Volunteers Wanted for 2024 Spring River Cleanup

It’s that time of year again; it’s time for EnviroScience’s 2024 Spring River Cleanup!

For over 20 years, our Corporate Responsibility Committee (CRC) has been hosting a biannual river cleanup event to help fish out debris from the Little Cuyahoga River in Akron, Ohio. This spring’s event is slated to take place on Saturday, April 20, 2024, from 9:00 am to 12:00 pm, and we’re looking for volunteers of all ages to help us in this effort.

This is an employee-led tradition that EnviroScience has spearheaded since 2002—bringing EnviroScience employees, family members, loved ones, and community members together to remove trash from the Little Cuyahoga River and the Ohio & Erie Canal while raising awareness of the litter problem in our local streams.

2023 EnviroScience Fall River Cleanup Event - Post Cleanup

This has always been a fun event; all ages are welcome, and we need all the help we can get! Here’s what you need to know:

EnviroScience 2023 Fall River Cleanup EventWho: Anyone willing to help! We’ve had volunteers of all ages at this biannual event.

When: Saturday, April 20, 2024, from 9:00 am to 12:00 pm

Where: Mustill Store, 57 West North Street, Akron, Ohio 44304 (Check-in at the tables)

What to Wear: Old clothes and shoes that you don’t mind getting wet/dirty and waders or rubber boots if you have them. (We may have extra waders and rubber boots for those who don’t have them.)

Registration: No formal registration is necessary; however, adults will be required to sign a waiver onsite. Children under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult who is authorized to sign the waiver on their behalf.

Questions: Any questions should be directed to Michael Liptak.

EnviroScience will provide gloves, snacks, and drinks.

Join in on the fun as we help clean up our local river. Who knows what we’ll find this year? We hope to see you there on Saturday, April 20, 2024!


Few environmental firms in the country retain EnviroScience’s degree of scientific know-how, talent, and capability under one roof. The diverse backgrounds of our biologists, environmental engineers, scientists, and divers enable us to provide comprehensive in-house services and an integrated approach to solving environmental challenges—saving clients time, reducing costs, and ensuring high-quality results.

Our client guarantee is to provide “Excellence in Any Environment,” meaning no matter what we do, we will deliver on our Core Values of respect, client advocacy, quality work, accountability, teamwork, and safety. EnviroScience was created with the concept that we could solve complex problems by empowering great people. This concept still holds true today as our scientists explore the latest environmental legislation and regulations and incorporate the most up-to-date technology to gather and report data.

EnviroScience expertise includes but is not limited to aquatic surveys (including macroinvertebrate surveys and biological assessments); ecological restoration; ecological services (including impact assessments, invasive species control, and water quality monitoring);  emergency response; engineering and compliance services; endangered mussel surveys; laboratory and analysis; stormwater management; threatened and endangered species; and wetlands and streams (including delineation and mitigation). Further, EnviroScience is one of the few biological firms in the country that is a general member of the Association of Diving Contractors International (ADCI) and offers full-service commercial diving services.




Protecting the Elusive Bog Turtle: Spotlight on Expert Stan Boder

EnviroScience Senior Herpetologist Stan Boder, a USFWS-Qualified Bog Turtle Surveyor, Carefully Observes the Critically Endangered Bog TurtleThe Bog Turtle (Glyptemys muhlenbergii), a critically endangered species, has found a champion in our Senior Herpetologist, Stan Boder. Stan is not just passionate about these creatures; he is also a Qualified Bog Turtle Surveyor through the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) for Connecticut, Maryland, Massachusetts, New York, and Pennsylvania. This recognition is significant, given the Bog Turtle’s precarious status.

Listed as threatened since 1997, the Bog Turtle is among the most imperiled species in North America. Found from Vermont to Georgia and as far west as Ohio, these turtles are particularly vulnerable in Pennsylvania, where their habitat intersects with suburban development.

Bog Turtles are the smallest turtles in North America, easily identifiable by the bright yellow or orange blotches on each side of their head and neck. They thrive in wet meadows and boggy areas, feeding on small invertebrates. However, they face numerous threats, including habitat destruction and invasive species.

To protect these turtles, the USFWS mandates comprehensive surveys within their range. These surveys are critical for assessing habitats and determining the presence of Bog Turtles. They are divided into three phases:

Phase 1: Evaluating wetland suitability based on soil, hydrology, and vegetation.

Phase 2: Conducting visual surveys in suitable habitats to confirm the presence of Bog Turtles.

Phase 3: Trapping efforts in dense vegetation areas or where visual surveys are inconclusive.

Stan Boder, with his specialized training and permits, is at the forefront of these efforts. He conducts these surveys and plays a pivotal role in on-site construction monitoring to ensure the protection of these habitats.

Stan’s dedication exemplifies our commitment to conservation. Through his work, we’re not just complying with regulations; we’re actively participating in the preservation of a species that is an irreplaceable part of our natural heritage. Join us in celebrating Stan’s contribution to the protection of the Bog Turtle. Together, we can make a difference in the lives of these remarkable creatures.

To learn more about our incredibly talented team of herpetologists and how EnviroScience can help you properly navigate federal and state regulations that protect threatened and endangered species on your next project, visit our Reptile & Amphibian Survey webpage.

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Few environmental firms in the country retain EnviroScience’s degree of scientific know-how, talent, and capability under one roof. The diverse backgrounds of our biologists, environmental engineers, scientists, and divers enable us to provide comprehensive in-house services and an integrated approach to solving environmental challenges—saving clients time, reducing costs, and ensuring high-quality results.

Our client guarantee is to provide “Excellence in Any Environment,” meaning no matter what we do, we will deliver on our Core Values of respect, client advocacy, quality work, accountability, teamwork, and safety. EnviroScience was created with the concept that we could solve complex problems by empowering great people. This concept still holds true today as our scientists explore the latest environmental legislation and regulations and incorporate the most up-to-date technology to gather and report data.

EnviroScience expertise includes but is not limited to aquatic surveys (including macroinvertebrate surveys and biological assessments); ecological restoration; ecological services (including impact assessments, invasive species control, and water quality monitoring);  emergency response; engineering and compliance services; endangered mussel surveys; laboratory and analysis; stormwater management; threatened and endangered species; and wetlands and streams (including delineation and mitigation). Further, EnviroScience is one of the few biological firms in the country that is a general member of the Association of Diving Contractors International (ADCI) and offers full-service commercial diving services.




Winter 2024 Quarterly Update

Have you heard?

The Winter 2024 Edition of EnviroScience’s Quarterly Update is now available. This quarter’s newsletter features:

  • EnviroScience’s Upcoming “Environmental Outlook and Emerging Technologies” Seminar (earn free CEUs!)
  • Clement Riddle Appointed North Carolina Land & Water Fund Trustee
  • EnviroScience Certifications through the Ohio EPA & the Society for Freshwater Science
  • Dan Schweitzer Promoted to Environmental Compliance Operations Manager
  • EnviroScience Restores Native Vegetation to Duck Creek
  • Mike Naymik Accepts Transportation Project Manager Position
  • EnviroScience Restoration EIT Liz Myers Transforms Pollution into Art
  • Laura Sayre Awarded Inaugural Hammer of Honor
  • 2023 Mike Trump Chili Cookoff Nourishes Hearts and Communities
  • EnviroScience Employees of the Month
  • Join the Growing EnviroScience Family! (Current EnviroScience Openings)
  • Links to Social Media Posts This Quarter

Click here to see what’s new this quarter!

EnviroScience Winter 2024 Quarterly Update

Like What You See?

EnviroScience is pleased to share its quarterly update with respected colleagues to provide the latest company news, industry updates, and important regulatory changes. Only your name and email address are required, we never share your information with anyone, and you can easily unsubscribe at any time.


Few environmental firms in the country retain EnviroScience’s degree of scientific know-how, talent, and capability under one roof. The diverse backgrounds of our biologists, environmental engineers, scientists, and divers enable us to provide comprehensive in-house services and an integrated approach to solving environmental challenges—saving clients time, reducing costs, and ensuring high-quality results.

Our client guarantee is to provide “Excellence in Any Environment,” meaning no matter what we do, we will deliver on our Core Values of respect, client advocacy, quality work, accountability, teamwork, and safety. EnviroScience was created with the concept that we could solve complex problems by empowering great people. This concept still holds true today as our scientists explore the latest environmental legislation and regulations and incorporate the most up-to-date technology to gather and report data.

EnviroScience expertise includes but is not limited to aquatic surveys (including macroinvertebrate surveys and biological assessments); ecological restoration; ecological services (including impact assessments, invasive species control, and water quality monitoring);  emergency response; engineering and compliance services; endangered mussel surveys; laboratory and analysis; stormwater management; threatened and endangered species; and wetlands and streams (including delineation and mitigation). Further, EnviroScience is one of the few biological firms in the country that is a general member of the Association of Diving Contractors International (ADCI) and offers full-service commercial diving services.




EnviroScience Restoration Work Earns AAPA Lighthouse Award

EnviroScience Restoration Work Earns American Association of Port Authorities (AAPA) Lighthouse Beacon Award of Excellence in the category of Environmental ImprovementWe are proud to announce that Joe Cappel, Vice President of Business Development for the Toledo-Lucas County Port Authority, recently accepted the Lighthouse Award of Excellence in the category of Environmental Improvement from the American Association of Port Authorities (AAPA) at its annual convention held in Denver, Colorado, for the Wetland Restoration Project at Duck Creek (Mitigation), in which EnviroScience played an integral role.

With funding from Governor Mike DeWine’s H2Ohio grant program, EnviroScience, Inc., RiverReach Construction, and Geo. Gradel Co. joined a coalition of team members—including Midwest Terminals of Toledo, Inc., Cleveland-Cliffs, and the Ohio Department of Natural Resources—to assist the Toledo-Lucas County Port Authority in restoring a severely degraded stream and wetland system along Duck Creek in the City of Toledo, Ohio.

Restoration services included the redesign, construction, invasive management, and revegetation of the stream and wetland system to support diverse populations of native wildlife within the Lake Erie basin. By mitigating degradation caused by industrial development and restoring the stream channel to its natural form, the coalition successfully improved ecological function and water quality within and beyond the restoration project area. 

The project design replaced 1,440 linear feet of channelized Duck Creek, an unnatural, man-made impairment, with 2,055 linear feet of naturalized stream. 8.25 acres of existing wetland were restored by removing aggressive invasive species such as common reed (Phragmites spp.) and installing native vegetation, including wildflowers and trees. An additional 2.31 acres of wetland were designed and constructed to strengthen the restored wetland system and provide further habitat for native wildlife. Finally, 10.37 acres of spoil, the excess earthen materials left over from the construction of the Cleveland-Cliffs facility onsite, was seeded for pollinator habitat.

EnviroScience Ecological Restoration Team at H2Ohio Duck Creek Restoration Project Site

We are extraordinarily proud of the dedication, hard work, and environmental stewardship performed by all team members of the coalition. The Lighthouse Award of Excellence in the category of Environmental Improvement is a well-earned recognition of our capabilities, our commitment to excellence, and our Core Values of respect, client advocacy, quality work, accountability, teamwork, and safety.

Click here for more details about how EnviroScience helped restore native vegetation for the Wetland Restoration Project at Duck Creek (Mitigation).

Click here for more information about how our Ecological Restoration Services can help solve any environmental challenge


Few environmental firms in the country retain EnviroScience’s degree of scientific know-how, talent, and capability under one roof. The diverse backgrounds of our biologists, environmental engineers, scientists, and divers enable us to provide comprehensive in-house services and an integrated approach to solving environmental challenges—saving clients time, reducing costs, and ensuring high-quality results.

Our client guarantee is to provide “Excellence in Any Environment,” meaning no matter what we do, we will deliver on our Core Values of respect, client advocacy, quality work, accountability, teamwork, and safety. EnviroScience was created with the concept that we could solve complex problems by empowering great people. This concept still holds true today as our scientists explore the latest environmental legislation and regulations and incorporate the most up-to-date technology to gather and report data.

EnviroScience expertise includes but is not limited to aquatic surveys (including macroinvertebrate surveys and biological assessments); ecological restoration; ecological services (including impact assessments, invasive species control, and water quality monitoring);  emergency response; engineering and compliance services; endangered mussel surveys; laboratory and analysis; stormwater management; threatened and endangered species; and wetlands and streams (including delineation and mitigation). Further, EnviroScience is one of the few biological firms in the country that is a general member of the Association of Diving Contractors International (ADCI) and offers full-service commercial diving services.




2023 Mike Trump Chili Cookoff Nourishes Hearts & Communities

Honoring the legacy of our late colleague, Mike Trump, the employee-led Corporate Responsibility Committee (CRC) at EnviroScience recently held its 2023 Mike Trump Chili Cookoff. This event not only celebrated his memory but also made a significant impact on our local charities, embodying the essence of community and care.

Staff members from EnviroScience and ACRT Services submitted chili entries this year. For a charitable donation of $10 each, employees were able to enjoy a lunch that included 18 different chili tastings, salads, side dishes, bread, and desserts and afforded them the opportunity to vote for this year’s winner. Aligning with our environmental commitment, participants were encouraged to bring their own utensils, a small yet significant step towards sustainability.

2023 Mike Trump Chili Cookoff | EnviroScience

Akron-Canton Regional Foodbank: A Cornerstone of Compassion

Proceeds from our annual chili cookoff benefit the Akron-Canton Regional Foodbank (ACRF), a pivotal force in addressing hunger across eight counties in Northeast Ohio since 1982. In 2022 alone, they distributed 30 million pounds of food and other essential items, provided 23.3 million meals, and welcomed the support of 7,400 volunteers who donated over 55,000 hours of service​​.

The ACRF operates under a mission to lead a collaborative network that empowers people to experience healthy and hunger-free lives, focusing on values such as compassion, collaboration, service, integrity, inclusion, and innovation. As a member of Feeding America, they work tirelessly to serve communities where hunger is most prevalent, especially among children and seniors​​.

2023 Chili Cookoff Yields Record-Breaking Donation to the ACRF

We are thrilled to report that $750 was raised from employee participation in this year’s event, and the CRC agreed to contribute another $700, which means our total donation was $1,450. Even more exciting is that this donation was delivered to the Akron-Canton Regional Foodbank on “Double Dollar Day,” which means the ACRF matched our donation—bringing it to $2,900, the most we have ever donated.

Collectively, staff member donations will help to provide thousands of meals to underserved Northeast Ohioans this winter when they need it most. The ACRF has since reported that due to the incredible support of the community and efforts like ours, enough funds were raised to help provide enough food for more than 900,000 meals to neighbors in need this holiday season!

Bulldog Bags: Supporting Children’s Nutrition Needs

Another important initiative supported by the annual chili cookoff is Bulldog Bags, a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing students on the Federal Free and Reduced Lunch Program, or otherwise qualified, in the Stow-Munroe Falls area by providing take-home breakfasts and lunches on the weekends while not in school.

Under the awesome leadership of Wetlands Operations Manager Emmalisa Kennedy, the CRC concurrently ran a Food Drive during the event to aid in this effort. We are thrilled to report that two large boxes of food items, such as oatmeal packets, hot chocolate, microwave popcorn, juice boxes, boxed dry goods, ramen noodles, granola bars, and canned goods, were collected for this cause. The organization also collects personal items such as dental floss, toothpaste, and toothbrushes to support the personal care needs of children in addition to their nutritional needs.

Coat Drive: Wrapping the Community in Warmth

In addition to these food-centric charities, the cookoff also played host to our annual Kids and Adults Coat Drive to benefit the efforts of Portage County Catholic Charities. The CRC’s purchase of $250 worth of coats is a testament to our employees’ commitment to providing warmth and comfort to those facing the harsh winter months. This drive is crucial for helping individuals, especially in Portage County and surrounding areas, where the need for warm clothing is a pressing concern during winter.

Chili Cookoff Winners and Event Highlights

This year’s chili cookoff was a stellar success, with an array of chili varieties prepared by enthusiastic participants. EnviroScience Health & Safety Officer Tim Willaman walked away with the coveted, first-place wooden spoon for his “Who Dat Thursday Night Chili.” Our runner-up was HR Business Partner Shannon Cecconi from ACRT Services, and tying for third place was EnviroScience Senior Ecologist Michael Liptak and Director of Marine Services Phil Mathias.

Mike Trump's wife, Kristen, Dubs EnviroScience Health & Safety Officer Tim Willlaman the Winner of the 2023 Mike Trump Chili Cookoff

Mike Trump’s wife, Kristen, Dubs EnviroScience Health & Safety Officer Tim Willlaman the Winner of the 2023 Mike Trump Chili Cookoff for his “Who Dat Thursday Night Chili.”

The event also paid homage to Mike Trump with a dedicated memorial sign, a gesture that deeply moved his wife, Kristen, and all attendees. Mike was a talented project designer, a dear friend, and a chili aficionado—winning the first-ever chili cookoff.

Event Takeaways

The 2023 Mike Trump Chili Cookoff was a vibrant example of how a group of individuals, a company, and a community can come together to make a significant difference. The event’s success not only honors Mike Trump’s memory but also strengthens our resolve to support those in need. As we look forward to future events, we remain dedicated to upholding these values of compassion, community service, and environmental stewardship.


Few environmental firms in the country retain EnviroScience’s degree of scientific know-how, talent, and capability under one roof. The diverse backgrounds of our biologists, environmental engineers, scientists, and divers enable us to provide comprehensive in-house services and an integrated approach to solving environmental challenges—saving clients time, reducing costs, and ensuring high-quality results.

Our client guarantee is to provide “Excellence in Any Environment,” meaning no matter what we do, we will deliver on our Core Values of respect, client advocacy, quality work, accountability, teamwork, and safety. EnviroScience was created with the concept that we could solve complex problems by empowering great people. This concept still holds true today as our scientists explore the latest environmental legislation and regulations and incorporate the most up-to-date technology to gather and report data.

EnviroScience expertise includes but is not limited to aquatic surveys (including macroinvertebrate surveys and biological assessments); ecological restoration; ecological services (including impact assessments, invasive species control, and water quality monitoring);  emergency response; engineering and compliance services; endangered mussel surveys; laboratory and analysis; stormwater management; threatened and endangered species; and wetlands and streams (including delineation and mitigation). Further, EnviroScience is one of the few biological firms in the country that is a general member of the Association of Diving Contractors International (ADCI) and offers full-service commercial diving services.




Clement Riddle Appointed North Carolina Land & Water Fund Trustee

EnviroScience Senior Scientist Rutledge "Clement" Riddle Named North Carolina Land & Water Fund Trustee

EnviroScience Senior Scientist Rutledge “Clement” Riddle, a seasoned professional with over 30 years of experience, has been appointed Trustee to the North Carolina Land & Water Fund (NCLWF).

This appointment highlights Clement’s understanding of North Carolina’s environmental challenges. The state continues to experience rapid growth while having many legacy environmental issues. Clement is adept at balancing development needs with sustainable, innovative solutions to environmental challenges. 

Clement Riddle’s New Role as NCLWF Trustee

The North Carolina Land & Water Fund, formerly the Clean Water Management Trust Fund, has been a cornerstone in preserving North Carolina’s natural and cultural resources since its establishment in 1996. For the past 25 years, the fund has played a crucial role in conserving over half a million acres and protecting or restoring 3,000 miles of streams and rivers across the state. Clement’s appointment as a Trustee underscores his expertise and commitment to environmental sustainability.

As a trustee, Clement will be part of the review process for grant applications and approve funding for projects aimed at conservation and restoration efforts across the state. His role in the Restoration, Innovative Stormwater, and Planning Committee within the NCLWF is a perfect fit for his experience and skill set.

Led by Clement, the committee reviewed and awarded grants for various projects in 2023, collectively contributing to the advancement of environmental sustainability throughout North Carolina. The funds allocated for these endeavors exceeded an impressive $48 million, reflecting the commitment of the NCLWF to supporting impactful initiatives.

EnviroScience’s Strategic Move

A development that further strengthened Clement’s impact on environmental conservation was EnviroScience, Inc.’s acquisition of ClearWater Environmental Consultants in October 2021. ClearWater, a natural resource and environmental compliance-based firm founded by Clement Riddle specializing in wetlands, permitting, and ecological and environmental services, is now an integral part of EnviroScience.

The synergy between ClearWater and EnviroScience has been extremely exciting and has increased all parties’ collective capacity, geographic range, and expertise. One of the compelling reasons for this acquisition was the shared culture between ClearWater and EnviroScience, which aligns with our Core Values—including teamwork, client advocacy, respect, accountability, quality, and safety.

Clement Riddle’s Integral Role at EnviroScience

Clement Riddle, now a Senior Scientist at EnviroScience, brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the team. With a master’s degree in planning and a concentration in environmental planning and land development, he founded ClearWater Environmental Consultants, Inc. in 2002. As the Principal for large and technical permitting projects at EnviroScience, Clement oversees all environmental projects, including mitigation design and monitoring, permitting for various developments, and Environmental Assessments for NEPA/SEPA compliance.


Few environmental firms in the country retain EnviroScience’s degree of scientific know-how, talent, and capability under one roof. The diverse backgrounds of our biologists, environmental engineers, scientists, and divers enable us to provide comprehensive in-house services and an integrated approach to solving environmental challenges—saving clients time, reducing costs, and ensuring high-quality results.

Our client guarantee is to provide “Excellence in Any Environment,” meaning no matter what we do, we will deliver on our Core Values of respect, client advocacy, quality work, accountability, teamwork, and safety. EnviroScience was created with the concept that we could solve complex problems by empowering great people. This concept still holds true today as our scientists explore the latest environmental legislation and regulations and incorporate the most up-to-date technology to gather and report data.

EnviroScience expertise includes but is not limited to aquatic surveys (including macroinvertebrate surveys and biological assessments); ecological restoration; ecological services (including impact assessments, invasive species control, and water quality monitoring);  emergency response; engineering and compliance services; endangered mussel surveys; laboratory and analysis; stormwater management; threatened and endangered species; and wetlands and streams (including delineation and mitigation). Further, EnviroScience is one of the few biological firms in the country that is a general member of the Association of Diving Contractors International (ADCI) and offers full-service commercial diving services.




Laura Sayre Awarded Inaugural Hammer of Honor

ACRT SERVICES 23RD ANNUAL OPERATIONS MANAGERS SUMMIT

We’re thrilled to share the exciting highlights from ACRT Services 23rd Annual Operations Managers Summit—a dynamic event held at Deer Creek State Park in Mt. Sterling, Ohio. This summit served as a hub for representatives from ACRT Services and its four operating companies—ACRT, ACRT Pacific, Bermex, and, of course, EnviroScience.

Designed to foster progress, learning, and team synergy, this three-day gathering was much more than just a routine corporate event. Executives from each company provided comprehensive updates on departmental achievements, while presidents shared ambitious goals for the upcoming year.

The agenda was thoughtfully curated to include immersive training sessions, addressing key aspects like engagement survey results and featuring an insightful workshop for hands-on learning. An external expert led a class on risk mitigation and best practices, and company subject matter experts shared their latest pursuits and plans for the future—all with an unwavering focus on safety.

EnviroScience Staff at ACRT Services 23rd Annual Managers' Summit

Representatives from ACRT, ACRT Pacific, Bermex, and EnviroScience attend ACRT Services 23rd Annual Operations Managers Summit at Deer Creek State Park in Mt. Sterling, Ohio

THE INAUGURAL “HAMMER OF HONOR” AWARD

Adding an extra layer of excitement to this year’s summit, managers from each operating company had the opportunity to recognize their peers as the top manager of the year with a new accolade, “The Hammer of Honor.” The purpose of this new award is to celebrate an operations leader who:

  • Hammers home leadership skills
  • Nails teamwork
  • Chisels out innovative solutions
  • Builds a sturdy foundation of success

Managers of each operating company were instructed to select a recipient who is a master of his/her craft and consistently demonstrates an ability to drive results and nail every aspect of his/her role with precision and impact. The selected winners genuinely struck the right chord with their peers, forging success through their outstanding qualities and dedication. For EnviroScience, this prestigious new award went to Laura Sayre, Director of Natural Resource Services.

EnviroScience Staff at ACRT Services 23rd Annual Managers' Summit

Crafted by the skilled hands of ACRT Services CEO Michael Weidner (center), the winners of this year’s Hammer of Honor for each operating company from left to right: James (Jim) Erskine of ACRT Pacific, Laura Sayre of EnviroScience, Inc., Andrea Hawco of Bermex, and Eric Morales of ACRT.

ENVIROSCIENCE HAMMER OF HONOR WINNER: LAURA SAYRE

EnviroScience President Jamie Krejsa with Director of Natural Resource Services Laura Sayre, Recipient of the Inaugural Hammer of Honor

EnviroScience President Jamie Krejsa with Director of Natural Resource Services Laura Sayre, Recipient of the Inaugural Hammer of Honor

The staff at EnviroScience are all aware of the integral role she plays on our team. We recently interviewed Laura to allow those outside the company the opportunity to learn a little more about what makes our Director of Natural Resource Services so near and dear to our hearts and why she is such a valued employee.

Tell us about yourself.
I graduated in 2005 from Mount Union College with a Bachelor of Science in biology and started working at a small wetland consulting firm. 

In 2011, I started at EnviroScience as a part-time/temporary wetland delineator. I moved to full-time soon after and started in a management role in 2017. I am currently the Director of Natural Resource Services. Within the Natural Resource Services practice area, we do most of the baseline ecological surveys for wetlands, streams, mammals (including bats), macroinvertebrates, herps, fish, and birds. We also do the permitting, reporting, and GIS mapping for these and other services.

How do you feel about being awarded the EnviroScience Hammer of Honor?
Generally, any recognition makes me feel pretty awkward and embarrassed. Most of all, I am just really proud of everyone on my team.

Currently, there are 43 people on the Natural Resource Services team, and they are all dedicated, hard workers who really make me look good and make my job pretty easy. I am proud that, as a group, we take on challenges and work together to get what sometimes seems like an insurmountable amount of work done each year. I know that I can count on all of them, and I hope they all feel the same way about me.

Personally, after a stage 3 triple negative breast cancer diagnosis in December 2021 and subsequent treatment, receiving the Hammer of Honor award was the ‘I’m back’ moment and validation I needed. While I don’t feel like I am back to 100% yet, it is encouraging to know my colleagues still recognize my contributions.

What is your management style/philosophy?
I’ve seen a lot of growth within the company since I’ve been here, and it has been really fulfilling for me to be a part of the future planning for the company. Since my management role evolved from a biologist role, I started as a lead-by-example type manager, sharing in the workload as we all worked together toward a common goal (completing projects). As the group has grown, I have moved more towards being a mentor/consultative management style as I don’t have time to be involved in every project.

What do you enjoy most about your job?
What I enjoy most about my job is the creative problem-solving. I enjoy reading and understanding environmental rules and helping clients navigate the process. As I become less involved in day-to-day projects, I enjoy passing that knowledge off to my staff and being a reliable sounding board for the group. Outside of project-specific work, I also enjoy helping direct new policies and ideas within the company.

PEER NOMINATIONS FOR SAYRE’S HAMMER OF HONOR AWARD

“Laura is very organized with a huge group. She has managed to make it through cancer and still maintain[ed] 470 as if nothing ever happened.”

“She has overcome a lot of personal and work challenges and still was able to keep the ship moving forward and be successful.”

“One simply can look at the number of new, capable managers within Natural Resource Services, as well as the growth of the practice area throughout the regions as proof of her ability to lead through teamwork and ‘delegating and elevating.’ [Laura] embraces growth and had the best performance of any practice ‘proposal manager.’ She leads by example, listens, and implements new ideas.”

CLOSING THOUGHTS ON THE OPERATIONS MANAGERS SUMMIT

As we reflect on this enriching experience at the Operations Managers Summit, we look forward to incorporating the knowledge, camaraderie, and inspiration gained during the summit into our everyday operations. The training received during this event will undoubtedly contribute to the continued growth and success of EnviroScience and the entire ACRT Services family.

Stay tuned for more updates on how these insights will shape our approach to environmental solutions and enhance our collective impact!


Few environmental firms in the country retain EnviroScience’s degree of scientific know-how, talent, and capability under one roof. The diverse backgrounds of our biologists, environmental engineers, scientists, and divers enable us to provide comprehensive in-house services and an integrated approach to solving environmental challenges—saving clients time, reducing costs, and ensuring high-quality results.

Our client guarantee is to provide “Excellence in Any Environment,” meaning no matter what we do, we will deliver on our Core Values of respect, client advocacy, quality work, accountability, teamwork, and safety. EnviroScience was created with the concept that we could solve complex problems by empowering great people. This concept still holds true today as our scientists explore the latest environmental legislation and regulations and incorporate the most up-to-date technology to gather and report data.

EnviroScience expertise includes but is not limited to aquatic surveys (including macroinvertebrate surveys and biological assessments); ecological restoration; ecological services (including impact assessments, invasive species control, and water quality monitoring);  emergency response; engineering and compliance services; endangered mussel surveys; laboratory and analysis; stormwater management; threatened and endangered species; and wetlands and streams (including delineation and mitigation). Further, EnviroScience is one of the few biological firms in the country that is a general member of the Association of Diving Contractors International (ADCI) and offers full-service commercial diving services.




Liz Myers Transforms Pollution into Art

EnviroScience Restoration EIT Liz Myers at Sunday CreekEnviroScience proudly spotlights the exceptional work of Elizabeth “Liz” Myers, our esteemed Restoration EIT (Engineer in Training). Liz has played a pivotal role in tackling one of Ohio’s most persistent environmental challenges, specifically addressing acid mine drainage (AMD) in Sunday Creek in Southeast Ohio. Her journey reflects a dedication to turning a source of pollution into a multifaceted solution that transcends environmental boundaries.

Background: Sunday Creek’s AMD Challenge

Winding through southeastern Ohio, Sunday Creek has long suffered from abandoned coal mines, resulting in nearly 1,000 gallons of severely contaminated water per minute. The acidic discharge, laden with iron oxide, has rendered Sunday Creek the worst AMD site in the state, posing significant risks to aquatic life, drinking water, and infrastructure.

In response to this urgent environmental issue, Ohio University professor John Sabraw proposed a unique collaboration involving artists, researchers, and community organizers. The innovative idea was to use the iron oxide responsible for the creek’s discoloration to create paint pigments. This initiative, known as True Pigments, not only promised to address AMD but also held the potential for art, job creation, and clean water.

True Pigments: A Transformative Water-Treatment Facility

EnviroScience Restoration EIT Liz Myers at Sunday Creek

Building on Sabraw’s vision, the regional nonprofit Rural Action initiated the True Pigments project. This endeavor aims to establish a water-treatment facility in Millfield, Ohio, strategically positioned to remediate seven miles of Sunday Creek while annually producing 1,200 tons of iron oxide pigment. Developed by Ohio University professor Guy Riefler, the process effectively reduces acidity, removes iron oxide, and ensures that only clean water enters Sunday Creek.

What sets True Pigments apart is its forward-thinking approach. Profits from iron oxide pigment sales, estimated at nearly $2 million per year, will be reinvested into building additional water-treatment facilities in the region. This unique reinvestment strategy contributes to environmental restoration and stimulates the local economy.

Environmental and Economic Impact

The True Pigments project not only addresses immediate environmental issues in Sunday Creek but also brings far-reaching benefits. By repurposing AMD into valuable iron oxide pigments, the initiative reduces the need for imports, cutting carbon emissions and minimizing the demand for environmentally taxing mining and synthesis processes. Furthermore, the project’s economic impact extends to the local community, doubling the annual payroll of the Millfield zip code.

A Personal Journey: Learning and Growing with AMD

EnviroScience Restoration EIT Liz Myers at Sunday CreekProviding insights into this project, Liz Myers illuminates her unique journey. From breaking ground in the summer of 2023 to the anticipated completion of the True Pigments facility in two years, her story extends beyond her academic roots. Starting as a freshman in undergrad, having not yet completed treatment or design curricula, she embraced on-the-job learning. Liz attributes her growth to consistent dedication, posing challenging questions, collaborating across disciplines, and gaining hands-on experience. These qualities, evidenced throughout her journey, seamlessly align with EnviroScience’s Core Values.

Liz’s passion for the environment, paired with her commitment to learning, collaboration, and quality, makes her a perfect match for our company culture—reinforcing our dedication to excellence and client satisfaction. The wealth of knowledge she gained significantly enhances her contributions to the team. Her reflections underscore the profound impact that skills developed in niche environmental work can have on one’s professional journey.

Conclusion: A Local Triumph with Global Implications

As construction for True Pigments progresses from the groundbreaking in the summer of 2023, we witness the transformation of a local issue into a global solution. Elizabeth Myers and the collaborative efforts of artists, researchers, and community organizers exemplify the potential for science and creativity to address environmental challenges.

True Pigments is not just about turning AMD into art; it’s about turning a global issue into a local triumph, showcasing the interconnectedness of environmental responsibility and artistic innovation. EnviroScience is proud to have Liz Myers on our team, contributing to projects beyond remediation and restoration, shaping a sustainable and creative future for our planet.


Few environmental firms in the country retain EnviroScience’s degree of scientific know-how, talent, and capability under one roof. The diverse backgrounds of our biologists, environmental engineers, scientists, and divers enable us to provide comprehensive in-house services and an integrated approach to solving environmental challenges—saving clients time, reducing costs, and ensuring high-quality results.

Our client guarantee is to provide “Excellence in Any Environment,” meaning no matter what we do, we will deliver on our Core Values of respect, client advocacy, quality work, accountability, teamwork, and safety. EnviroScience was created with the concept that we could solve complex problems by empowering great people. This concept still holds true today as our scientists explore the latest environmental legislation and regulations and incorporate the most up-to-date technology to gather and report data.

EnviroScience expertise includes but is not limited to aquatic surveys (including macroinvertebrate surveys and biological assessments); ecological restoration; ecological services (including impact assessments, invasive species control, and water quality monitoring);  emergency response; engineering and compliance services; endangered mussel surveys; laboratory and analysis; stormwater management; threatened and endangered species; and wetlands and streams (including delineation and mitigation). Further, EnviroScience is one of the few biological firms in the country that is a general member of the Association of Diving Contractors International (ADCI) and offers full-service commercial diving services.




Mike Naymik Accepts Transportation Project Manager Position

EnviroScience Transportation Project Manager and Wetland Biologist Mike NaymikAs EnviroScience continues to expand both its staff capabilities and responsibilities, our leadership has strategically identified transportation projects as an area of ongoing growth in both Ohio and the broader region. To align with this vision, we’ve introduced the role of Transportation Project Manager. We are thrilled to announce that Mike Naymik has accepted this pivotal role.

Transportation projects, by nature, involve diverse components that span nearly all our practice areas and services. They require specialized contracting and billing processes, along with specific certifications. Working closely with our leadership team and other experienced Department of Transportation managers, Mike Naymik will continue to be based within our Natural Resources Practice Area.

Mike has been instrumental in focusing and organizing a substantial portion of our work with the Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT), county, and local public agency (LPA) projects. This will continue to be his primary responsibility in his new role. Notably, Mike has garnered outstanding feedback from ODOT and EnviroScience senior personnel for his responsiveness as Deputy Project Manager of our 750K County Engineers Association of Ohio (CEAO) contract and other LPA/ODOT/Turnpike projects.

EnviroScience remains committed to excellence, innovation, and growth, and we look forward to the exciting developments that lie ahead with this new role.


Few environmental firms in the country retain EnviroScience’s degree of scientific know-how, talent, and capability under one roof. The diverse backgrounds of our biologists, environmental engineers, scientists, and divers enable us to provide comprehensive in-house services and an integrated approach to solving environmental challenges—saving clients time, reducing costs, and ensuring high-quality results.

Our client guarantee is to provide “Excellence in Any Environment,” meaning no matter what we do, we will deliver on our Core Values of respect, client advocacy, quality work, accountability, teamwork, and safety. EnviroScience was created with the concept that we could solve complex problems by empowering great people. This concept still holds true today as our scientists explore the latest environmental legislation and regulations and incorporate the most up-to-date technology to gather and report data.

EnviroScience expertise includes but is not limited to aquatic surveys (including macroinvertebrate surveys and biological assessments); ecological restoration; ecological services (including impact assessments, invasive species control, and water quality monitoring);  emergency response; engineering and compliance services; endangered mussel surveys; laboratory and analysis; stormwater management; threatened and endangered species; and wetlands and streams (including delineation and mitigation). Further, EnviroScience is one of the few biological firms in the country that is a general member of the Association of Diving Contractors International (ADCI) and offers full-service commercial diving services.




Fall 2023 Quarterly Update

Have you heard?

The Fall 2023 Edition of EnviroScience’s Quarterly Update is now available. This quarter’s newsletter features:

  • EnviroScience Restoration Services Work Featured on CNN’s Call to Earth
  • Cuyahoga River Area of Concern Impairment One Step Closer to Restoration
  • Water Resources Engineer Kevin Wienhold Publishes Flood Mapping Research
  • EnviroScience Laboratory Home to Four of Nine Level 2 Diatom Taxonomists in the World
  • GIS Operations Manager Anna Piazza Earns GIS Certification
  • Wetland Biologist Elise Bartelme Attends Sedge, Grass, & Rush Identification Course
  • Civil CAD Designer Thad Gregory Receives G.E.M. Award from ACRT Services
  • EnviroScience Employees of the Month
  • Join the Growing EnviroScience Family! (Current EnviroScience Openings)
  • Links to Social Media Posts This Quarter

Click here to see what’s new this quarter!

EnviroScience Fall 2023 Quarterly Update 

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Few environmental firms in the country retain EnviroScience’s degree of scientific know-how, talent, and capability under one roof. The diverse backgrounds of our biologists, environmental engineers, scientists, and divers enable us to provide comprehensive in-house services and an integrated approach to solving environmental challenges—saving clients time, reducing costs, and ensuring high-quality results.

Our client guarantee is to provide “Excellence in Any Environment,” meaning no matter what we do, we will deliver on our Core Values of respect, client advocacy, quality work, accountability, teamwork, and safety. EnviroScience was created with the concept that we could solve complex problems by empowering great people. This concept still holds true today as our scientists explore the latest environmental legislation and regulations and incorporate the most up-to-date technology to gather and report data.

EnviroScience expertise includes but is not limited to aquatic surveys (including macroinvertebrate surveys and biological assessments); ecological restoration; ecological services (including impact assessments, invasive species control, and water quality monitoring);  emergency response; engineering and compliance services; endangered mussel surveys; laboratory and analysis; stormwater management; threatened and endangered species; and wetlands and streams (including delineation and mitigation). Further, EnviroScience is one of the few biological firms in the country that is a general member of the Association of Diving Contractors International (ADCI) and offers full-service commercial diving services.