W3 Seminar: Exploring Treatment Wetland Nature-Based Solutions for Water Resource Challenges

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Abstract:
The latest buzzword from the World Bank and White House to the engineering community is “nature-based solutions” (NBSs). While the concept and practical application of NBS can sometimes be ambiguous, this talk aims to describe recent practical applications of NBS in addressing society’s most complex water resource challenges. Treatment wetlands are a nature-based solution, that offers a low-energy and effective means for water resource recovery. These wetlands provide a myriad of ecosystem services, including water purification for municipal, mine, and stormwater, water supply augmentation, environmental restoration, habitat creation, and public recreation. This presentation will delve into various treatment wetland projects recently completed or currently in design by Jacobs across the U.S., showcasing the practical application of NBS in real-world scenarios.

Bio:
Allison is a Professional Engineer and Senior Technologist at Jacobs Engineering, with over a decade of specialization in treatment wetlands and water reuse. She holds both a bachelor’s and master’s degree in environmental engineering from the University of Florida (UF). During her time at UF, she discovered a passion for treatment wetland technology, a field she has dedicated her career to. Allison has spearheaded and supported numerous natural treatment systems projects, including constructed wetland designs, permitting, pilot studies, ecological assessments, construction management, and operational support. Her work has spanned across the globe, benefitting clients from Florida to New Zealand. Among her favorite projects are those that have transformed treatment wetlands into public parks, providing both education and recreation opportunities for the nearby communities. Allison has also been actively involved with the Florida section of the American Water Resources Association (FL AWRA) since her graduate studies in 2014. She served as the President in 2023 and currently holds the position of Past-President.