Rewilding Earth Podcast: Episode 135 Summary
Title: Engineering with Nature
Host/Author: The Rewilding Institute
Guest: Dr. Todd Bridges, Professor of Practice in Resilient and Sustainable Systems, University of Georgia
Release Date: November 22, 2024
Introduction
In Episode 135 of the Rewilding Earth Podcast, host Jack Humphrey engages in an insightful conversation with Dr. Todd Bridges, a seasoned biologist and ecologist with extensive experience in engineering and nature-based solutions. Dr. Bridges, formerly with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and now a professor at the University of Georgia, shares his expertise on aligning engineering practices with natural processes to foster sustainability and resilience.
Engineering with Nature
Dr. Bridges introduces the concept of "Engineering with Nature," a program he spearheaded during his 30-year tenure at the Army Corps of Engineers. This initiative aimed to harmonize natural and engineering systems to deliver economic, environmental, and social benefits collaboratively.
Notable Quote:
"[00:06] Dr. Todd Bridges: Most of your listeners have their own personal experience with understanding that our system is out of whack and we need to bring it back into a type of harmony... I think we have the experience and the know how."
Dr. Bridges emphasizes the necessity of updating policies and modifying our approach to foster a productive harmony between humans and nature, a goal aligned with the National Environment Policy Act.
Historical Examples: The Yolo Bypass
One of the standout examples discussed is the Yolo Bypass in California, a century-old project that exemplifies Engineering with Nature. Initially constructed to mitigate flooding along the Sacramento River, the Yolo Bypass utilizes concrete weirs to redirect excess water onto expansive floodplains. Today, it not only serves as flood control but also as a thriving wildlife habitat, attracting bird enthusiasts and supporting biodiversity.
Notable Quote:
"[11:10] Dr. Todd Bridges: ...the Yolo Bypass Wildlife Area. And there were literally dozens of people out there birding because this large expanse of wetlands and floodplains... The Sacramento Weir was built in 1916. That project is over a hundred years old and combines engineering with floodplains and floodplain functions like storing flood water, in addition to purposes that we would associate with conservation."
(Timestamp: 11:10)
This project illustrates how engineered structures can coexist with natural ecosystems, providing mutual benefits such as flood control and habitat preservation.
The Corps of Engineers and Evolving Approaches
Dr. Bridges discusses the evolving role of institutions like the Army Corps of Engineers, highlighting their shift towards sustainable practices. He underscores the importance of learning and adapting, noting that historical projects within the Corps have long embodied principles now recognized as nature-based solutions.
Notable Quote:
"[10:09] Dr. Todd Bridges: ...governments and private sectors are aligning behind this idea of operationalizing nature based solutions."
(Timestamp: 10:09)
He points out that modern engineering must balance infrastructure development with ecological preservation to address contemporary challenges such as climate change.
30 by 30 and Future Goals
The conversation delves into the ambitious "30 by 30" initiative, which aims to conserve 30% of land and water by 2030. Dr. Bridges breaks down the complexities of this goal, questioning the specific purposes and outcomes envisioned for the conserved areas. He advocates for clear objectives to guide the implementation of such large-scale conservation efforts.
Notable Quote:
"[17:52] Dr. Todd Bridges: 30 by 30 is certainly a... I would call it an audacious and at the same time necessary goal commitment to make."
(Timestamp: 17:52)
He also references President Biden's Executive Order 14072, which emphasizes deploying nature-based solutions to tackle climate change and enhance resilience, aligning with the 30 by 30 objectives.
Reallocating Land for Conservation: Challenges and Opportunities
Dr. Bridges and Jack Humphrey explore the challenges of reallocating land for conservation, using the example of farmland dedicated to high fructose corn syrup production. Dr. Bridges acknowledges the difficulties in changing land use but highlights the potential benefits of redirecting such land towards rewilding efforts.
Notable Quote:
"[22:21] Dr. Todd Bridges: ...we have to allow space for nature to do nature's thing, because we are dependent upon that in many different ways."
(Timestamp: 22:21)
He stresses the importance of balancing human needs with ecological sustainability, emphasizing that rewilding can provide essential ecosystem services like water security and drought resilience.
Education and Future Workforce
Addressing the future, Dr. Bridges highlights the role of education in fostering an interdisciplinary approach to engineering with nature. The University of Georgia has introduced a graduate certificate in natural infrastructure, aiming to equip students with the skills needed to implement sustainable and resilient systems.
Notable Quote:
"[28:16] Dr. Todd Bridges: ...we need to produce them so that they can deliver projects and systems that have these qualities."
(Timestamp: 28:16)
He notes that universities nationwide are responding to the demand for professionals who can bridge the gap between engineering disciplines and ecological principles.
Optimism for the Future
Despite the significant challenges posed by climate change and ecosystem degradation, Dr. Bridges remains optimistic. He believes that with collective resolve, existing knowledge, and updated policies, society can achieve a harmonious balance between human activities and natural systems.
Notable Quote:
"[32:01] Dr. Todd Bridges: My outlook is quite positive, Jack. ... I think we have the know how, certainly the experience."
(Timestamp: 32:01)
He underscores the urgency of setting ambitious goals to catalyze dialogue, collaboration, and action towards rewilding and sustainable infrastructure development.
Conclusion
The episode concludes with a mutual appreciation between host Jack Humphrey and Dr. Todd Bridges for the importance of storytelling in shaping public perception and policy. Dr. Bridges expresses eagerness to continue the conversation and delve into specific projects in future discussions.
Notable Quote:
"[33:34] Jack Humphrey: ...You're always welcome back on the Rewilding Earth podcast. And Todd, thank you so much for taking the time to be here with us today."
(Timestamp: 33:34)
Listeners are left with a comprehensive understanding of how engineering practices can be aligned with natural processes to foster a sustainable and resilient future.
Key Takeaways
- Engineering with Nature: Integrating natural processes with engineering to achieve sustainable and resilient systems.
- Historical Precedents: Projects like the Yolo Bypass demonstrate the long-standing potential of nature-based engineering solutions.
- 30 by 30 Initiative: Aiming to conserve 30% of land and water by 2030 requires clear objectives and collaborative efforts.
- Education’s Role: Interdisciplinary education is crucial for training the workforce needed to implement nature-based solutions.
- Optimistic Outlook: With collective effort and updated policies, achieving harmony between human activities and natural systems is attainable.
Final Thoughts
This episode of the Rewilding Earth Podcast offers a profound exploration of the intersection between engineering and ecology. Dr. Todd Bridges provides valuable insights into how historical practices can inform future initiatives aimed at rewilding and sustainable development. His optimism and practical approach serve as a beacon for conservationists, engineers, policymakers, and educators striving to create a balanced and resilient planet.