Session Descriptions, Speaker Biographies & Presentations/Handouts
Speaker biographies, presentations and handouts are available on this page for you to view/download. Please click on the speaker name to view their biography and any presentations pre-submitted will appear below the speakers for each session.
Go to a specific session:
- New LEA/TEA/CIA Orientation
- Day One: Conference Opening Plenary Session
- Workshop Session One
- Workshop Session Two
- Workshop Session Three
- Workshop Session Four
- Workshop Session Five
- Day Three Keynote Presentation
- Workshop Session Six
- Workshop Session Seven
- Workshop Session Eight
- Workshop Session Nine
- Workshop Session Ten
- Day Four AM General Session
New LEA/TEA/CIA Orientation
Monday April 3, 2017 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
Pre-Session New LEA/TEA/CIA Orientation
This session provides new Local Enforcement Agency (LEA) and Tire Enforcement Agency (TEA) staff with an overview of the history of solid waste and waste tire regulation in California, as well as the core responsibilities of CalRecycle, LEA’s, and TEA’s. The Closed, Illegal and Abandoned Site Program (CIA) staff will include an overview of the program and website, inspection and investigation guidance, the Site Investigation Process, and Office and Field Investigation contract capabilities.
Bill Albert Manager, Waste Tire Enforcement Program, CalRecycle
Bill Albert has managed CalRecycle’s waste tire enforcement program since October 2012. In this role he supervises the activities of CalRecycle’s three waste tire facility compliance units and the waste tire hauler compliance unit. During his 24 years of State service, he has served in a variety of managerial and staff positions with CalRecycle, the Dept. of Drug and Alcohol Programs, and the Dept. of Toxic Substances Control. He has also served a total of 26 years in a variety of leadership roles as a Coast Guard officer, which included shipboard engineering, marine safety & security, pollution prevention & incident management response, and marine casualty investigations.Dave Otsubo , CalRecycle
Dave Otsubo is a supervisor in the Permitting and Assistance Branch. He has been with CalRecycle and its predecessor, the Integrated Waste Management Board, since 1991.Glenn Young Senior Waste Management Engineer, CalRecycle
Glenn Young is a Senior Waste Management Engineer for CalRecycle and manages the Closed, Illegal and Abandoned (CIA) Sites Program under the Engineer Support Branch. He has worked for CIWMB/CalRecycle since 1992 and has 25 years of experience in landfill investigation, closure and remediation. He graduated from the University of Minnesota in 1984 with a Bachelor of Mechanical Engineering Degree in 1984 and holds registrations as a professional mechanical and civil engineer in California. He has an MBA in Strategic Leadership. He is a retired Air Force Reserve Colonel with 30 years of service and is a veteran of two deployments to Operation’s Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom.
Day One: Conference Opening Plenary Session
Monday April 3, 2017 12:00 PM - 1:30 PM
Conference Opening Plenary Session and Luncheon
Welcome remarks from CalRecycle, the Chairs of the California Conference of Directors of Environmental Health (CCDEH) and the Enforcement Advisory Council (EAC), as well as our host LEA, Los Angeles County, followed by a short overview of the week.
Kathy Cross Supervising Hazardous Material Specialist, Orange County
Kathryn Cross joined the LEA/Solid Waste Program at Orange County Environmental Health as the supervisor in October 2007. Prior to becoming a supervisor for the LEA program, Kathryn worked for Orange County Environmental Health for nine years as a geologist and hazardous waste specialist in the underground tank cleanup program and industrial cleanup program. Cross also worked in the private consulting industry as a project geologist. Cross earned a Bachelor of Science degree in geology from California State University, Fullerton. She is a registered professional geologist, certified engineering geologist and REHS with the State of California.Mark de Bie Deputy Director, CalRecycle
Mark de Bie is CalRecycle’s deputy director for waste permitting, compliance, and mitigation. He previously held the position of chief for the Permitting and Assistance Branch for four years. Mr. de Bie first joined the California Integrated Waste Management Board in 1990 after working for Stanislaus County Environmental Health. During his time with the board, now CalRecycle, he has worked as a facility inspector, and as a supervisor for inspections, CEQA, and permitting. He helped develop and was the first supervisor of the Solid Waste Local Enforcement Agency training program. Prior to his service at the board, Mr. de Bie worked as a high school science teacher in California, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and Sierra Leone, West Africa. Mr. de Bie has a Bachelor of Arts degree in biological sciences from Humboldt State University and a Master of Science degree in marine science from California State University, Stanislaus, Moss Landing Marine LaboratoriesJustin Malan Executive Director, CCDEH
Justin Malan was born and raised in Cape Town, South Africa. He graduated from the University of Cape Town with a Bachelor’s Degree in Law and Public Administration and a Masters Degree in Environmental Studies. Justin and his wife sailed a circuitous route to the USA in their home-built sailboat. They settled in California in 1986 and have been living in Sacramento ever since. After working for several years in State government and in the California Legislature, Justin started his environmental advocacy and consulting firm – Ecoconsult. In this capacity he has represented numerous clients and has served as Executive Director to several associations including CCDEH."Christine Sosko Director of Environmental Health, CCDEH / County of Sonoma LEA
Starting with her degree in Biology, Christine graduated to a career as an REHS 14 years ago in the LEA program and has been Director of Sonoma County Environmental Health and Safety for the last 4 years. She has been a member of CCDEH since 2005 and has been serving as the Solid Waste policy chair and member of the executive committee since last year. She works hard to bridge the responsibilities of being a regulatory agency with the needs of the community. Her vision is of agencies, operators and interested parties working in tandem to the benefit of the environment, public health, and the community as a whole.Jacqueline Taylor , Los Angeles County Department of Public Health
Ms. Jacqueline E. Taylor, MPA is the Director of the Environmental Protection Branch in the County of Los Angeles, Department of Public Health and has over 30 years of experience in the field of Environmental Health. She has managed and directed numerous environmental health programs in one of the largest, most diverse, and progressive environmental health departments in the nation. Among the programs Ms. Taylor currently oversees is the Solid Waste Management Program/LEA. In addition, Ms. Taylor is the Chair of the Sunshine Canyon Landfill Local Enforcement Agency Board of Directors and member of the Interagency Taskforce on Odor Complaints at Sunshine Canyon Landfill.
Workshop Session One
Monday April 3, 2017 1:45 PM - 2:45 PM
1A Permit Changes and Permit Reviews
When a solid waste facility operator proposes to make a change to the design or operation of the site, the local enforcement agency will require that the request be processed by either an RFI Amendment, a Permit Modification, or as a Permit Revision. In this session, we will identify the differences between each process. We will also discuss the connections between the Permit Review process and changes. Several case studies will be discussed.
Dorcas "Dee" Hanson-Lugo Env Health Specialist IV - Permitting Supervisor, Los Angeles County
Dee Hanson Lugo has worked for 13 years in LA County Department of Public Health: Four years as a food and housing inspector and 8 years in the Solid Waste Management Program LEA. Currently she is the Solid Waste Management Program’s Permitting Supervisor, as well as one of the supervisors for Sunshine Canyon LEA. She received a B.S. in Biology from Arkansas State University, and a Master of Public Administration from California State University, Northridge. She serves as subcommittee member of LA County Roadmap to a Sustainable Waste Management Future, training liaison for Southern/Southwestern LEA Roundtable, as well as steering committee member for CalRecycle’s LEA Technical Conferences.Martin Perez Senior Environmental Specialist, CalRecycle
Martin Perez is a Senior Environmental Scientist in the Permitting and Assistance Branch, Training and Assistance Section. Mr. Perez’s responsibilities include the development and implementation of new and revised regulations for the Waste Permitting, Compliance, and Mitigation Division. Mr. Perez also provides training and guidance to staff and stakeholders relative to current and proposed policy and regulatory changes. Mr. Perez earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Earth and Environmental Sciences from University of California, Irvine (UCI) in 2008. Mr. Perez began his CalRecycle career in 2009.1B Hot Topics
This session includes a discussion of the proposed draft secondary materials processing regulations, tree mortality and solid waste facility issues, and the landfill closure technical review primer.
Ken Decio , CalRecycle
Ken Decio is a Senior Environmental Scientist at CalRecycle and is the supervisor of the LEA Support Services Unit. Ken helped coordinate the revision of CalRecycle’s composting and in-vessel digestion regulations and was the project manager for preparing a Statewide Program Environmental Impact Report for anaerobic digestion facilities in California. He also assisted in developing workshops to educate Caltrans staff on the benefits of using compost for erosion control and re-vegetation projects.William Heung Waste Management Engineer, CalRecycle
William is a licensed Civil and Environmental Engineer currently working in the Engineering Support Branch at CalRecycle. William brings 13 years of experience as both a private consultant and regulator. He specializes in site remediation, construction oversight, wildfire debris removal, and environmental regulations.Kevin Taylor Environmental Program Manager, CalRecycle
Kevin Taylor is the Branch Manager of the CalRecycle's Training and Assistance Training Section. He has been with the CalRecycle for 25 years, working in several different program areas including, waste prevention, local diversion planning, CalMAX, organic materials management and permitting. Mr. Taylor received his B.S. and M.S. in Entomology from the University of Arizona. He spent over ten years working in the agricultural field as a field person, consultant, educator, and finally with the State of California for the last 27 years.1C Hauler Inspections
Focus of this session will be on the fine points of completing a thorough hauler inspection, including in-depth CTL review, vehicle and decal verification through hauler observation reports, and the process for making referrals to CalRecycle.
Ivan Palenyy Environmental Scientist, CalRecycle
Ivan Palenyy is an Environmental Scientist (ES) in the Waste Permitting, Compliance and Mitigation Division (WPCMD), in the Tire Hauler Compliance Unit. He graduated from UC Davis with a B.S. in Neurobiology, Physiology, and Behavior. After his graduation Ivan worked as a Chemist for several research and production laboratories. Prior to joining CalRecycle in September of 2014 he was employed as an Eligiblility Specialist with the Department of Human Assistance (DHA) of Sacramento County. In his current position, he is responsible for enforcement of the Waste Tire Hauler Registration and Manifest Program.Billy Yos Environmental Scientist, CalRecycle
Billy Yos graduated from CSU, Sacramento with a B.S. in Environmental Studies. Mr. Yos has worked as a Farm Bill Program Technician with the USDA for over a year providing assistance in conservation planning to farmers; an Air Resources Technician II with the California Air Resources Board for about 3 years providing regulatory compliance assistance to industry, districts, government agencies, environmental groups, and the public on the provisions of the Heavy Duty-Diesel Regulation. For the last two years, Mr. Yos CalRecycle has worked as a Environmental Scientist at CalRecycle, performing inspections and site investigations of waste tire haulers and facilities to determine compliance with
Workshop Session Two
Monday April 3, 2017 3:00 PM - 4:00 PM
2A Organics Legislation and Regulations
This session will provide an overview of history of legislation that focused on organic material diversion and subsequent regulatory requirements for businesses and local jurisdictions. Highlights will include implementation dates and potential impacts to the LEA due to existing and new legislation and a case study on organics recycling.
David Davis President, MSW Consultants
David Davis is the President of MSW Consultants located in Temecula, California. MSW Consultants provides solid waste consulting services exclusively to local governments in the areas of finance, economics, and public policy. Mr. Davis has provided consulting service to over 50 local jurisdictions in the areas of rate setting, service procurement, contractor compliance, and strategic planning. He has contributed several articles and papers in the waste industry, and serves on the Board of the Southern California Waste Management Forum. Mr. Davis graduated from Cal State Fullerton with a BA in Finance, and is a Certified Management Accountant (CMA).Howard Levenson Deputy Director, CalRecycle
Dr. Levenson’s environmental career spans four decades, from his research on wildlife management in the 1970s to his position since 2007 as Deputy Director of Materials Management and Local Assistance at CalRecycle. Howard has been at CalRecycle since 1991 and served as Advisor to CIWMB Board Member Paul Relis, supervisor of the initial Organic Materials section, and Deputy Director of Permitting and Enforcement. Prior to CalRecycle, he was a Senior Associate at the U.S. Congress’ Office of Technology Assessment. He has a B.S. and M.S. in Natural Resources Management from Humboldt State and a Ph.D. in Biology from the U. of Kansas.2B: Environmental Justice, CalEnviroScreen, and Practical Application from an LEA
A dynamic workshop which includes environmental justice (EJ) best practices based on training requests gathered from the regional round tables LEA/TEA survey. Learn about the recently updated CalEnviroScreen 3.0, which uses a science-based method for evaluating multiple pollution sources in communities while accounting for communities’ vulnerability to the adverse effects of pollution. See how an LEA’s responsibilities can meld EJ and CalEnviroScreen for improved working relationships and outcomes for communities.
Beronica Lee Senior Environmental Health Inspector, City of San Francisco
Beronica Lee is a Senior Environmental Health Inspector for the Solid Waste Program/LEA at San Francisco Department of Public Health (SFDPH) Environmental Health Branch. She began working for SFDPH in 2010 as an inspector in the Consumer Protection Program and moved to the Solid Waste Program in 2015. Prior to her employment at SFDPH, she worked for Contra Costa County Environmental Health and City of Berkeley Environmental Health Division. She graduated from UC Berkeley with a degree in Public Health with emphasis on infectious diseases.Maria Salinas Environmental Justice Program Manager, CalRecycle
Maria Salinas is CalRecycle’s Environmental Justice Program Manager. Maria’s work at CalRecycle includes being responsible for EJ education, information, and consultation with and for internal and external sources. Maria serves as a liaison between the department and communities on EJ matters of mutual interest, and approaches her work by engaging individuals and groups while learning, providing outreach, feedback, analysis, policy guidance, and recommendations. Maria has more than 10 years of experience in community relations, and her first career involved starting and coordinating a literacy program for farmworker families.Walker Wieland Research Scientist, Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment (OEHHA)
Walker Wieland is an Research Scientist at the Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment. He has been working on CalEnviroScreen for six years and specializes in geographic information systems (GIS) and CalEnviroScreen training.2C Waste Tire Math
Accurate waste tire counting is a critical step in every successful inspection. This session will help you master the practical techniques every inspector needs to know to volumetrically estimate the number of waste tires in various pile shapes and sizes.
Jacob Soza Waste Tire Enforcement Agent, CalRecycle
I am a Waste Tire Enforcement Agent for CalRecycle's Waste Permitting Compliance and Mitigation Division southern unit. I have been with the State for almost 3 years. Much of my time is spent in the field conducting inspections at various businesses that generate, transport and/or recycle used and waste tires. I also work with local tire enforcement agents to ensure implementation of CalRecycle's waste tire regulations and California State law. I earned my Bachelor's of Science degree at the University of California Riverside majoring in Environmental Science. At home I enjoy turning wrenches on my cars and motorcycles and spending outdoor time with my family.
Workshop Session Three
Monday April 3, 2017 4:15 PM - 5:15 PM
3A Mandatory Commercial Organics Recycling
After seven years, the City of Los Angeles is on the cusp of implementing a Zero Waste commercial waste franchise system to help meet the City’s goal of zero waste by 2025. This system is designed to reduce waste disposal by one million tons per year by 2025 and “raise the bar” on employee safety and facility operation, in addition, to ensuring compliance with California’s solid waste mandates (AB 341, AB 1826, SB 1383). The session will highlight Los Angeles County Sanitation District’s food waste digestion demonstration project, provide background on how waste water treatment plants can help food waste recycling efforts, and discuss the District’s plan to implement a full-scale commercial food waste recycling program.
Karen Coca Division Manager, LA Sanitation, 1961
Karen with the City of Los Angeles Bureau of Sanitation since she was a student worker in 1991. She has produced a number of short and long term planning documents in order for the City to reach Zero Waste by 2025, as well as co-leading the development of the City’s new Zero Waste LA Franchise program. Karen has also designed and implemented programs such as the plastic bag ban, Citywide multifamily recycling program, LAUSD recycling program, Environmentally Preferable Purchasing, expansion of Blue Bin recycling to all City agencies, as well as other cutting edge programs. She is excited to move forward on a new plan, to remove organics from landfill diversion and move them to beneficial reuse.Mark McDannel Energy Recovery Section Head, Los Angeles County Sanitation Districts
Mark McDannel is the Section Head for the Energy Recovery Section at the Los Angeles County Sanitation Districts, where his group is responsible for operating three resource recovery power plants, buying and selling electricity, and developing projects required as the Districts increase food waste digestion capabilities. Mr. McDannel holds a B.S. in Biological Sciences and an M.S. in Environmental and Mechanical Engineering from UC Irvine, is a licensed Mechanical Engineer and a Board Certified Environmental Engineer.3B Applying the Three Part Test
This session is for those that may be new to the world of solid waste inspections or need a refresher on how to distinguish a recycling center from a solid waste site. A review on the Three-Part Test will be provided, including: regulatory oversight of the three-part test; how to calculate the percentage of residual and putrescible wastes; what happens when one or more of the test parts are not met; and the steps the LEA and CalRecycle can take to enforce Title 14 CCR 17402.5(d).
Marcus Santillano , CalRecycle
Marcus Santillano is an Environmental Scientist for CalRecycle, currently working in the Permitting and Assistance Branch of the Waste Permitting Compliance and Mitigation Division. Marcus has been working in this position since October of 2012. He has a Bachelor of Arts degree from California State University Sacramento, with a minor in Geography.3C The Second Lives of Recycled Waste Tires (Tires)
So what happens to all those waste tires after they leave the storage facilities and haulers? This session provides an overview and case studies of the myriad of uses in waste tires’ “second lives.”
Nate Gauff Waste Management Engineer, CalRecycle
Stacey Patenaude , CalRecycle
Stacey started work for CalRecycle in 1992 and has been responsible for CalRecycle’s Civil Engineering Applications Using Tire Derived Aggregate (TDA) program for the last 19 years. While working at CalRecycle Stacey has promoted and implemented TDA projects thoughout California. Stacey is a nationally recognized expert in the use of TDA in Civil Engineering Applications, and has been involved with coordinating and completing ten full size TDA projects constructed in California, which have used approximately 5 million California waste tires. She has orchestrated numerous research projects that are important for the development and expansion of the TDA market in California.
Workshop Session Four
Tuesday April 4, 2017 9:00 AM - 10:00 AM
4A Post Closure Land Use Case Studies
Due to the increasing value of land in California, certified closed landfills may be considered for future development. Join this discussion where LEA and CalRecycle speakers will share their experience with development projects on closed landfills as well as technical details regarding health and safety controls required per Title 27 Section 21190. The speakers will highlight their approach to reviewing post closure land use proposals.
Sabra Ambrose Waste Management Engineer, CalRecycle
Sabra is a Waste Management Engineer in the Engineering Support Branch in the Waste Permitting, Compliance and Mitigation Division. She works in the Closed, Illegal, and Abandoned Disposal Site Program since 2004. She provides support for 22 LEA programs. She has performed several investigations throughout the state to assist with defining waste extents, install perimeter monitoring systems, and otherwise field data to support compliance efforts for former disposal sites that ceased accepting waste prior to 1988.Stan Chau Senior Environmental Health Specialist, County of Santa Clara DEH SWP
Stan Chau is an LEA with Santa Clara County experienced in all phases of LEA duties. Stan facilitates the LEA Bay Area Roundtables and is a participating member of the Solid Waste Policy Committee (CCDEH) and Enforcement Advisory Council. Stan is also responsible with oversight of the Local Waste Tire Enforcement and LEA Enforcement Assistance Grants. Stan has also carried out Farm and Ranch Clean Up and Abatement and Waste Tire Clean Up and Amnesty Grants. Stan is also responsible for guiding the Medical Waste Management and Septic Pumper Programs.Greg Schirle Solid Waste Specialist, San Mateo County
Greg has served as San Mateo County's LEA since 1992. Greg has worked on over 40 post closure development projects within the San Mateo County. He has served as the Bay Area LEA representative on the CCDEH Solid Waste Policy committee, Bay Area Round Table Chair and served as the northern Co-chairman on the enforcement Advisory Council.4B Odors
Is odor becoming an issue at compost facilities in your jurisdiction? This session provides an overview of CalRecycle’s regulations regarding odor investigations and the Odor Best Management Feasibility Report, as well as a general training on using our nose to diagnose facility odor issues, quantifying baseline odors and complaints, and documenting odor management improvements.
Ken Decio , CalRecycle
Ken Decio is a Senior Environmental Scientist at CalRecycle and is the supervisor of the LEA Support Services Unit. Ken helped coordinate the revision of CalRecycle’s composting and in-vessel digestion regulations and was the project manager for preparing a Statewide Program Environmental Impact Report for anaerobic digestion facilities in California. He also assisted in developing workshops to educate Caltrans staff on the benefits of using compost for erosion control and re-vegetation projects.Charles McGinley Technical Director, St. Croix Sensory, Inc.
Charles McGinley is the principal of McGinley Associates, PA, a firm specializing in odor management consulting. Charles is also the technical director of the sensory-testing laboratory, St.Croix Sensory, Inc. Charles holds a bachelor of Chemical Engineering from the University of Minnesota and a Marketing MBA from the University of St.Thomas. Charles holds three US patents related to odor testing.4C TEA Grant Updates
TEA Grants staff will provide a review of the TEA Grant Program, including Procedures and Requirements, Payment Request documentation and reporting. In addition, a project update on Local Conservation Corps collaborating with TEAs will be presented.
Phanessa Fong Grant Manager, CalRecycle
Phanessa Fong is an Integrated Waste Management Specialist in the Financial Resources Management Division, as a Grant Manager in the Tire Grants Section. Prior to her managing Waste Tire Enforcement Grants, Phanessa worked in CalRecycle’s Accounting Department processing payments for various Grants.Derek Link Analyst, CalRecycle
Derek is a Grant Manager for the Local Conservation Corps and Tire Enforcement Agency grant programs. He arrived at CalRecycle in 2014 from the private sector where for fifteen years he consulted with government agencies and non-profit organizations in program evaluation and grant writing. Derek has extensive experience in project and compliance management, program evaluation, budget development and grant writing. Derek served on the board of directors for multiple non-profit organizations and he holds a Masters of Science in administration.
Workshop Session Five
Tuesday April 4, 2017 10:15 AM - 11:45 AM
5A Inspections, Inspection Reports, and Enforcement
The road to maintaining compliance begins with good inspection preparation and detailed inspection reporting. Learn inspection tips on the elements of a well-written inspection reports that fully and completely support finding of violations. Hear how these efforts paid off in a case study at an EA notification site, and learn what tools are available to LEAs to maintain compliance.
Cathy Blair Environmental Scientist, CalRecycle
Cathy Blair is an Environmental Scientist in the Waste Permitting Compliance & Mitigation Division, the Solid Waste Enforcement Section, and she has been with CalRecycle for over 9 years including working in the Tire Hauler Compliance Unit. Prior to her work with CalRecycle, Cathy worked for the Secretary of State’s office in a variety of other capacities including enforcement. Cathy graduated from California State University, Sacramento with a Bachelor’s degree in Environmental Studies and a Minor in Geology.Anthony VanderSchaaf Environmental Scientist, CalRecycle
Anthony has been with CalRecycle for just short of three years. Currently he is working in the Solid Waste Enforcement Section, Inspection and Enforcement Agency Compliance Unit. He is responsible for conducting joint 18-month inspections in counties across the state and acting as the EA for San Benito County. In addition to these responsibilities, Anthony also acts as a back-up inspector for San Luis Obispo and Santa Cruz Counties. A graduate of CSU Sacramento, Anthony earned a B.S. in Geology. As the father of 3 very active young boys, Anthony spends the vast majority of his time outside of the office coaching various youth sports and activities.Mathew Vipond Environmental Scientist, CalRecycle
Mathew Vipond is an Environmental Scientist with the Solid Waste Enforcement Section, overseeing Orange, San Diego and Kern Counties and acting as the EA for Stanislaus County. He previously worked in the Waste Tire Central Inspection Unit. He has a degree in Environmental Studies and Economics from UC Santa Cruz. He enjoys spending time in the great outdoors and finding obscure funk and soul records.5B: Food Waste Prevention/Rescue/and Recycling
Learn about the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health’s Food Redistribution Initiative which encourage businesses, schools, and other facilities to donate surplus food to hungry people. The session will also feature presentations on the financial and ancillary benefits to participating in a food recovery effort from the perspective of a restauranteur as well as the efforts of using food waste for energy self-reliance and carbon reduction through Ralph’s Renewable Energy Facility.
Paul Cobb , Ralphs Renewable Energy Plant
Paul Cobb joined Ralphs Grocery Company as Renewable Energy Plant Manager in the summer of 2015. Prior to moving to Ralphs, Paul worked in food manufacturing where he had oversight for management, readiness, and zero waste initiatives of plant maintenance operations. Before working in food manufacturing, Paul participated in engineering, research, and development of space module emergency fuel components, and design changes and implementation of mass transit vehicle cooling system components. Paul is retired from the Marine Corps where he served in aviation maintenance and logistics operations. Paul holds an MBA in Operations Management and a certificate in Project Management.Bernadet Garcia-Silva Project Manager, LA County Public Health Department - Los Angeles County Food Redistribution Initiative
Bernadet Garcia-Silva works for the LA County Health Department as the Project Manager of the LA County Food Redistribution Initiative. She previously worked for Orange County's "Waste Not OC Coalition" which did outreach to businesses to encourage food donation. Bernadet is passionate about the environment, making sure that good food does not go to waste, and ensuring that the hungry are fed.Mike Learakos , TJM Inc./Katella Grill
Mike Learakos is a Foodservice professional with over 30 years of industry experience. In addition to his role as the President & co-founder of TJM, Inc. a broad spectrum foodservice company formed in 1993 which operates Katella Grill & Catering in Orange, Ca., Mr. Learakos also has a long history as a sales and marketing manager representing foodservice manufacturers, processors, facility designers and distributors. In 2014, Mr. Learakos volunteered to head the Waste Not OC Food Recovery Pilot program becoming the full time Executive Director of Waste Not OC in September of 2016.5C RoundTable/Hot Topics Discussion
During this roundtable session, CalRecycle staff will discuss any and all issues affecting waste tire inspection programs, including: inspecting small quantity generators, inspector training and approval, inspection report required content, TEA 23 Procedures & Requirements document, coordination with local fire authorities, changes in TEA 24, or anything else (tire related) that’s on the attendee’s mind.
Bill Albert , CalRecycle
Bill Albert has managed CalRecycle’s waste tire enforcement program since October 2012. In this role he supervises the activities of CalRecycle’s three waste tire facility compliance units and the waste tire hauler compliance unit. During his 24 years of State service, he has served in a variety of managerial and staff positions with CalRecycle, the Dept. of Drug and Alcohol Programs, and the Dept. of Toxic Substances Control. He has also served a total of 26 years in a variety of leadership roles as a Coast Guard officer, which included shipboard engineering, marine safety & security, pollution prevention & incident management response, and marine casualty investigations.Heather Hunt , CalRecycle
Heather Hunt is currently an Attorney III for CalRecycle. She has been an attorney with CalRecycle, working with the Tire Enforcement Section, since 2007. Prior to her employment with CalRecycle, Ms. Hunt worked in the small law firm of James R. Murphy, Jr., and Tana L. Coates, a Law Firm, a firm that provided counsel to criminal defendants and personal injury victims. She graduated with a B.A. in Chemistry from Hendrix College in 1997 and with a J.D. from the Maurer School of Law: Indiana University in 2002. She joined the California Bar in 2003.Georgianne Turner Branch Chief, CalRecycle
Georgianne Turner is currently the Branch Chief for CalRecycle’s Waste Evaluation and Enforcement Branch. She began over 20 years ago as a solid waste field inspector in southern California. She worked in solid waste permitting for CalRecycle as a staff person and a first line supervisor for over 6 years. During this time she worked on some of the first Partnership 2000 projects with LEAs, AB 59, AB 1220 and other key regulation packages and policies. In the late 90’s she developed the regulations and program for the Farm and Ranch Grant program after the legislation past. She spent four years in the Tire Enforcement Program as a first line supervisor and was instrumental in growing the tire
Day Three Keynote Presentation
Wednesday April 5, 2017 9:00 AM - 10:15 AM
Day 3 Panel Food Waste Prevention and Rescue
Learn about the Waste Not Orange County Coalition efforts to "reduce hunger and solid waste by facilitating the donation of wholesome surplus food." The Coalition provides valuable resources that can be replicated in other communities, such as an interactive Google map of all food pantries in the county and information for restaurant owners that they will not be held liable if their donated food is prepared correctly. The audience will have an opportunity to ask questions during the session.
Eric Handler Public Health Officer, Orange County
Eric G. Handler, M.D., M.P.H., became Health Officer for the County of Orange in August 2006. His previous experience includes serving as the Deputy Secretary for Children’s Medical Services in the Florida Department of Health (1996-2000) and Chief Medical Officer for the Florida Department of Children and Families (2000-2003). Most recently he was the Chief Medical Officer for the Boston Regional Office for the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services from 2004-2006. During his career, Dr. Handler has held several academic appointments, including an Associate Professor at the Ohio State University College of Medicine. Dr. Handler received his Medical Degree from Chicago Medical School and completed his Pediatrics training at L.A. County-U.S.C Hospital and his Master in Public Health at UCLA. He completed a pediatric rehabilitation fellowship at Rancho Los Amigos Hospital.Mike Learakos , TJM, Inc. & Katella Grill
Mike Learakos is a Foodservice professional with over 30 years of industry experience. In addition to his role as the President & co-founder of TJM, Inc. a broad spectrum foodservice company formed in 1993 which operates Katella Grill & Catering in Orange, Ca., Mr. Learakos also has a long history as a sales and marketing manager representing foodservice manufacturers, processors, facility designers and distributors. In 2014, Mr. Learakos volunteered to head the Waste Not OC Food Recovery Pilot program becoming the full time Executive Director of Waste Not OC in September of 2016.
Workshop Session Six
Wednesday April 5, 2017 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM
6A Green Material Movement and Spread of Invasive Pests
New pests have entered California that have the potential to dramatically alter our landscape and greatly impact agricultural productivity. Learn which agencies track infestations and enforce quarantines, the signature signs of key pests, and how LEAs can help.
Robert Horowitz Supervising Environmental Scientist, CalRecycle
Robert Horowitz is the supervisor of the Organic Materials and Construction and Demoloition unit at CalRecycle. He has experience with composting technologies and strategies to mitigate environmental concerns such as air quality, water quality and pests.Rob Smice Deputy Agricultural Commissioner/Sealer, Los Angeles County
Over 35 years of field experience in the enforcement of California agricultural laws and regulations for the protection of the consumers, business, farmers and the environment. Close association with USDA, CDFA, and County governments and with business and consumer organizations with respect to Pest Exclusion and Produce Quality issues and concerns.6B CEQA and Solid Waste Facility Permitting - An Overview
California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) compliance is a central component in the development and issuance of solid waste facility permits. This session will provide an overview of how environmental review of a project in accordance with CEQA intersects with solid waste facility permitting. The speakers will focus on recurring issues.
Harllee Branch Senior Attorney, CalRecycle Legal Office
Harllee Branch is a Senior Attorney with CalRecycle, where he has advised the agency on legal issues related to a wide array of programs since 2005. Beginning in 2013, he has consulted on legal issues related to facility permitting, enforcement and California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) compliance. Prior to his time at CalRecycle, Harllee was Staff Counsel with the Department of Fish and Wildlife where he consulted on water rights issues, permitting requirements, the Endangered Species Act and CEQA. He received his Juris Doctor with distinction specializing in Governmental Affairs from the University of the Pacific, McGeorge School of Law. He received his BA from UC Berkeley.Nevin Yeates Senior Environmental Scientist, 1981
Nevin Yeates has been with CalRecycle for 10 years. Currently, in addition to his duties as Supervisor over the Permits & Assistance Central Unit, he is the Acting Manager for the Permits & Assistance North Section. Nevin has supervised the Central Unit since 2013 and has been a knowledgeable leader in addressing complex permitting issues.6C Electronic Inspection Reporting
This session will review the various aspects of electronically completing a thorough inspection report from the pre-inspection preparation step through providing complete documentation and defensible inspection comments.
Jared Weathers Environmental Scientist, CalRecycle
Graduated from Oregon State University with a BS in Biology, has been working for the Waste Tire Enforcement Program for over 1 year
Workshop Session Seven
Wednesday April 5, 2017 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM
7A Mattress, Carpet and Paint EPR Programs
Implementation of mattress, carpet and paint Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) in California will be discussed. Current challenges and issues will be discussed for each of the EPR programs. Details on CalRecycle enforcement and the potential role for LEAs.
Krysty Emery TBD, CalRecycle
Having practiced in the environmental and waste management field for 20 years in both the public and private sector, Ms. Emery has lead planning projects, environment impact analyses, and database developments. She has facilitated stakeholder engagement for emerging renewable energy policy development and recycling regulations. She managed recycling programs for corporate companies as well as rural groups. At CalRecycle since 2008, she served jurisdictions, state agencies, and advanced market development programs. Ms. Emery's current duties include heading the compliance team for Extended Producer Responsibility, developing the first EPR field enforcement program in the nation.Heidi Sanborn TBD, California Product Stewardship Council
Heidi has worked in the solid waste industry her entire career of almost 25 years. She emerged in the industry as an independent consultant becoming an expert in the policy of Extended Producer Responsibly (EPR). Heidi was asked to be the director of a new organization founded by California local governments called the California Product Stewardship Council in 2007. This 501c3 organization expanded in 2015 to add a national affiliate called the National Stewardship Action Council, a 501c4, to advocate for EPR and a circular economy. She speaks internationally on the subject of EPR and the Circular Economy is frequently published on the subject.7B Quick Guide to Reviewing Operating Documents and Understanding Complete and Correct Applications
Having well-written, up-to-date operating documents are necessary in the development of a quality solid waste facilities permit package. Knowing what to look for in a permit application package can make the permit process experience easier.
John Lewis , Sacramento County Environmental Management Dept.
John Lewis has worked for Sacramento county since 2002. He has been with the county's LEA program since 2011. John has a degree in Biology from the prestigious California State University Sacramento and owned and operated a construction company prior to his career with Sacramento County.Kevin Taylor Environmental Program Manager, CalRecycle
Kevin Taylor is the Branch Manager of the CalRecycle's Training and Assistance Training Section. He has been with the CalRecycle for 25 years, working in several different program areas including, waste prevention, local diversion planning, CalMAX, organic materials management and permitting. Mr. Taylor received his B.S. and M.S. in Entomology from the University of Arizona. He spent over ten years working in the agricultural field as a field person, consultant, educator, and finally with the State of California for the last 27 years.7C Waste Tire Industry Panel
Industry leaders will provide an overview of how the waste tire industry works, the players, economics, challenges, and more.
Mark Hope President, Waste Recovery West, Inc.
Mark Hope has 40 years of varied and extensive experience in the environmental fields of air, water, solid waste and hazardous waste to include permitting, compliance monitoring, source control, design, and systems development. Following his tenure with the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality, he began a 34 year career in scrap tire recycling to include material processing, collection, pile remediation (cleanup) and market development. As President of Tire Disposal & Recycling, Inc. and it's sister company, he oversees all operational aspects of the Company in 4 western states. He is a graduate of Oregon State University and a Qualified Environmental Professional (QEP) as certified by the Institute of Professional Environmental Practice (IPEP).Randy Roth Vice President, Lakin Tire West
Cameron Wright President, West Coast Rubber Recycling
Workshop Session Eight
Wednesday April 5, 2017 2:15 PM - 3:15 PM
8A Writing a Permit
Learn about drafting a Solid Waste Facilities Permit (SWFP) that contains appropriate enforceable permit conditions. A well-written permit needs to be consistent with regulations and statutes, the information in the application package, and the project reviewed and analyzed in a compliant CEQA process. Speaker(s): Eric Kiruja, CalRecycle
Eric Kiruja Integrated Waste Management Specialist, CalRecycle
Eric Kiruja is an Integrated Waste Management Specialist with CalRecycle's Waste Permitting, Compliance, and Mitigation Division. Eric has been with CalRecycle since 2008, initially working as the Enforcement Agency (EA) for Santa Cruz County. Over the past several years, Eric has been the point of contact in the permitting and LEA support branch providing assistance to local environmental health departments on matters pertaining to solid waste management.8B Land Application, Inspection and Record Review
Learn about land application regulations and what may be required if a project proponent requests an alternate application.
Ken Decio TBD, CalRecycle
Ken Decio is a Senior Environmental Scientist at CalRecycle and is the supervisor of the LEA Support Services Unit. Ken helped coordinate the revision of CalRecycle’s composting and in-vessel digestion regulations and was the project manager for preparing a Statewide Program Environmental Impact Report for anaerobic digestion facilities in California. He also assisted in developing workshops to educate Caltrans staff on the benefits of using compost for erosion control and re-vegetation projects.William Scheffler Environmental Specialist, Sacramento County EMD
Will Scheffler is a native of the Sacramento area. He majored in Environmental Studies at the University of San Diego and proceeded to work as an Environmental Health Specialist in Stanislaus County. The move to Sacramento County Environmental Management Department was a welcome return to his hometown for him and his soon-to-be wife Alexandra. As a Registered Environmental Health Specialist, Will is passionate about protecting the community and environment he calls home. In his free time Will enjoys tinkering on antique cars much to his wife's humorous chagrin. Will also enjoys sailing and fishing with friends and family.8C Mock Hearing (Tires)
Using an administrative penalty hearing as the setting, CalRecycle tire attorneys will illustrate the critical role that inspections and resulting inspection reports play in the successful prosecution of a waste tire enforcement case.
Heather Hunt Senior Attorney, CalRecycle
Heather Hunt is currently an Attorney III for CalRecycle. She has been an attorney with CalRecycle, working with the Tire Enforcement Section, since 2007. Prior to her employment with CalRecycle, Ms. Hunt worked in the small law firm of James R. Murphy, Jr., and Tana L. Coates, a Law Firm, a firm that provided counsel to criminal defendants and personal injury victims. She graduated with a B.A. in Chemistry from Hendrix College in 1997 and with a J.D. from the Maurer School of Law: Indiana University in 2002. She joined the California Bar in 2003.Katie Nystrom Attorney, CalRecycle
Katie Nystrom is an attorney with CalRecycle in the tire program. Katie joined the CalRecycle legal office in March 2015; prior to that, Katie worked as an associate attorney for the Sacramento private firm Kronick Moskovitz Tiedemann & Girard, in its labor and employment practice group. Katie obtained her juris doctorate from University of the Pacific, McGeorge School of Law in 2011 and her Bachelor's Degree from University of California, Santa Barbara. In law school, Katie interned as a law clerk with CalRecycle and couldn't wait to get back. In her spare time, Katie likes barre classes, cheering on the Sacramento Kings, and jogging with her husky, Indy.
Workshop Session Nine
Wednesday April 5, 2017 3:30 PM - 4:30 PM
9A In-Vessel Digestion Operations and Facilities - General Terms and Permit Issues
The session will provide a description of what an in-vessel digestion facility or operation is, the type of permit required, and permit requirements that are unique to this type of operation. A case study on an active Distribution Center In-Vessel Digestion Operation will be discussed .
Paul Cobb Plant Operations Manager, Ralph's Renewable Energy Plant
Paul Cobb joined Ralphs Grocery Company as Renewable Energy Plant Manager in the summer of 2015. Prior to moving to Ralphs, Paul worked in food manufacturing where he had oversight for management, readiness, and zero waste initiatives of plant maintenance operations. Before working in food manufacturing, Paul participated in engineering, research, and development of space module emergency fuel components, and design changes and implementation of mass transit vehicle cooling system components. Paul is retired from the Marine Corps where he served in aviation maintenance and logistics operations. Paul holds an MBA in Operations Management and a certificate in Project Management.Diane Vlach Senior Environmental Scientist, CalRecycle
Diane Vlach is a Senior Environmental Scientist in the Permitting and Assistance Branch. The program areas she has worked in during her 27 years at CalRecycle (and the CIWMB) include solid waste facility inspections and enforcement, local enforcement agency designation and evaluation, integrated waste management planning and local assistance, and waste tire grants. Her primary focus over the last several years has been as an industrial hygienist in the Health & Safety Section. As a senior staff member in the Waste Permitting, Compliance, and Mitigation Division, her duties include preparing studies and reports, providing technical assistance, developing and delivering training, and serving as a liaison between CalRecycle and partner agencies. She is a graduate of the University of California, Irvine with degrees in Ecology and Anthropology.9B Interagency Collaboration on CUPA/Fire Issues at Solid Waste and Tire Facilities
This panel session will provide an overview of the Department of Toxic Substances’ CUPA program as well as explore local fire authority responsibilities. The interagency panel will discuss each agency’s roles and available resources for investigating and taking corrective action involving issues at solid waste facilities and waste tire sites with a focus on collaboration, emphasizing the importance of interagency communication concerning multi-media issues. The challenges presented by the overlapping though somewhat different focus of California’s waste tire laws and the California Fire Code will also be examined.
Janet Gardner , Fresno County Environmental Health Division TEA/LEA
Matt McCarron Senior Environmental Scientist, DTSC
Matt has been with the State of California for 26 years with DTSC, CalEPA, CIWMB(CalRecycle) and back to DTSC. Currently, he is a Senior in the Enforcement Division in DTSC’s regional office. He is involved with Environment Justice projects, CUPA audits and trainings, E-Waste inspections, TSDF inspections and emerging issues enforcement. He was the statewide coordinator for the California Green Business Network and the Health Nail Salon project in the DTSC’s Pollution Prevention Branch. Matt has Bachelor of Science degree in Biology, and a Master of Science in Environmental Management from the University of San Francisco.John Morgan TBD, Merced County Fire Marshal
John Morgan started his career as a volunteer firefighter with Madera County Fire Department and began working for Cal Fire soon afterward. He has worked his way through the ranks to Fire Captain and currently holds the Fire Marshal position for Merced County.Wen Yang Senior Engineering Geologist, Los Angeles Regional Water Quality Control Board
Dr. Wen Yang graduated from Washington State University in Pullman, Washington, in 1990, with his Ph.D. in Geochemistry, and then moved to southern California and started his career in environmental protection with several consultant companies in the Los Angeles area. He joined the Los Angeles Regional Water Quality Control Board in 1994 and worked on stormwater, NPDES permits, aboveground tanks, and land disposal programs. He is a California Professional Geologist, Certified Hydrogeologist, and Certified Engineering Geologist. He is currently the Chief of Land Disposal Unit at the LA Regional Water Board.
Workshop Session Ten
Thursday April 6, 2017 9:00 AM - 10:00 AM
10A Physical Contaminants in Compostable Materials
This session provides an overview of issues related to physical contaminants in compostable material, basic requirements of the new CalRecycle physical contaminant regulations, and an update on the status of the development of a contamination field measure methodology.
Carley Bartlett Environmental Scientist, CalRecycle
I am a new Environmental Scientist with CalRecycle in the LEA Support Services Unit. I have been assisting with the Technical Training Series and will be working on the development and implementation of technical training courses. Before working at CalRecycle, I earned a B.S. in Biology from California State University, Monterey Bay and a M.S. in Marine Biology at San Francisco State University. During my studies, I researched effects of environmental changes on the physiology of intertidal zone, juvenile porcelain crabs. In my graduate program, I also taught introductory biology laboratory courses and participated in scientific teaching professional development programs.David Crohn Associate Professor and Cooperative Extension Specialist, University of California at Riverside
David Crohn earned his doctorate in 1992 from Cornell University in the Department of Biological and Agricultural Engineering. Since then he has been a Cooperative Extension Specialist in the Department of Environmental Sciences at the University of California, Riverside. His research emphasizes the beneficial use of municipal and agricultural residues as soil amendments and fertilizers. Dr. Crohn develops tools to assist farmers including scheduling of applications of manures and other organic fertilizers. He works closely with the compost industry and state agencies, assisting them in identifying quality products for use in landscape to promote plant health and control erosion.Ken Decio , CalRecycle
Ken Decio is a Senior Environmental Scientist at CalRecycle and is the supervisor of the LEA Support Services Unit. Ken helped coordinate the revision of CalRecycle’s composting and in-vessel digestion regulations and was the project manager for preparing a Statewide Program Environmental Impact Report for anaerobic digestion facilities in California. He also assisted in developing workshops to educate Caltrans staff on the benefits of using compost for erosion control and re-vegetation projects.10B: CRV Fraud
Learn about California’s Beverage Container Recycling Program and how CalRecycle’s Division of Recycling (Southern California Investigations Unit) is working to prevent California Redemption Value (CRV) fraud and what LEAs can do to help.
Alejandro Hernandez Senior Management Auditor, CalRecycle
I been with CalRecycle's, Division of Recycling since 2000. Currently, as Senior Management Auditor, with Recycling Program Enforcement Branch, I am responsible for managing, supervising, organizing and directing the Investigation Section work for two field offices and two units, Investigations and Processors Oversight in Southern California. I also coordinate the Department's investigative audit activities with the CA Department of Justice and other State and Local agencies to prevent and recover improper payments from the California Beverage Container Recycling Program. BS in Business Administration from CSU Dominguez Hills. Prior work, CA Board of Equalization-Compliance.Youssef Hocheimi Investigative Auditor, CalRecycle
My career with Calrecycle started in 2006. After two month, I was promoted to a Lead Investigative Auditor. I have completed thousands of investigation and inspection cases; and conducted numerous investigations involving multimillion dollar fraud cases. Prior to my employment with Calrecycle, I worked with the City of Los Angeles, Bureau of Sanitation, as a SAFE Center Coordinator. I served the residents of Los Angeles, and gained extensive experience on various recycling programs within the City. I graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from California State University, Northridge in 2005.10C Waste Tire Case Studies (Tires)
Follow some of the more interesting (and challenging) recent waste tire enforcement cases from initiation through final resolution with a focus on lessons learned for the future.
Bill Albert Manager, Waste Tire Enforcement Program, CalRecycle
Bill Albert has managed CalRecycle’s waste tire enforcement program since October 2012. In this role he supervises the activities of CalRecycle’s three waste tire facility compliance units and the waste tire hauler compliance unit. During his 21 years of State service, he has served in a variety of managerial and staff positions with CalRecycle, the Dept. of Drug and Alcohol Programs, and the Dept. of Toxic Substances Control. He has also served a total of 26 years in a variety of leadership roles as a Coast Guard officer, which included shipboard engineering, marine safety & security, pollution prevention & incident management response, and marine casualty investigations.
Day Four AM General Session
Thursday April 6, 2017 10:30 AM - 12:00 PM
Day 4 Panel Fire Clean-up/Response (General Session)
How are massive amounts of burn debris materials removed from remote, rural areas that have suffered catastrophic wildfires? Learn the strategies and tactics that CalRecycle employed to successfully complete the mission of clean-up at the governor’s declared disaster areas. The presentation covers how the cleanup was organized, performed and completed, and the lessons learned from removing 400,000 tons of burned debris and contaminated soil from the Valley and Butte Fires.
William Heung Waste Management Engineer, CalRecycle
William is a licensed Civil and Environmental Engineer currently working in the Engineering Support Branch at CalRecycle. William brings 13 years of experience as both a private consultant and regulator. He specializes in site remediation, construction oversight, wildfire debris removal, and environmental regulations.Todd Thalhamer TBD, CalRecycle
Todd Thalhamer is a registered civil engineer and a senior waste management engineer for CalRecycle. He received his Bachelor of Science degree in Environmental Resource Engineering from Humboldt State University in 1992. During his 25 years in the waste industry, he has managed many environmental responses and emergency debris operations for CalRecycle. During disasters Todd acts as CalRecycle’s Operations Section Chief for debris recovery projects. Todd has designed and implemented a number of debris removals in Calaveras, El Dorado, Lake, Mono, and Siskiyou Counties.Alfred Worcester Engineering Geologist, CalRecycle
Alfred Worcester is a California-registered Geologist and Engineering Geologist; graduate of Humboldt State University. During 20 years of private practice, he conducted geotechnical, environmental and oil/gas/geothermal energy investigations across California and overseas. He has been with CalRecycle since 2009, working in the Engineering Support Branch (ESB) and responsible for reviewing Closure and Postclosure documents, LFG monitoring plans and non-water corrective action plans, and conducting closed landfill inspections. He also lends his expertise to the CIA group, reviewing and conducting investigations related to offsite landfill gas migration and landfill waste delineation studies.