Environment

Turning Brownfields Into Community Assets

October 12, 2026

By Jon Munkers, Vice President, Operations, WSB

For many Tribal Nations, brownfields represent more than environmental challenges. They are opportunities to restore land, address historical impacts, and create spaces that support future generations. Brownfields are properties where redevelopment or reuse may be complicated by the presence or potential presence of hazardous substances, pollutants, or contaminants. These sites can include former industrial properties, abandoned buildings, illegal dumping areas, old fueling stations, or other underutilized lands. While these properties can present complex challenges, they also offer significant opportunities for community revitalization and economic development.

Successfully redeveloping a brownfield site begins with understanding existing conditions. Engineering teams help identify environmental concerns, evaluate infrastructure, assess site constraints, and determine what steps are needed to safely prepare a property for future use. Brownfield projects often involve legacy infrastructure, undocumented site conditions, or contamination that requires careful investigation and planning. By establishing a clear understanding of site conditions early in the process, Tribal leaders can make informed decisions that reduce risk and support long term community goals.

Cleanup is only one part of the process. Once environmental concerns are addressed, attention shifts to identifying the highest and best use for the property. Formerly underutilized sites can be transformed into housing, government facilities, healthcare centers, cultural spaces, parks, trails, business developments, or other community assets. Bringing together engineering, planning, environmental, and design expertise helps ensure redevelopment projects are both practical and aligned with community priorities, but how do you fund it?

Developing a funding strategy is critical to realizing success. Known as a “funding stack”, each project is unique and requires multiple funding mechanisms. Aligning funding schedules with the phases of the project is critical. Luckily, there are many resources including Technical Brownfields Assistance programs (TBAs) and Tribal and State Response Programs to support this process throughout the nation. Collaborating with these programs and other stakeholders is critical to developing a strong funding stack.

Every Tribal Nation has unique needs, cultural values, and development objectives, which is why there is no one size fits all approach to brownfield redevelopment. When evaluating potential solutions, leaders should consider future land use, infrastructure capacity, community benefits, environmental conditions, long term maintenance requirements, and opportunities to support economic growth. A thoughtful planning process helps ensure redevelopment investments not only address environmental concerns but also support broader community goals and future opportunities.

WSB partners with Tribal Nations to move brownfield projects from assessment to implementation. Our team provides environmental, engineering, planning, and design services that help communities understand site conditions, develop remediation strategies, evaluate redevelopment options, and create practical plans for future use. By combining technical expertise with a collaborative approach, WSB helps transform underutilized properties into assets that strengthen communities, support economic development, and honor the long-term vision of Tribal leaders and community members. Contact WSB to learn how we can help turn challenging sites into opportunities for growth, revitalization, and lasting community impact.

Nests and Permitting: An Early Bird Strategy Saves Time and Money  

September 24, 2026

By Tom Jenkins, Supervisor, Natural Resources, WSB

As an ecologist and project manager supporting sites across the Northwest, I’ve spent much of my career helping project teams navigate environmental requirements during construction. Time and time again, one lesson stands out: when nesting bird considerations are addressed early, projects tend to move more smoothly. 

A Real-World Example: Gray’s Meadow 

That lesson came into focus on the Gray’s Meadow Project in Idaho, a 700-acre site that required large-scale remediation and restoration work during migratory bird nesting season. Because the site was only accessible during the drier months, construction activities and nesting season would inevitably overlap. Given the size of the project, relying on traditional weekly bird surveys across the entire site would have been costly and difficult to coordinate with active construction. 

To create a more practical approach, the project team worked closely with the owner, designers, and contractors before construction began to identify likely nesting areas, understand upcoming construction activities, and plan for potential conflicts. This approach allowed survey efforts to focus on areas with the highest potential for nesting activity and when birds were most likely to be present. 

The result was a more efficient process that reduced field effort, controlled costs, and helped construction stay on schedule without compromising environmental commitments. Just as importantly, it demonstrated that bird surveys can provide tangible project value when they are used to inform planning and decision-making rather than simply satisfy regulatory requirements. 

Bird Surveys as a Planning Tool 

Gray’s Meadow is not unique. Whether supporting remediation, infrastructure, or land development projects, the best outcomes occur when ecological expertise is incorporated early in project planning. 

By understanding habitat conditions, identifying potential nesting conflicts, and planning proactively, project teams can address challenges before they become schedule impacts. Projects move more smoothly, risks are reduced, and nesting-season constraints become easier to manage. In that sense, bird surveys are not just a compliance activity. They are a practical planning tool that helps teams deliver successful projects. 

Birds and Bridges: Why Early Environmental Planning Pays Off 

September 23, 2026

By Tarita Harju, Manager, Natural Resources, WSB

Bridge projects across the Northwest are essential, not simple. Agencies balance limited budgets, tight construction windows, evolving regulations, and a growing need for infrastructure investment. With one in three U.S. bridges requiring repair or replacement, minimizing schedule and budget risks is more important than ever. 

One risk that can be managed early is migratory bird compliance. 

Requirements under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act (MBTA), nesting bird surveys, threatened and endangered species reviews, and NEPA can all affect construction timing and project delivery. For federally funded bridge projects, these considerations are a routine part of environmental review and permitting. 

Planning Makes the Difference 

A great example comes from the Gardner River High Bridge. This historic steel truss bridge in Yellowstone National Park is undergoing a major rehabilitation to replace its aging lead-based paint system, concrete approach spans, joints, and guard walls – helping to preserve the structure and extend its service life. Because the bridge and surrounding canyon provide ideal nesting habitat for swallows, ravens, and other protected birds, WSB was brought in to develop a Migratory Bird Deterrent Plan and provide daily biological monitoring throughout construction.  

That early planning proved critical when repeated nesting attempts by migratory birds were avoided by onsite deterrent measures. With species-specific buffers, stop-work protocols, and escalating deterrent measures already in place, the team quickly adapted, allowing construction to continue in other work areas and helping the contractor avoid an unplanned shutdown. WSB biologists documented protected species and coordinated closely with federal and park agencies to ensure compliance, demonstrating how proactive environmental planning kept complex infrastructure projects moving forward while protecting wildlife. 

Four Ways to Reduce Risk 

The Gardner River project demonstrated a simple reality: when migratory bird considerations are addressed early, they become manageable challenges rather than costly surprises. This approach can help teams reduce risk and maintain schedule certainty. 

1. Survey early to identify bird activity during project scoping or preliminary design. 

2. Understand nesting locations and species-specific behaviors before construction schedules are finalized. 

3. Build requirements into the schedule, including seasonal restrictions, deterrent measures, and contingency planning. 

4. Monitor during construction to maintain compliance and address issues before they affect project delivery. 

Think Beyond Compliance 

The most successful bridge projects approach migratory bird compliance as part of project delivery. When environmental requirements are addressed early, they become manageable components of a more predictable construction program, helping agencies reduce risk, maintain schedules, and keep critical bridge improvements moving forward without adverse impacts on wildlife.  

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.