Drew is a professional engineer with over 30 years of experience specializing in ecological restoration, watershed studies, and hydrologic and hydraulic analysis. Since the late 1990s, he has been a leader in the evolution of the integrated stream/wetland design approach and developing restoration crediting methods and protocols for this approach. Drew has a B.S. in Civil Engineering with a water resources focus from the Pennsylvania State University and is a registered professional engineer in MD, PA, VA, KY, NC, GA, TN, TX, and the District of Columbia. Drew’s areas of expertise include:
- Stream, wetland, floodplain and shoreline restoration
- Watershed studies and project prioritization
- Hydrologic, hydraulic and 2D hydrodynamic modeling
- Flood impact and mitigation
- Dam removal restoration
- Asset protection in the river environment
- Fish passage evaluation and blockage removal
- Restoration crediting for MD4/TMDL, stormwater initiatives, and compensatory mitigation
- Environmental permitting
- Construction document development
- Construction oversight and management
- Expert panel support, education, and public outreach
I find great satisfaction uncovering how our river corridors have been impacted over centuries of manipulation largely starting during the colonial era so we can devise restoration solutions to improve ecological functions and create long-term sustainability within today’s constraints. Every new project has unique characteristics and challenges to overcome, which promotes ongoing learning, collaboration, and problem solving that I enjoy.
Tell us about your most exciting or rewarding project.
There have been many exciting and rewarding projects for many different reasons so I can’t point to just one. I will say, the most rewarding projects are the ones in settings that enable us to turn back the clock to remove or undo most anthropogenic impacts allowing for holistic restoration of past forms and functions as would have existed prior to human impact.
Favorite quote:
“Failure is the opportunity to begin again more intelligently.” – Henry Ford
What led you to this career?
A passion for outdoor exploration and improving the environment around us.