Ryan W. Burdette, PE, CPSWQ is the Director of Stormwater Engineering at Straughan Environmental. His career comprises over 22 years of water resources engineering, practicing environmental stewardship, and implementing stormwater innovations within the Chesapeake Bay Watershed and Greater Mid-Atlantic region. He is a registered Professional Engineer in five states along the east coast, an IEC Certified Professional in Stormwater Quality, and is Rosgen Stream Restoration Certified (LV I-IV). His experience includes management, design, permitting, construction, and general execution and delivery of SWM, drainage, and E&S solutions for agency NPDES / MS4 compliance, highway and pedestrian improvements, infrastructure repairs, and land development projects. Ryan specializes in stormwater pond retrofits and developing unique solutions to reconstruct and enhance legacy stormwater management facilities that have exceeded their expected service life. He has functioned as a project manager for SHA Water Programs Division to develop protocols for planning and implementing new water quality BMPs to satisfy MS4 goals and also led several SWM initiatives in support of Ellicott City Maryland flash flood recovery and prevention. Ryan’s areas of expertise include:
- ESD/SWM facility design, retrofit, and inspection
- Hydrology and hydraulics modeling (1D/2D)
- Erosion and Sediment Control
- Outfall Stabilization & Stream Restoration
- Open/Closed Drainage & Flood Control
- Dam Breach and Hazard Evaluations
“The most satisfying projects I’ve been involved with in my career required multi-disciplinary collaboration to develop creative solutions to complex challenges. Teamwork. Every member of a project team plays an important role in successful project delivery. It is my pleasure to work with such a talented staff that is dedicated to environmental stewardship.”
What led you to this career?
I cannot stress enough and encourage the importance of college internship program opportunities. Oh, so long ago…
Today, among the spectrum of projects we are responsible for, it is most satisfying to help resolve areawide flooding issues that pose hardships to many residents and communities throughout the region.
When you are not working, what do you enjoy doing?
Time with family and friends. Lots of concerts. And I have the most beautiful tank of African Cichlids that you’ll ever see!