Author Archives: Jordan Schmidt
Funding slashed for FEMA Hazard Mapping and Risk Analysis Program
Last August, we informed you that President Obama signed into law the Flood Insurance Reform Act, which introduced changes to the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). The legislation was implemented to improve efficiency of the program while equipping FEMA with … Continue reading
Billboard technology in Peru provides clean water from atmospheric humidity
It is amazing to see what a little ingenuity can do when combined with emerging technologies and creative minds. In this week’s post, I’d like to share a video that might make your mouth water. Many people in developed … Continue reading
Urban vs. rural site assessments: Things to consider
An urban environmental site assessment differs from a rural environmental site assessment in a number of ways. This post explores the differences between rural and urban ESAs and highlights data considerations when approaching site assessments in each setting.
Interview with veteran Texas GLO consultant Lannie Stimson
First of all, would you briefly describe the primary responsibilities of the Texas General Land Office (GLO)? The General Land Office was founded in 1836 and is the oldest state agency in Texas. The GLO is responsible for managing and … Continue reading
Texas lawmakers thirsty for water funding in 83rd Legislature
Water remains a high priority for the members of the Texas 83rd Legislature session. According to the Texas Water Development Board (TWDB), an alarming 96% of Texas is currently experiencing drought conditions, with the statewide water reservoir only 67% … Continue reading
Hydraulic fracturing and the chemicals involved
Hydraulic fracturing or “fracking” – a method for extracting natural gas from shale formations deep below ground – is currently a topic of frequent discussion. So what exactly is fracking? This video explains the basics of the process: