SESSION ONE
High, Dry, Or What? Assessing and Mitigating of Flood Hazards to Buildings to Improve Community Resiliency and Reduce Environmental Impacts
Eric K. Olson, P.E., Principal, Simpson Gumpertz & Heger Inc.
Eric Olson is a member of SGH’s Building Technology group in Houston, Texas. He specializes in evaluating and investigating building enclosure systems, including windows and curtain walls, cladding and veneer systems, roofing, and plaza and below-grade waterproofing. His investigation experience includes hurricane and storm-related damage, design and construction defect claims, surety claims, litigation related to building enclosure systems, and enclosure system condition assessments for due diligence purposes or establishing maintenance and replacement needs. Mr. Olson also leads rehabilitation design projects for enclosure systems and performs design consulting for enclosures for new and existing buildings.
Stream Corridor Restoration Principles: Guiding Restoration Initiatives for Sustainable Communities
Brittani Flowers, MUEP, President & CEO, Bayou Preservation Association
Brittani Flowers is an experienced urban and environmental planner. Drawing on experience gained while serving as an international advocate for development and environmental justice, Brittani spent three years working alongside researchers and U.S delegates in South Africa, South America, and Southeast Asia. Her education in urban and environmental planning was applied to advise local organizations on sustainable development practices, policy, and mobilization.
Building on that experience, for the last six years, Brittani has worked in the public sector, directing programs and initiatives. Her roles have required a thorough knowledge of applicable ordinances, policy, and an understanding of the perceived impacts when developing within a watershed. Within each role, there is a responsibility to provide strategic planning, program development, grant writing, and funds management; to support multiple local and regional initiatives.
Integrating Permaculture into Urban Design: A Holistic Approach
Carol Burton, Director of Permaculture, Urban Harvest, Inc.
Carol Burton is Urban Harvest’s Director of Permaculture with over twenty years of experience in community engagement, community gardening, and environmental education. Carol is a certified teacher and curriculum specialist in environmental education in design and implementation of schoolyard habitats, vegetable gardens and orchards as outdoor classrooms. She is a Certified Permaculture Design Consultant and recipient of the Elizabeth Hull Abernathy Award from the Garden Club of America for outstanding contributions to environmental education of youth. She received her advanced Permaculture Teacher Training through Cascadia Permaculture. She is also the co-author of Urban Harvest School Garden Guide.
