Clean Stream Partner Awards are given to a “river hero” who has done remarkable work in favor of clean, clear and safe rivers. This person has shown passion and dedication for years in bringing people together to solve large, complex issues. This year, the award goes to Kurt Erichsen.
Kurt began his career by receiving his Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering and Water Resources from Oregon State University in 1997 and his Master of Science in Sanitary Engineering in 1978. He became a Registered Professional Engineer from the State of Ohio in 1982 (passing the exam with the highest score in the state). He has worked on the popular “Give Water a Hand” campaign in 2006 and was awarded the John Bosely Leadership award from the National Association of Regional Councils in 2009. The Ohio House of Representatives H.R. honored him in 2009 as well. He has worked for TMACOG since 1987 in various roles, currently serving as the Vice President of Environmental Planning.
Kurt has worked on many different projects including writing, maintaining and upgrading the “208” Area Wide Water Quality Management Plan, establishing the Regional Stormwater Coalition, collaborating on the watershed restoration plan for Wolf Creek and Berger Ditch Watershed, and managed several projects related to the Ottawa River Contaminated Sediments. He also worked on overall watershed plans for the Maumee Remedial Action Plan, bringing us closer to cleaner rivers for generations to come. In addition to these major projects, Kurt has been involved by preparing, supervising or conducting dozens of other programs that benefit our local rivers.
Kurt is receiving the Clean Streams Partner Award for his tireless dedication to clean water throughout the region for the past 27 years. His leadership skills have been successful at bringing various agencies and collaborators together to solve various watershed issues. Thank you for your years of service, dedication and leadership, Kurt. Oh, and for your fun caricatures that quietly liven up many dull agendas and a few long meetings!