Category: Company News

EACH MONTH, ENVIROFORENSICS RECOGNIZES TALENTED INDIVIDUALS, LIKE OUR NORTHERN MIDWEST REGIONAL DIRECTOR, ROB HOVERMAN. GET TO KNOW ROB INSIDE AND OUTSIDE OF ENVIROFORENSICS. 

ROB HOVERMAN, NORTHERN MIDWEST REGIONAL DIRECTOR 

QUESTION: WHAT’S YOUR BACKGROUND AND CAREER PATH?
ANSWER: I started out with a focus on rivers and wetlands. I have a real passion for making our built world less of an impact on the natural world. 

Q: HOW DO YOU FEEL ABOUT BEING RECOGNIZED BY YOUR COWORKERS?
A: I would rather not be the only one in the spotlight because of all the great work my team members Wayne and Brian do, plus everyone else in the company that supports our projects. 

Q: WHAT DO YOU ENJOY ABOUT WORKING AT ENVIROFORENSICS?
A: I enjoy the fact that if we have an idea to make our work or the company better, we can share those thoughts even if it’s contrary to existing systems.   

Q: WHAT IS ONE OF YOUR MOST EXCITING PROJECTS AT ENVIROFORENSICS?
A: A local drycleaner in my area was pretty fun to investigate in a classic sand and gravel aquifer. We have moved the investigation forward fast and started remediation within a short time frame as well.  

Q: WHAT IS YOUR LIFE LIKE OUTSIDE OF ENVIROFORENSICS?
A: My wife and I have three kids and we all have different interests that occasionally overlap in gardening, bicycling, or various arts and craft projects that are never-ending.  When it happens, my ideal day includes a bike ride, putting on a record while I take care of house plants, and cooking a new vegetarian dish.  

WE’RE STAYING AT THE FOREFRONT OF AGRIBUSINESS ALONGSIDE ITS INDUSTRY LEADERS. 

We’re proud to serve the agribusiness community and thrilled to be part of this important community of industry leaders. The Agribusiness Council of Indiana (ACI) is the proactive voice of business serving Indiana agriculture. ACI provides the agriculture industry and business leaders with community support opportunities and information on industry trends and issues.  

Morgan Saltsgiver, our Director of Brownfields and AgriBusiness shared, “The Agribusiness Council of Indiana (ACI) is the primary voice of the agribusiness community and I am excited that EnviroForensics is now one of their newest members! We will have access to industry leaders, educational and development sessions, and the latest industry news that will help EnviroForensics better serve our clients in the agribusiness sector. I have already had the chance to attend two educations sessions offered by ACI and had some valuable takeaways.” 

Learn more about our services for the AgriBusiness industry. 

EACH MONTH, ENVIROFORENSICS RECOGNIZES TALENTED INDIVIDUALS, LIKE OUR SENIOR GEOLOGIST AND PROJECT MANAGER, BRIAN KAPPEN. GET TO KNOW BRIAN INSIDE AND OUTSIDE OF ENVIROFORENSICS. 

BRIAN KAPPEN, SENIOR GEOLOGIST AND PROJECT MANAGER 

QUESTION: WHAT’S YOUR BACKGROUND AND CAREER PATH?
ANSWER: My background is in hydrogeology, which I started to pursue after a less than stellar fifth semester of engineering courses. It’s been 17 years since so my career path appears to be environmental consulting.   

Q: HOW DO YOU FEEL ABOUT BEING RECOGNIZED BY YOUR COWORKERS?
A: I’m honored – We have a good crew in Wisconsin, and I appreciate the support of Rob and Wayne on technical projects. 

Q: WHAT DO YOU ENJOY ABOUT WORKING AT ENVIROFORENSICS?
A: I like the size of EnviroForensics, which allows the company to be nimble and employees to be more than just a number. I also like the culture of hard work and camaraderie. Also singing happy birthday at 7:40 on Monday mornings once a month for staff meetings is always fun. 

Q: WHAT IS ONE OF YOUR MOST EXCITING PROJECTS AT ENVIROFORENSICS?
A: One of the most interesting projects has been a drycleaner in Madison, WI because of the scope of the project – a  big plume deep in bedrock and neighborhood-wide VI risk, and the effectiveness of the remedies that were implemented. We’re also testing for PFAS before the site can be closed.  

Q: WHAT IS YOUR LIFE LIKE OUTSIDE OF ENVIROFORENSICS?
A: I have two daughters aged 10 and 8 who are very nice to me (hoping that continues). I spend the warm few months outside as much as possible – mountain biking, camping, disc golfing, and during a non-COVID year festival going – and the cold months hibernating and drinking dark beer. 

UNITED NATIONS URGES THE WORLD TO LISTEN TO NATURE DURING TIME OF PANDEMIC AND CLIMATE CRISIS 

“The foods we eat, the air we breathe, the water we drink, and the climate that makes our planet habitable all come from nature.” That’s the beginning of the mission statement for this year’s UN World Environment Day theme; “Time for Nature.” This year’s edition comes at an unprecedented time when the world is facing a historic pandemic and the devastating impacts of climate change. The UN is urging everyone in the world to listen to the message that nature is sending us: To care for ourselves, we must care for nature.

WHAT IS WORLD ENVIRONMENT DAY?

World Environment Day began in 1974 and has grown into a global platform for raising awareness and taking action on urgent issues from marine pollution and global warming to sustainable consumption and wildlife crime. Every June 5th there’s a call to action to engage local governments, businesses, celebrities, and citizens to focus on a pressing environmental issue.

This year we have witnessed an alarming array of catastrophic episodes including the wildfires that swept through Brazil, Australia, and the US, locust infestations across Eastern Africa, and the global COVID-19 pandemic that has impacted millions of lives. All of these events demonstrate the interdependence of humans and the webs of life in which they exist.  

WHY SPENDING TIME WITH NATURE IS IMPORTANT

Getting time with nature has become a mental health necessity these past few months We’ve had time to reflect on our own personal impacts on the world around us. It’s forced us to think about the way we consume, what businesses we support, and how their practices impact the environment, who we elect as our leaders to safeguard our natural resources, and how we educate and talk to the next generations about protecting our precious planet.

HOW WE’RE SPENDING TIME WITH NATURE

As environmental engineers, geologists, and scientists, our team has an innate appreciation for nature. Before the pandemic, outside of our professional environmental work, we would conduct regular neighborhood cleanups to spend some time outdoors and protect the environment from the adverse impacts of improperly disposed of waste. Since we all can’t gather together, here’s how some are spending time outside and preserving and protecting their corner of the world. 

1. PICKING UP LITTER

Now that it’s light enough to enjoy nature after work, I spend most of my evenings hiking and taking photos of the Indiana Dunes. During my walks, I’ll pick up trash (I have a record for picking up 39 balloons in one walk – 31 mylar and 8 latex). I also spend entirely too much time looking for beach glass (truly addicting). 

Michele Murday, Northwest Indiana Regional Manager

 

2. GARDENING

I love any kind of gardening and can be found outside in our yard planting or transplanting on any sunny weekend day! My favorite plant is Russian Sage but it spreads easily in a bed so I keep mine in pots. We also have some iris plants that are from Jeff’s grandmother’s garden, still blooming! Here is a pic of my new plant babies, including succulents, some Russian Sage, some Salvia, Milkweed, some edible herbs, Flowering Onions, a mini Aloe plant, and a couple of unknowns that I brought from our old house!

Morgan Saltsgiver, Director of Brownfields & AgriBusiness

 

3. GROWING YOUR OWN FOOD

Grow your own, so you know what’s in it. I used treated lumber for these raised beds. I line the insides with landscaping cloth. My wife got the cloth bags at the ends. We have had fantastic fingerling and new potatoes from them.

Mark Nommay, Warehouse Manager

I don’t pretend to know how to garden (I always kill the lavender plants I try to grow), but I do keep a vegetable garden every year. Homegrown tomatoes and cucumbers are the best part of summer. This year I’m trying for a few variations of peppers, too. 

Dru Shields, Director of Accounts

 

4. SPENDING TIME IN COMMUNITY GREEN SPACES

My husband and I recently moved to the Windsor Park neighborhood in Indianapolis, Indiana. We commune with nature by landscaping and walking in our area. We’re lucky to have Triangle Park, Fletcher Park, Spades Park, and Brookside Park all near us. It’s incredible to have so much greenery and towering trees living downtown. When we’re walking, we pick up trash and talk to our neighborhoods. My husband has joined the board of the Windsor Park Neighborhood Association, and we’re excited to be investing in our community.

Elizabeth Hemingway, Marketing Director

 

5. CAMPING

Camping, hiking, and mountain biking is how our family has fun in the great outdoors.  Not sleeping on the ground any more thanks to the USS Winnebago!  

Brad Lewis, Principal Scientist

 

6. FISHING

I spend a lot of time at our Kentucky Lake home fishing.

Brian Moskalick, Field Professional

 

7. REPLACING FRONT LAWN WITH NATIVE AND NON-INVASIVE GROUNDCOVER

We just finished removing our front lawn for a butterfly and edible garden. We have a cherry tree, serviceberry, blue berry, currants, and hops alongside coneflowers, butterfly bush, and other native and non-invasive ground cover and shrubs. Several butterflies and pollinators have already been spotted. We also completed the installation of our third rain barrel to capture more runoff. This should significantly reduce the solar gain on the house, limit rainwater runoff, and will just be a pleasant place to read a book or enjoy a beverage.

Rob Hoverman, Northern Midwest Director

 

8. WANDERING

I make time for nature by turning down unknown roads in remote places in order to stumble upon vistas such as these.

Jeff Carnahan, President

 

9. SPENDING TIME AT A NATIONAL OR STATE PARK 

Nothing beats a day trip of biking through Brown County State Park’s beautiful views and forested areas to get some fresh air and exercise. The rolling hills have provided an entertaining bike course to explore and enjoy over the weekends.

Jackie Cabrera, Marketing Manager

 

My wife and I love to hike! One of our favorite hiking spots is the beautiful Little Grand Canyon in Shawnee National Forest in Jackson County, Illinois.

Mark Phillips, Regional Director

 

10. PASSING DOWN AN APPRECIATION FOR NATURE TO THE NEXT GENERATION

I was raised playing in the creek beside our house. It’s where I found my love of geology. To me, it is the best place on earth. Now I love playing with my son in the creek and getting lost in the woods.

Jennifer Hallgarth, Director of Consulting Services

Join our nature-loving team. Visit our careers page.

 

EARTH DAY IS A REMINDER NOT TO DISMISS THE SIGNS OF CLIMATE CHANGE AND HOW THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC SERVES AS A WARNING

April 22, 2020 marks 50 years of celebrating Earth Day and promoting causes and movements to protect and preserve our celestial home. This year’s theme is Climate Action. The COVID-19 pandemic has served as a reminder that we need to take existential threats seriously before they escalate out of control. The same lesson can be applied to the impending climate crisis. 

According to the National Oceanic Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) the last five years have been the warmest on record, and 2020 is already trending towards the top of the list. This consistent annual increase in global temperature is causing the polar ice caps to melt at an exponential rate, putting the safety of coastal populations and crucial ocean ecosystems at serious risk. Weather patterns are becoming more unpredictable causing mass destruction in the form of more intense hurricanes, more widespread tornado outbreaks, longer wildfire seasons, and more devastating droughts and water shortages. And, as the globe warms the potential for more pandemics like COVID-19 grows as mosquitoes carrying diseases like malaria, dengue fever, chikunguya and West Nile virus roam beyond their current habitats. 

WHAT IS EARTH DAY?
The good news is that we have previously pulled ourselves out of similar environmental calamity. The first Earth Day demonstrations in 1970 were in response to a lack of rules and regulations on human-caused environmental impacts. Issues like oil spills, smog, acid rain, and rivers so polluted they literally caught fire were top of mind as 20 million Americans took to the streets to protest environmental damage and demand a new way forward.

Following that first Earth Day, the federal government passed landmark environmental legislation like the Clean Air, Clean Water and Endangered Species Acts, and also created the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Many countries followed our lead in adopting similar laws, and our country’s leadership on environmental issues peaked with the negotiation and passage of the Paris Climate Agreement on Earth Day 2016.   

WHY EARTH DAY IS IMPORTANT TO US
Earth Day is a special day at EnviroForensics. While we are an environmental consulting firm professionally, we are also a group of environmental allies who work together to provide solutions for environmental issues. We are also part of the Indiana Department of Environmental Management’s (IDEM) Indiana Partners for Pollution Prevention program which is a commitment to environmental stewardship in the workplace.

Check out our 6 ways to be an environmental steward in the workplace

Our mission is to clean up our corner of the world, and we support any effort that works towards a healthier environment for all. We support environmental initiatives put on by our Sustainability Council like our neighborhood cleanup program and our recycling initiative. And, we walk lockstep with our non-profit partner, Water for Empowerment, to help them champion environmental justice in the form of access to clean water and sanitation for women and families in Nicaragua. 

BEACONS OF HOPE
Luckily, there are environmental scientists, activists, and organizers from all parts of the world who are not going to let that happen without a fight. Here are a few leaders in the climate crisis that you should know more about:

1. GRETA THUNBERG Organization: School Strike for Climate Over the past two years, the swedish teenager has become a household name. In 2018, she started skipping school to protest outside of Swedish Parliament and demand stronger climate action. Out of that small act of defiance, the “Fridays for Future” movement was born inspiring 13 million strikers across 228 countries worldwide. In 2019, Thunberg was named Time Magazine’s Person of the Year. She has also been nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize twice.
2. JANE FONDA Organization: Fire Drill Fridays The two-time Academy award-winner has devoted a significant chunk of her time and energy to activism. In the 1960s, she protested the Vietnam War. In the early 2000s, she was a vocal critic of the Iraq War. She has fought for decades to advance the causes of Women’s Rights, Native Rights, and Israeli-Palestinian peace. Fonda is now the leader of the Fire Drill Fridays Movement, which holds weekly protest rallies on Capitol Hill, to demand Congress: 1) Pass the Green New Deal, 2) Commit to a 50% reduction in fossil fuels within a decade, and 3) Phase-out of existing fossil fuel projects and into a renewable energy economy that provides environmental justice for all.
3. MARI COPENY Organization: Little Miss Flint The 12-year-old activist is best known by her nickname “Little Miss Flint.” She gained notoriety as an 8-year-old, raising awareness about Flint, Michigan’s ongoing water crisis. Since 2016, she has raised over $500k for bottled water, school supplies, toys, and bikes for the children of Flint. Her work has expanded to fundraising for communities with similar water issues across the country.
4. JIM POYSNER Organization: Earth Charter Indiana Poysner is the Executive Director of Earth Charter Indiana, which is the only Earth Charter chapter in the U.S. The organization’s mission is to inspire and advance sustainable, just and peaceful living in Indiana. Their critical work starts early, supporting climate education of youth, and providing them with the tools to express themselves and make their voices heard.
5. ARMOND COHEN Organization: Clean Air Task Force Cohen is the co-founder and Executive Director of the Clean Air Task Force which has been in operation since 1996. The Clean Air Task Force is a nonprofit environmental organization devoted to the development and scale of low-carbon and other climate-protecting energy technologies.
6. ALEXANDRIA VILLASEÑOR Organization: Earth Uprising After suffering an asthma attack during a family trip to California during a massive wildfire, Villaseñor started researching climate change and how it impacts the severity of these fires. Inspired by Greta Thunberg, she began to skip school every Friday to protest outside the United Nations Headquarters. Her group, Earth Uprising is working on the following missions: 1) Local government lobbying, 2) Community presentations, educating others on the climate crisis, 3) Advocating for climate education in our school administrations and school boards, 4) Unique direct actions and protests, and 5) Participating in Fridays for Future and the global climate strikes.
7. XIYE BASTIDA Organization: People’s Climate Movement Bastida was one of the major organizers of Fridays for Future New York City and has been a leading voice for indigenious and immigrant visibility in climate change. In 2015, her family was forced from their home in Mexico after extreme flooding. They moved to New York City where Bastida enrolled at the Beacon School, and started organizing students for climate activism. She led the school in the first major climate strike in New York City in 2019. She has leadership roles in the People’s Climate Movement, the Sunrise Movement, and the Extinction Rebellion.
8. VANDANA SHIVA Organization: Navdanya Research Foundation Dr. Shiva is the founder of the Navdanya Research Foundation for Science, Technology, and Ecology in Dehadrun, India. She is known for her work in environmental justice and food security. She is motivated by the mission to bring light to the most marginalized victims of climate change and work to illustrate the importance of cultural and ecological diversity to the survival of our planet.
9. AL GORE Organization: The Climate Reality Project The former Vice President has been one of the leading voices in climate activism in the 21st century. Gore’s 2006 documentary, An Inconvenient Truth, was one of the first wide release documentaries to sound the alarm on the threat of climate change. The Climate Reality Project is an organization of activists, cultural leaders, organizers, scientists, and storytellers committed to promoting urgent climate action across every level of society.

 Join our environmentally conscious team. Visit our careers page.

JOIN US AS WE CELEBRATE NATIONAL PARK WEEK REMOTELY  

National Park Week is an annual celebration in mid-April to inspire Americans to either visit a national park or make plans to visit one. However, this year parks are either changing their schedules to promote safe social distancing practices, or shutting down altogether while the country works to slow the spread of COVID-19. Under these unique circumstances, the National Parks Service is going digital and bringing the beauty and splendor of our country’s most beloved natural landscapes to your home. 

Parks across the country will host a variety of special programs and events with a focus on digital experiences this year. There are dedicated days during the week to highlight the ways everyone can enjoy national parks:

SATURDAY, APRIL 18: JUNIOR RANGER DAY
Learn how your kids can become junior rangers and collect virtual badges

SUNDAY, APRIL 19: VOLUNTEER DAY
Check out the volunteer opportunities and get involved in protecting our national parks

MONDAY, APRIL 20: MILITARY MONDAY
Learn about the national military historical sites around the country, and the many ways the Parks Service supports active-duty military and veterans

TUESDAY, APRIL 21: TRANSPORTATION TUESDAY
Explore the links between the National Parks Service and transportation, from the railroads of the early Western expansion to the scenic roads and highways that snake through the national parks

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 22: EARTH DAY
Learn about the earth sciences, be a steward, and see how your kids can become Junior Explorers

THURSDAY, APRIL 23: THROWBACK THURSDAY
Relive the magic of a national park visit. See how you can share old pictures on social media

FRIDAY, APRIL 24: FRIENDSHIP FRIDAY
See how becoming a Park Partner can help preserve a national park for future generations

SATURDAY, APRIL 25: PARK RX DAY
Safely enjoy the healing power of nature and share your experience on social media

SUNDAY, APRIL 26: BARK RANGER DAY
See how your four-legged friends can become a ranger and get an official badge

THE IMPORTANCE OF THE NATIONAL PARKS SERVICE
The National Parks Services is one of the most important cultural enrichment programs in the country. Since 1916, the Parks Service has been entrusted in protecting and preserving our most precious natural wonders and historical sites, and educating the more than 330 million visitors that walk through their gates every year.

By the numbers, the National Parks Service is a massive organization comprised of thousands of rangers, caretakers and volunteers safeguarding 419 parks, which cover 84 million acres of land across the continental United States, and extend into the US held territories of Puerto Rico, Guam, the Virgin Islands, and American Samoa. 

OUR FAVORITE NATIONAL PARKS
One of our foundational values as an environmental consulting firm is the protection and preservation of the environment. This dovetails with the National Parks Service’s mission to “preserve” the natural resources and values of the National Park System for the enjoyment, education, and inspiration of this and future generations.”

National Parks hold historical significance on a national level and a personal one. Many of us have priceless memories of past trips taken to parks across the country. Here are a few of the images and stories from our favorite national parks: 

1. GRAND TETON NATIONAL PARK – WYOMING

Take a virtual tour of Grand Teton National Park

“My favorite is Grand Teton National Park. I spent 10 summers out in Wyoming with family and friends volunteering at an American Indian Reservation. After our time volunteering, my family would spend a week exploring the national parks nearby. This particular spot holds a special place in my heart. ”

– Jackie Cabrera, Marketing Manager

2. SANTA MONICA MOUNTAINS NATIONAL PARK – CALIFORNIA

Take a virtual tour of Griffith Park

“I just visited one of my favorite National Parks in February when I went to Los Angeles. After a few hours of touring Hollywood, we took a lyft up to the “Griffith Park Observatory” which is technically adjacent to the Santa Monica Mountains National Park. The Greek Revival, Art Deco structure is one of the most recognizable buildings in LA. It’s appeared in dozens of movies and television shows including “La La Land”, “Yes Man”, “The Terminator”, and “Back to the Future”, just to name a few. It also boasts some of the most breathtaking views of the San Fernando Valley, the Los Angeles Basin, and (of course) the iconic Hollywood sign. Behind the observatory is a network of miles-long hiking trails criss-crossing up the Hollywood hills. If you’re so bold, and have the time (and energy), there’s even a trail that leads behind the Hollywood sign.”

– Alex Miller, Marketing Specialist

3. INDIANA DUNES NATIONAL LAKEFRONT – INDIANA

Take a virtual tour of the Indiana Dunes National Lakefront

“Visiting the Indiana Dunes National Lakefront is one of my favorite hobbies and holds a lot of my favorite memories. I spend most nights walking the beach, collecting beach glass, and taking nature photos. Fun fact – I have an Instagram account dedicated specifically to photos I’ve taken of the Indiana Dunes (@InTheDunes_61) and some of my photos have even been featured on different Instagram accounts to highlight this Indiana treasure. Above is a picture I took last week during a ‘social isolation’ walk.”

– Michele Murday, Northwest Indiana Regional Manager

4. ROCKY MOUNTAINS NATIONAL PARK – COLORADO

Take a virtual tour of the Rocky Mountain National Park

“My favorite National Park is the Rocky Mountain National Park, mainly because it’s where we have spent the most time. The hikes are amazing as is the drive up Trail Ridge Road. Hoping to get out there this summer.”

– Brad Lewis, CHMM, Director of Consulting Services

5. OLYMPIC NATIONAL PARK – WASHINGTON

Take a virtual tour of Olympic National Park

“I went backpacking in Olympic National Park with a friend from my gym and one of my best friends a few years ago. I really tested myself physically and mentally on that trip. I also forever ruined my knees because of that trip, but I came out with a larger appreciation for nature and life than I did going in. This picture was sunrise on our second day, and I got to experience it by myself while my friends slept (I tried to wake them to watch it with me!) – but getting it all to myself made it that much more special.”

– Dru Shields, Director of Accounts

6. ZION NATIONAL PARK – UTAH

Take a virtual tour of Zion National Park

“For my wife and I, we instantly fell in love and awe of Zion National Park. It felt ancient, and so spiritual and unique. The hiking was limited, challenging, and rewarding. While it did not, literally, take my breath away like the Grand Canyon (one of only two places that has done that for me), it is a place we will return to when we need to feed our souls.”

– Greg Zumbaugh, PE, CHMM, Vice President of Personnel

7. HAWAI’I VOLCANOES NATIONAL PARK – HAWAII

Take a virtual tour of Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park

“Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park, Big Island. I mean, volcanoes! The photo (doesn’t do it justice) is the steam column generated where the lava from Kilauea meets the Pacific.”

– Nick Hill, LPG, Senior Project Manager

“Volcanoes National Park on Big Island, Hawaii: first and only time I’ve seen active lava close up!”

– Joe Miller, Account Executive

8. ACADIA NATIONAL PARK – MAINE

Take a virtual tour of Acadia National Park

“I’m thankful that a Geology degree took me out west to see some beautiful parks, but I have some awesome memories of spending vacations at Acadia National Park in Maine in the summer with my family. I remember hiking with my dad, and rappelling down Otter Cliffs above the water!”

– Morgan Saltsgiver, LPG, Director of Brownfields and AgriBusiness

9. GREAT SMOKY MOUNTAINS NATIONAL PARK – TENNESSEE

Take a virtual tour of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park

“As a kid growing up, if we weren’t driving down to Louisiana or Texas in our family station wagon to visit relatives, we were driving to the Smokey Mountains and into Pigeon Forge (long before Dollywood). I have very fond memories of this place and still love the Smokey Mountains. I do not have a picture to share at the moment. My brother has nearly all the slides from those vacation trips with the family. My Dad was big on using slides and then using an old projector to share them or view them. Yeah, back in the day!”

– Andrea Bryan, Reception and Administrative Support

 

To help protect and promote our National Parks donate to the National Parks Foundation.

Geology deals with the earth’s physical structure, substance, and the various processes that have led to the formation of the world we know today. The study of geology continues to lead us to monumental discoveries in the fields of astronomy, oceanography, meteorology, and countless others. On Geologists Day, we celebrate the curious minds that have contributed to this rich history of geological achievements.

The History of Geologists Day

Every year, on the first Sunday of April, Geologists Day is celebrated by shining a light on these individuals who pursue this essential discipline. In 1966, Geologists Day started in the former Soviet Union to observe the end of Winter and the beginning of the Spring and Summer mining seasons. It has since expanded across the globe and celebrates a variety of fields that employ geologists including the environmental consulting industry.

The Role of Geologists in Environmental Consulting

Geologists are incredibly important in the environmental consulting field. They are relied on for their expertise and knowledge of the different types of rocks and soils that make up the earth’s crust and how contaminated groundwater moves through the subsurface. Assessing the stratigraphy from soil cores or the fractures in bedrock cores, the geologist can map in 3-dimensions the subsurface conditions. This information, coupled with the aquifer pump tests results and the distribution of contaminants in groundwater collected from wells and borings, enables the geologist to determine the rate and direction contamination is migrating and how fast it is degrading. After geologists assess the soil and groundwater contamination, they help develop and implement remedial strategies designed to remove, degrade, and reduce the levels of contamination caused by a spill or release. 

EnviroForensics’ 10 Favorite Rocks and Minerals

Geologists understand the history of the formation of the earth and its components, and use that knowledge to observe and predict how water and environmental contaminants move through the earth. We asked our geologists for their favorite rocks and minerals. Check out some of the favorites!

1. Muscovite

 

Uses
Manufacturing of paint, asphalt roofing, cosmetics and glossy stock paper

What our geology experts say about Muscovite
“My favorite class of mineral is the silicates. My favorite silicate structure is the phyllosilicates, and my favorite of those minerals is muscovite. My favorite rock includes that, and is a garnet-mica-schist. When I first saw this rock in a formation in the Appalachians, I was blown away! I even have a phyllosilicate crystalline structure tattoo!”

– Jeff Carnahan, LPG, President

“Mica, specifically Muscovite, was used to make windows in the past. Large sheets of it can be mined in Russia. My wife and I love Mica so much that we named our son after it! That’s what happens when two geologists have children.”

– Rob Hoverman, PG, Northern Midwest Regional Director

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2. Fluorite

Uses

Manufacturing of fluoride chemicals commonly found in toothpaste and drinking water to prevent tooth decay, non-stick cooking surfaces and microscopic lenses

What our geology experts say about Fluorite
“Fluorite is one of the fluorescent minerals that glows under UV light. Places like the Ben E. Clement Mineral Museum in Kentucky offer “night digs” where you actually get to go out with UV lights after dark to hunt for them. One of my goals is to have a bar or table filled with fluorescent minerals.”

– Michele Murday, Northwest Indiana Regional Manager 

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3. Galena

Uses
Serves as an ore in most of the world’s lead production

What our geology experts say about Galena
“Galena is a lead sulfide mineral with a chemical composition of PbS. It has a perfect cleavage 90 degrees, and has a distinct silver color and a bright metallic luster. It resembles the “Mother Boxes” of the Justice League movies!”

– Joe Miller, Account Executive

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4. Chert

Uses
Previously used to produce tools and weapons (arrowheads and flint rocks for firearms)

What our geology experts say about Chert
“Chert is a microcrystalline quartz (essentially). It’s really hard, and creates sparks when you hit it with a hammer. Flint is a type of chert (think flint and steel for starting fires, or flintlock pistols to create the spark to ignite gunpowder).

For Indiana University’s students who did their geology field work at the Judson Mead Geologic Field Station, there was only one formation in the entire profile that had chert in it. There were times you’d be wandering along, trying to map rocks and having no idea where you were in the stratigraphy, and then you’d see chert and you’d know exactly where you were. It was so reassuring to know 100% what you were looking at and mapping! There was a feeling of relief, and it could help solve all the other riddles posed by the outcrops you had been looking at (and it also let you know there might be rattlesnakes, as they seemed to like the same formation). Someone had written ‘chert is your friend’ on the bathroom wall, and it stuck with me to this day. It was like a friend in the field.”

– Roger Cohen, LPG, Project Manager, Due Diligence Manager

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5. Obsidian

Uses
Surgical scalpel blades, jewelry and mirrors

What our geology experts say about Obsidian
“Obsidian is volcanic glass. It forms when highly viscous lava rapidly cools and hardens before crystal growth can occur. It is black and glossy, forms from lava, and it’s called obsidian. What could be any cooler than that? I’ve seen it used in jewelry and decorative pieces. It can also be used to make sharp blades for knives and has been tested out for scalpel blades.”

– Brianne Inman, LPG, Senior Project Manager

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6. Rhodochrosite

Uses
Valuable gemstones

What our geology experts say about Rhodochrosite
“My favorite mineral is rhodochrosite, a manganese carbonite that is pink. I have a necklace pendant made of it. I also like it because you can pronounce it two different ways:  rho-do-CHRO-site or rho-DOC-hro-site. Pick your favorite, they’re both correct! Also, it is the state mineral of Colorado as it’s frequently found associated with silver ore deposits.”

– Morgan Saltsgiver, LPG, Director of Brownfields and AgriBusiness

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7. Septarian Nodules

Uses
There are no current uses for it commercially, however it’s a highly sought-after collector’s item.

What our geology experts say about Septarian Nodules
“When I was a college student we went on a spring break trip to southern Utah to hunt Septarian nodules. Back in the Cretaceous period (50-70 million years ago) the Gulf of Mexico reached far inland where volcanic activity reacted with decomposing sea life and sediment forming mud balls in the ocean currents. As the ocean receded, the mud balls cracked and dried. Calcite from decomposing sea shells formed crystals within the mud balls. A thin wall of calcite was transformed into aragonite, separating the calcite (yellow center) and aragonite (brown lines) from the bentonite clay (exterior). The name latin Septarian (seven) was given as the mud balls cracked with 7 points in every direction. Such unique conditions to form a beautiful rock.”

– Jennifer Hallgarth, LPG, Director of Technical Operations

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8. Elbaite

Uses
Valuable gemstones and other jewelry

What our geology experts say about Elbaite
“One of my all-time favorite minerals is Elbaite, which is a species of the tourmaline group. Tourmaline is a cyclosilicate. It occurs as long, slender to thick prismatic and columnar crystals that are usually triangular to rounded-triangular in cross-section. Tourmaline is distinguished by its three-sided prisms; no other common mineral has three sides! Elbaite forms in igneous and metamorphic rocks, often in association is hydrothermal deposits, giving rise to fantastic chemical impurities (rich colors!). Elbaite is a beautiful gemstone; it is pleochroic and can often have a Cat’s eye effect in polished pieces.”

– Samantha Henderson, Project Manager

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9. Halite

Uses
Roads to control accumulation of snow and ice and a popular food seasoning

What our geology experts say about Halite
“Halite is the mineral name for the substance that everyone knows as “salt.” Its chemical name is sodium chloride, and a rock composed primarily of halite is known as “rock salt.” Salt is an essential nutrient for humans, and a popular food seasoner. Could you imagine our world without salt!? Hot sauce just wouldn’t be the same. I’m getting sad just thinking about a world without it.”

– Jordan Goff, LPG, Senior Project Manager, Health & Safety Manager

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10. Feldspar

Uses
Feldspars are a group of rock-forming tectosilicate minerals that make up about 41% of the Earth’s continental crust by weight.

What our geology experts say about Feldspar
“It’s cool because it plays an important role in the makeup of magma that is the origin of the granites and foliage’s metamorphic rocks.”

– Steve Henshaw, LPG, Principal

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Geologists play an untold and crucial role in our daily lives. Whenever a stormfront moves over a body of water, a new rover lands on Mars, an earthquake is measured, or a sinkhole is predicted, geology is being used to provide valuable information to the public.

Geologists are everywhere; building roads, protecting the environment, designing buildings, studying ancient ruins, and making recommendations to farmers on how to increase their crop yields. Geologists have a huge impact, so if you know one, make sure to thank them for their work.

Interested in joining our team of environmental geologists? Check out our career opportunities.

EnviroForensics recently promoted Brad Cord to vapor mitigation specialist. Brad has demonstrated his attention to detail for our clients and regularly goes above and beyond the call of duty to provide innovative and cost-effective approaches to traditional remedial operations as well as vapor mitigation. 

Brad has excelled in his testing for and implementation of vapor mitigation strategies ranging from residential homes and apartments to large commercial buildings and schools. We are excited to have Brad as a key component of our vapor mitigation team, we look forward to his continued professional development, and his contributions to our company’s continued success. 

Get to know Brad Cord through our Q&A session. 

 Brad Cord, Vapor Mitigation Specialist 

Question: How long have you been at EnviroForensics? What responsibilities have you had since you’ve been at EnviroForensics?
Answer: I’ve been with Enviroforensics for a little over two years now and I have participated in a wide variety of technical tasks. My main focus has been maintaining proper operation of our Soil Vapor Extraction systems, as well as participating in the design and installation of a number of Vapor Mitigation Systems in new and existing homes and large buildings. As a member of the technical group, our main function is to aid in any mechanical capacity needed. Which can vary from technical advice, mechanical troubleshooting, custom fabrication, and orchestration of construction related projects. 

Q: What types of projects does your department work on?
A: Each project presents its own unique challenges to overcome. And that’s exactly what I need! I am just as excited in the beginning of a new project as I was in the beginning of the project that was last completed. “On to the next Adventure!” 

Q: What project are you excited about right now?
A: We’ve been busy with various construction projects over the past year and a half and that has kept me extremely busy. So basically, my work life is a mixture of estimation, preparation, and implementation. 

Q: What will you be focused on for this upcoming year?
A: Over the next year I plan to focus on furthering my education in the areas of chemical vapor mitigation. And as always, I will be doing my very best ensure continued success in any way possible.  

Q: What are you most excited about in your new role?
A: The best thing about my new position as Vapor Mitigation Specialist is the feeling that I have been invested in. It means that my efforts have made an impact, and that there is opportunity to grow even further within vapor mitigation industry. I feel empowered and determined to rise! 

Q: If you had to explain what you do in two sentences for the general public, how would you explain it?
A: My son asked me what my job was a while back… I told him I make places safe for people to live and work in. And there are people that need my help everywhere! 

Are you interested in a career at EnviroForensics? Apply today. 

Rob Hoverman, Northern Midwest Regional Director for EnviroForensics has been appointed to the Waukesha Chamber of Commerce’s Board of Directors. The Waukesha Chamber of Commerce provides resources, support and collaboration opportunities for their community of businesses to further their vision of fostering a vibrant and desirable community to live, learn, work and play.

Rob first became involved with the Waukesha Chamber of Commerce as a member when EnviroForensics joined in 2019, although the company’s Northern Midwest Regional office has been located in Waukesha since 2012. Rob’s passion for community involvement will be an asset to all chamber members with similar professional goals, and the community as a whole, by sharing his knowledge and experience as a professional geologist in the environmental services sector.

Rob says, “I’m extremely honored to join the Waukesha Chamber of Commerce’s Board of Directors. I look forward to working alongside a diverse group of professionals who are committed to developing and strengthening our vibrant Waukesha community. It’s a great community and a great place for our operations serving the Greater Milwaukee and Madison areas, and the entire Northern Midwest”.

To learn more about Rob Hoverman, visit his company profile.

Each month, EnviroForensics recognizes talented individuals, like our Vapor Intrusion Specialist, Grace Randall. Get to know Grace inside and outside of EnviroForensics.  

Grace Randall is our resident expert on all things vapor intrusion and she is appreciated by her coworkers for her empathetic style and her high level of integrity. 

Meet Grace Randall, Vapor Intrusion Specialist 

Question: What’s your background and career path?
Answer: I have a Biology degree from the University of Southern Indiana in Evansville, and I started as a field professional at EnviroForensics after graduation. I have been very fortunate to continue and strengthen my career here at EnviroForensics. 

Q: How do you feel about being recognized by your coworkers?
A: Everyone at EnviroForensics works hard, puts in the hours to complete tasks to keep the momentum going and has strengths I rely on. I am very grateful that my coworkers see me that way as well.

Q: What do you enjoy about working at EnviroForensics?
A: I enjoy working with my coworkers and the opportunity to specialize and flourish in what I am most interested in like vapor intrusion investigations and vapor mitigation projects.  

Q: What is one of your most exciting projects at EnviroForensics?
A: We’ve been working with a local community school corporation on their vapor mitigation projects. Being part of such an interesting project was exciting, challenging and a learning experience. 

Q: What is your life like outside of EnviroForensics?
A: I love animals, so you will find me pet sitting all kinds of pets outside of work. The list includes dogs, cats, lizards, chickens, birds, bunnies, etc.