing point of water more effectively than salt alone, allowing it to work even at lower temperatures. Its viscous nature helps the brine adhere better to road surfaces, reducing the need for frequent applications.

There are several advantages to using beet juice for deicing. Beet Juice is less corrosive than salt, aiding in the resiliency of city infrastructure such as bridges and roads. The use of beet juice in a deicer provides a range of benefits that make it a compelling alternative to the standard salt brine. While both methods are effective at melting ice, beet juice’s lower environmental impact and reduced infrastructure damage, paired with the enhanced performance in lower temperatures provide a strong case for its adoption and helps ensure safer roads even in the most severe winter conditions.

For city staff seeking proficient management of all aspects of road maintenance, WSB offers expert assistance and comprehensive pavement management planning. Our experienced team can help municipalities with deicing strategies, road repairs, and long-term infrastructure planning. With WSB’s support, cities can ensure their roads remain safe, functional, and sustainable throughout the winter months and beyond. Contact WSB today to learn more about optimizing your city’s road maintenance program.