28th Annual National Boating Access Conference

October 6 – 9, 2014 Wyndham Riverfront Hotel, North Little Rock, AR

Hosted By:

The States Organization for Boating Access

Hosting Agency:

Arkansas Department of Health

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States Organization for Boating Access

Letters of Welcome

General Information

Guest Program

Program at a Glance

Program Details

Resolutions

Activity Details

Speaker Biographies

Sponsors

Exhibitors

Past Presidents

Board of Directors

Vermont SOBA 2015 47

The 2014 National Boating Access Conference was partially funded through a Clean Vessel Act and Boating Infrastructure Grant provided by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service for education, outreach, and training on boating access development, permitting, planning and site inspection visits highlighting the federal boating programs.

States Organization for Boating Access What is SOBA?

Established in 1986, SOBA is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, consisting of boating officials that represent member states and U.S. Territories. SOBA is the only national organization dedicated exclusively to improving access to waterways by promoting the acquisition, development and maintenance of public recreational boating facilities. SOBA functions as a professional association for agency staff that work in boating access programs in their respective states and territories. Staff from the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service are also actively involved with SOBA as are a wide range of affiliate boating organizations, engineering firms, consultants, manufacturers and suppliers interested in public boating access. SOBA is the collective voice of public boating access in the United States.

What is SOBA’s Mission? “To encourage, promote and support federal and state programs that provide safe, high-quality and environmentally sound public recreational boat access to the waterways of the United States and its territories.”

What are the benefits of being an active member of SOBA? SOBA provides a variety of services to its members. While there are several categories of membership, the primary avenue for membership is through a state agency. State membership extends full benefits to two professional staff. Additional staff can become affiliated professional members at a nominal annual cost. Members of SOBA receive the following: • Access to SOBA technical publications and research. SOBA is the premier source for reference

materials related to boating access, including:∗ Design Handbook For Recreational Boating & Fishing Facilities ∗ Construction Techniques for Recreational Boating Access Facilities (DVD) ∗ Operations & Maintenance Program Guidelines for Recreational Boating Facilities

• SOBA on-line support including a listserve and downloadable publications;• Advocacy on behalf of states for common issues relating to federal boating programs;• Annual awards recognizing staff accomplishments and exemplary boating facility projects;• Annual conferences held in diverse locales offering technical training, topical educational

sessions, trade show, on-site visits to public recreational boating facilities, and interaction withthe leading experts in the field of boating access.

What is the National Boating Access Conference?

The National Boating Access Conference is an annual event sponsored by the States Organization for Boating Access (SOBA) and hosted by a member State. The conference combines educational programs, technical training, professional interaction, site visits, and exposure to new products and services – all uniquely focused on recreational boating. Over the years, this conference has enabled the creation of a nationwide network of state and federal boating professionals, leaders in the boating industry, and affiliated nonprofit organizations. The Conference offers a forum for exchanging views, ideas, concepts and experiences related to all aspects of recreational boating access and facilities.

How You Can Get Involved in SOBA?

Serve on the SOBA Board. The SOBA Board is a governing body composed of volunteers elected from member states. In addition to officers, the Board also has member-at-large positions, allowing interested members to serve in various capacities. Travel costs of Board members to quarterly meetings are paid by the organization.

The Board is always interested in recruiting new members to serve the organization.

Serve on a Task Force or Committee. The products developed by SOBA are the result of collaborations between its members. Technical documents are typically produced through a Task Force involving individual SOBA members from multiple states. SOBA members can sign up to serve on a SOBA Task Force or Committee to work on a specific project or product. Examples of existing SOBA efforts include the development of a Guide to Best Management Practices for Vessel Waste Containment Systems and the National Assessment of Boating Access.

A potential emerging project will be the development of design guidelines for boating access for non- motorized or paddle craft.

Host an annual SOBA Conference. The SOBA Board provides general leadership for the organization but host states are always needed to help organize and staff the annual conference. SOBA members benefit enormously from being able to travel to diverse locations to see the different approaches states are using to provide public boating access. Each state has a unique story that can offer valuable insight to conference delegates.

The Board encourages states to volunteer to act as a local host. This entails a local staff commitment, especially in the development of the educational program, identification of local or regional experts as presenters, and selection of host facilities and locations for on-site visits. Fortunately, most of the financial and contractual arrangements are handled by the SOBA Executive Director, relieving the host state from having to deal with these aspects of the conference. The Board also provides regular input and feedback and many Board members have experience hosting a SOBA conference in their state.

Upcoming SOBA Conferences:

2015 Vermont

2016 30th Anniversary of SOBA—Location To Be Determined.

October 2014

Dear SOBA Members, Conference Sponsors, Exhibitors, Speakers, Alumni, Guests and other Conference Participants:

On behalf of the SOBA Executive Board of Directors, it is my great pleasure to welcome you to SOBA’s 2014 National Boating Access Conference in North Little Rock, Arkansas.

A big welcome is extended to returning conference participants, Alumni, Exhibitors, Sponsors, Partners, Guests, and to our first time attendees. The warm southern hospitality extended by the Arkansas Department of Health, the Arkansas Game and Fish Department, and the Hastings Bay Marina is welcomed and appreciated by one and all.

This year’s theme: “Setting the Right Course” is an appropriate way to usher in the myriad of projects that SOBA is currently involved in. These initiatives are reflected throughout our agenda this year, and give us all the opportunity to be a part of SOBA’s future. We have an excellent agenda lined up which kicks off with our ever popular Federal Assistance Workshop, and continues through with two days of first rate Technical, Planning, Outreach and Economics and Environmental sessions. This year on Thursday morning, we will host some Taskforce meetings: * Pumpout Boat Standards, * Best Management Practices for the Boating Infrastructure Grant program, and our * Paddling Design Guidelines Group. All are welcome, so please plan to attend and participate, and talk to a SOBA board member if you need more information.

2014 has been a fast year, and I have greatly enjoyed serving as your President during SOBA’s 28th year. The SOBA Executive Board reviewed and revised SOBA’s Strategic Plan earlier this year, and continuation of priorities identified remain front and center for your Board of Directors. Please plan to attend SOBA’s Annual Business Meeting on Wednesday October 8th to hear about the many other important association issues underway.

Finally, please join me in thanking our Host State of Arkansas, and in particular Tom Jones, Katie Wirges and their entire team for the personal time, energy, effort, and thoughtfulness they all invested to bring us this first class event.

Enjoy the conference, enjoy Little Rock, and enjoy spending time with colleagues, and friends, both old and new. SOBA’s annual gathering is an invaluable opportunity to network, and we all know that networking pays great dividends in our careers.

In closing, please let us not forget the generosity of our sponsors, whose support SOBA could not do without. Be sure to visit with our exhibitors to learn about the latest products and services they have to offer our industry, and don’t forget to say Thank You while you are there!

Janine Belleque - SOBA President

Highlights of 2013-14 from the Association of Marina Industries (AMI)

AMI introduced a new Marine Trade Association (MTA) partnership program, increasing AMI’s regional representation. As part of this program, MTAs form an affiliate agreement with AMI. All marina members within an affiliated state trade association are welcomed as full members of AMI with access to all membership services and benefits. So far, AMI has formed affiliate agreements with Kentucky/Tennessee Marina Association (KY/TN MA), the Virginia Marine Trades Association (VMTA) and Boating British Columbia (BoatBC), and expanded our marina membership from 411 to 635.

Now in its 28th year, International Marina Institute continues to deliver top rated professional conferences. This past year the topic for the annual Fall Conference was Drystack. Immediately following the Drystack Conference, IMI ran its 7th annual Marina and Boatyard Study Tour, which takes participants on private, exclusive tours of Southeast Florida marinas and boatyards.

The International Marina & Boatyard Conference was held January 29–31, 2014, in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. This conference was the largest since 2011 and featured a new Marina Design and Engineering Track. IMBC also partnered with the American Society of Civil Engineers to offer a one day Marina Design Course. New innovations included a marina trends exhibit, a visual trends board, and live voting for best profit ideas awards.

During our conferences, Certified Marina Manager (CMM) roundtables were held in addition to ongoing roundtables initiated by members in their geographic regions. AMI further extends its reach and connects its members with other like-minded marina professionals through social networking sites: Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn.

AMI added two publications to its library: 2014 Marina Wage Rate Survey Report and the 2013 Marina Trends Survey Report. The Marina Wage Rate Survey is sent to marinas across the US to identify typical salaries and benefits for various marina positions. The information gives a national picture but also is broken down by region giving employers and employees valuable figures. The 2013 Marina Trends Survey Report is an annual publication designed to give a snapshot of the marina industry across the country in a given year.

Working with its partners, including SOBA, AMI assisted with the review process for both Boating Infrastructure Grant (BIG) applications and the proposed program changes, and worked with industry partners as a member of the Angling & Boating Alliance to help ensure funding continues to the Sportfish and Recreational Boating Trust Fund.

For more information on AMI visit www.marinaassociation.org.

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General InformationRegistration Booth Located in the Foyer, you can pick up your Name Badge and registration packet. Your Name Badge is your key to participate in meals and activities. This is also the place to ask questions if you're lost. It will be open from 7:00am till 5:00pm Monday through Thursday.

Sessions We’ve put together a wide range of topics to suit the needs and interests of our SOBA members. All general sessions will be held in the Silver City III & IV. Monitors and signs outside the rooms will list the sessions

Exhibitors Do you want to learn about new products and services related to our field? Looking for some advice? Check out the Exhibit Hall located in Silver City III & IV and the foyer. You will see the latest and greatest and have a chance to have a one on one conversation with the “people in the know” Exhibitors will be setting up on Monday, October 6th between 7:45am and 4:45pm. They will then be available all day Tuesday and Wednesday.

Meals & Refreshments All meals will be provided on Monday through Wednesday; breakfast is provided by the hotel. Thursday lunch and dinner are on your own. Dinner will be provided during our site visit on Tuesday.

Banquet meal selection ticket is located in your Name Badge holder.

Beverages and snacks will be available during breaks.

Networking is in room Huntersville 1005. It will be open from 9:00pm until midnight Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday.

Transportation Participants of the Hastings Bay site visit will be transported to and from the site by buses. Buses will also be available to transport delegates to off-site events, including the Cajun

Dinner at Maritime Museum and the Rockwater Marina site visit tour.

Boarding will take place outside the Hotel foyer in the driveway between the hotel and adjacent parking lot

SOBA 2014 CONFERENCE: October 6 – 9, North Little Rock GUEST PROGRAM (subject to change)

MONDAY OCTOBER 6TH 7am -5pm: Registration. If you arrive early try out the River Rail Electric

Streetcar. Board across the street from the Wyndham. Stroll thru the Riverfront Market Area. Day passes are available at the registration desk. Average service stop, every 25 minutes.

6pm -9pm: Cajun Dinner and live music at the Maritime Museum (10 minute walk or shuttle transportation provided)

9pm – midnight: Networking Room Open: Huntersville Suite

TUESDAY OCTOBER 7TH 9am – 1:45pm: Spend the morning hiking Pinnacle Mountain State Park. This trail

is easy-moderate, and you can pace yourself and enjoy the view from the 1011 foot summit above the Arkansas River. It’s worth the hike. A box lunch will be provided and you can be dropped back to the hotel, or to the Riverfront Market Area.

3pm: Depart Wyndham and arrive at Hastings Bay Marina: spend the afternoon visiting the Hastings Bay Antique Museum.

6pm – 8pm: BBQ Dinner (transportation provided back to hotel)

9pm: Networking Room Open: Huntersville Suite

WEDNESDAY OCTOBER 8TH9am Depart Wyndham hotel and arrive at William J. Clinton Presidential Library

and Museum. Admission included in guest fee.

11:30am – 1pm: Enjoy lunch on your own in the Riverfront Market Area.

1pm-2pm: Tour the Old State House Museum. Built in 1836, it is the oldest surviving state capital west of Mississippi. Free admission

2:15pm- 4:15pm: Walk thru the Riverfront Park, or return to Wyndham hotel

6pm-9pm: Cocktail Reception followed by closing Banquet Dinner

9pm-midnight: Networking Room Open: Huntersville Suite

States Organization for Boating Access 2014 Annual National Boating Access Conference

October 6 – 9, 2014 North Little Rock, Arkansas

“Setting the Right Course”

AGENDA

Monday, October 6th: Note: All general sessions will be held in Silver City Ballroom, III and IV

Time Event/Topics Speakers 7:00 am – 5:00 pm Registration 7:45 am – 4:45 pm Exhibitor Setup 7:30 am – 8:30 am Breakfast (hotel restaurant) 8:30 am – 4:30pm General Sessions 8:30am – 10:00am USFWS Update

Federal Program Updates

Hannibal Bolton, USFWS

US Fish and Wildlife Staff 10:00 am – 10:15 am Break

10:15 am – 12 noon General Session 25 min.

25 min.

25 min.

25 min.

Arkansas Boating Access Program

Regulatory and Historic Properties

Infrastructure, Engineering, Construction

Life On The Water – The Corps Perspective

Mark Oliver, Chief of Fisheries Arkansas Game and Fish

Chris Davies, Corps of Engineers, Little Rock District

Greg Mattson, Corps of Engineers Little Rock District.

Kevin McDaniels, Corps of Engineer Little Rock District

12:00 pm – 1:15 pm Working Lunch: Keynote Speaker Robin Morgan, Deputy Director of Recreation, U.S. Forest Service – FICOR Progress

1:15 pm – 3:00 pm General Session 45 min. 45 min.

CVA Rule Information

Reducing Risk: Successful State Examples

Lisa Van Alstyne, USFWS Al Ortiz, USFWS and Preston Smith, Virginia Dept. of Health

3:00 pm – 3:15 pm Break with the exhibitors 3:15 pm – 4:30 pm General Session

25 min. 25 min. 25 min.

A Pumpout Boat Program: The Good, Bad and the Ugly

Things to Consider When Applying for BIG Competitive Grants

Stump The Feds: Opportunity to hear how other Regions process CVA, BIG and Boating Access Grants

Scott Meister, South Carolina Steve Owen, Owner/Operator Hastings Bay Marina Regional USFWS Coordinators

6:00 pm – 9:00 pm Cajun Dinner and music at the Maritime Museum (10-minute walk or shuttle)

9:00 pm – Midnight Networking

Tuesday, October 7th Note: All general sessions will be held in Silver City Ballroom, III and IV

Time Event/Topics Speakers

6:30 am – 5:00 pm Registration 7:30 am – 4:45 pm Exhibit Hall 7:00 am – 8:00 am Breakfast (hotel restaurant)

8:00 am – 9:00 am Opening Ceremony - Presentation of the Colors - Opening Invocation - Stephanie Williams, AR Dept. of Health, Deputy Director - SOBA President’s opening remarks - Welcome from North Little Rock- Mayor Joe Smith

9:00 am – 10:00 am Industry Partner Updates

• Sport Fishing and Boating Partnership Council

• NMMA • BoatUS • AFWA

Betty Huskins, SFBPC Thom Dammrich, NMMA Susan Shingledecker, BoatUS Jon Arway, Pennsylvania 10:15am – 10:30am Break with the exhibitors

10:30 am – 11:45am General Session

National Boating Access Research Study Report

Andrea Criscione, Responsive Management

11:45 pm – 1:15 pm Working Lunch: Stephanie Hussey, RBFF Outreach Campaigns and Results 1:15 pm – 2:45 pm Breakout Sessions – 30 minutes each

Technical

Runoff Water and Shoreline Maintenance

Boat Ramp Design Challenges in a Dynamic River

Geo-grid Ramp and Road Stabilization Design

Nancy Stewart, Minnesota

Jeff Smith, Oregon

Ron Christofferson, Arizona

Planning National Boating Access Report: Where To From Here?

Andrea Criscione, Responsive Management

3:00 pm – 6:00 pm Educational Site Assessment and Presentations of BIG and CVA Access Grants at Hastings Bay Marina and AIS Prevention

Onsite Presentations:

Welcome Remarks:

Aquatic Invasive Species Best Management Practices Arkansas Invasive Species Project Inspect a BIG Tier 1 and 2 Transient Facility, CVA project, & Invasive Species Facility.

Governor Mike Beebe

Colonel Courtney Paul, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Little Rock District.

Craig Walker, Utah Steve Owen, Owner/Operator of Hastings Bay Marina

Conference Attendees

6:00 pm – 8:00 pm Arkansas BBQ Dinner at Hastings Bay. Self-guided tour of Hastings Bay Antique Museum. (Transportation provided)

8pm Load buses to return to Wyndham 9:00 pm – Midnight Networking

Wednesday, October 8th Note: All general sessions will be held in Silver City Ballroom, III and IV

Time Event/Topics Speakers

7:00 am – 5:00 pm Registration 7:00 am – 3:30 pm Exhibit Hall 7:00 am – 8:00 am Breakfast (hotel restaurant)

8:00 am – 10:00am Breakout Sessions

Outreach and Economics

Economic Impact of Fishing: Engaging Local Partners in Utah

Reaching Your Audience Through Partnerships

Craig Walker, Utah

Anne Smith, Virginia Clean Marina Program

Environmental

What is EPA’s role in Vessel-Related Activities

Model Legislation for Aquatic Nuisance Species

Clean Boating Education Resources

Brian Rapploi, EPA

Elizabeth Brown, Colorado

Susan Shingledecker, BOATUS

TRACS

Hands-on TRACS Training for BIG & CVA Grants (Bring your laptop) Pre-registration required. Limited to 15 people.

US Fish and Wildlife Staff

10:00 am – 10:15 am Break with the exhibitors 10:15am-11:45am SOBA Annual Business Meeting 12:00 pm – 2:30 pm Awards Luncheon and Project Presentations 2:30pm – 3:30 pm Breakout Sessions

Technical

Different types of Attenuator and Deflector Designs, Applications and Cost Dock Design with Accessibility in Mind

Melanie Ashby, MariCorpUS and Roger Otis, Marine Development Paul Schmitz, National Manager, Gator Docks & Gator Bridge

Environmental

Sea Level Rise Planning: Assessing Boating Facilities

Boating Access During Fluctuating Water Levels: Inland Waterways

Developing Operation Standards

James Adams, Virginia

Jack Cox, Smith Group JJR

Bruce Lunde, Lunde & Williams

TRACS

Continued TRACS Training for BIG & CVA Grants (Bring your laptop) Pre- registration required. Limited to 15 people

US Fish and Wildlife Staff TBD

3:30 pm – 3:45 pm Break with the exhibitors 3:45 pm – 5:00pm Breakout Sessions Environmental

Arkansas Onsite Wastewater non- individual Plan Review Marine Sanitation to Onshore Disposal Environmental Issues and Trends

Rene Meints, AR Dept. of Health

Tom Jones, AR Dept. of Health

Barbara Nolan, Owner of Nolan BioLabs

Technical

Cost Savings on Seawalls: Steel vs. Vinyl Sheet Public Recreation Enhancements for Southwest North Carolina: Lessons Learned.

Terry Boyd, Alabama Travis Sinclair, Duke Energy

TRACS Continued TRACS Training for BIG & CVA Grants (Bring your laptop) Pre- registration required. Limited to 15 people

US Fish and Wildlife Staff TBD

6:00 pm – 7:00 pm Cocktail Reception 7:00 pm – 9:00 pm Award Banquet Dinner featuring Jerry McKinnis, BASS 9:00 pm – Midnight Networking

Thursday, October 9th

7:00am – 8:00 am Breakfast (hotel restaurant) 8:00am - 10:00 am Optional Site Visit to Rockwater Marina (BIG Tier 1 & 2 & CVA Grants) 8:00am - 10:00 am Task Force Meetings

Task Force Meetings

Paddling Design Guidelines

Ron Christofferson Larry Horan

Pumpout Boat Standards/Guidelines Kate Brown Scott Meister NEW: Boating Infrastructure Best

Management Practices Pat Harrell, Florida

10:00am - 10:15 am Break 10:15am – 12:00 pm Task Force Meeting Continued

Task Force Meetings

Paddling Design Guidelines

Ron Christofferson Larry Horan

Pumpout Boat Standards/Guidelines Kate Brown Scott Meister

NEW: Boating Infrastructure Best Management Practices

Pat Harrell, Florida

SOBA 2014: October 6 – 9, North Little Rock, Arkansas

SPEAKER PRESENTATION OUTLINES

Title: A Pumpout Boat Program: The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly.

Speaker: Scott MeisterThe pumpout boat portion of South Carolina’s CVA Program will be highlighted. Although very convenient for boaters, pumpout boat programs raise a number of issues for states including procurement system guidelines, liability, and monitoring for compliance.

SC has 24 pumpout boats operating throughout the state, in both freshwater and saltwater applications, placing the first vessel in 1998. In the years since, a number of lessons have been learned that will hopefully help other states considering placing pumpout boats in their areas.

Title: Boating Infrastructure Grants: Program News, Funding Trends, and Tips for Preparing a Successful Proposal

Speaker: Paul van RyzinWildlife and Sport Fish Restoration's Boating Infrastructure Grants (BIG) Program is the Nation's first and only Federal program dedicated to building and maintaining facilities for recreational boaters piloting recreational vessels over 26 feet in length. Since 1998, the BIG Program has awarded nearly $200 million to States, territories, and the District of Columbia for infrastructure projects including boat slips, fueling stations, and other boating needs. In his brief presentation, Paul will provide the latest news and information about the BIG Program, including tips and tools for preparing an eligible, competitive proposal

Title: Boating Access During Fluctuating Water Levels

Speaker: Jack CoxBoating access on lakes, rivers, and reservoirs can be significantly impacted by fluctuating water levels. Drastic fluctuations in water levels can be caused by natural seasonal changes, flooding, drought, and tidal influences. In recent years, climate change and an increased demand on water sources have posed new challenges for water-based recreational and

commercial activities. The ever-evolving range of water levels on our rivers, lakes, and reservoirs coupled with a greater emphasis on accessibility require an increased demand for innovative solutions to provide boater access and functional service for marinas. Climate change experts are predicting that the oceans will rise while many inland lakes will go down. At the same time more extreme weather events, from floods to droughts, will continue to pose a host of new issues for existing facilities as well as ones that are in the planning and design phases. In recent years, SmithGroupJJR has successfully addressed a range of diverse water-level-related issues by incorporating innovative techniques to minimize impact to boating access. This presentation will describe case studies that demonstrate how our team of designers and engineers are resolving complex boater access issues, which include providing accessibility where there are wide excursions of water levels, accommodating utilities, addressing constructability concerns, and providing additional protection to marinas that are being exposed to more severe wave action as a result of higher water levels. Title: The U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service, Wildlife and Sport Fish Restoration Program (WSFR)

Speaker: Christy Vigfusson:

The U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service, Wildlife and Sport Fish Restoration Program (WSFR) works with states, insular areas and the District of Columbia to conserve, protect, and enhance fish, wildlife, their habitats, and the hunting, sport fishing and recreational boating opportunities they provide. The Clean Vessel Act provides funds for the construction, renovation, operation, and maintenance of pumpout stations and waste reception facilities for recreational boaters and also for educational programs that inform boaters of the importance of proper disposal of their sewage. The Boating Access Program provides funds for projects that provide access to America's waterways by developing new access facilities or renovation and/or improvement of existing facilities. The National Coastal Wetlands Conservation Grant Program provides funds for long-term conservation of coastal wetland ecosystems by helping States and Territories to protect, restore and enhance coastal habitats. Christy will share updates about these programs and provide strategies for putting together a successful competitive grant application.

Title: Economic Impact of Fishing: Engaging Local Partners in Utah Speaker: Craig Walker Economic Impact of Fishing: Engaging Local Partners in Utah - A discussion of angler economic survey results and how they are being used to bolster local support for fisheries management actions

Title: Aquatic Invasive Species Best Management Practices - An overview of the AIS BMP Manual created by the SOBA AIS Task Force Speaker: Craig Walker Title: An overview of Minnesota’s new Stormwater and Shoreline Best Management Practices - strategies specific to development and renewal of boat access sites Speaker: Nancy Stewart Title: Sea Level Rise Planning: Assessing Boating Access Facilities Speaker: James Adams Sea Level Rise is a documented occurrence and modeling has projected coastal areas to be impacted to at least three feet above current mean high tide by 2100. The presentation will discuss What, Where, Why, and When of Sea Level Rise and the Next steps for State Boating Access Facility Programs. Title: Boating Infrastructure Grants: Program News, Funding Trends, and Tips for Preparing a Successful Proposal (Monday’s workshop) Speaker: Paul van Ryzin Wildlife and Sport Fish Restoration's Boating Infrastructure Grants (BIG) Program is the Nation's first and only Federal program dedicated to building and maintaining facilities for recreational boaters piloting recreational vessels over 26 feet in length. Since 1998, the BIG Program has awarded nearly $200 million to States, territories, and the District of Columbia for infrastructure projects including boat slips, fueling stations, and other boating needs. In his brief presentation, Paul will provide the latest news and information about the BIG Program, including tips and tools for preparing an eligible, competitive proposal

Title: Dock Design with Accessibility in Mind Speaker: Ashley Velotta Title: Design Challenges & Solutions for River Facilities Speaker: Jeff Smith Oregon's Willamette River and tributaries is the most popular and heavily used waterway system in the state with over 50 recreational boating facilities. As with most rivers, the design of boating facilities poses many unique challenges due to the ever changing characteristics of the river. Rivers are often described as dynamic and are subject to the effects of many environmental forces including current, wind, waves, flooding, debris, sediment deposition, and erosion. The Willamette River system is no exception. Engineers and designers have been very busy over the past 25 years to keep these facilities safe and useable for the thousands of boaters that depend on them. This presentation will explore many of the challenges encountered and the measures taken to correct, improve or mitigate. Title: Public Recreation Enhancements for Southwest North Carolina: Lessons Learned Speaker: Travis Sinclair Duke Energy has worked for the last three (3) year to install new or enhance approximately 20 recreation access areas in southwest region of North Carolina. The projects range from small river access to lake access areas, from canoe/kayak launches to fishing platform and piers. Each site and each amenity provided its own unique challenges and numerous lessons learned. This presentation will walk through several projects, identifying best practices and lessons learned with the intent to provide the audience items to consider when facing their own site designs and implementation. Title: Steel vs. Vinyl Sheet Piling: Cost Savings Speaker: Terry Boyd This presentation will discuss the differences in steel sheet piles and vinyl sheet piles. Which one should be used in what type environment, soil conditions, etc. It will also address cost differences and means and methods of installing material. The project being referenced is a new boat basin on the ICW at the Claude Peteet Mariculture Center in Gulf Shores, Alabama.

Title: Clean Vessel Act (CVA) Rule Open Forum Discussion Speaker: Lisa Van Alstyne An opportunity to voice your suggestions, challenges, and needs as the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Wildlife and Sport Fish Restoration Program works to update the current CVA regulations at 50 CFR 85. Title: Dock Design with Accessibility in Mind Speaker: Ashley Abbott This session will feature past, present and future solutions as well as common concerns of all public-use dock projects: accessibility. Topics will include design ideas that help solve issues of gangway slope ratio requirements and minimizing the slope on tread and transition plates. Additionally, custom and multi-purpose hand rails, toe rails, dock approach and boarding assistance design features. View finished projects as well as engineered drawings of these accessible design features to help you plan your next dock project. Ashley, the speaker for this topic, is a seasoned dock project manager. She has helped clients in over 20 states custom design aluminum structures to specifically meet their needs and accessibility concerns.

RESOLUTION

IN APPRECIATION OF HOSPITALITY

WHEREAS, the delegates and guests at the 2014 National Boating AccessConference, sponsored by the States Organization for Boating Access (SOBA) and held in North Little Rock, Arkansas this October 6 through October 9, have thoroughly enjoyed the beauty of this riverfront City and the State of Arkansas as well as the friendliness and hospitality of its citizens, and;

WHEREAS, the delegates and guests celebrated the 28th Anniversary of thefounding of SOBA through the conference theme “Setting The Right Course”, which recognizes SOBA’s unique mission of providing safe, well-designed public recreational boating access to the waterways of the nation while also exploring emerging challenges associated with providing access in a sustainable manner and in consideration of alternative uses of these waterways;

NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Board andmembers of the States Organization for Boating Access do hereby express heartfelt appreciation to our gracious site hosts, including the City of North Little Rock and the State of Arkansas, and more specifically to the Arkansas Department of Health, the Arkansas Game and Fish Department, the Hastings Bay Marina, and the Wyndham Riverfront Hotel.

RESOLUTION

IN APPRECIATION OF THE HOST AGENCY AND TEAM

WHEREAS, the delegates and guests at the 2014 National Boating Access Conference, sponsored by the States Organization for Boating Access (SOBA) and held in North Little Rock, Arkansas this October 6 through October 9, have thoroughly enjoyed the abundant educational offerings, quality technical information, professional exchanges, boating access site visits, food, and social offerings associated with the conference agenda, and;

WHEREAS, the delegates and guests celebrating the 28th Anniversary of the founding of SOBA through the conference theme “Setting The Right Course”, recognize the importance of past, present, and future annual conferences as a primary means of furthering SOBA’s unique mission of providing safe, well-designed public recreational boating access to the waterways of the nation and appreciate the extraordinary effort required to provide a quality conference program;

NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Board and members of the States Organization for Boating Access do hereby express heartfelt appreciation to Nathaniel Smith, MD, MPH, Director and State Health Officer, and the appointed members of the Arkansas Department of Health for their gracious gift of the time and talents of the entire Conference Host Team, including: Chair Tom Jones, Katie Wirges, Travis Henry, Rene Meints, Adam Dennis, and Sandra Abbott. From Arkansas Game and Fish, Mike Cantrell, and from Hastings Bay Marina, Lynann Papan, Steve Owen and their IT Staff. And finally to Jana Jones, interested individual. All mentioned played a vital role in ensuring the success of this year’s conference.

Activity Details Silent Auction Fundraiser to benefit the Lacy E. “Nick” Nichols Scholarship Fund.

The Lacy E. “Nick Nichols education fund provides the twenty-five percent non-federal match up to $500 to assist SOBA members with expenses to attend the annual National Boating Conference. The education fund provides a resource to members who have a drive to further their knowledge and expertise in boating access and related issues.

Cajun Dinner at the Arkansas Inland Maritime Museum The Arkansas Inland Maritime Museum is located in North Shore Riverwalk Park along the north shore of the Arkansas River in North Little Rock, Arkansas. The museum opened on May 31, 2005.

Visitors can experience the sights, sounds, and smells of submarine service when they step aboard the historic submarine USS Razorback (SS-394). The museum also features exhibits on the following Naval vessels: the submarine USS Razorback (SS-394), the tugboat USS Hoga (YT-146), the battleship USS Arkansas (BB-33), and the missile cruiser USS Arkansas (CGN-41). The museum also holds a collection from the Arkansas River Historical Society featuring the history of the Arkansas River.

We have signs guiding you on your short walk to the Arkansas Inland Maritime Museum. If you need, the hotel will provide a shuttle upon request.

Boating Facility Site Visit This will be a great opportunity to see a facility that highlights the Clean Vessel Act, Boating Infrastructure Grant and the Invasive Species Project.

This site includes: Harry Hastings Antique Museum Little Rock Yacht Club Transient tie up on the Arkansas River One of the largest invasive species stations in the United States Clean Vessel Act projects including the pump out boat and dock plumbing, as well as boating infrastructure grant projects including the floating restrooms Dinner will be provided at the Little Rock Yacht Club overlooking the Arkansas River

Lacy “Nick” Nichols Education Fund Silent Auction Rules

We appreciate the many generous donors who have made this auction possible. The estimated retail value listed on the bid sheet has been determined by the donor or when not provided by an internet search. The Silent Auction bidding will be open from 7:00 am-5:00 pm Monday and Tuesday and from 7:00 am -1:00pm on Wednesday. • Each item will have a bid sheet that identifies

and describes the item • Starting bid price is $1.00 and bids can be

increased only in whole dollar amounts • Bidder’s must write their first and last name in

the next blank line with their bid amount • The names of the silent auction winners will be

posted at the Registration Desk • Payment can be made either by check or cash • Winner’s must pay and pick up the silent auction

item by 6:00 pm on Wednesday, October 2. • If the item is not paid for and picked up by

6:00pm, it will be offered to the next highest bidder.

Thank you and good luck

SOBA 2014: October 6 – 9, North Little Rock, Arkansas

SPEAKER BIOGRAPHIES

James C Adams attended the University of Arkansas receiving a B.S. in Zoology (1974) and a M.S. in Fisheries Science (1977). James is currently employed by the Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries (since 1999) as Facilities Director where he oversees programs responsible for Building Facility Operations and Maintenance Management and Boating Access Facility Development and Maintenance and involved in Engineering and Capital Construction Management of all related facilities projects. James previously was with the Department of Environmental Quality, Department of Waste Management, and the Virginia Water Control Board as regional and operations director level management positions for over 10 years. Before his employment with DEQ, he worked for several years in the Washington DC area as an environmental consultant providing services to the US EPA, States, and Industry across the United States. From 1978 to 1988, James spent 10 years with the Oklahoma Water Resources Board in environmental programs management and from 1974 to 1978, was employed with the University of Arkansas in Fisheries research. James is the current Past President of the States Organization for Boating Access (SOBA) and has served on the SOBA Executive Board for 7 years. On June 3, 2014, the United States Secretary of Interior, Sally Jewell, reappointed James to the Sport Fishing and Boating Partnership Council which he has been serving on since March 2000. James’ hobbies are boating, fishing and bowling and he resides in Chesterfield County Virginia with his wife of 25 years Sharon. John Arway: Since taking the helm of the Fish and Boat Commission in March 2010, Executive Director John Arway has worked tirelessly to raise public awareness of the plight of the Susquehanna River and to seek remedies for fixing it. Once considered one of the country’s top smallmouth bass fisheries, the mighty Susquehanna River has struggled since 2005 to produce viable young of year smallmouth classes. Director Arway has experienced the decline of the fishery firsthand. A scientist by training, he has spent more than 30 years working for the Commission in various roles. Throughout the country, fish and wildlife agencies face a similar challenge of retaining participants in their sport and attracting new ones. Director Arway has met this challenge by initiating a marketing program to highlight the sport to enthusiasts and novices, to men and to women, to adults and to children, to families and friends. The first initiative was launched Dec. 1, 2012, when the Commission began to offer 3- and 5-year fishing licenses. As an added incentive, anglers who purchase a multi-year license also receive an online, digital subscription to the Commission’s flagship publication, Angler & Boater magazine. A separate website – www.GoneFishingPa.com – offers additional benefits. Anglers can enter a sweepstakes to win guided fishing trips and get access to numerous coupons for free goods, cost savings and discounts.

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Director Arway has often stated that one of his ultimate goals is to reduce the price of a fishing license, which he believes would entice lapsed anglers to return to the sport and encourage a new population to take up the sport. To lay the groundwork for this proposal, Director Arway has initiated multiple efforts to fund alternative funding sources for the agency. Under his direction, the Commission launched a Natural Gas and Water Access Program, which secures revenues from selling natural gas from under Commission property and from leasing rights to withdraw water from Commission Property. Also, Director Arway is actively seeking legislative support for his proposal to charge for the privilege of withdrawing water from any Commonwealth waterway. A native of North Huntingdon, Mr. Arway holds a bachelor’s degree in biology from the University of Pittsburgh and a master’s degree in biology from Tennessee Technological University. He holds memberships in numerous organizations, including the American Association for the Advancement of Science; American Fisheries Society (Past President of the Northeastern Division and Pennsylvania Chapter); North American Benthological Society; Ducks Unlimited; Pheasants Forever; BASS; the SONS of Lake Erie; National Wildlife Federation and life member of the Pennsylvania Federation of Sportsmen’s Clubs, National Trout Unlimited (Lloyd Wilson Chapter) and the Conservation Officers of Pennsylvania Terry N. Boyd, PE, PLS is Chief of Engineering Section, at the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, and is an avid hunter and fisherman. Terry has been employed by the ADCNR Engineering Section since 1985. In 1994 he was promoted to Acting Chief of Engineering, and to the Chief of that division in March 1997. Terry has been a licensed professional engineer since 1990 and a licensed professional land surveyor since 1995. Terry has worked on numerous projects all over the state, including 22 state parks, the majority of 37 WMA’s, 21 county lakes, 150 boat ramps and 4 fish hatcheries. He coordinated all the construction for the State Parks Bond Capital Improvement Program, and is the Governor’s authorized agent to FEMA for the DCNR since 1985. Terry was also responsible for the coordination of the wet debris removal from Alabama waters after Hurricanes Ivan and Katrina. He represents the State on the Beach Nourishment Committee, and serves on the Navigability Committee for the DCNR since 1994. Terry’s professional accomplishments include: * Past President of the Association of Conservation Engineers (ACE) (1998-1999) * Past Secretary-Treasurer of ACE (1990-1996) * Past President and Member-at-Large for SOBA from 2004 to 2011 * Council Member on the Sport Fish and Boating Partnership Council (2007-2009) * Member of the Water Access Task Force (2005-2007) and the Industry Grow Boating Initiative Terry is married to Melissa Mason for almost 23 years, and has one step-son, Joshua Jones Ron Christofferson has been employed by the Arizona Game and Fish Department for the past 26 years. Since 1993 he has overseen statewide programs to evaluate the impacts of construction projects on wildlife, as well as implementing habitat improvement projects. For the past eight years Ron has managed the Arizona Boating Access Program, including all programmatic aspects of the federal grants related to Sport Fish Restoration Boating Access,

Clean Vessel Act, and Boating Infrastructure. In addition, he oversees Arizona’s Clean Marina Program and the Aids to Navigation Program. Ron has been a member of SOBA since 2005, and has served on the Executive Board since 2011 as a member-at-large, as Treasurer and currently as its Vice President. He also was a member of the committee assigned to update the SOBA Operations and Maintenance Program Guidelines for Recreational Boating Access Facilities, finalized in March 2011. Jack Cox PE Principal Coastal Engineer possesses internationally recognized credentials in waterfront development, including coastal dynamics, arctic processes, harbor tranquility, breakwaters, fixed and floating marine structures, dredge material disposal, shore protection, port planning, marina design, and risk analysis. His experience spans a full range from ecologically sensitive planning through final design and construction. As one of the country’s experts in engineering for the marine environment, he provides demonstrated expertise in managing large projects and developing value engineering solutions. Jack is the inaugural class Diplomat for Coastal, Port and Navigation Engineering, with the Academy of Coastal, Ocean, Port, and Navigation Engineers. He served as Chairman of the ASCE technical committee for Coastal Engineering Practice, and serves on the Board of Directors for the Association of Coastal Engineers. He is a member of the Tsunami Advisory Board at the University of Washington, and is the Vice chairman of the Permanent International Association of Navigation Congresses Recreational Navigation Commission as well as the Working Group leader for the technical committees for Marina Water Quality and Controlling Sedimentation in Marinas. Mr. Cox has authored more than forty coastal and environmental technical publications and is a co-author author of the Breakwaters and Entrance Design chapter of the ASCE Manual 50 Planning and Design Guideline for Small Craft Harbors. He is a lecturer at the University of Wisconsin-Madison on marina design and shoreline protection engineering. In 2003, he was awarded the Distinguished Lecturer Award by the University of Wisconsin for his instructions in the areas of coastal and hydraulic engineering for the marine environment. Andrea M. Criscione is a Senior Research Associate with Responsive Management. She holds a Master’s degree in English from Virginia Tech, with a concentration in communication studies, and a Bachelor’s degree in sociology from Bridgewater College. She is co-author, with Mark Damian Duda and Martin F. Jones, of the 2010 book The Sportsman’s Voice: Hunting and Fishing in America. Andrea’s primary responsibilities at Responsive Management include survey design and development and project management. Since joining Responsive Management in 2004, Andrea has assisted with and served as project manager for numerous studies related to natural resource, fish and wildlife, and outdoor recreation issues, and she served as project co-manager on the recent study, “Enhancing Fishing Access Through a National Assessment of Recreational Boating Access.” Andrea is credited with writing and developing over 100 surveys focused on attitudes toward natural resource and outdoor recreation issues. Some of her relevant projects include a review of boating safety programs nationwide for the National Association of Boating Law Administrators and a boater needs assessment to determine priorities for allocating resources for the Washington State Recreation and Conservation Office, as well as several studies related

to PFD use and boat licensing, registration, and insurance. In addition to managing projects and developing surveys, Andrea also writes and edits reports and conducts focus groups. Thomas J. Dammrich assumed the role of president with the National Marine Manufacturers Association in November 1999, and has over 35 years of association management experience. Since taking the helm fifteen years ago, Dammrich has helped NMMA increase its membership upwards of 30 percent. Today, the association represents more than 1,600 members that produce 80 percent of the recreational boating products currently sold in North America. Under his leadership, NMMA has bolstered industry advocacy at both the state and federal level as well as expanded industry and consumer-related research, and statistics efforts. Most notably, Dammrich was instrumental in helping finally unite the industry behind a strategy to increase the number of people who participate in recreational boating. The first-official national advertising and marketing campaign for the industry’s Grow Boating Initiative was launched in 2006. Dammrich furthers his involvement and commitment to recreational boating interests by serving on several industry boards. They include the American Sportfishing Association; American Boat and Yacht Council; and the International Council of Marine Industry Associations. In addition, he was appointed by the Secretary of the Interior to serve on the Sport Fishing and Boating Partnership Council (a federal advisory committee to the Secretary of the Interior,) and by the Secretary of Commerce. Dammrich’s academic accomplishments include an MBA and MS in accounting, with a bachelor’s degree in economics. He is also a Certified Public Accountant. Thom and his wife, Carol, have four adult children. Betty Huskins is a principal of Ridgetop Associates, a firm she and her husband David established in 1985. Their firm specializes in governmental affairs, public relations and association management. Ridgetop Associates has served a wide range of clients since 1985 in several areas of economic and community development, association creation and management and specific “strategic solution development and implementation” for their clients. During her more than 25 years of experience, she has received a number of honors and appointments related to economic development, tourism, and cultural and environmental initiatives. Betty served as Executive Director of the Mitchell County Economic Development Commission, President of the Avery County Chamber of Commerce, a board member on the NC Arboretum, the Advisory Board of The Technology Commercialization Center at AB Tech, the NC Bio-Business Network Advisory Board, a board member of the Friends of the Blue Ridge Parkway and as Chair of the NC Board of Travel and Tourism. She has been appointed by NC General Assembly and various state officials to serve on several boards and commissions including: the NC Smart Growth Commission, the Transportation Enhancement Fund Program, NC’s first International Tourism Task Force and as a NC delegate to the first White House Conference on Travel and Tourism during the Clinton Administration. She currently represents the NC Association of Regional Councils on the NC

Department of Transportation’s Intergovernmental Advisory Board. Betty also currently serves on the Advisory Committee for the WNC Biotech Center and the Board of Directors of the Flat Rock Playhouse. Betty has been asked to testify before the US House of Representatives and the US Senate on two occasions regarding specific economic and environmental impact issues. Betty serves currently as the North Carolina Association of Regional Councils’ Executive Director providing association management, governmental affairs representation and strategic association growth. Betty attended WCU and completed her Certification in Economic Development at the Institute of Government at UNC-CH. She also received certification in Heritage Tourism Development from George Washington University and is certified in Energizing Entrepreneurship in Rural America

Stephanie Hussey has more than 20 years’ experience working with state fish and wildlife agencies and is one of the Recreational Boating & Fishing Foundation’s (RBFF) veteran staff members. As Director of State Initiatives, Stephanie serves as primary liaison with state fish and wildlife agencies and leads RBFF’s state marketing efforts to help agencies increase participation in fishing and boating. Stephanie joined RBFF in December 2000 and has led the development of many key products and programs with state agencies. Prior to joining RBFF, Stephanie was the director of project development for Southwick Associates, where she marketed and promoted the company’s economic assessments of fish and wildlife-associated recreation. Stephanie started her career in fisheries and wildlife in 1993 as a research assistant for the Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies, assisting with various national fish and wildlife resource management projects. Stephanie received a B.S. degree in biology from Michigan State University and went to Utah State University for a Master’s in fisheries and wildlife Thomas L. Jones was born in Clarksville, AR. He graduated from University of the Ozarks in May 1973, with a Bachelor of Science, major in biology. Tom started with the Arkansas Department of Health in 1974 as a field sanitarian in the Johnson County Health Unit. He became a registered sanitarian and worked 25 years in the Johnson County Health Unit in food service inspection, swimming pools, septic system construction, rabies control, and water sampling. He transferred in 1998 to Little Rock to the Central Office of the Arkansas Department of Health to help start the Arkansas Marine Sanitation Inspection Program. From the year 2000 to 2012, Tom took the CVA grant program with a yearly federal budget of $40,000 and expanded the program to $1.5 million. After spending forty years with the Arkansas Department of Health, Tom plans to continue another seven years with Marine Sanitation, BIG, and CVA programs in Arkansas. Kevin J. McDaniels serves as the Chief of Operations Division and as the Operations & Maintenance (O&M) Program Manager. He is the principal technical advisor and consultant to the District Commander for the O&M program which includes nine project offices providing flood risk management, navigation, hydropower, recreation, environmental stewardship and water supply with current annual appropriations of around $100 million dollars. Combined, this encompasses over 745,000 acres of land and water including 13 navigation locks, 12 multi-purpose lakes and 7 hydroelectric power plants in Arkansas and southern Missouri, with infrastructure totaling $6.5 billion.

He began working for the Mobile District in the South Atlantic Division in June of 2000 as a Park Ranger on the Black Warrior and Tombigbee Rivers in Alabama. Kevin later relocated to the Wilmington District as the Chief Ranger over recreation at John H. Kerr Reservoir in Virginia and North Carolina and then as the Operations Project Manager at Philpott Lake in Martinsville, Virginia. His last assignment before coming to Little Rock was in the Mobile District as the Assistant Operations Project Manager at Lake Lanier near Atlanta, Georgia; one of the nation’s most challenging and complex projects. Upon arriving in the Little Rock District, he served as the Deputy Chief of Operations for 4 ½ years before becoming the Chief.

Kevin has also worked for a variety of other governmental agencies in his career. He has worked in maintenance and public service positions for a large regional park system in southeast Michigan. He held positions as a Natural Resource Specialist and an Assistant Park Superintendant for Oakland County, Michigan. And at the state level, he was a Forester for the Florida Division of Forestry and worked on a joint team with the USDA Forest Service.

Kevin holds a Bachelors of Science Degree from the University of Michigan in Natural Resources Ecology and Management. Greg Mattson, P.E. serves as the Chief of the Infrastructure Safety Section within Design Branch. The Infrastructure Safety Section is responsible for ensuring the structural integrity of all of the District’s dams, levees, and bridges. Ensuring safety consists of performing detailed periodic inspections, upward reporting of findings, and designing solutions to problems found. It also includes reviewing proposed projects for conformance to approved safety requirements. Mr. Mattson started his career with the Little Rock District as a structural engineer in 2003. As a structural engineer Mr. Mattson performed numerous bridge (bridges, fishing piers, and courtesy docks) inspections and load ratings. After obtaining his Professional Engineer license in 2007 he became a Military Project Manager for the District, managing military design and construction projects. He then moved to his current position in 2011. Mr. Mattson graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree in Civil Engineering from Louisiana Tech University. He is a registered Professional Engineer in the state of Arkansas. Rene’ Meints holds a Bachelor of Science Degree from the University of Arkansas at Little Rock. She is licensed by the state as a Registered Sanitarian. She is also licensed through the Arkansas Department of Health to design, install, and monitor wastewater systems. She is certified by the Arkansas Department of Environmental Quality as a Class III Wastewater Operator. René has been in the field of wastewater for about 15 years. Her career started in the private sector, as the owner of a successful Onsite Wastewater System Design, Installation, and Maintenance Company. About five years ago, she had the opportunity to spend some time at the Arkansas Department of Environmental Quality as an Enforcement Analyst. She soon discovered she was needed at the Arkansas Department of Health and has been working as a Senior Environmental Health Program Specialist for the last four years; where she reviews onsite wastewater system designs, develops continuing education, training and testing procedures for ADH Employees and Licensees, and revises rules and regulations.

She is a current member of National Environmental Health Association, National Onsite Wastewater Recycling Association and Water Environment Federation. She is honored to play a part in the Arkansas Marine Sanitation Section. Scott Meister: is a 20-year employee with the Marine Division of the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources and is currently the State Coordinator for the SC Clean Vessel Act (CVA) and Boating Infrastructure Grant (BIG) programs. His career at DNR has included over a decade of fisheries research as a wildlife biologist and more recently program management of the Division’s boating-related initiatives. He has authored numerous scientific publications on marine fishes and ecosystems, serves as the DNR’s SC Clean Marina representative, and is past-president of both the South Carolina Fishery Worker’s Association and the South Carolina Marine Educator’s Association. Scott’s first SOBA conference was in 2007 in Norfolk, Virginia. Steven Miller is Director of the Wisconsin Bureau of Facilities and Lands which consists of the real estate, property management, planning, and a capital budget and development program for Department lands and properties. Steve is a 39-year career employee of the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources and has a variety of field and central office experience. He began his career in 1974 as a Wildlife Manager and Field Supervisor in northern Wisconsin. In 1984 he became the Department’s Director for the statewide wildlife management program. Since 1992 he has worked as the Administrator or Deputy Administrator for the Division of Lands and in these positions he coordinated Division wide policy development, external relations, strategic planning, budgets, outdoor recreation planning, land acquisition, land management and integrated resource management. He has been in his current position since 2003 and oversees a $30 million dollar annual land acquisition program and a $25 million dollar annual capital development budget for the Department. Steve has represented Wisconsin on the Mississippi Flyway Council, the Midwest Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies and various committees of the Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies. He has served on the National Animal Damage Advisory Committee of the U.S. Department of Agriculture, the North American Wetlands Conservation Council, the North American Bird Conservation Initiative National Committee, and the Upper Mississippi River and Great Lakes Region Joint Venture Management Board. He is a past President of SOBA and currently serves as a director on the board. Barbara Nolan has a Bachelor’s of Science in Chemistry. She attended Auburn University and Georgia State University. She began a career in Clinical Chemistry with Hycel in Houston, Texas. She then started Nolan Biological Laboratories where she produces products for microbiology laboratories for diagnostics purposes. Some of her clients include, CDC., Mayo Clinic, Emory University Dental School, and Brooks Air Force Base Burn Unit. She also started Nolan Bio Labs, INC. DBA BacTANK T 3 which is an environmental company in the marine industry in the United States, Europe, and Canada. It is currently in business in Atlanta, Georgia and is finishing it’s fifteenth year of operation. Personally, she is an avid boater on lakes and off shore.

Al Ortiz works with the USFWS, Division of Wildlife and Sport Fish Restoration in Hadley, Massachusetts. Al has been a Land and Development Specialist in the Division of Wildlife and Sport Fish Restoration of the US Fish and Wildlife Service at the Northeast Region since 1993. Al began his career with the Division administering the Fisheries Development Grants and the Clean Vessel Act (CVA) Pumpout Program. In 2000/2001, Al and a team of Federal, state, and fish and boating partners worked in the development of the rules, regulations and guidance to implement the National Boating Infrastructure Federal Grant Program (BIG), after Congress passed the act in 1999. Al currently coordinates and administers the CVA and the BIG Federal grant programs in his Region. Ortiz is credited for developing and implementing the Notice of Grant Agreement protocol used in Region 5, that helps protect the public interest in facilities developed with BIG funds, which is currently been proposed to be adopted nationwide. Amongst his many responsibilities, Al advices the Fish and Wildlife Service headquarters in Washington DC on changes in CVA and BIG programs policies and regulations. In addition, he is a member of the advisory group to the Director of the USFWS for the selection of Boating Infrastructure Grant projects submitted nationwide. This advisory group meets annually to score, select and recommend funding for qualified BIG project proposals. Ortiz often helps the USFWS National Conservation Training Center by providing training to project leaders and state partners from his Region as well as from other Regions. He holds various professional certificates in Grants Management, National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) and National Historic Preservation Act. In 2012, he received the State Organization for Boating Access (SOBA) Professional Service Award. Al obtained a Masters in Science degree in Fish and Wildlife Biology at the University of MA in Amherst and undergraduate degree in Biology from the University of Puerto Rio, Rio Piedras Campus. He joined the US Navy in 1976, and his passion for the outdoors and wildlife led him to jobs as a professional scuba diver, zookeeper at the Stone Memorial Zoo near Boston, and as a fish and wildlife biologist for the Massachusetts Division of Fisheries and Wildlife. Al Ortiz will share a presentation topic at SOBA 2014 with Mr. Preston Smith of the Virginia Department of Health on preserving the public interests on Boating Infrastructure Grants Projects. Roger W. Otis, P .E, is President of Marine Development, Inc. in Eufaula, OK., USA Mr. Otis earned his Bachelor of Engineering degree in Civil Engineering from Oklahoma State University. His educational emphasis was in structural engineering. He is a licensed professional engineer, registered in the States of Oklahoma, Kentucky, and Texas. Roger has remained active in the engineering field by continuing engineering short courses and as a consultant to other engineers in the marine field. He is proficient with CAD and finite element computer design programs, and has authored two patents relating to floating systems: one is still currently in use. Roger is active in his church and has lead two Boy Scout contingencies to Philmont Scout Ranch for two week back packing treks. He currently holds a certified diver registration, a multi-engine instrument aircraft license, and an active CDL driver's license. Roger was Executive Vice President of MEECO Marinas, Inc. from 1980 through March of 1991. Prior to this time he was chief structural engineer. His primary duties included

the direct supervision of all engineering design, manufacturing of all products and all R & D projects. After leaving MEECO Marinas, Roger and his brother Steve formed MDI, Marine Development, Inc. The Engineering Division works with clients related to floating structures. MDI has the ability to evaluate new locations or to re-evaluate existing marine related problems. Existing clients include major marina manufacturers, state agencies, and private marine groups. The Construction Division incorporates a sixteen thousand square foot plant facility large enough to produce a new marina or fabricate repair or replacement parts for any system on the market. In addition, experienced field crews are available for on-site turnkey work. Roger is a member of American Society of Civil Engineers and a member of the Structural Engineering Institute. Steve C. Owen Sr. for the past 31 years has held the position of President and CEO of Complete Care, Inc., a national healthcare management firm. He is also President of Little Rock Yacht Club, and currently serves on the Executive Boards of the North Little Rock Chamber of Commerce where he served as Chairman; Arkansas Inland Maritime Museum; and the Arkansas Hospitality Association. Steve also serves as Chairman of the Arkansas River Connection. The mission of the Arkansas River Connection Organization, a 501(c) non-profit, is to analyze and connect tourist, recreational, and entertainment attractions along the Arkansas River using multi-modal forms of transportation for the purpose of expanding economic development and improving the quality of life. He is also a volunteer firefighter and is a member of the Arkansas River Search and Rescue team. Steve has traveled the world as an internationally certified martial arts instructor, judge, and referee and, for the past ten years, has been a judge at the Arkansas State Fair Queen and Talent Competitions. Steve is a 1978 graduate of Hendrix College with a degree in Business Administration. He and his wife, Cathy, have two grown children, Steven Jr. and Sara.

Colonel Courtney W. Paul was commissioned in the Corps of Engineers on 16 May 1987 as an ROTC Distinguished Military Graduate and graduated from Texas Tech University with a Bachelor’s degree in Geography. He also holds a Master’s degree in European Studies from Indiana University. Most recently, he studied at the French equivalent of the Industrial College of the Armed Forces as a Fellow at the Institute for Advanced Studies of National Defense (Institute des Hautes Études de la Défense Nationale, 46e Session nationale - Armements et Économie de Défense) in Paris, France. Colonel Paul is fluent in German and French. His assignments include duty as a Platoon Leader, Support Platoon Leader, and Executive Officer in the 317th Engineer Battalion, Eschborn, Germany. As D Company Executive Officer, he deployed to Saudi Arabia and Iraq, supporting TF 1-41 Infantry, 2nd Armored Division (Forward) during the ground campaign. After Operations Desert Shield/Desert Storm, he served as the Battalion Logistics Officer and Bravo Company Commander of the 8th Engineer Battalion, 1st Cavalry Division at Fort Hood,

Texas. He took part in the activation of the 91st Engineer Battalion, serving as Company Commander and Assistant Brigade Engineer in the 2nd “Blackjack” Brigade, 1st Cavalry Division. After Fort Hood, he worked in his functional area, serving in the U.S. Embassy in Bonn, Germany as a Foreign Area Officer and at the U.S. Embassy in Bratislava, Slovak Republic as a member of the Ambassador’s country team and Chief, U.S. Office of Defense Cooperation. Returning to Germany, he served as Executive Officer, Crisis Action Branch of Operations Division, US Army Europe, and Office of the Deputy Chief of Staff for Operations. COL Paul served in the 1st Infantry Division in Bamberg, Germany, initially as the Engineer Brigade Logistics Officer and Executive Officer, 82nd Engineer Battalion. While in Bamberg he also served as the Executive Officer, 1ID Engineer Brigade, deploying to Forward Operating Base Danger in Tikrit, Iraq during Operation Iraqi Freedom II. He commanded 3-410th Engineer Training Support Battalion, at Fort Knox, prior to assuming command of the newly activated 19th Engineer Battalion. Within 10 months of activation, Colonel Paul deployed the 19th Engineer Battalion in August of 2006 and led them through a 15-month deployment in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom 06-08. Following his return from Iraq, he served as an Organizational Integrator at Headquarters, Department of the Army, Office of the Deputy Chief of Staff, G-3/5/7, Force Management. After his War College Fellowship, COL Paul returned to Fort Leonard Wood and served for a year as the Director of Training and Leader Development at the U.S. Army Engineer School followed by two years as the Director of Capabilities Development and Integration at the Maneuver Support Center of Excellence. In addition to these primary duties, he served as the Chairman of NATO Military Engineering Working Group from December 2010 until June 2013. He took command of the Little Rock District of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers on 2 July 2013. Colonel Paul is a graduate of the Engineer Officer Basic and Advanced Course, the Defense Institute for Security Assistance, the Command and General Staff College, Army Force Management School and the Army War College Fellows program. Colonel Paul's decorations include the Legion of Merit, Bronze Star Medal (2nd Oak Leaf Cluster), Defense Meritorious Service Medal, Meritorious Service Medal (2nd Oak Leaf Cluster), Combat Action Badge, the Bronze Order of the Engineer DeFleury Medal, and the Parachutist Badge. Colonel Paul is the oldest son of Wayne and Kathryn Paul and grew up on the family ranch near Lipscomb, Texas. He is married to the former Ms. Antje Gutmann of Bad Homburg, Germany. They have one son who is a senior in high school.

Paul Schmitz is the national manager for GatorDock & GatorBridge Paul has been involved in the marine and construction industry for the last 9 years, specializing in marine access and pedestrian access. His deep understanding of the unique needs of municipal and state agencies has allowed him to help organizations across the country from Washington to Florida, assisting them in designing and implementing new boat launches, marinas, fixed and floating piers, and recreational launch systems. He is an expert in public access and is known for offering up practical solutions and design ideas to address issues surrounding accessibility. Paul graduated from Ohio State University with a degree in mechanical engineering. Susan Shingledecker is Assistant Vice President and Director of Environmental Programs for the BoatU.S. Foundation for Boating Safety and Clean Water. Susan works to educate recreational boaters on safety and environmental issues and oversees all of the Foundation’s environmental programs including: the marine debris and monofilament recycling

programs, the Help Stop the Drops clean fueling program, boat pumpout and invasive species education as well as the clean water grants program. She currently a member of NOAA’s Hydrographic Services Review Panel Susan has worked in the environmental field at the international, national and state level over ten years covering a broad range of issues including: coastal policy, sustainable tourism, climate change, sea level rise, wastewater treatment, renewable energy and energy efficiency. Prior to coming to BoatU.S., Susan developed outreach programs for renewable energy and energy efficiency, advised Governors’ staffs on environmental policy and worked with coastal hotels and resorts to minimize their environmental impacts and reduce resource consumption. Travis Sinclair, a native of Charlotte, NC, has worked for the past seven years at Duke Energy where he is tasked with providing strategic and functional leadership with a primary focus in managing relationships with key external stakeholders, including local, state and federal agencies and non-governmental organizations, leading the detailed planning/design and project management implementation of initiatives and safety programs, coordinating cost-sharing programs and providing technical assistance to support hydro project licensing and license implementation. Total program includes over 123 public sites on the 43 water bodies across North and South Carolina. Prior to working with Duke Energy, Travis taught courses at the University of Hawaii, Spartanburg Community College and work as a highway bridge engineer. Travis received his undergraduate and master’s degree in Civil Engineering from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte. Anne Smith is a Marina Technical Advisory Specialist with the Virginia Institute of Marine Science (VIMS) Marine Advisory Program. Her primary job duties include managing the Virginia Clean Marina Program and assisting coastal communities through outreach projects, workshops and advisory work. Prior to accepting the position at VIMS, Anne was employed at the Virginia Department of Health with the Marina Program. There she worked with the Boating Infrastructure Grant and Clean Vessel Act as well as assisting marinas with regulatory compliance issues. Jeff Smith, PE is a Senior Facilities Engineer with the Oregon State Marine Board, and has over 20 years of civil engineering experience directly related to boating access. Jeff began his career with the Oregon State Marine Board in 1993 and has been involved in the design of more than 700 boating facilities. Jeff has presented at previous SOBA conferences including an all day workshop on facility design (1997), Alternative Dock Materials and Floating Restroom Design (2007), Precast Concrete Plank Ramp Design (2008) and session moderator (2013). Jeff is currently serving on SOBA’s task force for the development of paddling design guidelines. Preston Smith is an Environmental Health Coordinator – Marina Programs Manager in the Office of Environmental Health Services at the Commonwealth of Virginia State Health Department (VDH). He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Environmental Studies from Warren

Wilson College, a Master’s degree in Environmental Planning from the University of Virginia, Master’s degree in Public Administration from Virginia Commonwealth University and is a Fellow of the Virginia Natural Resources Leadership Institute. In 1994 he began his career in public service as a Shellfish Specialist in the Division of Shellfish Sanitation. In 1999, Mr. Smith became the VDH Marina Technical Consultant and the Clean Vessel Act grant coordinator in the Division of Wastewater Engineering. In 2002, Mr. Smith became the Boating Infrastructure Grant coordinator for the Office of Environmental Health Services. Mr. Smith is credentialed as a Class II Wastewater Works Operator through the Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation, has been a member of the Virginia Environmental Health Association since 1994 and served as President 2010 - 2012. Among his other duties as an Environmental Health Coordinator, he is responsible for managing the statewide marina sanitation regulatory program, permit, enforcement, and regulatory review, and boating facility inspection program. Nancy Stewart is the Boating Access Program Coordinator for the Parks and Trails Division of the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources. She coordinates such things as division wide policy and guideline development, external relations, work planning, budget planning and legislative reports. Nancy led a team that developed Aquatic Invasive Species Best Management Practices for Water Accesses in Minnesota and served on SOBA’s AIS Taskforce. She also helped develop Minnesota newest guidelines: Stormwater and Shoreline Best Management Practices for public water accesses. Nancy has a Bachelor’s Degree in Biology from the University of Wisconsin – River Falls. Lisa E. Van Alstyne began her career with the New York State Department of Health working on a USGS project, gathering information on groundwater public water supplies. She continued her career developing, analyzing, and implementing public health and clean water projects with the Bureau of Public Water Supply Protection until she was offered a promotion to a field position as a Senior Sanitarian. There she was responsible for compliance of the NYS Sanitary Code at permitted facilities in three counties. In 1998, she accepted a position with the New York State Environmental Facilities Corporation (EFC). In addition to working on the New York City Watershed Upgrade program, Lisa’s primary role was as the Clean Vessel Act coordinator. During her tenure with EFC, she was responsible for significantly improving and expanding the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service, Wildlife and Sport Fish Restoration Program (WSFR)-funded program. In 2009 she made the decision to join the WSFR Federal family and since then has been working as a Fish and Wildlife Administrator for the Division of Policy and Programs. Lisa is a graduate of Hudson Valley Community College (Environmental Technology), the College of St. Rose (Environmental Affairs), and Kaplan University (Project Management). Paul Van Ryzin is the national Boating Infrastructure Grants (BIG) Program manager with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service's Wildlife and Sport Fish Restoration (WSFR) Program in Falls Church, Virginia. Paul was born in Green Bay, Wisconsin, where he learned to sail and kayak on Lake Michigan from an early age. He received his Bachelor's and Master of Science degrees from the University of Wisconsin-Madison, where he graduated with honors. Paul has worked for state and Federal conservation agencies for the past twenty years in a variety of locations including Marquette, Michigan, Delta, Colorado, and Pago Pago, American Samoa,

where he gained field experience managing a variety of conservation projects supported with Federal and other grant funds. Paul began working for WSFR in 2011 and has managed the BIG Program since 2013. He also serves as the national program lead for the State Wildlife Grants Program. He lives in Arlington, VA with his wife Afasene, where he continues to pursue his passion for boating. Christy Vigfusson is the national program leader for the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s National Coastal Wetlands Conservation Grant Program, the Clean Vessel Act Grant Program, and the Recreational Boating Access Program in the Wildlife and Sport Fish Restoration Program (WSFR). These programs provide matching grants of $100 million each year to State agencies and their sub-grantees for critical conservation and recreation needs. She works closely in her role with the Sport Fishing and Boating Partnership Council, a Federal Advisory Committee, SOBA, and the Regional WSFR Offices. She earned a Master of Science from Cornell University and a Bachelor of Science from the Ohio University Honors College. Christy has received numerous awards, including the 2013 ClearMark Award for the BIG Proposed Rule, the USDA NIFA A.J. Dye award for diversity, a National Science Foundation Graduate Research Fellowship, a Department of Education Foreign Language and Area Studies Fellowship, along with awards for exceptional and superior performance throughout her career. Christy lives in Arlington, Virginia with her husband Rob and two boys, John and Luke, who are three years old and one year old, respectively. She was born and raised in Dayton, Ohio. Craig Walker is Aquatics Section Special Project Coordinator, Utah Division of Wildlife Resources: Craig received his B.A. in Wildlife Biology from the University of Vermont in 1993 with an M.S. in Wildlife Science from Mississippi State University in 2004. He has been an employee with Utah Division of Wildlife Resources (Division) for seven years, working as a regional native fish biologist, Assistant Aquatics Section Coordinator of the native aquatics program, Aquatics Section Habitat Coordinator, and most recently as Aquatics Section Special Project Coordinator. Additionally, he has maintained involvement in SOBA activities since 2007. During his tenure with the Division, he served as a Biological Committee member with the Upper Colorado River Endangered Fish Recovery Program, a Technical Committee member with the June Sucker Recovery Implementation Program, and Chaired the Coordination Team for the range-wide three species conservation effort. He also was a UDWR advisor to the Blue Ribbon Fisheries Advisory Council, a UDWR advisor to the Habitat Council, Utah’s SOBA representative, SOBA At-Large Board member, Outreach Committee member working on the burgeoning Reservoir Fisheries Habitat Partnership (RFHP), and more recently RFHP WAFWA’s Representative. As Special Project Coordinator, his current program responsibilities include dam maintenance, boater access, fisheries research, Great Salt Lake brine shrimp fishery management, database development, Blue Ribbon Fisheries management, riparian and reservoir habitat enhancement, reservoir management, water quality, and AIS program oversight.

10 FUN FACTS ABOUT ALUMINUM

Gator is a proud supporter of SOBA and the 2014 Platinum Sponsor of the SOBA Annual Conference. Gator would like to welcome you to Little Rock and invite you to

meet our team, Ashley, Rick and Ray.

WELCOME TO LITTLE ROCK!

The 6000 series of aluminum, called either Marine or

Military Grade Aluminum, uses both magnesium and

silicon to make it heat treatable and extremely versatile.

The New Ford Truck and your GatorDock will both me

made using the same, durable aluminum series.

Aluminum structures have high strength-to-weight

ratios. Pound for pound aluminum is stronger than steel.

Looking for high traffic, commercial grade marine access

systems? GatorDock aluminum dock systems can be

found in the world’s largest and most famous theme

parks including Disney, Universal and Seaworld.

Aluminum fixed piers can span longer distances between

piles compared to wood, steel and concrete piers – up to

2X longer span capabilities!

GatorDock fabricated Cape Marina’s aluminum dock

system that has been in service for 37 years. Talk about a

long life cycle!

Aluminum’s excellence resistance to corrosion is due to

the naturally occurring oxide film. This regenerating film

forms a barrier between the metal and environment.

We know how tough it is to work within restrained

budgets. If your project isn’t meeting your bottom line,

give Gator a call. We have been engineering creative

and budget friendly solutions for over 45 years.

Not only do our aluminum products require little to no

maintenance, but the benefits of marine grade alumi-

num help find additional savings in the transportation,

installation, and maintenance costs of your aluminum

dock.

Our aluminum extrusions contain 70% post-industrial

recycled material.

We make more than just docks! Our fabrication line has

seen boats, church steeples, helicopter pads, stairways,

waterski ramps… and more!

GATORDOCK.COM CMILC.COM GATORBRIDGE.COM

THANK YOU 2014 Sponsors WE COULD NOT DO IT WITHOUT YOU

Thank you 2014 Exhibitors

SOBA PRESIDENTS

1987/88 Keith Wilson - Michigan

1989/90 Paul Gregory - Ohio

1993 Mike Markell - Minnesota

1994 James Duke - South Carolina

1995 Dave Obern - Oregon

1996 Judith A. Wheeler - Michigan

1997 Tom Vaughn Florida

1998 Frank Ryck - Missouri

1999 Paul Curtis - Michigan

2000 Mike Hough - Kentucky

2001 Jill Murphey - Idaho

2002 Steve Lewis - Wisconsin

2003 Larry Rider - Arkansas

2004 Larry Killien - Minnesota

2005/06 Julie McQuade - Ohio

2007 Terry Boyd - Alabama

2008 Ed Poolos - Tennessee

2009 Kent Skaar - Minnesota

2010 Wayne Shuyler - Oregon

2011 James Adams - Virginia

2012 Steve Miller – Wisconsin

2013 James Adam – Virginia

2014 Janine Belleque - Oregon

SOBA Board of Directors: 2014-2015

SLATE OF DIRECTORS

JANINE BELLEQUE, SOBA PRESIDENT

Janine is the Grants and Contracts Coordinator for the Boating Facilities Section of the Oregon State Marine Board where she manages state and federal boating-related grants, including Boating Infrastructure and Clean Vessel Act grants, as well as Sport Fish Restoration Motorboat Access grants in partnership with the Oregon Department of Fish & Wildlife. Janin