Name: Evolving Technology in the Environmental Industry
Start: 2026-07-22T13:30:00-0400
End: 2026-07-22T15:10:00-0400

Evolving Technology in the Environmental Industry

Wednesday July 22, 2026 1:30pm - 3:10pm EDT

Calusa 11

Tech Tools for Marine Biological Surveys -

It was a pleasure attending the Florida Environmental Network (FEN) Environmental Permitting Summer School in Marco Island this year.

I had the opportunity to present on Emerging Technology for Marine Biological Surveys, discussing how tools such as underwater ROVs, drones, photogrammetry, and remote sensing technologies are changing the way we collect environmental data and where I believe the industry is headed.

It was also great reconnecting with former colleagues, meeting new professionals, and hearing perspectives from agencies, consultants, and industry leaders. Thank you to everyone who attended my presentation and participated in the discussion.

Looking forward to seeing how these technologies continue to advance and support environmental decision-making.

Speakers

Keanan Bell

Principal in Charge Environmental Services, Northstar

David O'Brien, PSM, CFedS, CFS

President, SurvTech Solutions

David O' Brien has more than 32 years of experience in surveying, having received a BS in Surveying Engineering from the University of Maine. He co-founded his first surveying firm in 1995, where he served as a professional surveyor and Vice President for over 10 years. He is a licensed... Read More →

James Salafia

Ecologist, Senior UAS Pilot, AECOM

James Salafia is an Ecologist at AECOM based in Miami, Florida. With over 8 years of experience in environmental consulting, his expertise includes environmental impact assessments of wetlands and wildlife as they relate to site due diligence, environmental permitting, and construction... Read More →