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Tuesday, July 21
 

11:00am EDT

Early Registration
Tuesday July 21, 2026 11:00am - 5:00pm EDT
Registration Desk
Tuesday July 21, 2026 11:00am - 5:00pm EDT
Registration Desk

1:00pm EDT

Early Bird A - The Keys to Success for the Practicing Engineer
LIMITED
Tuesday July 21, 2026 1:00pm - 5:00pm EDT
Calusa 8-9
Limited Capacity seats available
Stay current on laws/rules, Get up to speed on the latest ethics cases, Protect yourself in contracts, and Reduce your exposure to risksCome join our panel of experts in a 4-hour interactive, small group setting, as they provide the practicing engineer with the keys to a successful practice, including the essential updates that govern the practice of engineering in the state of Florida, issues...
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Speakers
avatar for Michael D. Harding

Michael D. Harding

President, MHarding Enterprises, Inc.
I am a Civil Engineer, Graduated from the University of Kansas in 1978 and began my career in Wichita Kansas as a bridge designer. After being involved in many interesting projects I transferred my interest into Land Development and have not slowed down. I was recruited by Post Buckley... Read More →
KT
Tuesday July 21, 2026 1:00pm - 5:00pm EDT
Calusa 8-9
  Early Bird Courses

1:00pm EDT

Early Bird B - Click Around and Find Out: Navigating New Technology and Ethics
LIMITED
Tuesday July 21, 2026 1:00pm - 5:00pm EDT
Calusa 4-5
Limited Capacity seats available
The explosion of AI, work-from-anywhere capabilities, new digital tools, and heightened clientexpectations have dramatically altered the face of work for environmental professionals. Whether youare an engineer, lawyer, or consultant, and whether you practice in the public or the private sector, yourclients rely on you to provide adaptable, ethical, effective, quality work. This newly-updated panel...
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Speakers
avatar for Kathryn Rossmell

Kathryn Rossmell

Executive Shareholder, Lewis, Longman & Walker, P.A.
Ms. Rossmell is Board Certified by the Florida Bar in City, County and Local Government Law, a designation that is earned by less than half of one percent of all lawyers admitted to the Florida Bar. Kathryn is an executive shareholder in the law firm of Lewis, Longman & Walker where... Read More →
avatar for Gina Chiello

Gina Chiello

Senior Director, Cummins Cederberg
avatar for David O'Brien, PSM, CFedS, CFS

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 →
avatar for Joseph Ullo, Jr.

Joseph Ullo, Jr.

Shareholder, Carlton Fields
Joe Ullo counsels large and small business owners, landowners, private companies, and county and municipal governments statewide in all aspects of federal, state, and local environmental law, regulations, and processes that govern the consideration and usage of land, management of... Read More →
avatar for Christine Wentzel

Christine Wentzel

St. Johns River Water Management District
avatar for Lauren Brooks

Lauren Brooks

Senior Environmental Counsel, The Mosaic Company
avatar for Julia Lomonico

Julia Lomonico

Of Counsel, Lewis Longman & Walker
Julia is an accomplished environmental and administrative law attorney with over a decade of experience in water policy, permitting, and litigation. She previously served as Interim General Counsel and as Special Counsel to the General Counsel at the South Florida Water Management... Read More →
ML
Tuesday July 21, 2026 1:00pm - 5:00pm EDT
Calusa 4-5
  Early Bird Courses

1:30pm EDT

Florida One Water Commission Meeting
LIMITED
Tuesday July 21, 2026 1:30pm - 5:00pm EDT
Calusa 2-3
Limited Capacity seats available

Tuesday July 21, 2026 1:30pm - 5:00pm EDT
Calusa 2-3
  Early Bird Courses
 
Wednesday, July 22
 

8:00am EDT

Opening Session
LIMITED
Wednesday July 22, 2026 8:00am - 8:30am EDT
Banyon Ballroom
Limited Capacity seats available

Wednesday July 22, 2026 8:00am - 8:30am EDT
Banyon Ballroom

8:30am EDT

Environmental Permitting and Enforcement Update
LIMITED
Wednesday July 22, 2026 8:30am - 10:10am EDT
Calusa 4-5
Limited Capacity seats available
Timely and informative update on permitting and enforcement procedures utilized by environmental agencies; beginner to intermediate course; covers permits and permit renewals; construction and operation permits; time limitations; monitoring; agency enforcement of permit conditions; fines and other penalties; legal and ethical considerations; other emerging trends and issues including legislative...
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Speakers
avatar for Silvia Alderman

Silvia Alderman

Partner, Akerman LLP
Board Certified in State and Federal Government and Administrative Practice. Practicing Environmental and Land Use law since 1977
LK

Lisa Kelley

Lisa Kelley LLC

avatar for Julie P. Kendig-Schrader

Julie P. Kendig-Schrader

Shareholder, Greenberg Traurig
Julie P. Kendig-Schrader represents clients in land use and environmental matters and administrative litigation. She works with clients to create public/private partnerships for infrastructure needs, particularly those related to transportation. With sustainability concerns and initiatives... Read More →
avatar for Maricruz Fincher

Maricruz Fincher

General Counsel, South Florida Water Management District
avatar for John Truitt

John Truitt

Deputy Secretary, Department of Environmental Protection
Wednesday July 22, 2026 8:30am - 10:10am EDT
Calusa 4-5
  Cross-Cutting & Emerging Issues

8:30am EDT

Navigating Florida’s Energy and Air Quality Landscape: Policy, Regulation, and Trends
LIMITED
Wednesday July 22, 2026 8:30am - 10:10am EDT
Calusa 11
Limited Capacity seats available
New for 2026! Panelists will examine Florida’s evolving energy landscape, highlighting the emerging role of data centers and the influence of rapidly changing energy policies. The discussion will address the challenges of maintaining reliability and grid stability amid increasing demand and the current energy mix in the state and explore how air quality permitting might offer flexibility and...
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Speakers
avatar for Greg Munson

Greg Munson

Shareholder, Gunster
Greg Munson is a shareholder with the Gunster firm and represents regulated industries in the industrial, agricultural, mining, and utility sectors in all areas of state and federal environmental law. He represents clients before Florida’s executive branch agencies, the state’s... Read More →
avatar for Angela Morrison

Angela Morrison

Senior Attorney, Hunton Andrews Kurth LLP
Angela Morrison is a Senior Attorney with the global law firm Hunton Andrews Kurth, LLP. Ms. Morrison has practiced environmental law for nearly 35 years, and assists her clients with regulatory, permitting, and compliance matters at the state and federal levels relating to climate... Read More →
ML

Max Lee

President, Koogler Associates
avatar for Davy Crawley

Davy Crawley

Senior Director - Florida Offices, SWCA
avatar for Daniela Delpino
avatar for Hastings Read

Hastings Read

Deputy Director of Division of Air Resource Management, Department of Environmental Protection
I have been involved in air quality since 2013. People should talk to me about regulatory development at both the state and federal level, permitting and compliance, and developments in air quality. 
Wednesday July 22, 2026 8:30am - 10:10am EDT
Calusa 11
  Cross-Cutting & Emerging Issues

8:30am EDT

Under the Dome: Florida Legislators on Environmental Policy, Progress, and the Path Ahead
LIMITED
Wednesday July 22, 2026 8:30am - 10:10am EDT
Banyon Ballroom
Limited Capacity seats available
Florida's environmental policies are shaped by a dynamic balance of conservation, economic growth, infrastructure needs, water resource protection, and regulatory reform. Join current members of the Florida Legislature for a candid discussion on the environmental initiatives, legislative accomplishments, and policy decisions that have influenced Florida's environmental landscape in recent years....
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Speakers
KT

Keith Truenow

Senator, Florida Senate
BC
TO
Wednesday July 22, 2026 8:30am - 10:10am EDT
Banyon Ballroom
  Cross-Cutting & Emerging Issues

8:30am EDT

WMD Planning, Regulatory, and Policy Update
LIMITED
Wednesday July 22, 2026 8:30am - 10:10am EDT
Calusa 8-9
Limited Capacity seats available
An excellent course designed to provide insight into the regulatory, planning, and water supply development programs of Florida’s five water management districts; includes a discussion of water resource development and water supply planning; adoption and implementation of MFLs; development of water reservations; Environmental Resource Permitting updates; secondary and cumulative impacts;...
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Speakers
avatar for Larry Sellers

Larry Sellers

Partner, Holland & Knight LLP
Larry practices administrative and governmental law, with a concentration in environmental and land use matters. He regularly provides advice on permitting and enforcement matters involving a variety of federal, state, regional and local administrative agencies. He has substantial... Read More →
avatar for Brian Armstrong

Brian Armstrong

Executive Director, Southwest Florida Water Management District
avatar for Nicolas Porter

Nicolas Porter

Shareholder, de la Parte & Gilbert, P.A.
avatar for Erin Preston

Erin Preston

General Counsel, St. Johns River Water Management District
avatar for Jennifer Smith

Jennifer Smith

Chief of Staff, South Florida Water Management District
avatar for Eric Olsen

Eric Olsen

Shareholder, Gunster
Inside and outside of Florida, Eric assists myriad business and individual clients on environmental law and regulatory matters. A Florida native, for nearly three decades Eric has focused his practice on wetland regulation, mitigation banking, stormwater regulation, consumptive use... Read More →
Wednesday July 22, 2026 8:30am - 10:10am EDT
Calusa 8-9
  Environmental Policy & Agency Updates

8:30am EDT

Deal or No Deal: Managing Environmental Risk on Real Estate Projects
LIMITED
Wednesday July 22, 2026 8:30am - 10:10am EDT
Calusa 10
Limited Capacity seats available
This panel will explore key strategies for environmental assessments during all phases of real estate acquisition and development, including due diligence, contract negotiation, pre-acquisition planning, and post-closing compliance. Speakers will discuss real life examples to illustrate best practices for site assessment, regulatory compliance, and environmental risk management in today’s...
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Speakers
avatar for Tom Mullin

Tom Mullin

Bilzin Sumberg Baena Price & Axelrod
avatar for Kelly Eger

Kelly Eger

President/Owner, American Environmental Consulting
In 2012, I founded American Environmental Consulting, Inc. (AEC), a 100% woman-owned small business. My vision was to build an environmental engineering firm that provides practical, cost-effective, business-minded solutions to real property environmental issues. I strategically employ... Read More →
avatar for Vince Yarina

Vince Yarina

Principal/Vice President, Langan
avatar for Rob Toth

Rob Toth

Vice President, Birkitt Environmental Services
avatar for Elaine Imbruglia

Elaine Imbruglia

President, Modica & Associates
Wednesday July 22, 2026 8:30am - 10:10am EDT
Calusa 10
  Land Use - Redevelopment and Growth

8:30am EDT

Mining and Mineral Rights & Regulation: Navigating the Complex Landscape of Mineral Exploration and Development
LIMITED
Wednesday July 22, 2026 8:30am - 10:10am EDT
Calusa 12
Limited Capacity seats available
Florida's rich and diverse mineral resources offer significant opportunities for economic development, energy production, and multifaceted land use and development, but also pose complex challenges for proprietary property rights, environmental protection, property and royalty ownership, and public participation. This panel will explore the legal and operational aspects of identifying and securing...
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Speakers
avatar for Tim Riley

Tim Riley

Shareholder, Gunster
avatar for Ed Murawski

Ed Murawski

Program Manager, Kleinfelder
Mr. Murawski has 25 years of experience in the environmental consulting field in the areas of wetlands, protected species and land use permitting. He serves as the Program Manager for Tampa Florida office and supervises a team of up 20 employees. Ed has managed projects throughout... Read More →
avatar for Stan Posey

Stan Posey

Sr. Manager, Environment/Land, Nutrien - White Springs
MK

Matt Knoll

Deputy Director, Florida Department of Environmental Protection
Wednesday July 22, 2026 8:30am - 10:10am EDT
Calusa 12
  Land Use - Redevelopment and Growth

8:30am EDT

Federal Wetlands Permitting Update
LIMITED
Wednesday July 22, 2026 8:30am - 10:10am EDT
Calusa 2-3
Limited Capacity seats available
This advanced course delivers a deep dive into the latest developments in the Army Corps of Engineers’ (ACOE) permitting processes under Section 404 of the Clean Water Act and Section 10 of the Rivers and Harbors Act. With a new federal administration in place, our panel will analyze any fresh guidance or policy shifts emerging from ACOE headquarters, and what they mean for practitioners....
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Speakers
avatar for Susan Stephens

Susan Stephens

Stearns Weaver Miller Weissler Alhadeff & Sitterson
Susan Stephens is a shareholder in the Tallahassee office of Stearns Weaver Miller and has been practicing environmental & natural resources and administrative law for 30 years. Susan is Board Certified by The Florida Bar in State & Federal Government & Administrative Practice. She... Read More →
avatar for Mike Drauer

Mike Drauer

Senior Project Manager, Stantec Consulting Inc.
SZ

Shawn Zinszer

Regulatory Chief, Jacksonville District, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
KM

Kerri MacNutt

Monarch Ecology Group, LLC
avatar for Ben Shepherd

Ben Shepherd

Florida Ecosciences Manager, AtkinsRealis
I am an environmental permitting and project management professional with 18 years of experience specializing in NEPA compliance, environmental permitting, mitigation planning, and listed species surveys and permitting, with strong technical writing and relationship-building. As the... Read More →
Wednesday July 22, 2026 8:30am - 10:10am EDT
Calusa 2-3
  Permitting & Regulatory Practice

8:30am EDT

2026 Update on EPA’S Newest Regulated Contaminant
LIMITED
Wednesday July 22, 2026 8:30am - 10:10am EDT
Caxambus 1-2
Limited Capacity seats available
In this popular session, a panel of subject matter experts will present the trends in the newest regulated contaminant: PFAS. Panelists will discuss the EPA's latest plans to address PFAS, as well as the most recent scientific studies, strategies for conducting due diligence, and the status of remediation technologies. This session is relevant for both attorneys and consultants.
Speakers
avatar for Lauren Brooks

Lauren Brooks

Senior Environmental Counsel, The Mosaic Company
avatar for Lucas Barroso-Giachetti

Lucas Barroso-Giachetti

Regional PFAS Technical Lead, Terracon
avatar for Gene Jones

Gene Jones

CEO, Southern Waste Information eXchange, Inc.
Gene Jones serves as CEO of Southern Waste Information Exchange (SWIX), a non-profit organization which has been operating since 1981 assisting businesses and municipalities with their waste management issues. Gene is based in Tallahassee, Florida and specializes in building strategic... Read More →
avatar for Olivia Cain

Olivia Cain

Project Engineer, Geosyntec Consultants
Olivia Cain is a licensed Professional Engineer in Geosyntec’s Clearwater, Florida office. Her environmental engineering practice focuses the characterization and treatment of sites impacted by a variety of environmental contaminants, including PFAS. She is one of Geosyntec’s... Read More →
avatar for Matt Leopold

Matt Leopold

Holland & Knight
Matthew Z. Leopold is an attorney in Holland & Knight's Washington, D.C., office, a member of the Public Policy & Regulation Group and co-chair of the national Environmental Team. Mr. Leopold focuses his practice on helping clients create pragmatic and strategic solutions to complex environmental regulatory... Read More →
Wednesday July 22, 2026 8:30am - 10:10am EDT
Caxambus 1-2
  Waste Management & Site Remediation

10:30am EDT

Florida's Environment and Water Policy and the 2026 Florida Legislature
LIMITED
Wednesday July 22, 2026 10:30am - 12:10pm EDT
Calusa 2-3
Limited Capacity seats available
Absolutely the most current and reliable information available on what the 2026 Legislature passed (or considered but failed to pass) and why; assessment of Florida’s changing political landscape with respect to environmental and water policy issues; comprehensive preview of what’s expected with respect to the implementation of 2026 legislation with a look ahead to the 2027 session and beyond....
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Speakers
avatar for Frank Walker

Frank Walker

Executive Vice President of Government and Political Relations, Florida Chamber of Commerce
avatar for Lori Killinger

Lori Killinger

Executive Shareholder, Lewis, Longman & Walker, P.A.
Ms. Killinger’s practice focuses on Legislative, Administrative and Governmental representation. She represents clients before legislative and executive branches of government, regulatory agencies at the state and local levels, the Florida Cabinet and legislative and gubernatorial... Read More →
avatar for Jon Steverson

Jon Steverson

Senior Policy Advisor, Holland & Knight
Jonathan Steverson is a senior policy advisor in Holland & Knight's Tallahassee office and a member of the firm's Public Policy & Regulation Group. Mr. Steverson handles a variety of topics within Florida government advocacy, with a specific focus on matters related to energy, environment and natural... Read More →
avatar for Ryan Matthews

Ryan Matthews

Florida Environmental Network
avatar for Laura Jacobs Donaldson

Laura Jacobs Donaldson

President, Florida Environmental, Fire & Government Law, P.A.
Wednesday July 22, 2026 10:30am - 12:10pm EDT
Calusa 2-3
  Cross-Cutting & Emerging Issues

10:30am EDT

From Rule to Reality: Implementing Florida’s New Stormwater Standards
LIMITED
Wednesday July 22, 2026 10:30am - 12:10pm EDT
Caxambus 1-2
Limited Capacity seats available
Florida’s 2024 stormwater rule is already reshaping project planning and permitting across the state—but we’re not fully there yet. With portions of the rule already in effect and the all-important treatment performance provisions delayed until late 2025, this panel tackles the uncertainties and evolving expectations facing stormwater engineers, public and private developers, and local...
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Speakers
avatar for Mark Thomasson

Mark Thomasson

Executive Vice President, National Stormwater Trust, Inc.
National Stormwater Trust, Inc. (NST) is a stormwater management company that recently partnered with the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) to provide regional stormwater treatment services for the benefit of its customers and the environment.

Through this public-private partnership with FDOT, NST develops, permits, and operates regional stormwater facilities and can permanently reserve for NST customers a specified volume of stormwater treatment capacity to offset the stormwater treatment requirements associated with any... Read More →
avatar for Greg Knecht

Greg Knecht

Executive Director, The Nature Conservancy
avatar for David Kramer, P.E.

David Kramer, P.E.

ERP Bureau Chief, Southwest Florida Water Management District
Dave is a graduate of University of South Florida with a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering. He has 23+ years of experience in water resource engineering. Dave has spent his entire career in public service at the SWFWMD. He currently serves as the ERP Bureau Chief, responsible... Read More →
avatar for John Coates

John Coates

Director, Division of Water Resource Management, Department of Environmental Protection
John Coates currently serves as the Director of the Division of Water Resource Management, for the Department of Environmental Protection. He has a combination of biology, chemistry, and engineering degrees, and is licensed as a civil engineer in Florida. John started working in the... Read More →
avatar for Scott Deitche

Scott Deitche

Senior Principal, Geosyntec Consultants
With a broad background in water resources, Scott addresses all aspects of surface water quality, including water-resource planning, evaluating best management practices (BMPs), conducting lake studies, assessing water quality, and sampling. His skill set also encompasses compliance... Read More →
Wednesday July 22, 2026 10:30am - 12:10pm EDT
Caxambus 1-2
  Cross-Cutting & Emerging Issues

10:30am EDT

Federal Environmental Regulation and Enforcement Update
LIMITED
Wednesday July 22, 2026 10:30am - 12:10pm EDT
Calusa 4-5
Limited Capacity seats available
Come listen and learn from a panel of experts as they discuss the latest changes to federal environmental policies and regulations under the Trump Administration. This session examines how the policies and roles of the federal agencies are changing across a wide spectrum of issues such as WOTUS and other water issues, endangered species, enforcement, agency size, and climate change. The experts...
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Speakers
avatar for Rafe Petersen

Rafe Petersen

Partner, Holland & Knight
Rafe Petersen is a partner in Holland & Knight's Washington, D.C. office and is a member of the firm's Government Section. He primarily focuses on litigation and counseling in administrative, environmental and energy fields. Mr. Petersen's environmental practice includes environmental compliance... Read More →
BC

Brad Carey

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
avatar for Bernadette Rappold

Bernadette Rappold

Shareholder, Greenberg Traurig
Bernadette M. Rappold focuses her practice on federal and state regulatory issues related to energy, manufacturing, and the environment. Bernadette has substantial litigation experience and advises clients on regulatory compliance as well as the environmental, safety, and health aspects... Read More →
avatar for Melissa Meeker

Melissa Meeker

Chief Executive Officer, The Water Tower
Melissa Meeker is the Chief Executive Officer of the Water Tower in Buford, Georgia, a non-profit focused on advancing water utilities through applied research, technology advancement, workforce development, and public engagement. Melissa previously served as the CEO of the Water... Read More →
avatar for Eric Beightel

Eric Beightel

Federal Strategy Director, ESA
Eric Beightel is a nationally recognized expert in environmental policy, infrastructure permitting, and regulatory strategy, with over 25 years of experience across federal, state, and private sectors. He currently serves as the Federal Strategy Director at Environmental Science... Read More →
Wednesday July 22, 2026 10:30am - 12:10pm EDT
Calusa 4-5
  Environmental Policy & Agency Updates

10:30am EDT

Water for Tomorrow in CFWI
LIMITED
Wednesday July 22, 2026 10:30am - 12:10pm EDT
Calusa 11
Limited Capacity seats available
Coming Soon
Speakers
avatar for Robert Beltran

Robert Beltran

Vice President, Dewberry
avatar for Mary Ellen Winkler

Mary Ellen Winkler

Assistant Executive Director, St. Johns River Water Management District
Mary Ellen Winkler is the Assistant Executive Director with the St. Johns River Water Management District. In this role, she oversees the work of the District’s Divisions of Water Resources, Water Supply Planning and Assessment, Infrastructure and Land Resources, and Basin Management... Read More →
avatar for Chris Tumminia

Chris Tumminia

General Counsel, Southwest Florida Water Management District
avatar for Kerry Kates

Kerry Kates

Deputy Director, Orange County Utilities
PF

Pamela Flores

Chief of Natural Sciences, Florida Department of Environmental Protection
Wednesday July 22, 2026 10:30am - 12:10pm EDT
Calusa 11
  Environmental Policy & Agency Updates

10:30am EDT

Property Rights Law 2026: Emerging Issues and Case Updates
LIMITED
Wednesday July 22, 2026 10:30am - 12:10pm EDT
Calusa 12
Limited Capacity seats available
This course will cover the latest court decisions and legislative actions affecting private property rights in Florida, takings jurisprudence, the Bert J. Harris, Jr. Private Property Rights Protection Act, and other government actions that affect private property. Hot topics this year include the SCOTUS decision in Pung v. Isabella County, MI.
Speakers
avatar for Kent Safriet

Kent Safriet

Partner, Holtzman Vogel
Mr. Safriet is a Partner with the law firm of Holtzman Vogel Baran Torchinsky & Josefiak based in their Tallahassee, Florida office. After obtaining a BS degree in aquaculture, fisheries and wildlife biology from Clemson University, he obtained his law degree from the University of... Read More →
avatar for Amy Boulris

Amy Boulris

Shareholder, Gunster
Amy Brigham Boulris is a shareholder who joined Gunster in 2012, after over two decades of successful practice with the widely respected property rights boutique, Brigham Moore. Amy is a diverse litigator, experienced at both trial and appellate levels.
Amy continues to devote her practice to the defense of property rights in the context of eminent domain, inverse condemnation, Harris Act claims, property related civil rights claims, zoning proceedings and related land use litigation, as well as to general civil appeals. She also... Read More →
avatar for Brenna Durden

Brenna Durden

Shareholder, Lewis, Longman & Walker, P.A.
Ms. Durden’s practice focuses on governmental, land use, environmental and administrative law. Her clients include landowners, developers, local governments, banks, manufacturers, industrial and educational facilities in matters related to land development, community redevelopment... Read More →
avatar for Kathryn Valois

Kathryn Valois

Attorney, Pacific Legal Foundation
Wednesday July 22, 2026 10:30am - 12:10pm EDT
Calusa 12
  Land Use - Redevelopment and Growth

10:30am EDT

Land and Golf Course Redevelopment: Opportunities and Challenges
LIMITED
Wednesday July 22, 2026 10:30am - 12:10pm EDT
Calusa 10
Limited Capacity seats available
The continued population growth in our State has triggered substantial challenges regarding land use, availability of water (quantity and quality), and clean, developable land with ready infrastructure. As part of an urban infill approach to preserve green lands, some of the alternatives to accommodate population growth are closed golf courses and available former agricultural land located near...
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Speakers
avatar for Howard Nelson

Howard Nelson

Partner, Bilzin Sumberg Baena Price & Axelrod
avatar for Robyn Neely

Robyn Neely

Chair, Environment and Natural Resources Practice, Akerman LLP

Robyn Neely focuses her practice on environmental site contamination issues related to real estate and corporate sales and acquisitions, and leases, including pre-acquisition, pre-leasing and pre-foreclosure due diligence analysis. Her practice also includes managing the investigation and remediation of contaminated properties and brownfield rede... Read More →
BO

Brittney Odom

Vice President, SCS Engineers
Environmental consulting and remediation.
WM

Wilbur Mayorga

Miami-Dade County Department of Regulatory and Economic Resources
BL

Brian Latta

Partner, Caroch Development
Industrial / Logistics / Cold Storage
Development and Construction Management Services
Site Selection / Acquisition & Due Diligence
Site Remediation / Redevelopment

Wednesday July 22, 2026 10:30am - 12:10pm EDT
Calusa 10
  Waste Management & Site Remediation

10:30am EDT

Conservation and Management of Imperiled Species
LIMITED
Wednesday July 22, 2026 10:30am - 12:10pm EDT
Calusa 8-9
Limited Capacity seats available
The USFWS and FWC carry out their responsibilities for the conservation and management of imperiled species through established regulations, policy, and guidance. These foundations and practices affect the way in which we conduct business while minimizing impacts from known threats, improving habitat, strengthening conservation and recovery efforts and, ultimately, improving the status of...
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Speakers
KM
AC

Austin Carroll

President, Wiregrass Ecological Associates
avatar for Colleen M. Reilly

Colleen M. Reilly

Principal, EcoWild Consulting Group, LLC
avatar for William Burnett

William Burnett

Director, Office of Conservation Planning Services FWC, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission
Will Burnett serves as the Director of the Office of Conservation Planning Services at the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission(FWC). This office houses FWC’s Land Use Planning Program and the Landowner Assistance Program. These programs assist private landowners, environmental... Read More →
avatar for Grace Campbell

Grace Campbell

Wildlife Biologist, Lykes Bros. Inc.
Grace Campbell is the lead Wildlife Biologist for Lykes Bros Inc.’s Gopher Tortoise Recipient Site program. She oversees land management of the recipient sites and serves as the main point of contact for relocation efforts. Grace also leads customer relations with both public and... Read More →
Wednesday July 22, 2026 10:30am - 12:10pm EDT
Calusa 8-9
  Wildlife & Habitat Conservation

12:10pm EDT

Wednesday Luncheon with Fireside Chat
Wednesday July 22, 2026 12:10pm - 1:30pm EDT
Banyon Ballroom
Wednesday July 22, 2026 12:10pm - 1:30pm EDT
Banyon Ballroom

1:30pm EDT

Evolving Technology in the Environmental Industry
LIMITED
Wednesday July 22, 2026 1:30pm - 3:10pm EDT
Calusa 11
Limited Capacity seats available
New course description needed
Speakers
avatar for Keanan Bell

Keanan Bell

Principal in Charge Environmental Services, Northstar
avatar for David O'Brien, PSM, CFedS, CFS

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 →
avatar for James Salafia

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 →
avatar for Brendan Brown

Brendan Brown

Nature-based Solutions Discipline Leader, CDM Smith
BR

Brandon Rau

AquaTech Eco Consultants, LLC
Wednesday July 22, 2026 1:30pm - 3:10pm EDT
Calusa 11
  Cross-Cutting & Emerging Issues

1:30pm EDT

What's New in Environmental Resource Permitting
LIMITED
Wednesday July 22, 2026 1:30pm - 3:10pm EDT
Calusa 4-5
Limited Capacity seats available
Think Environmental Permitting in Florida is an old hat? Think again! This important area of law is constantly evolving, formally or otherwise. This extremely informative (and perhaps even a little fun) course combines the legal principles of ERP permitting, including policy and rulemaking updates, with practical tips for achieving compliance and avoiding process “pitfalls” from regulators and...
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Speakers
avatar for Amelia Savage

Amelia Savage

Shareholder, Stearns Weaver Miller Weissler Alhadeff & Sitterson
avatar for Michelle Hopkins

Michelle Hopkins

Regulation Division Director, Southwest Florida Water Management District
I am the Regulation Division Director at the Southwest Florida Water Management District, overseeing the Environmental Resource Permitting (ERP), Water Use Permitting (WUP) and Well Construction Permitting (WCP) programs. I have more than 30 years of water resources engineering experience... Read More →
avatar for Julie Sullivan

Julie Sullivan

Vice President, Southeast Regional Director, ESA
avatar for Nicole Gough

Nicole Gough

Environmental Manager, Dewberry
BB

Brittany Banko

Senior Ecologist, Verdantas LLC.
Wednesday July 22, 2026 1:30pm - 3:10pm EDT
Calusa 4-5
  Cross-Cutting & Emerging Issues

1:30pm EDT

FDEP Regulatory and Policy Update
LIMITED
Wednesday July 22, 2026 1:30pm - 3:10pm EDT
Calusa 2-3
Limited Capacity seats available
Always a timely and useful course to provide updates on the most current information and activities with the Department of Environmental Protection which we feel will be of most interest to our attendees; includes review and analysis of rules and policies recently adopted or under development, including the latest updates on the Stormwater Rule, OSTDS and domestic wastewater rules, and any...
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Speakers
avatar for Shawn Hamilton
avatar for Bill Preston

Bill Preston

President, William D. Preston, P.A.
From 1976-1979, Mr. Preston was Legislative Analyst and then Staff Director of the Florida Senate Natural Resources and Conservation Committee. He helped establish and then grow and develop Hopping Green & Sams, P.A., one of Florida’s most capable boutique law firms in the field of administrative, governmental and environmental law. He practiced with HGS for over 20+ years, before opening his own firm in 2001. He has written a number of law review articles and other publications. He has lectured... Read More →
avatar for John Truitt

John Truitt

Deputy Secretary, Department of Environmental Protection
avatar for Tim Bahr

Tim Bahr

Director, Division of Waste Management, Department of Environmental Protection
avatar for John Coates

John Coates

Director, Division of Water Resource Management, Department of Environmental Protection
John Coates currently serves as the Director of the Division of Water Resource Management, for the Department of Environmental Protection. He has a combination of biology, chemistry, and engineering degrees, and is licensed as a civil engineer in Florida. John started working in the... Read More →
avatar for Hastings Read

Hastings Read

Deputy Director of Division of Air Resource Management, Department of Environmental Protection
I have been involved in air quality since 2013. People should talk to me about regulatory development at both the state and federal level, permitting and compliance, and developments in air quality. 
Wednesday July 22, 2026 1:30pm - 3:10pm EDT
Calusa 2-3
  Environmental Policy & Agency Updates

1:30pm EDT

Threatened And Endangered Species In The Marine Realm
LIMITED
Wednesday July 22, 2026 1:30pm - 3:10pm EDT
Calusa 10
Limited Capacity seats available
Extremely timely and informative course will “cover the bases” from NEPA to permitting; critical environmental issues including ESA protected marine species and essential fish habitat, corals, sea turtles, and marine mammals; use of UMAM and HEA for determining mitigation requests; examples of lessons learned in dealing with and applying federal and state requirements to seaports, beach...
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Speakers
avatar for Penny Cutt

Penny Cutt

Senior Director, Cummins Cederberg
Talk to me about...
County, state, and federal environmental regulations
Environmental permitting strategy
Marina feasibility
Beach and inlet management
Resilient waterfront park design
Permit compliance
Mitigation assessment and negotiation
Ecological assessment and monitoring
Grant Fund... Read More →
AB

Ann Broadwell

Environmental Administrator, FL DOT
District 4 FDOT
Environmental Manager 
avatar for Ryan Brushwood

Ryan Brushwood

Sea & Shoreline
avatar for Bill Precht

Bill Precht

Bio-Tech Consulting
Wednesday July 22, 2026 1:30pm - 3:10pm EDT
Calusa 10
  Environmental Policy & Agency Updates

1:30pm EDT

Waste Management Programs Overview
LIMITED
Wednesday July 22, 2026 1:30pm - 3:10pm EDT
Calusa 12
Limited Capacity seats available
The Division of Waste Management touches many areas, ranging from Brownfields and emerging contaminants to solid and hazardous waste regulation. It also formulates policy and coordinates with the six regulatory Districts on enforcement and compliance assistance. This is a class to introduce a wide audience to one of the largest operations units of FDEP. You will learn what are the Division’s...
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Speakers
avatar for Joseph Ullo, Jr.

Joseph Ullo, Jr.

Shareholder, Carlton Fields
Joe Ullo counsels large and small business owners, landowners, private companies, and county and municipal governments statewide in all aspects of federal, state, and local environmental law, regulations, and processes that govern the consideration and usage of land, management of... Read More →
avatar for Stephen Tilbrook

Stephen Tilbrook

Partner, Akerman LLP
avatar for Natasha Lampkin

Natasha Lampkin

Assistant Director for the Division of Waste Management, Department of Environmental Protection
avatar for Cathy Soistman

Cathy Soistman

Principal Environmental Engineer
avatar for Chad Northington

Chad Northington

Senior Engineer, Geosyntec Consultants, Inc.
Mr. Northington currently serves as a Senior Engineer with Geosyntec and has over twenty-six years of experience as an environmental engineer in the areas of site investigation, remediation system engineering, construction, and maintenance, project management, in situ remediation... Read More →
Wednesday July 22, 2026 1:30pm - 3:10pm EDT
Calusa 12
  Waste Management & Site Remediation

1:30pm EDT

Using Public-Private Partnerships to Solve Florida's Water Challenges
LIMITED
Wednesday July 22, 2026 1:30pm - 3:10pm EDT
Caxambus 1-2
Limited Capacity seats available
Florida is faced with significant local and regional water supply, water quality and other water resource challenges in the coming decades unless proactive actions are taken. The need for new investments in water infrastructure is growing, while local governments and other governmental agencies are faced with fiscal, risk-based and capability constraints. Private sector expertise and financing is...
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Speakers
avatar for John Fumero

John Fumero

Shareholder, Nason Yeager Gerson Harris & Fumero P.A.
John J. Fumero has over 36 years of experience in the areas of environmental, water, land use, administrative and governmental law. Fumero, formerly General Counsel, South Florida Water Management District, provides strategic counsel to landowners, developers, industry, agriculture... Read More →
avatar for Ernie Cox

Ernie Cox

President, Family Lands Remembered, LLC
avatar for Cari Roth

Cari Roth

Vice President of Governmental & Regulatory Affairs, Lykes Bros. Inc.
Cari is an experienced attorney and governmental relations professional now leading governmental and regulatory matters for Lykes Bros. Inc., formerly a long time client. Most of her career was in private practice with a four year stint as the General Counsel of the Department of... Read More →
avatar for Michael Knowles

Michael Knowles

Director of Engineering, Peace River Manasota Regional Water Supply Authority
Heading up the engineering department for the Peace River Manasota Regional Water Supply Authority.  We are in the process of going from 34.7 mgd to 52.7 mgd AADF through a $900M Capital Program.
JF
Wednesday July 22, 2026 1:30pm - 3:10pm EDT
Caxambus 1-2
  Water Supply & Infrastructure

1:30pm EDT

Overview Of Regulations And Emerging Issues Affecting Imperiled Species
LIMITED
Wednesday July 22, 2026 1:30pm - 3:10pm EDT
Calusa 8-9
Limited Capacity seats available
Many imperiled wildlife species spend some if not all of their life-cycles in Florida. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission has been working closely with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service in developing effective regulations that promote the conservation and management of imperiled species and habitats in Florida. The members of this panel have been actively involved in the...
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Speakers
avatar for Jeff Collier

Jeff Collier

Shareholder, Stearns Weaver Miller Weissler Alhadeff & Sitterson
avatar for Colleen M. Reilly

Colleen M. Reilly

Principal, EcoWild Consulting Group, LLC
avatar for Josh Cucinella

Josh Cucinella

Land Use Planning Administrator, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission
I oversee FWC's Land Use Planning (LUP) Program. LUP coordinates the review of regulated land use changes statewide and provides technical assistance on projects with the potential to affect fish and wildlife species. We coordinate with public planners, agency staff, private landowners... Read More →
avatar for Jose Rivera

Jose Rivera

Manager, Division of Environmental review, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
Jose started his Federal career as a student Park Ranger with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (Corps) at Saylorville Lake, in Johnston, Iowa in 1998. After a few years working in recreation, interpretation, water safety and natural resource management, he headed South to Florida... Read More →
avatar for Gisele Colbert

Gisele Colbert

Principal Scientist, Smart-Sciences, Inc.
Ms. Colbert is the founder of Smart-Sciences and has 26 years of experience in managing and supervising technical projects and in leading inter-disciplinary teams consisting of engineers, geologists, ecologists and other technical experts. Ms. Colbert has extensive experience in all types of environmental permitting in the State of Florida (including Environmental Resource Permits (ERPs), Local Wetlands Permitting, Coastal Construction Permitting, Tree Permitting, Water Use Permit (WUP), industrial wastewater), as well... Read More →
Wednesday July 22, 2026 1:30pm - 3:10pm EDT
Calusa 8-9
  Wildlife & Habitat Conservation

3:30pm EDT

Community Vulnerability Assessments to Project Implementation: Sequencing for Success
LIMITED
Wednesday July 22, 2026 3:30pm - 5:10pm EDT
Calusa 8-9
Limited Capacity seats available
Everyone loves talking about resilience planning. The real challenge? Moving projects through the process of issue identification, design, permitting, funding, coordination, reviews, … and eventually to construction.Join a dynamic panel of Tampa Bay and state leaders in stormwater, resilience planning, and permitting as they reveal what it actually takes to move projects through municipal...
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Speakers
avatar for Brian Cook

Brian Cook

Director of Urban Design and Resilience, Applied Sciences Consulting Inc.
avatar for Alexander Awad

Alexander Awad

Chief Planning Engineer, City of Tampa
LW

Larry Webster

Stormwater Investigation Mgr, Hillsborough County
avatar for Whit Remer

Whit Remer

Arcadis U.S., Inc.
avatar for Eddy Bouza
Wednesday July 22, 2026 3:30pm - 5:10pm EDT
Calusa 8-9
  Climate Impacts & Community Resilience

3:30pm EDT

From Significant Nexus to Relatively Permanent: The New WOTUS Reality
LIMITED
Wednesday July 22, 2026 3:30pm - 5:10pm EDT
Banyon Ballroom
Limited Capacity seats available
Over the last decade, the definition of “Waters of the United States” has become one of the most frequently revised, litigated, and closely watched terms in federal environmental law. After years of regulatory whiplash, multiple presidential administrations, the Supreme Court’s decision in Sackett v. EPA, and continuing federal court challenges, EPA and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers...
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Speakers
avatar for Herschel Vinyard

Herschel Vinyard

Partner In Charge, Adams and Reese LLP
JM

John Miklos

Bio-Tech Consulting
KM
avatar for Matt Leopold

Matt Leopold

Holland & Knight
Matthew Z. Leopold is an attorney in Holland & Knight's Washington, D.C., office, a member of the Public Policy & Regulation Group and co-chair of the national Environmental Team. Mr. Leopold focuses his practice on helping clients create pragmatic and strategic solutions to complex environmental regulatory... Read More →
Wednesday July 22, 2026 3:30pm - 5:10pm EDT
Banyon Ballroom
  Cross-Cutting & Emerging Issues

3:30pm EDT

The Next Generation of Species Mitigation and Conservation Banking
LIMITED
Wednesday July 22, 2026 3:30pm - 5:10pm EDT
Caxambus 1-2
Limited Capacity seats available
As regulatory frameworks and ecological markets continue to change and evolve, species' mitigation is entering a period of meaningful transition. This panel brings together key federal and state agencies to provide a forward-looking perspective on policy, program development, and implementation strategies shaping the next generation of species conservation. This session will explore how policy...
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Speakers
avatar for Kae Hovater

Kae Hovater

President, EcoCredit Marketing
avatar for Constance Cassler

Constance Cassler

Florida ES Conservation Delivery Division Manager, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
I have been working for the US Fish & Wildlife Service for over 22 years, all of them in Vero Beach, Florida. Over that time, I have worked on Everglades Restoration, Habitat Conservation Planning, Conservation Banking, and in our Regulatory section. I am currently the the Conservation... Read More →
avatar for Brent Setchell

Brent Setchell

District Drainage Design Engineer, FL DOT
AP

Alex Preisser

Mitigation Marketing
avatar for Josh Cucinella

Josh Cucinella

Land Use Planning Administrator, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission
I oversee FWC's Land Use Planning (LUP) Program. LUP coordinates the review of regulated land use changes statewide and provides technical assistance on projects with the potential to affect fish and wildlife species. We coordinate with public planners, agency staff, private landowners... Read More →
Wednesday July 22, 2026 3:30pm - 5:10pm EDT
Caxambus 1-2
  Environmental Policy & Agency Updates

3:30pm EDT

Water Management District Updates on Minimum Flows and Levels and Water Reservations
LIMITED
Wednesday July 22, 2026 3:30pm - 5:10pm EDT
Calusa 2-3
Limited Capacity seats available
To prevent significant harm to the water resource due to water use, the water management districts must adopt minimum flows and levels (MFLs) for waterbodies and groundwater according to an annual priority list. A Water Reservation sets aside a volume of water for the protection of fish and wildlife or public health and safety. Reserved volumes of water are unavailable for allocation to...
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Speakers
avatar for Ann Shortelle

Ann Shortelle

Bio-Tech Consulting
avatar for Kathleen Coates

Kathleen Coates

Director, Division of Resource Management, Northwest Florida Water Management District
avatar for Clay Coarsey

Clay Coarsey

Director, Division of Water Supply Planning & Assessment, St. Johns River Water Management District
avatar for James Beeren

James Beeren

Lead Scientist, Applied Sciences Bureau, South Florida Water Management District
avatar for Amy Brown

Amy Brown

Deputy Executive Director, Water Resources, Suwannee River Water Management District
avatar for Randy Smith

Randy Smith

Director, Resource Management Division, Southwest Florida Water Management District
As director of the Resource Management Division at the Southwest Florida Water Management District, I oversee the bureaus that plan, develop and implement District water resource management initiatives concerning water supply, flood protection, natural systems and water quality. I... Read More →
Wednesday July 22, 2026 3:30pm - 5:10pm EDT
Calusa 2-3
  Environmental Policy & Agency Updates

3:30pm EDT

Emerging Issues In Pollution Liability and Technological Innovations
LIMITED
Wednesday July 22, 2026 3:30pm - 5:10pm EDT
Calusa 12
Limited Capacity seats available
Environmental enforcement in Florida continues to evolve, with regulatory agencies placing increasing emphasis on accountability over compliance assistance. This policy shift is especially evident in the regulation of solid and hazardous waste, soils, and water quality—and it has intensified the scrutiny on both permitted activities and private property transactions. As enforcement tightens, new...
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Speakers
RD
avatar for Brad Pekas

Brad Pekas

Technical Lead/Sr Engineer/Hydrogeologist, CIP Solutions
avatar for Jorge Caspary

Jorge Caspary

Senior Principal, Montrose Environmental
Been involved for over 30 years in several aspects of the environmental market, from policy making in the public and private sector to project management and developing new areas of business expansion. Attending my 14th straight year. 
avatar for Nicholas Meros

Nicholas Meros

Partner, Shutt & Bowen
LC
Wednesday July 22, 2026 3:30pm - 5:10pm EDT
Calusa 12
  Waste Management & Site Remediation

3:30pm EDT

Aquifer Recharge, Aquifer Storage And Recovery, and Underground Injection Control
LIMITED
Wednesday July 22, 2026 3:30pm - 5:10pm EDT
Calusa 11
Limited Capacity seats available
This panel will discuss the current status and issues involving Florida’s underground injection control (UIC) regulatory program that authorizes the injection of fluids into underground formations and aquifer recharge projects. The panel will focus on the expanded use of aquifer storage and recovery and aquifer recharge projects involving potable, surface water/stormwater, or reclaimed water to...
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Speakers
avatar for Eric Olsen

Eric Olsen

Shareholder, Gunster
Inside and outside of Florida, Eric assists myriad business and individual clients on environmental law and regulatory matters. A Florida native, for nearly three decades Eric has focused his practice on wetland regulation, mitigation banking, stormwater regulation, consumptive use... Read More →
avatar for Adam Blalock

Adam Blalock

Deputy Secretary fro Ecosystems Restoration, Department of Environmental Protection
avatar for Lindsay Starner

Lindsay Starner

Director Environmental Policy and Regulation, JEA
PL

Pete Larkin

ASRus, LLC
BC
Wednesday July 22, 2026 3:30pm - 5:10pm EDT
Calusa 11
  Water Supply & Infrastructure

3:30pm EDT

Comprehensive Watershed Management Reimagined: Blending Infrastructure, Innovation, and Policy
LIMITED
Wednesday July 22, 2026 3:30pm - 5:10pm EDT
Calusa 10
Limited Capacity seats available
Course updated for 2025! The panel of experts will provide an in-depth examination of watershed management as a means of comprehensively integrating a variety of planning and regulatory programs currently implemented by FDEP and the water management districts, including TMDLs, MS4s, NPDES, PLRGs, Water Quality Credit Trading, and both structural and non-structural floodplain planning and...
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Speakers
avatar for Debbie Madden

Debbie Madden

Attorney, Gunster
Deborah Madden is an attorney whose practice focuses on the area of environmental law.
Deborah represents a broad range of clients, including developers, agricultural interests and public and private companies.
Deborah has experience providing legal support to clients in permitting and litigation matters involving water resources, wetlands, water supply, state and federal listed species issues, mitigation banking, state submerged lands and coastal construction. She represents clients in court p... Read More →
avatar for Mike Register

Mike Register

Executive Director, St. Johns River Water Management District
 
avatar for Brian Voelker

Brian Voelker

Senior Environmental Scientist, ChenMoore
I am a Senior Environmental Scientist specializing in natural resource assessments and permitting, as well as certified arborist services. I provide numerous ecological services to clients, including the following: wetland delineation, function evaluation, mitigation design, monitoring... Read More →
avatar for Ahmed Hamed

Ahmed Hamed

Senior Engineer, Geosyntec Consultants
Ahmed Hamed is a Senior Engineer with Geosyntec Consultants, specializing in stormwater management. He has extensive experience in developing and managing flood risk models and flood protection projects across rural and urban watersheds in Florida. Previously, Ahmed was a project... Read More →
Wednesday July 22, 2026 3:30pm - 5:10pm EDT
Calusa 10
  Water Supply & Infrastructure

3:30pm EDT

Unlocking Florida's Water Future: Innovative Solutions for Supply and Reuse
LIMITED
Wednesday July 22, 2026 3:30pm - 5:10pm EDT
Calusa 4-5
Limited Capacity seats available
Join us for an exciting, in-depth course where top water policy experts dive into Florida’s rapidly growing demand for water and explore innovative solutions to secure its future. This course focuses on how water reuse can revolutionize the state’s approach to water management. In 2020, DEP was directed to develop potable reuse rules based on the Potable Reuse Commission recommendations. After...
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Speakers
avatar for Laura Jacobs Donaldson

Laura Jacobs Donaldson

President, Florida Environmental, Fire & Government Law, P.A.
avatar for Lynn Spivey

Lynn Spivey

Director of City Utilities, City of Plant City
avatar for Mandi Rice

Mandi Rice

Assistant Executive Director, Southwest Florida Water Management District
avatar for Kerry Kates

Kerry Kates

Deputy Director, Orange County Utilities
CD
Wednesday July 22, 2026 3:30pm - 5:10pm EDT
Calusa 4-5
  Water Supply & Infrastructure

5:30pm EDT

Opening Reception
Wednesday July 22, 2026 5:30pm - 6:30pm EDT
Exhibit Hall
Wednesday July 22, 2026 5:30pm - 6:30pm EDT
Exhibit Hall
 
Thursday, July 23
 

8:30am EDT

FDEP Regulatory and Policy Update
LIMITED
Thursday July 23, 2026 8:30am - 10:10am EDT
Banyon Ballroom
Limited Capacity seats available
Always a timely and useful course to provide updates on the most current information and activities with the Department of Environmental Protection which we feel will be of most interest to our attendees; includes review and analysis of rules and policies recently adopted or under development, including the latest updates on the Stormwater Rule, OSTDS and domestic wastewater rules, and any...
See More →
Speakers
avatar for Shawn Hamilton
avatar for Bill Preston

Bill Preston

President, William D. Preston, P.A.
From 1976-1979, Mr. Preston was Legislative Analyst and then Staff Director of the Florida Senate Natural Resources and Conservation Committee. He helped establish and then grow and develop Hopping Green & Sams, P.A., one of Florida’s most capable boutique law firms in the field of administrative, governmental and environmental law. He practiced with HGS for over 20+ years, before opening his own firm in 2001. He has written a number of law review articles and other publications. He has lectured... Read More →
avatar for John Truitt

John Truitt

Deputy Secretary, Department of Environmental Protection
avatar for Tim Bahr

Tim Bahr

Director, Division of Waste Management, Department of Environmental Protection
avatar for John Coates

John Coates

Director, Division of Water Resource Management, Department of Environmental Protection
John Coates currently serves as the Director of the Division of Water Resource Management, for the Department of Environmental Protection. He has a combination of biology, chemistry, and engineering degrees, and is licensed as a civil engineer in Florida. John started working in the... Read More →
avatar for Hastings Read

Hastings Read

Deputy Director of Division of Air Resource Management, Department of Environmental Protection
I have been involved in air quality since 2013. People should talk to me about regulatory development at both the state and federal level, permitting and compliance, and developments in air quality. 
Thursday July 23, 2026 8:30am - 10:10am EDT
Banyon Ballroom
  Environmental Policy & Agency Updates

8:30am EDT

Strategic Planning And Permitting For Development
LIMITED
Thursday July 23, 2026 8:30am - 10:10am EDT
Calusa 10
Limited Capacity seats available
Practical and informative course designed to address strategies for obtaining environmental, cultural resources and land use approvals for land development projects under Florida’s current laws and agency practices; consideration of effects of recent legislation and administrative actions taken by the Executive Branch; discussion of “live local”; discussion of successful approaches to...
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Speakers
avatar for Gordon Schiff

Gordon Schiff

Attorney and Counselor at Law, Gordon J. Schiff, P.A.
Gordon J. Schiff, P.A. provides legal services throughout the State of Florida in the areas of land use/zoning, real estate transactions, development permitting and eminent domain.
avatar for Abbey Naylor

Abbey Naylor

Principal Ecologist, Naylor Environmental Solutions
Environmental Consultant specializing in wetland and protected species permitting for land development projects.
avatar for Robert Volpe

Robert Volpe

Partner, Holtzman Vogel
avatar for Alessandria San Roman

Alessandria San Roman

Holland & Knight
avatar for Brent Handley

Brent Handley

Cultural Resource Director - Southeast, SWCA
Thursday July 23, 2026 8:30am - 10:10am EDT
Calusa 10
  Land Use - Redevelopment and Growth

8:30am EDT

Avoiding Public Hearing Pitfalls: Preparation, Presentation, And Legal Challenges
LIMITED
Thursday July 23, 2026 8:30am - 10:10am EDT
Calusa 11
Limited Capacity seats available
This panel provides practical and legal insights into managing public hearings before local governments from both the private party and local government perspectives. It specifically addresses issues arising in connection with public hearings and how to deal with denials by and challenges to local government decisions. This presentation will focus on strategic matters, provide useful tips, examine...
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Speakers
avatar for John Chibbaro

John Chibbaro

Partner, Greenberg Traurig
John focuses his practice on complex environmental and land use matters. He advises developers, utilities, and other clients on virtually all aspects of development, from initial permitting and entitlement strategy, contamination assessment and remediation, through government approvals... Read More →
avatar for Pam Schanel

Pam Schanel

Sr Managing Director, Environmental Planning, ICF

RC

Randy Coen

President, Coen & Company
avatar for Rick J. Melchiori

Rick J. Melchiori

General Manager, Becker Holding Corporation
Mr. Melchiori brings over 30 years’ experience in land acquisition, entitlement, permitting, design, and construction of industrial, commercial, and highly amenitized residential and mixed use projects. Early in his career, he founded an architectural and engineering firm and through... Read More →
avatar for Aaron Dunlap

Aaron Dunlap

Shareholder, Carlton Fields
Land Use, Zoning, Real Estate Development, Areas of Critical State Concern, Developer-Side HOA and Condo Issues, Construction and Lending Due Diligence, Fiction, Film, Greyhounds.
Thursday July 23, 2026 8:30am - 10:10am EDT
Calusa 11
  Permitting & Regulatory Practice

8:30am EDT

Cleaner Water Faster: Regulatory and Engineering Alternatives for Achieving Pollutant Load Reductions in Impaired Waters
LIMITED
Thursday July 23, 2026 8:30am - 10:10am EDT
Calusa 12
Limited Capacity seats available
This course has been fully redesigned to focus on practical implementation of pollutant load reductions in the context of impaired waters. The session explores both regulatory and engineering pathways available to achieve pollutant load reductions and restore water quality more efficiently. Panelists will present real-world examples from across Florida, highlighting how stakeholders are navigating...
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Speakers
avatar for Mike Wessel

Mike Wessel

Senior Principal, ESA
avatar for Patrick Shearer

Patrick Shearer

Senior Engineer IV, RES
Patrick Shearer, PE, WEDG, is a green infrastructure designer and Senior Engineer for Resource Environmental Solutions (RES). He is one of two Engineers of Record for the City of Miami premier sea level rise adaptation project Jose Marti Park Adaptive Redesign project, providing civil... Read More →
avatar for Adam Olenoski

Adam Olenoski

Senior Environmental Scientist, VHB
Adam is a senior environmental scientist in VHB’s Sarasota office with 22 years of experience. He has experience in a variety of ecological and hydrological monitoring projects, which include monitoring stormwater systems, measuring flows and levels, sampling surface water and groundwater... Read More →
avatar for Kim Shugar

Kim Shugar

Senior Advisor, Arrow Group
Kimberly “Kim” Shugar is an experienced policy specialist with more than 25 years of experience addressing complex challenges in the water, environmental, resilience and agricultural policy areas. At the Arrow Group, she currently advises clients on policy matters and government... Read More →
avatar for Lawrence Glenn

Lawrence Glenn

Department of Environmental Protection
Thursday July 23, 2026 8:30am - 10:10am EDT
Calusa 12
  Permitting & Regulatory Practice

8:30am EDT

Federal Wetlands Permitting Update
LIMITED
Thursday July 23, 2026 8:30am - 10:10am EDT
Calusa 4-5
Limited Capacity seats available
This advanced course delivers a deep dive into the latest developments in the Army Corps of Engineers’ (ACOE) permitting processes under Section 404 of the Clean Water Act and Section 10 of the Rivers and Harbors Act. With a new federal administration in place, our panel will analyze any fresh guidance or policy shifts emerging from ACOE headquarters, and what they mean for practitioners....
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Speakers
avatar for Susan Stephens

Susan Stephens

Stearns Weaver Miller Weissler Alhadeff & Sitterson
Susan Stephens is a shareholder in the Tallahassee office of Stearns Weaver Miller and has been practicing environmental & natural resources and administrative law for 30 years. Susan is Board Certified by The Florida Bar in State & Federal Government & Administrative Practice. She... Read More →
avatar for Mike Drauer

Mike Drauer

Senior Project Manager, Stantec Consulting Inc.
SZ

Shawn Zinszer

Regulatory Chief, Jacksonville District, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
KM

Kerri MacNutt

Monarch Ecology Group, LLC
avatar for Ben Shepherd

Ben Shepherd

Florida Ecosciences Manager, AtkinsRealis
I am an environmental permitting and project management professional with 18 years of experience specializing in NEPA compliance, environmental permitting, mitigation planning, and listed species surveys and permitting, with strong technical writing and relationship-building. As the... Read More →
Thursday July 23, 2026 8:30am - 10:10am EDT
Calusa 4-5
  Permitting & Regulatory Practice

8:30am EDT

NEPA, CWA, and ESA Updates on Evolving Regulations and Policies under the Trump Administration
LIMITED
Thursday July 23, 2026 8:30am - 10:10am EDT
Calusa 2-3
Limited Capacity seats available
Public and private sector projects located near wetlands, endangered species habitats, or other protected areas are often opposed by individuals and organizations during federal permitting proceedings as well as in federal court. Effective permitting of such projects requires an understanding of recent changes by the Trump Administration in the implementation and enforcement of applicable federal...
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Speakers
avatar for Andrew Turner

Andrew Turner

Hunton Andrews Kurth LLP
avatar for Kerri Barsh

Kerri Barsh

Shareholder, Greenberg Traurig
Kerri L. Barsh is Co-Chair of the firm’s Environmental Practice and represents public and private clients on an array of environmental regulatory, permitting, and litigation matters, including transactional support and due diligence, environmental assessment and liability matters... Read More →
avatar for John Lesman

John Lesman

Director, Bio-Tech Consulting
Mitigation banking, UMAM, wetland delineation, permitting, compliance.
avatar for Jena Mier

Jena Mier

Senior Project Manager, Black & Veatch
Jena Mier is a Senior Project Manager with Black & Veatch. She has more than 36 years of experience in environmental resource permitting and licensing, with over 17 years of energy project experience, providing environmental project management for large scale energy projects including... Read More →
avatar for Kris Thoemke

Kris Thoemke

Senior NEPA Specialist, Barge Design
If you want help with preparing categorical exclusions, environmental assessments, or environmental impact statements to satisfy your NEPA obligations, look for me so we can discuss your needs.
Thursday July 23, 2026 8:30am - 10:10am EDT
Calusa 2-3
  Permitting & Regulatory Practice

8:30am EDT

Waste Cleanup and Management: The Challenges of Change (Part 1 of 2)
LIMITED
Thursday July 23, 2026 8:30am - 10:10am EDT
Caxambus 1-2
Limited Capacity seats available
Two historically well- attended classes in the areas of waste cleanup and waste management regulation are now being combined to create a comprehensive “super” class that will address a multitude of current and emerging “hot topic” issues and developments in these areas with predictions and forecasts by a panel of experts on potential federal and state government regulatory responses. Those...
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Speakers
avatar for Jorge Caspary

Jorge Caspary

Senior Principal, Montrose Environmental
Been involved for over 30 years in several aspects of the environmental market, from policy making in the public and private sector to project management and developing new areas of business expansion. Attending my 14th straight year. 
avatar for Mike Petrovich

Mike Petrovich

Shareholder, Gunster
Mike is a shareholder with the Gunster law firm and is located in the firm’s Tallahassee offices. Gunster is a full-service commercial law firm with nearly a century of counseling Florida’s leading businesses.

With over three decades of experience in environmental law, Mike represents a variety of industrial clients, including the electric utility and chemical manufacturing industries, primarily focused on solid and hazardous waste, real property contamination and remediation, and storage... Read More →
avatar for Dawn McCormick

Dawn McCormick

Director, Communications & Community Relations, Waste Management Inc. of Florida
Dawn McCormick is responsible for Communications, Stakeholder Relations and Government Affairs activities for Waste Management in Florida and coordinates the company’s Recycling Improvement initiatives in the state.  She is Vice Chair of the National Waste & Recycling Association... Read More →
avatar for Ron Noble

Ron Noble

Shareholder, Buchanan Ingersoll & Rooney PC
Ron H. Noble represents clients in all areas of environmental due diligence, permitting and regulatory compliance. Other practice areas he has experience in include hazardous and solid waste regulation, wastewater treatment enforcement and permitting, environmental representation... Read More →
avatar for Travis Hearne

Travis Hearne

Environmental attorney, Mechanik Nuccio Hearne & Wester
Travis Moore Hearne is an Associate Attorney in the Environmental Practice Group at Mechanik Nuccio. Travis is a second generation environmental lawyer and focuses his practice on environmental permitting, compliance, and remediation. Travis has experience in a wide variety of environmental... Read More →
AB

Alexandra Barshel

Associate, Bilzin Sumberg Baena Price & Axelrod LLP
LL

Laurel Lockett

Shareholder, Carlton Fields, P.A.
avatar for Michael Larson

Michael Larson

Partner, Akerman LLP
Michael is a Partner at Akerman LLP.  He is an experienced environmental attorney focusing on contaminated site cleanup and redevelopment, environmental due diligence, environmental permitting, and environmental compliance.
Thursday July 23, 2026 8:30am - 10:10am EDT
Caxambus 1-2
  Waste Management & Site Remediation

8:30am EDT

Cracking Florida's Water Permitting Code: From the Capitol to the Coast
LIMITED
Thursday July 23, 2026 8:30am - 10:10am EDT
Calusa 8-9
Limited Capacity seats available
With all the attention on emerging contaminants of concern, including PFOA/PFAs controversy, this course is a must-attend!  This panel of experts will provide timely updates on new ways the Department of Environmental Protection and EPA are addressing water quality issues; also includes basic as well as advanced discussion on water quality discharge permitting, whether from industrial,...
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Speakers
avatar for Greg Corning

Greg Corning

FL Civil Design Manager, WSP
As a senior engineer and project manager, I provide technical input and engineering analysis for projects involving climate resiliency and assessment, project management, dredging and dewatering planning and design, stormwater design and permitting, environmental design and permitting... Read More →
avatar for Viraj deSilva

Viraj deSilva

Sr. Treatment Process Leader, Freese and Nichols, Inc.
Dr. deSilva has over 34 years of experience in water and wastewater (Industrial and municipal) engineering, including project concept through construction and start-up. He is an international leader in operations and maintenance, energy management, solids handling processes, construction... Read More →
avatar for Marcy Frick

Marcy Frick

Water Southeast Region Manager, Tetra Tech, Inc.
TO
Thursday July 23, 2026 8:30am - 10:10am EDT
Calusa 8-9
  Water Supply & Infrastructure

10:30am EDT

Nutrient Trading Under Florida's New Stormwater Rule: WQEA, RSMS, and Compensating Treatment
FILLING
Thursday July 23, 2026 10:30am - 12:10pm EDT
Calusa 10
Limited Capacity filling up
Florida’s new stormwater rule does more than increase nutrient treatment requirements. It also creates a performance-based framework for meeting those requirements through onsite treatment, offsite compensating treatment, and regional treatment mechanisms. In practice, each project carries a measurable nutrient reduction obligation, while tools such as Water Quality Enhancement Areas (WQEAs) and...
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Speakers
avatar for Mary Szafraniec

Mary Szafraniec

Director of Water Quality Initiatives, RES
Hi! I'm Mary Szafraniec, Director of Water Quality Initiatives at (Resource Environmental Solutions) RES. My background and expertise over the last 20 years has focused on water quality restoration for springs, streams, rivers, lakes, and estuaries. My goal is to help advance the... Read More →
SM

Susan Martin

Attorney, Nason Yeager Gerson Harris & Fumero P.A.
avatar for Jeff Littlejohn

Jeff Littlejohn

President, FL Environmental Network
avatar for Tim Rach

Tim Rach

Program Administrator, Department of Environmental Protection
Environmental Resource Permitting; Use of Sovereign Submerged Lands; wetlands; mitigation bank permitting; marina permitting; living shorelines rule development
MS
Thursday July 23, 2026 10:30am - 12:10pm EDT
Calusa 10
  Cross-Cutting & Emerging Issues

10:30am EDT

Agricultural Water Policy: The Latest Updates from FDACS
LIMITED
Thursday July 23, 2026 10:30am - 12:10pm EDT
Calusa 11
Limited Capacity seats available
This course will give you the latest information on water quality BMPs, water use and reuse on agricultural lands, and other policy changes resulting from the Legislative Session and implementation by the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, including adoption of new BMP Manuals. Come hear from West Gregory, the Water Policy Director, and a panel of water policy experts on the...
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Speakers
avatar for Robert Williams

Robert Williams

Lewis, Longman & Walker, P.A.
avatar for Mike Register

Mike Register

Executive Director, St. Johns River Water Management District
 
HT

Hugh Thomas

Executive Director, Suwannee River Water Management District
Hugh Thomas began working with the Suwannee River Water Management District in August 2016 in the Agriculture and Environmental Project Division as a Project Manager. In July 2017, he was appointed by the Governing Board as Executive Director of District.

Prior to working with the District, Hugh was employed with the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS) Office of Agriculture Water Policy as Environmental Administrator for North Florida. Hugh worked for FDACS for 14 years and prior to that worked as an enviro... Read More →
avatar for West Gregory

West Gregory

Director of Agricultural Water Policy, Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services
avatar for Kevin Wright
Thursday July 23, 2026 10:30am - 12:10pm EDT
Calusa 11
  Environmental Policy & Agency Updates

10:30am EDT

Federal Environmental Regulation and Enforcement Update
LIMITED
Thursday July 23, 2026 10:30am - 12:10pm EDT
Calusa 4-5
Limited Capacity seats available
Come listen and learn from a panel of experts as they discuss the latest changes to federal environmental policies and regulations under the Trump Administration. This session examines how the policies and roles of the federal agencies are changing across a wide spectrum of issues such as WOTUS and other water issues, endangered species, enforcement, agency size, and climate change. The experts...
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Speakers
avatar for Rafe Petersen

Rafe Petersen

Partner, Holland & Knight
Rafe Petersen is a partner in Holland & Knight's Washington, D.C. office and is a member of the firm's Government Section. He primarily focuses on litigation and counseling in administrative, environmental and energy fields. Mr. Petersen's environmental practice includes environmental compliance... Read More →
BC

Brad Carey

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
avatar for Bernadette Rappold

Bernadette Rappold

Shareholder, Greenberg Traurig
Bernadette M. Rappold focuses her practice on federal and state regulatory issues related to energy, manufacturing, and the environment. Bernadette has substantial litigation experience and advises clients on regulatory compliance as well as the environmental, safety, and health aspects... Read More →
avatar for Melissa Meeker

Melissa Meeker

Chief Executive Officer, The Water Tower
Melissa Meeker is the Chief Executive Officer of the Water Tower in Buford, Georgia, a non-profit focused on advancing water utilities through applied research, technology advancement, workforce development, and public engagement. Melissa previously served as the CEO of the Water... Read More →
avatar for Eric Beightel

Eric Beightel

Federal Strategy Director, ESA
Eric Beightel is a nationally recognized expert in environmental policy, infrastructure permitting, and regulatory strategy, with over 25 years of experience across federal, state, and private sectors. He currently serves as the Federal Strategy Director at Environmental Science... Read More →
Thursday July 23, 2026 10:30am - 12:10pm EDT
Calusa 4-5
  Environmental Policy & Agency Updates

10:30am EDT

WMD Planning, Regulatory, and Policy Update
LIMITED
Thursday July 23, 2026 10:30am - 12:10pm EDT
Calusa 8-9
Limited Capacity seats available
An excellent course designed to provide insight into the regulatory, planning, and water supply development programs of Florida’s five water management districts; includes a discussion of water resource development and water supply planning; adoption and implementation of MFLs; development of water reservations; Environmental Resource Permitting updates; secondary and cumulative impacts;...
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Speakers
avatar for Larry Sellers

Larry Sellers

Partner, Holland & Knight LLP
Larry practices administrative and governmental law, with a concentration in environmental and land use matters. He regularly provides advice on permitting and enforcement matters involving a variety of federal, state, regional and local administrative agencies. He has substantial... Read More →
avatar for Eric Olsen

Eric Olsen

Shareholder, Gunster
Inside and outside of Florida, Eric assists myriad business and individual clients on environmental law and regulatory matters. A Florida native, for nearly three decades Eric has focused his practice on wetland regulation, mitigation banking, stormwater regulation, consumptive use... Read More →
avatar for Brian Armstrong

Brian Armstrong

Executive Director, Southwest Florida Water Management District
avatar for Nicolas Porter

Nicolas Porter

Shareholder, de la Parte & Gilbert, P.A.
avatar for Erin Preston

Erin Preston

General Counsel, St. Johns River Water Management District
avatar for Jennifer Smith

Jennifer Smith

Chief of Staff, South Florida Water Management District
Thursday July 23, 2026 10:30am - 12:10pm EDT
Calusa 8-9
  Environmental Policy & Agency Updates

10:30am EDT

Florida Wetland Delineation Methodology
LIMITED
Thursday July 23, 2026 10:30am - 12:10pm EDT
Calusa 2-3
Limited Capacity seats available
If you want to know precisely how state wetland jurisdiction is determined in Florida, and the nuances of the uniform statewide wetland methodology, this is your course! This course addresses the initial concept and formulation of 62-340, F.A.C., the wetland jurisdictional methodology, recent rule interpretations and policy. This experienced panel will discuss and analyze the application of...
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Speakers
avatar for Mike Dennis

Mike Dennis

President, Breedlove, Dennis & Associates
avatar for Ed Murawski

Ed Murawski

Program Manager, Kleinfelder
Mr. Murawski has 25 years of experience in the environmental consulting field in the areas of wetlands, protected species and land use permitting. He serves as the Program Manager for Tampa Florida office and supervises a team of up 20 employees. Ed has managed projects throughout... Read More →
avatar for Mike Nichols

Mike Nichols

President, MJ Nichols & Associates
Mike has an extensive background conducting jurisdictional wetland determinations and other wetlands permitting and mitigation design projects in his over 40 year career in environmental assessments. He has been employed by Florida DEP and Broward County for about half of his career... Read More →
avatar for Debbie Madden

Debbie Madden

Attorney, Gunster
Deborah Madden is an attorney whose practice focuses on the area of environmental law.
Deborah represents a broad range of clients, including developers, agricultural interests and public and private companies.
Deborah has experience providing legal support to clients in permitting and litigation matters involving water resources, wetlands, water supply, state and federal listed species issues, mitigation banking, state submerged lands and coastal construction. She represents clients in court p... Read More →
avatar for Sirena Davila

Sirena Davila

District Director, Florida Department of Environmental Protection
Sirena Davila is the District Director for the Florida Department of Environmental Protection's Southeast District. She oversees permitting, compliance and enforcement programs across seven counties in Southeast Florida, including the Florida Keys.    Sirena has spent her career... Read More →
Thursday July 23, 2026 10:30am - 12:10pm EDT
Calusa 2-3
  Permitting & Regulatory Practice

10:30am EDT

Planning And Execution For Successful Environmental Outcomes
FILLING
Thursday July 23, 2026 10:30am - 12:10pm EDT
Calusa 12
Limited Capacity filling up
Back by popular demand, the focus of this interactive discussion is facilitating sure and positive communication with both stakeholders and environmental regulatory agencies at the local, state and federal levels. Preparation, organization, as well as an in-depth understanding of the legal framework and processes of regulation, go a long way to ensuring a smoother and certainly more positive...
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Speakers
avatar for Amy Tracy

Amy Tracy

Fl Water Resources Leader, Dewberry
My career focuses solely on improving the quality of Florida’s water resources. A stormwater aficionado who developed a love for reclaimed water, I’m passionate about judging water by its "quality, not its history". An advocate of treating water to its appropriate end use, I've... Read More →
avatar for Anna Long

Anna Long

Of Counsel, Dean Mead
avatar for Liz Johnson

Liz Johnson

Environmental Program Administrator, Environmental Protection Division, Orange County Government
Elizabeth R. Johnson
Assistant Manager, Orange County Environmental Protection Division
 
EDUCATION:
Orlando College; Winter Park, Florida, 1993
Masters in Public Administration - Graduated Magna Cum Laude
Rollins College; Winter Park, Florida, 1986
B.A. Environmental Science
PROFESSI... Read More →
avatar for Jeff Prather

Jeff Prather

Director, Division of Regulatory Services, St. Johns River Water Management District
avatar for Ann Shortelle

Ann Shortelle

Bio-Tech Consulting
Thursday July 23, 2026 10:30am - 12:10pm EDT
Calusa 12
  Permitting & Regulatory Practice

10:30am EDT

Waste Cleanup and Management: The Challenges of Change (Part 2 of 2)
LIMITED
Thursday July 23, 2026 10:30am - 12:10pm EDT
Caxambus 1-2
Limited Capacity seats available
Two historically well- attended classes in the areas of waste cleanup and waste management regulation are now being combined to create a comprehensive “super” class that will address a multitude of current and emerging “hot topic” issues and developments in these areas with predictions and forecasts by a panel of experts on potential federal and state government regulatory responses. Those...
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Speakers
AB

Alexandra Barshel

Associate, Bilzin Sumberg Baena Price & Axelrod LLP
avatar for Jorge Caspary

Jorge Caspary

Senior Principal, Montrose Environmental
Been involved for over 30 years in several aspects of the environmental market, from policy making in the public and private sector to project management and developing new areas of business expansion. Attending my 14th straight year. 
avatar for Travis Hearne

Travis Hearne

Environmental attorney, Mechanik Nuccio Hearne & Wester
Travis Moore Hearne is an Associate Attorney in the Environmental Practice Group at Mechanik Nuccio. Travis is a second generation environmental lawyer and focuses his practice on environmental permitting, compliance, and remediation. Travis has experience in a wide variety of environmental... Read More →
avatar for Michael Larson

Michael Larson

Partner, Akerman LLP
Michael is a Partner at Akerman LLP.  He is an experienced environmental attorney focusing on contaminated site cleanup and redevelopment, environmental due diligence, environmental permitting, and environmental compliance.
LL

Laurel Lockett

Shareholder, Carlton Fields, P.A.
avatar for Dawn McCormick

Dawn McCormick

Director, Communications & Community Relations, Waste Management Inc. of Florida
Dawn McCormick is responsible for Communications, Stakeholder Relations and Government Affairs activities for Waste Management in Florida and coordinates the company’s Recycling Improvement initiatives in the state.  She is Vice Chair of the National Waste & Recycling Association... Read More →
avatar for Ron Noble

Ron Noble

Shareholder, Buchanan Ingersoll & Rooney PC
Ron H. Noble represents clients in all areas of environmental due diligence, permitting and regulatory compliance. Other practice areas he has experience in include hazardous and solid waste regulation, wastewater treatment enforcement and permitting, environmental representation... Read More →
avatar for Mike Petrovich

Mike Petrovich

Shareholder, Gunster
Mike is a shareholder with the Gunster law firm and is located in the firm’s Tallahassee offices. Gunster is a full-service commercial law firm with nearly a century of counseling Florida’s leading businesses.

With over three decades of experience in environmental law, Mike represents a variety of industrial clients, including the electric utility and chemical manufacturing industries, primarily focused on solid and hazardous waste, real property contamination and remediation, and storage... Read More →
Thursday July 23, 2026 10:30am - 12:10pm EDT
Caxambus 1-2
  Waste Management & Site Remediation

12:10pm EDT

Thursday Luncheon with Keynote or Door Prize Drawings by Sponsors
Thursday July 23, 2026 12:10pm - 1:30pm EDT
Banyon Ballroom
Thursday July 23, 2026 12:10pm - 1:30pm EDT
Banyon Ballroom

1:30pm EDT

Strengthening Coastal Resiliency
LIMITED
Thursday July 23, 2026 1:30pm - 3:10pm EDT
Caxambus 1-2
Limited Capacity seats available
Updated for 2026, this highly popular course brings together practitioners, agency leadership, and industry experts to share real-world lessons learned from planning and implementing projects funded under Florida’s Resilient Florida Program. Drawing from direct project experience, panelists will provide practical insights into what works—and what doesn’t—when advancing resilience planning...
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Speakers
JJ

Jennifer Jurado

Director and Chief Resilience Officer, Broward County
avatar for Erin Deady

Erin Deady

President, Erin L. Deady, P.A.
avatar for Hannah Hart, PMP

Hannah Hart, PMP

Florida-Gulf Department Manager, Resilience Solutions, Dewberry
Hannah leads the Florida-Gulf regional department for Dewberry's resilience team in Florida, Alabama and Mississippi.  She has over 20 years' experience in public and private industry, and has managed major projects along the mid-Atlantic and Northeastern US coastline. During her... Read More →
avatar for Sharon Wright

Sharon Wright

Florida Resilience Practice Lead, HDR
Hello!  Let's talk about community resilience - infrastructure, natural resources, neighborhoods, and built environment.  

How can we collaborate and consider solutions for the challenges ahead?
avatar for Eddy Bouza
Thursday July 23, 2026 1:30pm - 3:10pm EDT
Caxambus 1-2
  Climate Impacts & Community Resilience

1:30pm EDT

Comprehensive Everglades Restoration Plan (CERP) – A Water Management Balancing Act?
LIMITED
Thursday July 23, 2026 1:30pm - 3:10pm EDT
Calusa 10
Limited Capacity seats available
This extremely popular panel of agency staff and experts is back to discuss the latest developments regarding the Comprehensive Everglades Restoration Plan (CERP), including priority projects, obstacles, funding and how these projects may affect various stakeholders. The panel will focus on emerging issues including ecological benefits of CERP, status of funding, timelines for key projects, Lake...
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Speakers
avatar for Luna E. Phillips

Luna E. Phillips

Shareholder, Gunster
Luna Phillips is a Florida Bar board certified Gunster shareholder who practices in the area of environmental, administrative and governmental law. She leads the firm’s Environmental practice.
Prior to joining the firm, Luna was a senior attorney for the South Florida Water Mana... Read More →
avatar for Michelle Diffenderfer

Michelle Diffenderfer

Shareholder, Lewis, Longman & Walker, P.A.
Michelle Diffenderfer is a Shareholder of Lewis, Longman & Walker, P.A., a statewide environmental law firm. Mrs. Diffenderfer assists landowners, businesses and governments with local, state and federal, environmental, natural resource and land development legal requirements. Michelle... Read More →
avatar for Drew Bartlett

Drew Bartlett

Executive Director, South Florida Water Management District
avatar for Anna Upton

Anna Upton

CEO, Everglades Trust
BB
Thursday July 23, 2026 1:30pm - 3:10pm EDT
Calusa 10
  Cross-Cutting & Emerging Issues

1:30pm EDT

Delivering One Water Outcomes: Aligning Across Florida's Water System
LIMITED
Thursday July 23, 2026 1:30pm - 3:10pm EDT
Calusa 11
Limited Capacity seats available
Florida’s water leaders each play a critical role in shaping policy, permitting, funding, and implementation. Yet even with strong leadership, delivering consistent, integrated outcomes across the system remains a challenge. This session brings together perspectives from across that system to explore how alignment can be strengthened to support shared outcomes. Whether you regulate, plan, fund,...
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Speakers
avatar for Eric Draper

Eric Draper

Former Florida Park Service director and past President of Florida Audubon. Now helping groups and communities finance water resource protection. Chaired the Fl Wildlife Corridor Payment for Ecosystem Services. Grove Land Reservoir acquisition outreach. Conservation Florida Board... Read More →
avatar for Greg Knecht

Greg Knecht

Executive Director, The Nature Conservancy
avatar for Adam Blalock

Adam Blalock

Deputy Secretary fro Ecosystems Restoration, Department of Environmental Protection
avatar for Gary Hubbard

Gary Hubbard

Director of Winter Haven Water, City of Winter Haven
avatar for Ansley Tilley , PE

Ansley Tilley , PE

Principal, EcoStasis, LLC
Principal Engineer with EcoStasis, LLC. EcoStasis develops nature-based, watershed-scale solutions integrating ecological restoration, infrastructure, finance, and land stewardship to improve water resources and climate resilience.
BC
Thursday July 23, 2026 1:30pm - 3:10pm EDT
Calusa 11
  Cross-Cutting & Emerging Issues

1:30pm EDT

Florida's Environment and Water Policy and the 2026 Florida Legislature
LIMITED
Thursday July 23, 2026 1:30pm - 3:10pm EDT
Calusa 4-5
Limited Capacity seats available
Absolutely the most current and reliable information available on what the 2026 Legislature passed (or considered but failed to pass) and why; assessment of Florida’s changing political landscape with respect to environmental and water policy issues; comprehensive preview of what’s expected with respect to the implementation of 2026 legislation with a look ahead to the 2027 session and beyond....
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Speakers
avatar for Frank Walker

Frank Walker

Executive Vice President of Government and Political Relations, Florida Chamber of Commerce
avatar for Lori Killinger

Lori Killinger

Executive Shareholder, Lewis, Longman & Walker, P.A.
Ms. Killinger’s practice focuses on Legislative, Administrative and Governmental representation. She represents clients before legislative and executive branches of government, regulatory agencies at the state and local levels, the Florida Cabinet and legislative and gubernatorial... Read More →
avatar for Jon Steverson

Jon Steverson

Senior Policy Advisor, Holland & Knight
Jonathan Steverson is a senior policy advisor in Holland & Knight's Tallahassee office and a member of the firm's Public Policy & Regulation Group. Mr. Steverson handles a variety of topics within Florida government advocacy, with a specific focus on matters related to energy, environment and natural... Read More →
avatar for Ryan Matthews

Ryan Matthews

Florida Environmental Network
avatar for Laura Jacobs Donaldson

Laura Jacobs Donaldson

President, Florida Environmental, Fire & Government Law, P.A.
Thursday July 23, 2026 1:30pm - 3:10pm EDT
Calusa 4-5
  Cross-Cutting & Emerging Issues

1:30pm EDT

The Essentials Of Obtaining An Environmental Resource Permit: The Nuts And Bolts Of ERP Permitting
LIMITED
Thursday July 23, 2026 1:30pm - 3:10pm EDT
Calusa 2-3
Limited Capacity seats available
This course will provide a detailed and in-depth breakdown of all aspects and components necessary for the environmental professional to obtain an ERP permit in an efficient and effective manner. This course will take the audience through all the steps in the review and issuance of an ERP permit including an administrative permit challenge. In addition, the course will discuss how new and proposed...
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Speakers
avatar for Shannon Ruby Julien

Shannon Ruby Julien

Energy Market Lead, VHB
I specialize in all aspects of environmental permitting including the National Environmental Policy Act, Endangered Species Act, Environmental Resource Permitting, and Consumptive Use Permitting. With over 30 years of experience, my current focus is related to the Energy market’s... Read More →
avatar for Michael Ballenger

Michael Ballenger

Principal Consultants, Trinity Consultants
I serve as Principal Consultant and Manager of Florida Operations for Trinity Consultants. I specialize in air permitting and compliance, helping industry meet regulations.
avatar for Dylan Larson

Dylan Larson

Vice President, Miller Legg
avatar for Christine Wentzel

Christine Wentzel

St. Johns River Water Management District
avatar for Kris Rowley

Kris Rowley

Director of Land Development, Zev Cohen & Assoc.
Kris Rowley is the Director of Land Development at Zev Cohen & Associates, leading a team focused on delivering site design and permitting for a wide range of projects throughout Volusia County and Central Florida.
Thursday July 23, 2026 1:30pm - 3:10pm EDT
Calusa 2-3
  Permitting & Regulatory Practice

1:30pm EDT

Florida Brownfields: Strategies for Smarter Cleanup and Stronger Communities
LIMITED
Thursday July 23, 2026 1:30pm - 3:10pm EDT
Calusa 12
Limited Capacity seats available
This course will provide environmental engineers, attorneys, and other brownfield stakeholders with a practical, detailed overview of how to navigate the redevelopment of contaminated sites in Florida. Participants will learn how current state and federal rules, including recent changes from the 2025 Florida Legislative Session, directly impact liability management, site cleanup, and redevelopment...
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Speakers
avatar for Michael Goldstein

Michael Goldstein

Managing Partner, The Goldstein Environmental Law Firm, P.A.
Michael R. Goldstein is the Managing Shareholder of The Goldstein Environmental Law Firm, P.A., president of the Goldstein Brownfields Foundation, president of the Goldstein Brownfields Group, co-CEO of Goldstein Kite Environmental Redevelopment Partners, former Chairman of the Miami-Dade... Read More →
avatar for Robyn Neely

Robyn Neely

Chair, Environment and Natural Resources Practice, Akerman LLP

Robyn Neely focuses her practice on environmental site contamination issues related to real estate and corporate sales and acquisitions, and leases, including pre-acquisition, pre-leasing and pre-foreclosure due diligence analysis. Her practice also includes managing the investigation and remediation of contaminated properties and brownfield rede... Read More →
avatar for Maribel Nicholson-Choice

Maribel Nicholson-Choice

Shareholder, Greenberg Traurig
Maribel is a shareholder with Greenberg Traurig’s Tallahassee office with a concentrated practice in local government, environmental, and land use law. With 30 years of experience which includes local government, environmental, land use, brownfields, construction with an emphasis... Read More →
avatar for Tim Bahr

Tim Bahr

Director, Division of Waste Management, Department of Environmental Protection
avatar for Michael Spievack, PE

Michael Spievack, PE

Associate, Langan
Michael Spievack, PE is an Associate in Langan's Miami office.  Michael is a graduate of the University of Florida and Georgia Tech, and has been a practicing environmental engineer for over 20 years. Michael is a licensed engineer in 12 states throughout the southeast, and has extensive... Read More →
Thursday July 23, 2026 1:30pm - 3:10pm EDT
Calusa 12
  Waste Management & Site Remediation

1:30pm EDT

Florida MS4 And NPDES Update
LIMITED
Thursday July 23, 2026 1:30pm - 3:10pm EDT
Calusa 8-9
Limited Capacity seats available
The panel of experts will provide a timely update on procedural and substantive considerations in permitting under the NPDES program, including stormwater; numeric nutrient criteria; program administration; case law update, including Sackett v. EPA regarding Waters of the U.S.; enforcement and citizen suits; additional compliance considerations; how to interpret complex regulations; examples of...
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Speakers
avatar for Greg Munson

Greg Munson

Shareholder, Gunster
Greg Munson is a shareholder with the Gunster firm and represents regulated industries in the industrial, agricultural, mining, and utility sectors in all areas of state and federal environmental law. He represents clients before Florida’s executive branch agencies, the state’s... Read More →
avatar for Jana Ash

Jana Ash

Scientist IV, RES
After RES (Resource Environmental Solutions) acquired E Sciences in 2022, I am thrilled to continue my focus on major environmental restoration and water quality improvement projects in Florida.As the nation’s largest nature-based solutions company, RES is restoring a resilient... Read More →
avatar for Robert Potts

Robert Potts

Principal Scientist, Geosyntec Consultants
MK

Matt Knoll

Deputy Director, Florida Department of Environmental Protection
Thursday July 23, 2026 1:30pm - 3:10pm EDT
Calusa 8-9
  Water Supply & Infrastructure

3:30pm EDT

Environmental Permitting and Enforcement Update
LIMITED
Thursday July 23, 2026 3:30pm - 5:10pm EDT
Calusa 4-5
Limited Capacity seats available
Timely and informative update on permitting and enforcement procedures utilized by environmental agencies; beginner to intermediate course; covers permits and permit renewals; construction and operation permits; time limitations; monitoring; agency enforcement of permit conditions; fines and other penalties; legal and ethical considerations; other emerging trends and issues including legislative...
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Speakers
avatar for Silvia Alderman

Silvia Alderman

Partner, Akerman LLP
Board Certified in State and Federal Government and Administrative Practice. Practicing Environmental and Land Use law since 1977
LK

Lisa Kelley

Lisa Kelley LLC

avatar for Julie P. Kendig-Schrader

Julie P. Kendig-Schrader

Shareholder, Greenberg Traurig
Julie P. Kendig-Schrader represents clients in land use and environmental matters and administrative litigation. She works with clients to create public/private partnerships for infrastructure needs, particularly those related to transportation. With sustainability concerns and initiatives... Read More →
avatar for Maricruz Fincher

Maricruz Fincher

General Counsel, South Florida Water Management District
avatar for John Truitt

John Truitt

Deputy Secretary, Department of Environmental Protection
Thursday July 23, 2026 3:30pm - 5:10pm EDT
Calusa 4-5
  Cross-Cutting & Emerging Issues

3:30pm EDT

What's New in Environmental Resource Permitting
LIMITED
Thursday July 23, 2026 3:30pm - 5:10pm EDT
Caxambus 1-2
Limited Capacity seats available
Think Environmental Permitting in Florida is an old hat? Think again! This important area of law is constantly evolving, formally or otherwise. This extremely informative (and perhaps even a little fun) course combines the legal principles of ERP permitting, including policy and rulemaking updates, with practical tips for achieving compliance and avoiding process “pitfalls” from regulators and...
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Speakers
avatar for Amelia Savage

Amelia Savage

Shareholder, Stearns Weaver Miller Weissler Alhadeff & Sitterson
avatar for Michelle Hopkins

Michelle Hopkins

Regulation Division Director, Southwest Florida Water Management District
I am the Regulation Division Director at the Southwest Florida Water Management District, overseeing the Environmental Resource Permitting (ERP), Water Use Permitting (WUP) and Well Construction Permitting (WCP) programs. I have more than 30 years of water resources engineering experience... Read More →
avatar for Julie Sullivan

Julie Sullivan

Vice President, Southeast Regional Director, ESA
avatar for Nicole Gough

Nicole Gough

Environmental Manager, Dewberry
BB

Brittany Banko

Senior Ecologist, Verdantas LLC.
Thursday July 23, 2026 3:30pm - 5:10pm EDT
Caxambus 1-2
  Cross-Cutting & Emerging Issues

3:30pm EDT

FRESH FROM FLORIDA: Emerging Issues in Agriculture and Their Effect on the Environment
LIMITED
Thursday July 23, 2026 3:30pm - 5:10pm EDT
Calusa 12
Limited Capacity seats available
Florida agriculture plays a significant role in meeting the food and commodity needs of a growing world population and in environmental stewardship. This course will discuss new and ever-evolving topics – including land use management and preservation, water use, and wetland and wildlife conservation – and their effect on Florida’s agricultural community. Expect...
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Speakers
avatar for Felicia L. Kitzmiller

Felicia L. Kitzmiller

Shareholder, Stearns Weaver Miller Weissler Alhadeff & Sitterson
As an environmental attorney, Felicia has experience in local, state, and federal environmental permitting, compliance, and permit defense. In the land use realm, Felicia develops entitlement strategy for large industrial, resource extraction, and energy operations. She often navigates... Read More →
avatar for Cortney Cortez

Cortney Cortez

Senior Economist, Balmoral Group
Cortney Cortez is Senior Economist of The Balmoral Group, an economic and engineering firm focused on public policy, socioeconomic impacts, and design within infrastructure, water resources, and the environment.
avatar for West Gregory

West Gregory

Director of Agricultural Water Policy, Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services
avatar for Ansley Tilley , PE

Ansley Tilley , PE

Principal, EcoStasis, LLC
Principal Engineer with EcoStasis, LLC. EcoStasis develops nature-based, watershed-scale solutions integrating ecological restoration, infrastructure, finance, and land stewardship to improve water resources and climate resilience.
SH
Thursday July 23, 2026 3:30pm - 5:10pm EDT
Calusa 12
  Environmental Policy & Agency Updates

3:30pm EDT

Drawing Wetland Lines Using Federal Delineation Methodology
LIMITED
Thursday July 23, 2026 3:30pm - 5:10pm EDT
Calusa 11
Limited Capacity seats available
This course addresses how to delineate a federal wetland using the 1987 Wetland Jurisdictional Manual and 2010 Regional Supplement. If you want to know precisely how a wetland jurisdictional boundary is set at the federal level, and the subtle and not so subtle differences and nuances of Federal wetland methodology, this is your course! The panel will discuss and analyze the application of...
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Speakers
avatar for Mike Dennis

Mike Dennis

President, Breedlove, Dennis & Associates
avatar for Ed Murawski

Ed Murawski

Program Manager, Kleinfelder
Mr. Murawski has 25 years of experience in the environmental consulting field in the areas of wetlands, protected species and land use permitting. He serves as the Program Manager for Tampa Florida office and supervises a team of up 20 employees. Ed has managed projects throughout... Read More →
SC

Steven Currie

Soil Scientist, Wetland Technical Specialist, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
avatar for Mallory Tatum

Mallory Tatum

Director of Environmental Operations, Zev Cohen & Associates, Inc.
Thursday July 23, 2026 3:30pm - 5:10pm EDT
Calusa 11
  Permitting & Regulatory Practice

3:30pm EDT

Permitting And Development In The Marine Environment
LIMITED
Thursday July 23, 2026 3:30pm - 5:10pm EDT
Calusa 8-9
Limited Capacity seats available
So, your proposed project is located over state-owned, Sovereign Submerged Lands, or in an Aquatic Preserve. How do you navigate the additional hurdles such as considerations over highly protected marine resources, greater limitations on project size or scope, limitations or even prohibitions on dredging, and a potential visit to the Governor and Cabinet? Come listen to a panel of experts as they...
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Speakers
avatar for Andy Baumann

Andy Baumann

Shareholder, Lewis, Longman & Walker, P.A.
Biography

Mr. Baumann’s practice focuses on civil and administrative litigation focusing on docks, marinas, riparian rights and sovereignty submerged lands and coastal construction matters. Mr. Baumann’s practice also includes Environmental Resource Permitting (“ERP) zoning and land use... Read More →
SC

Spencer Crowley

Shareholder, Chair Miami Real Estate and Land Use Group, Akerman LLP
avatar for Jen Mathia

Jen Mathia

Principal Scientist, Environmental Consulting & Technology
Ms. Mathia has more than 17 years' expertise in environmental consulting, having worked for both private and public clients. Ms. Mathia’s background is focused in marine and freshwater biology with experience in both terrestrial and aquatic systems and expertise in field study design... Read More →
avatar for Curry Isiminger

Curry Isiminger

Senior Professional Engineer, Isiminger & Stubbs Engineering, Inc.
Curry Isiminger is a Professional Engineer and has worked at Isiminger & Stubbs Engineering since early 2022. His expertise includes state (Florida) and federal environmental permit applications and processing, field observation of seagrasses, mangroves, and wetlands, Florida Sovereignty... Read More →
BR
Thursday July 23, 2026 3:30pm - 5:10pm EDT
Calusa 8-9
  Permitting & Regulatory Practice

3:30pm EDT

Linking Growth With Water Supply Availability
LIMITED
Thursday July 23, 2026 3:30pm - 5:10pm EDT
Calusa 10
Limited Capacity seats available
Discussion of integrating regional water supply plans of local government with the plans and projects of water utilities through a prescribed planning process requiring cooperation between water management districts and local and regional water management districts and local and regional water utilities; regulatory incentives for the development of alternative water supplies; financial assistance...
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Speakers
avatar for Rey Malave

Rey Malave

Associate Vice President, Dewberry
Mr. Malavé is a professional engineer with more than 43 years experience in civil engineering design. His background includes the design and permitting of infrastructure systems, including complex stormwater and utility projects, land development residential and multifamily projects... Read More →
avatar for Gary Hubbard

Gary Hubbard

Director of Winter Haven Water, City of Winter Haven
avatar for Tabitha Biehl

Tabitha Biehl

Land and Water Natural Areas, Polk County - Parks & Natural Resources
As the Land and Water Natural Areas Manager for Polk County, my team and I cover a variety of disciplines such as tackling regional water quality issues, listed species management/monitoring, public education/outreach, invasive species management, stormwater, wildlife management and... Read More →
DH
DM
Thursday July 23, 2026 3:30pm - 5:10pm EDT
Calusa 10
  Water Supply & Infrastructure

3:30pm EDT

Permits, Politics, and Public Perception: Communicating High-Profile Environmental Projects
LIMITED
Thursday July 23, 2026 3:30pm - 5:10pm EDT
Banyon Ballroom
Limited Capacity seats available
This interactive session tackles the communication dynamics that increasingly influence permitting outcomes. Participants will gain insights into how communication strategies can support regulatory success, reduce project risk, and improve stakeholder trust in complex environmental projects. Drawing on real-world experience supporting complex environmental, water, energy, and infrastructure...
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Speakers
DP

Drew Piers

Sachs Media Group
avatar for Herschel Vinyard

Herschel Vinyard

Partner In Charge, Adams and Reese LLP
avatar for Lihy Teuerstein

Lihy Teuerstein

CEO, IDE Technologies
Lihy Teuerstein joined IDE Technologies in 2011 and has led IDE Water Assets since 2018. With more than two decades of experience in infrastructure, she has a broad understanding of the global water market and international project development processes. Leading projects on nearly... Read More →
LM

Lisa Moore

Save Crystal River
Thursday July 23, 2026 3:30pm - 5:10pm EDT
Banyon Ballroom
  Water Supply & Infrastructure

3:30pm EDT

From Vision to Reality: Tools for Advancing the Florida Wildlife Corridor
LIMITED
Thursday July 23, 2026 3:30pm - 5:10pm EDT
Calusa 2-3
Limited Capacity seats available
This course will focus on the real-world implementation of the Florida Wildlife Corridor —what it takes to turn a conservation vision into tangible outcomes. With nearly half of the 18 million-acre corridor already under conservation management and the rest largely comprised of working agricultural lands, success depends on balancing preservation with landowner partnerships. Panelists will...
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Speakers
MB

Meredith Budd

Live Wildly
avatar for Jason Houck, ENV SP, GISP, SPWS

Jason Houck, ENV SP, GISP, SPWS

Ecological Practice Director, Ardurra Group
I lead the Southeast Region Ecological Practice for Ardurra Group out of the Orlando, Florida office. As such, I provide environmental and ecological consulting services to clients primarily consisting of state and local government organizations. Services provided include state and... Read More →
avatar for Mallory Dimmitt

Mallory Dimmitt

CEO, Florida Wildlife Corridor Foundation
KG
Thursday July 23, 2026 3:30pm - 5:10pm EDT
Calusa 2-3
  Wildlife & Habitat Conservation
 
Friday, July 24
 

8:30am EDT

The Evolution of Transportation, Infrastructure, and Resiliency Efforts
LIMITED
Friday July 24, 2026 8:30am - 10:10am EDT
Calusa 10
Limited Capacity seats available
Transportation and utility infrastructure in Florida continues to evolve on multiple fronts as technology, travel patterns, and resiliency planning influence how our infrastructure is designed, funded, and utilized. This panel gathers engineers, economic specialists, and planners to discuss how their work is evolving in the face of these changes.
Speakers
avatar for Seth Behn

Seth Behn

Shareholder, Lewis, Longman & Walker, P.A.
avatar for Adam Kerr

Adam Kerr

Transportation Engineer, Kimley-Horn and Associates, Inc.
avatar for Jannek Cederberg

Jannek Cederberg

President, Cummins Cederberg
Jannek is formally trained as a civil engineer, specializing in coastal engineering from the Technical University of Denmark. He has more than 21 years of experience in marine field investigations, hydrodynamics, linear and nonlinear wave dynamics, numerical modeling, coastal structure... Read More →
avatar for Tom Frick

Tom Frick

Resilience Officer, St. Johns River Water Management District
avatar for Cortney Cortez

Cortney Cortez

Senior Economist, Balmoral Group
Cortney Cortez is Senior Economist of The Balmoral Group, an economic and engineering firm focused on public policy, socioeconomic impacts, and design within infrastructure, water resources, and the environment.
Friday July 24, 2026 8:30am - 10:10am EDT
Calusa 10
  Climate Impacts & Community Resilience

8:30am EDT

UMAM Basics And Beyond
LIMITED
Friday July 24, 2026 8:30am - 10:10am EDT
Calusa 11
Limited Capacity seats available
In Florida, the Uniform Mitigation Assessment Method (UMAM) is used by local, state and federal regulatory agencies to determine the amount of mitigation necessary to offset impacts to wetlands and other surface waters and the number of mitigation credits to be assigned to a mitigation bank. This course will focus on UMAM fundamentals with additional discussion reflecting any recent policy or rule...
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Speakers
avatar for Penny Cople

Penny Cople

Vice President, Breedlove, Dennis & Associates
avatar for Ed Cronyn

Ed Cronyn

Sr Scientist/Project Manager, AtkinsRéalis
During my 29 years in the environmental permitting field, I have had the pleasure of helping to draft UMAM while at SFWMD; managing a broad range of wetland, wildlife and water quality projects at AtkinsRéalis, and recently earning my FAA 107 (drone) license.  As a new (2026) member... Read More →
AC
avatar for Carrie Kelly

Carrie Kelly

National Practice Leader, Natural Resources & Environmental Planning, Verdantas
avatar for Elizabeth Sweigert

Elizabeth Sweigert

South District Director, Florida Department of Environmental Protection
Leader with 20+ years of experience building high performing teams and implementing regulatory programs that advance the environmental priorities established by the Governor and Legislature. I oversee the South District’s team of 90+ professional and technical staff responsible... Read More →
Friday July 24, 2026 8:30am - 10:10am EDT
Calusa 11
  Environmental Policy & Agency Updates

8:30am EDT

Planning the Future: State Leadership or State Preemption? Legislative Updates & Legal Battles
FILLING
Friday July 24, 2026 8:30am - 10:10am EDT
Calusa 12
Limited Capacity filling up
This panel of experts will discuss the results of an active 2026 legislative session, the latest with the Live Local Act and how local governments are responding, as well as the latest Florida planning trends. The panel will also discuss the direction of land use in the state, including discussion of state preemption. This course is updated every year to discuss new and anticipated legislation,...
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Speakers
JC
avatar for Dan DeLisi

Dan DeLisi

President, DeLisi Land Use Planning & Water Policy
Water/Environmental Policy consultant/lobbyist; and land use planner.
AK

Alan Krischer

Of Counsel, Holland & Knight
avatar for Darrin Taylor

Darrin Taylor

Holtzman Vogel
avatar for Sean Parks

Sean Parks

County Commissioner, Lake County Board of Commissioners
Commissioner Sean Parks is a Central Florida native. He and his wife, Ivy, are active in the community and attend and serve at their Church in Clermont with their three children. Sean owns and operates a small business and writes for Lake Business Magazine. An Eagle Scout, Sean serves... Read More →
Friday July 24, 2026 8:30am - 10:10am EDT
Calusa 12
  Land Use - Redevelopment and Growth

8:30am EDT

Mastering Expert Testimony That Wins
LIMITED
Friday July 24, 2026 8:30am - 10:10am EDT
Calusa 8-9
Limited Capacity seats available
Expert testimony can make or break adversarial proceedings. This session shows lawyers how to manage experts effectively, protect their opinions under applicable legal standards, and elicit clear, credible, and persuasive testimony. It also shows PhDs, engineers, and other technical experts how to deliver defensible work, withstand challenges, and communicate opinions with greater impact. This...
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Speakers
avatar for Chris Torres

Chris Torres

Shareholder, Greenberg Traurig
Christopher Torres is the Administrative Shareholder of the Tampa Office. Chris concentrates his practice on business and complex commercial litigation, toxic tort defense, environmental litigation, and land use litigation. Chris has practiced as an environmental and toxic tort litigator... Read More →
avatar for Kathleen Toolan

Kathleen Toolan

Special Counsel for Environmental Affairs, FL DOT
KATHLEEN TOOLAN currently serves as Special Counsel for Environmental Affairs at the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT). She has held this position since 2016, when she was appointed in conjunction with her effort to achieve FDOT’s NEPA Assignment. Prior to this appointment, she served as Chief... Read More →
avatar for Martin Alexander

Martin Alexander

Partner, Holland & Knight
avatar for Ginny Dailey

Ginny Dailey

Shuwmaker
Friday July 24, 2026 8:30am - 10:10am EDT
Calusa 8-9
  Permitting & Regulatory Practice

8:30am EDT

Treatment Wetlands For Ecosystem Restoration And Water Resource Augmentation
LIMITED
Friday July 24, 2026 8:30am - 10:10am EDT
Calusa 4-5
Limited Capacity seats available
Wetlands provide natural, sustainable, and environmentally beneficial water quality improvement. This exciting course will include a detailed overview of treatment wetland applications, design and permitting, and recent trends and innovations to address some of the state’s most complex challenges associated with surface water quality and water supply shortages. Surface water quality protection...
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Speakers
avatar for Rafael Vazquez-Burney

Rafael Vazquez-Burney

Technology Fellow, Jacobs
Technology Fellow at Jacobs specializing in Natural Treatment Systems. With over 19 years of experience in wastewater treatment, ecological planning, permitting and design of natural treatment systems for nutrient reduction, Rafael is a globally recognized expert in treatment wetlands... Read More →
avatar for Chris Keller

Chris Keller

President, Wetland Solutions, Inc.
I have over 30 years of professional experience specializing in the design, assessment, and optimization of treatment wetlands for water quality improvement. I hold B.S. and M.E. degrees in environmental engineering from the University of Florida and am a licensed professional engineer... Read More →
avatar for Tony Holley

Tony Holley

Principal Engineer/Owner, JSA
Tony Holley, P.E. is a Principal Engineer and Owner at JSA, with over 20 years of experience in water and wastewater engineering across Florida, Georgia, and Alabama. His work focuses on the planning, permitting, and design of advanced treatment systems with an emphasis on emerging... Read More →
avatar for Mark Merkelbach

Mark Merkelbach

COO, Sustainable Water Infrastructure Group, LLC.
Mr. Merkelbach leads project development and implementation for SWIG. He is a civil designer and professional wetland scientist (PWS) who has managed the design and construction of hundreds of water quality projects, including some of the largest GSI projects in China. He worked with... Read More →
JK
Friday July 24, 2026 8:30am - 10:10am EDT
Calusa 4-5
  Permitting & Regulatory Practice

8:30am EDT

Mangroves Seagrasses and Living Shorelines
LIMITED
Friday July 24, 2026 8:30am - 10:10am EDT
Calusa 2-3
Limited Capacity seats available
This session will address the types of permits (CCCL, ERP, JCP) that apply to marine-related projects and includes presentations on how the ecology and biology of Florida’s seagrasses and mangroves drive the reality of regulatory responses; what restoration options and assessment strategies are available and appropriate; the challenges of the permitting process and the importance of establishing...
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Speakers
avatar for Raymond Dennis, III, PWS, FAA Remote Pilot

Raymond Dennis, III, PWS, FAA Remote Pilot

Principal, Gulf East Business Center Practice Lead - Environmental Services, Stantec Consulting Inc.
For over 29 years, Mr. Dennis has dedicated his career to assisting clients in achieving their project objectives while protecting and restoring natural resources. The focus of Mr. Dennis’s scientific training and experience has been on coastal and freshwater wetland ecology, regulatory... Read More →
avatar for Mark Fonseca

Mark Fonseca

Senior Ecologist, CSA Ocean Sciences, Inc.
I am interested in habitat restoration, particularly of seagrasses, including their valuation, ecological function, landscape dynamics and associated hydrodynamic environment particularly as it is influenced by wind waves, boat wakes and tidal currents. My recent activities include... Read More →
avatar for Nicole Monies

Nicole Monies

D1 Environmental Permits Coordinator, FDOT
Nicole Monies is a transportation professional with over ten years of experience working for the Florida Department of Transportation in the environmental field. She has spent her FDOT career in District One as the Environmental Permits Coordinator. Nicole works in the Design Department... Read More →
avatar for Carter Henne

Carter Henne

Sea & Shoreline
KS
Friday July 24, 2026 8:30am - 10:10am EDT
Calusa 2-3
  Wildlife & Habitat Conservation

10:30am EDT

Disaster Mitigation, The Insurance Industry And Climate Resiliency
LIMITED
Friday July 24, 2026 10:30am - 12:10pm EDT
Calusa 8-9
Limited Capacity seats available
This session will provide an overview of policies and regulations that link disaster mitigation policy to climate resiliency issues. The presentation will explore these linkages as well as room for improvement in them. With major storms continuing to impact Florida every few years, agency orders are also a policy implication to be considered, both in short-term response and long-term planning...
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Speakers
KS
avatar for Wes Rimes

Wes Rimes

Senior Risk Engineering Consultant, Zurich North America
avatar for Danielle Irwin

Danielle Irwin

Associate Principal, Cummins Cederberg
avatar for Paul Tschirky

Paul Tschirky

Senior Director, APTIM
Friday July 24, 2026 10:30am - 12:10pm EDT
Calusa 8-9
  Climate Impacts & Community Resilience

10:30am EDT

Energy Policy Transitions And Their Impact On Florida Industry
LIMITED
Friday July 24, 2026 10:30am - 12:10pm EDT
Calusa 12
Limited Capacity seats available
Recent federal policy shifts have altered or rolled back several carbon-related initiatives adopted in prior years. While Florida does not maintain statewide carbon mandates, many businesses made operational, capital, and strategic decisions in response to earlier federal policies. This session brings together representatives from mining, power generation, ports, and municipalities to discuss how...
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Speakers
avatar for Catherine Prince
CC

Christopher Cooley

Director of Environmental Affairs, Port Tampa Bay
avatar for Byron T. Burrows, PE, BCEE

Byron T. Burrows, PE, BCEE

Director-Environmental, Tampa Electric Company
Power IndustryStrategy
Environmental Permitting
Land Acquisition
Air Quality Permitting & Monitoring
Conservation
Wetland Mitigation
avatar for Michael Borchers

Michael Borchers

Black & Veatch
SK
Friday July 24, 2026 10:30am - 12:10pm EDT
Calusa 12
  Cross-Cutting & Emerging Issues

10:30am EDT

The Evolving Landscape of Florida Wetland Mitigation Banking
LIMITED
Friday July 24, 2026 10:30am - 12:10pm EDT
Calusa 2-3
Limited Capacity seats available
Florida’s mitigation banking industry continues to rapidly evolve as regulatory agencies, bankers, consultants, and permittees navigate changing policy, market demands, and implementation challenges. This course will provide a focused update on key regulatory and operational developments impacting mitigation banking in Florida, including implementation of Senate Bill 492 and its evolving...
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Speakers
avatar for Kae Hovater

Kae Hovater

President, EcoCredit Marketing
avatar for Penny Cople

Penny Cople

Vice President, Breedlove, Dennis & Associates
avatar for Cory Wilson

Cory Wilson

Lead Biologist, Mitigation Programs Team, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
avatar for Tim Rach

Tim Rach

Program Administrator, Department of Environmental Protection
Environmental Resource Permitting; Use of Sovereign Submerged Lands; wetlands; mitigation bank permitting; marina permitting; living shorelines rule development
avatar for Chris Tanner

Chris Tanner

Managing Partner, Tanner Heeter, PA
Friday July 24, 2026 10:30am - 12:10pm EDT
Calusa 2-3
  Environmental Policy & Agency Updates

10:30am EDT

Florida Beach Management and Coastal Program Update
LIMITED
Friday July 24, 2026 10:30am - 12:10pm EDT
Calusa 11
Limited Capacity seats available
Beaches are a valuable resource in Florida, as they provide storm protection to upland infrastructure, nesting habitat to sea turtles, and recreational value to tourists and locals. Since coastal development and navigation inlets have interrupted the natural littoral drift of sediment along much of Florida’s coastline, it is necessary to nourish these sandy beaches on a recurring basis....
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Speakers
avatar for Fred Aschauer

Fred Aschauer

Shareholder, Lewis, Longman & Walker, P.A.
MP

Mark Powell

Isiminger & Stubbs Engineering, Inc.
avatar for Penny Cutt

Penny Cutt

Senior Director, Cummins Cederberg
Talk to me about...
County, state, and federal environmental regulations
Environmental permitting strategy
Marina feasibility
Beach and inlet management
Resilient waterfront park design
Permit compliance
Mitigation assessment and negotiation
Ecological assessment and monitoring
Grant Fund... Read More →
avatar for Lainie Edwards

Lainie Edwards

Deputy Director, Office of Resilience and Coastal Protection
LS

Laura Shepherd

Sr. Environmental Project Manager, Moffatt & Nichol
avatar for Pepper Uchino

Pepper Uchino

President, FSBPA
Friday July 24, 2026 10:30am - 12:10pm EDT
Calusa 11
  Permitting & Regulatory Practice

10:30am EDT

Remediation and Site Closure Strategies – Practical Solutions to Complex Sites
LIMITED
Friday July 24, 2026 10:30am - 12:10pm EDT
Calusa 10
Limited Capacity seats available
This course presents legal and practical strategies for site remediation in a variety of scenarios. Case studies will focus on creative solutions, regulatory flexibilities, and innovative technologies used to achieve site closures. A must-attend, timely, and informative course designed for active audience participation.
Speakers
avatar for Carl Eldred

Carl Eldred

Shareholder, Stearns Weaver Miller Weissler Alhadeff & Sitterson
avatar for Brian Moore

Brian Moore

Principal Engineer, GHD
avatar for Todd Kafka

Todd Kafka

SENIOR PRINCIPAL, Geosyntec Consultants
Todd Kafka, PG, is a Senior Principal Hydrogeologist in Geosyntec's Tampa office and is the co-Branch Manager of the firm's eight offices in Florida.  Todd obtained his MS in Geology from Washington State University in 1995 and has a BA in Environmental Studies/Geology from Middlebury... Read More →
BO

Brittney Odom

Vice President, SCS Engineers
Environmental consulting and remediation.
avatar for Steven Folsom

Steven Folsom

Environmental Engineering Professional
Mr. Folsom is a Senior Professional with over 25 years of consulting experience in all aspects of environmental engineering programs and projects; specializing in the management of site investigation, remedial design and performance optimization, brownfields redevelopment, solid and... Read More →
Friday July 24, 2026 10:30am - 12:10pm EDT
Calusa 10
  Waste Management & Site Remediation

10:30am EDT

Endangered Species Act Compliance Tools Under Section 10: Habitat Conservation Plans and Conservation Benefit Agreements
LIMITED
Friday July 24, 2026 10:30am - 12:10pm EDT
Calusa 4-5
Limited Capacity seats available
This course provides an overview of the latest developments and best practices in tools available to non-federal entities to comply with the federal Endangered Species Act. Section 10 of the ESA allows for incidental take permits or enhancement of survival permits that provide durable, long-term regulatory assurances that are not available under the federal consultation process of ESA Section 7....
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Speakers
avatar for Niki Desjardin

Niki Desjardin

Director of Operations, Ecological Associates, Inc.
Niki has over 20 years of experience managing protected species monitoring programs and coordinating/conducting field work in Florida. Her expertise is in sea turtle nesting beach management, shorebird/seabird conservation, and habitat conservation planning. Please ask Niki about... Read More →
avatar for Holly Andreotta

Holly Andreotta

Lead Wildlife Biologist, Permitting and Compliance, South Florida Water Management District
Holly Andreotta has over 20 years of experience overseeing permitting and compliance for multiple large-scale Everglades restoration projects at the South Florida Water Management District with an emphasis on managing, protecting, surveying, and monitoring of protected state and federal... Read More →
avatar for David Zippin

David Zippin

Practice Lead, Habitat Conservation Planning, ICF
I lead ICF's large Practice in habitat conservation planning and implementation, including state and federal Endangered Species Act compliance for state and local governments, utilities, energy companies, and private developers. I oversee and lead large, complex biodiversity and habitat... Read More →
avatar for Jose Rivera

Jose Rivera

Manager, Division of Environmental review, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
Jose started his Federal career as a student Park Ranger with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (Corps) at Saylorville Lake, in Johnston, Iowa in 1998. After a few years working in recreation, interpretation, water safety and natural resource management, he headed South to Florida... Read More →
avatar for Brian Levey

Brian Levey

Counsel, Hunton Andrews Kurth LLP
Brian advises clients on matters that arise under the Clean Water Act (CWA), Endangered Species Act (ESA), National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) and other environmental statutes. He assists applicants in obtaining and defending federal permits for complicated energy and development... Read More →
Friday July 24, 2026 10:30am - 12:10pm EDT
Calusa 4-5
  Wildlife & Habitat Conservation
 

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