Description: In June 2024, historic flooding caused 66 shoreline bank failures across the Iowa Great Lakes, threatening water quality and infrastructure. IDNR partnered with Bolton & Menk to assess damage, engage landowners, and design sustainable shoreline restoration. This presentation illustrates how sustainable design approaches can restore shoreline stability while protecting water quality and infrastructure.

Authors: Ryan Benjegerdes, Mike Weis

Author Bios: Ryan Benjegerdes, PE, CFM, Bolton and Menk, Inc.

Ryan is a water resources engineer and practice leader with expertise in bank stabilization, stormwater management planning, design and construction of stormwater infrastructure, floodplain management and analysis, bridge and culvert design, and various hydrologic and hydraulic analyses. His knowledge and passion for solving client problems help him effectively integrate water resources engineering into projects.   He is a practice leader of our water resources team in Iowa and currently serves as an advisor for projects impacting water environments throughout the state.

Speaker 2: Mike Weis, Iowa Department of Natural Resources

Mike Weis is the Northwest District Supervisor for the Iowa Department of Natural Resources’ Parks, Forests, and Preserves Bureau, a position he has held since November 2024.

Prior to joining the Iowa DNR, he served for 13 years with the Harrison County Conservation Board, where he worked as a Park Ranger and Operations Supervisor. In his current role, he is responsible for managing operations, budgets, and staff to ensure the stewardship, maintenance, and public accessibility of Iowa’s natural resources.