2024 Agenda

When a spill occurs, knowing how to respond quickly and effectively is crucial. This session will be open forum to discuss the essential key first steps in addressing spills when they are encountered. There are many different types of spills, and each one is different. This session will focus on the resources available and how to gather the information needed to properly report the spill to the correct agencies.

Moderator:

Nate Williams, Senior Environmental Engineer, AECOM

Speakers:

Traci Rohde, Senior Compliance Specialist, GeoEngineers
Michael Algots, Regional Vice President, Greymar Environmental Services Inc.
Andrea Unger, Environmental Specialist, Washington Department of Ecology
Anthony Foote, Environmental Specialist, Washington Department of Ecology

The USEPA has carried out a plethora of initiatives under the first PFAS Strategic Roadmap. As 2024 draws to a close, we will review important rulemaking still in progress and critical implications of those recently enacted. Similarly, 2024 has brought about a flurry of PFAS related litigation. An update on key activity will help to frame the complete picture around risk and liability for businesses and set the stage for key recommendations for managing those risks.

Moderator:

Darla Smith, Senior Sales Executive, Eurofins Environment Testing Northwest

Speakers:

Taryn McKnight, Vice President, PFAS Product Leader, Eurofins Environment Testing Northwest
John Gardella, Shareholder, CMBG3 Law
Jerry Boyd, Principal Geologist, PNW Market Director, TRC Environmental Corporation

The issue of intrusion of contaminated soil vapor into residential and commercial buildings has gained much attention in the environmental and scientific community. Panelists in this session will discuss and explore the typical life cycle of a vapor intrusion project, including key and recent challenges associated with identification, assessment, remedies/mitigation and paths to regulatory closure.

Moderator:

Elizabeth Kimbrel, Senior Project Engineer, Langan Engineering & Environmental Services

Speakers:

Alia Miles, Environmental Attorney, Stoel Rives LLP
Franziska Landes, Environmental Scientist, Oregon Department of Environmental Quality
Priscilla Tomlinson, Senior Toxicologist, Washington Department of Ecology

Come hear about the latest developments in the Cleaner Air Oregon program. Attendees will learn more about:
• Permit conditions- how have these evolved over the last 6 years?
• Community engagement- formal vs. informal
• New Source Review triggers for CAO-when does your project require risk assessment
• Upcoming changes to key toxicity reference values and risk-based concentrations

Moderator:

Chad Darby, Principal Air Quality Consultant, Maul Foster & Alongi

Speakers:

JR Giska, Cleaner Air Oregon Program Manager, Oregon Department of Environmental Quality
Geoffrey Tichenor, Environmental Attorney, Stoel Rives LLP
Brian Eagle, Principal Air Quality Consultant, Maul Foster & Alongi

Explore real-world environmental crises and examine the critical role of media and public relations in shaping public perception and response. Gain valuable insights into the steps to take to prepare and respond to a crisis.

Moderator:

Brien Flanagan, Shareholder, Schwabe

Speakers:

Liz Fuller, President and CEO, Gard Communications
Suzanne Lagoni, Partner, Nexus Northwest
Cindy Frost, Site Manager, Hollingsworth & Vose

Explore how AI is being used in the environmental industry today, and what are some of the benefits and challenges of using AI. The discussion will also explore the future of AI and what is potentially coming next on the AI journey.

Moderator:

Jen Casler, Senior Associate Geologist, Haley & Aldrich

Speakers:

Brendan Robinson, Partner, ERM
Christian Nilsen, Senior Hydrologist, Geosyntec Consultants
Ellen Hartley, Senior Information Analyst, Integral Consulting

Must See! One show only! This session will provide an entertaining 75 minute performance of any agency hazardous waste inspection from the arrival to the close out meeting. Bring popcorn and enjoy the show.

Moderator:

Jeff Hunter, Partner, Perkins Coie LLP

Speakers:

Ryan Peterson, Senior Hazardous Waste Policy Analyst, Oregon Department of Environmental Quality
Sarah Glathar, Senior Environmental Compliance Specialist, GeoEngineers

Be part of an important discussion featuring panelists from the Oregon DEQ and Perkins Coie as they delve into key enforcement topics. Come learn the nuts and bolts and hear different perspectives on how to navigate the enforcement process, ensuring you leave with valuable knowledge to apply in your own practices.

Moderator:

Jeff Hunter, Partner, Perkins Coie LLP

Speakers:

Christopher Rich, Partner, Perkins Coie LLP
Becka Puskas, Interim Manager, Office of Compliance and Enforcement, Oregon Department of Environmental Quality

Experts from manufacturing facilities and consultancies will present on how to train staff, prepare, perform internal audits, and establish protocols for agency audits. In addition, Process Safety Management (PSM) and Risk Management Planning (RMP) will be addressed from an owners perspective. Best Practices in Safety training in both existing facilities and during construction will be presented.

Moderator:

Kim Marcus, Senior Principal, Landau Associates

Speakers:

Allie Miles, Senior Associate Engineer, Landau Associates
Chris Myers, Senior Associate, Landau Associates
Ashtyn Baldas, EHS Leader, Owens Corning
Justin Dauphinais, Senior Consultant, ERM