City forms new division for water quality

The city of Springfield's Department of Environmental Services formed a new division overseeing water quality.

The Water Quality Engineering and Development division has a goal of improving service to the business and development community, according to a news release. It also will be in charge of strategic planning efforts so that sewer and stormwater investments meet federal regulations and improve water quality.

“Sewer service connections, sewer discharge from industries, restaurants and other nonresidential sources, and grading activities on construction sites all involve code compliance or permitting managed by Environmental Services,” said Ron Petering, the department's assistant director, in the release. “This new division brings all these areas together and aligns our staff to promote collaboration on emerging water quality opportunities like green infrastructure.”

Zach Martin, a member of the Department of Environmental Services for three years, was appointed as principal engineer over the newly formed water quality division.

Martin has worked to improve the city's sanitary sewer collection system and on multiple planning and capital improvement projects, according to the release. He previously served for nine years as a hydrologist and professional engineer with the U.S. Geological Survey.

“As we work to reorganize the department to help guide growth and efficiencies in service for the residents of Springfield, we looked for stellar leaders with experience and drive to innovate,” said Errin Kemper, director of the Department of Environmental Services, in the release. “We are excited that we found what we were looking for within our ranks and are confident Zach will continue to be outstanding in this new role.”