Water & Environmental Technologies

COURTHOUSES, CANYONS, AN CHAIN OF TITLE: A SHERIDAN LAND SERVICES ROAD TRIP

Kali Cummings — Mon, 09 Mar 2026 22:23:02 +0000

COURTHOUSES, CANYONS, AND CHAIN OF TITLE: A SHERIDAN TEAM LAND SERVICES ROAD TRIP

Wyoming → Nevada → Utah

Located at the base of the Bighorn Mountains, WET’s Sheridan, Wyoming office is a trusted resource for accurate and dependable Land Services.

The team specializes in researching public records, land maps, and mineral ownership and preparing clear, detailed reports that support attorneys, landowners, mining operators, and agencies alike.

Their work ranges from documenting rights to enter and mine to assisting with due diligence for acquisitions and divestitures to supporting state and federal land use applications, and to verifying mineral interest ownership.

Left → Right: Cathy Reed, Mary Schilling, Teri Rowland, Tiffany Shaw, Heather Arambel

Mary Schilling

Sheridan’s land professionals also help clients negotiate access agreements and develop organized, modern land records systems. Backed by decades of experience, Sheridan’s Land Services professionals are a reliable partner for clients navigating land ownership, mineral rights, regulatory requirements, and project development.

Recently, a trio of our land service professionals launched on a public records research trip in Nevada for a mineral exploration and production company. As requested by a law firm, the trio adjusted their return plans on the fly to include additional research in eastern Utah.

The team often finds it necessary to travel to county clerks’ offices and recorder’s offices in rural areas since those counties have not had the resources to digitize and database their real property records. After reviewing the cost of flights and rental cars for the above-mentioned projects, the most efficient and cost-effective solution was to take a road trip. So, embracing the spirit of collaboration and adventure, Heather Arambel, Teri Rowland, and Mary Schilling loaded up and set out on their journey across the West.

Left → Right: Teri Rowland, Heather Arambel

Left → Right: Mary Schilling, Heather Arambel, Teri Rowland

Moab, Utah

Front → Back: Heather Arambel, Mary Schilling

Inside the Elko County Courthouse

The first stop for the job was the Elko County Courthouse. Here is where the trio put their public records, land mapping, and mineral ownership research skills to the test.

It would not have been a culture-building adventure if the team didn’t have a little fun along the journey. Our team checked out the Carlin Trend Mining Services office and gift shop in Elko, as they have worked on some of the same great projects together.

Left → Right: Mary Schilling, Teri Rowling

One of the funniest things to happen to them in Elko was a blackout dinner experience. Heather explained,

We were at La Fiesta Mexican restaurant in Elko eating when the power went out on the whole block and didn’t come back on while we were there. The grill kept cooking, but the whole restaurant filled with smoke because the kitchen vent fans weren’t running. We got a kick out of it! I had to use my phone flashlight to find the restroom, and thankfully, we had cash to pay our bill with.

La Fiesta Mexican Restaurant—Elko, Nevada

Wendover Army Air Base—Wendover, Utah

Along the way to Moab, the team needed to stop and stretch their legs—and figured they might as well take in a bit of American history while doing so. What better place than the historic Wendover Army Air Base? Wendover Army Air Base was a remote World War II training installation where B‑17 and B‑24 bomber crews trained. The airfield later served as the base for the 509th Composite Group’s B‑29 operations, including preparation for the Manhattan Project–related atomic missions of 1945. After a quick 45‑minute break among old bomber hangars and relics of airfield life, the team continued their journey.

Wendover Army Air Base—Wendover, Utah

The next stop was the Grand County, Utah, Courthouse. As the WET truck rolled closer to town around 4 PM, the trio decided it was too late in the day to disrupt the County Recorder’s duties. However, there was still time to soak in some of the most breathtaking scenery Utah has to offer. They found themselves entering Arches National Park—almost as if the landscape insisted they slow down and take it in.

Left → Right: Mary Schilling, Teri Rowling

Left → Right: Mary Schilling, Heather Arambel, Teri Rowling

Towering red rock formations, natural stone arches, and endless desert vistas created a cinematic backdrop for the final stretch of the journey. It was the perfect blend of adventure and awe before settling into Moab for the research ahead. It was here, in Moab, Utah at the Grand County Courthouse, that the trio began sleuthing through public records, maps, and mineral ownership records to complete the mineral exploration task at hand.

Grand County Courthouse—Moab, Utah

Left → Right: Teri Rowling, Mary Schilling

With the mineral title research completed in both Elko, Nevada, and Moab, Utah, it was finally time for the team to turn the WET truck north and head home. But not without one more chance to enjoy the scenery—and take a few photos that perfectly capture how WET’s culture makes even the longest work trips memorable. As they drove up Highway 191 toward Wyoming, the road led to one last unforgettable stop: a bridge over the Green River, just southeast of Flaming Gorge. Framed by wide-open skies and rugged canyon walls, it was the perfect spot to stretch, laugh, snap a few team photos, and celebrate not just the work completed, but the friendships built along the way. The ideal ending to a 2,070-mile adventure where hard work, good company, and the spirit of exploration traveled every mile together.

Left → Right: Mary Schilling, Teri Rowling

Green River—Southeast of Flaming Gorge, Utah

Left → Right: Teri Rowling, Mary Schilling

Green River—Southeast of Flaming Gorge, Utah

Utah

Elko County Courthouse

Our land service professionals complete comprehensive mineral title research to support major mineral exploration and production endeavors and regularly partner with legal firms to prepare comprehensive mineral and surface title reporting. Their work involves reviewing historical legal records, verifying chain of titles, analyzing severances of surface and subsurface estates, and identifying potential encumbrances that could affect ownership and operational rights. By organizing complex legal title chains and reporting encumbrances across decades of documentation, we deliver a clear picture of mineral interests within a project area. The results equip both clients and law firms with the clarity needed to mitigate risk, streamline negotiations, and confidently plan next‑phase exploration and development activities.

Elko County Courthouse

Heather Arambel—Senior Land Professional

Sheridan, Wyoming Office

Teri Rowland—Land Technician

Sheridan, Wyoming Office

Mary Schilling—Staff Land Professional

Sheridan, Wyoming Office

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MONTANA MINING DAY PROCLAIMED ACROSS THE TREASURE STATE IN THE MINING CITY

Kali Cummings — Tue, 10 Feb 2026 17:15:28 +0000

MONTANA MINING DAY PROCLAIMED ACROSS THE TREASURE STATE IN THE MINING CITY

Butte, Montana

Montana has long been known as the Treasure State, a place where rich mineral resources shaped communities, fueled economic growth, and forged the grit and ingenuity that define our history. Today, we honor that legacy—and the people who keep it alive—by launching the first Montana Mining Day, an annual celebration on February 9, 2026.

Today’s event, led by the Montana Mining Association’s Executive Director, Matt Vincent, celebrated Montana Mining Day and the innovation, stewardship, and hard work that continue to define the industry.

Matt Vincent—Montana Mining Association

Today is the very first recognized Montana Mining Day, where events are being held in Helena and Phillipsburg as well… But really, it makes perfect sense for us to be kicking off Montana Mining Day celebrations here in Butte, America—The Mining City and The Richest Hill on Earth.”

-Matt Vincent, Executive Director of the Montana Mining Association

The actual house bill was passed during the last legislative session and was sponsored by Representative Curtis Schomer, a former underground miner from the Stillwater Mine, along with 34 other sponsors. The bill was introduced on January 14, 2025, passed both houses, and was signed into law on February 27, 2025. February 9 was chosen to represent Montana Mining Day because on that day in 1865, our state became an official territory and adopted the motto “Oro-Y-Plata,” or “Gold and Silver,” when translated from Spanish.

This new statewide tradition highlights Montana’s enduring mining heritage and recognizes the essential role modern miners play in our economy and communities. From supporting local jobs to providing the raw materials that power everyday life, Montana’s mining industry remains a vital force shaping our future. Many well-known and new stakeholders gathered for today’s opening ceremony at the Butte-Silver Bow Courthouse, highlighting Butte’s rich mining past, present, and future activities. Speakers included Dr. Johnny MacLean, Montana Technological University’s newest Chancellor; Mike McGivern, Vice President of Montana Resources; Travis Naugle, Silver Bow Mining CEO; Jason Quigley, Golden Sunlight Mine Operations Manager; Jeanette Kopf, Executive Director of the World Museum of Mining; J.P. Gallagher, Butte-Silver Bow Chief Executive; and representatives from Senators Daines, Sheehy, and Zinke.

Jeanette Kopf—World Museum of Mining Executive Director

Dr. Johnny MacLean—Montana Tech Chancelor

Travis Naugle—Silver Bow Mining CEO

Jason Quigley—Golden Sunlight Mine Operations Manager

It’s a noble profession…You are making a product that enhances mankind, enhances society, and enhances civilization. It’s a job of purpose.

-Mike McGivern, Montana Resources Vice President

Mike McGivern—Montana Resources Vice President

As we celebrate the inaugural Montana Mining Day, there’s no better place to reflect on our mining heritage than Butte—where the story of modern American mining was written. The city’s legacy of hard work, innovation, and resilience has long inspired those who know what it means to build a community from the ground up. Today, that same spirit fuels excitement for the future. Montana Mining Day isn’t just about honoring the past—it’s about opening doors for the next generation. By highlighting today’s modern, safe, and technologically advanced mining careers, this annual celebration aims to spark interest among young Montanans and encourage them to carry forward the proud traditions that places like Butte helped define.

Butte-Silver Bow’s Chief Executive J.P. Gallagher concluded the ceremony, reading off the proclamation making Montana Mining Day officially recognized in The Mining City.

I…do herby proclaim February 9, 2026, and each year thereafter as Montana Mining Day and I encourage all citizens to recognize and reflect upon them for the role of mining in our community and our state’s past, present, and future as witnessed here in this proclamation.

-J.P Gallagher, Butte-Silver Bow Chief Executive

J.P. Gallagher—Butte-Silver Bow’s Chief Executive

Dave Stratton—WET AutoCAD Manager and Miner

And of course, no celebration of Montana Mining Day would be complete without shining a light on the people who keep this proud tradition alive. Mining isn’t just history—it’s a living heritage carried forward by folks who still feel the pull of the Treasure State’s rich ground. One of those people is Dave Stratton, a valued member of the WET team, whose connection to mining runs deeper than bedrock. When summer rolls around, Dave doesn’t just talk about Montana’s mining legacy—he lives it, heading out to operate his family’s small-scale gold placer mine and carrying that tradition forward across generations.

Being able to spend my weekends in the mountains doing what I love makes it all worth it.

-Dave Stratton, WET AutoCAD Manager

Mining is woven into Montana’s identity, and we’re proud to have Dave—and all those who make mining their career—write the next chapter of that story. Join us in spreading the word and showing your support by using the hashtag #MTminingday as we honor the past, celebrate the present, and look ahead to a strong, sustainable future for Montana’s mining industry.

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FROM TAILINGS TO TRANSFORMATION: A LOOK BACK AT THE PARROT SITE CLEANUP

Kali Cummings — Thu, 05 Feb 2026 18:14:56 +0000

FROM TAILINGS TO TRANSFORMATION: A LOOK BACK AT THE PARROT SITE CLEANUP

Butte, Montana

It was a great turnout on January 28 at the Butte-Silver Bow Public Archives, where WET’s very own Senior Engineer, John Trudnowski, took the stage as the Brown Bag guest speaker. John presented an in-depth look at the Parrot Tailings Waste Removal Project, a major environmental restoration effort completed in 2023 within the Silver Bow Creek corridor in Butte, Montana.

During the presentation, John walked attendees through the history of the Parrot Tailings, which originated at the historic Parrot Smelter that operated along Silver Bow Creek in the late 1800s and early 1900s. He explained that tailings, slag, and other mine waste left behind after smelter operations became a long-standing source of contamination affecting both groundwater and surface water.

“The project included well abandonment, soil removal design, evapotranspiration cover design, facility and utility demolitions, utility rebuilding, traffic detouring, post removal land use, bid sequencing, and scheduling… all standard stuff until you drop it into the middle of a town.”

John then discussed WET’s role in supporting the Montana Department of Justice Natural Resource Damage Program (NRDP). WET’s team evaluated remedial design options, developed the preferred alternative, and prepared a complete design and construction bid package. During construction, WET provided oversight and quality assurance for the excavation and replacement of approximately 380,000 cubic yards of material, including mine waste, slag, and overburden.

“Imagine, those tailings are sitting on the floodplain settlements in the old Silver Bow Creek corridor, and what they were doing was leaching a lot of nasty metals into the water.”

As part of the discussion, John also explained the role of Evapotranspiration (ET) covers, an important remedial tool often used in mine-waste and landfill reclamation. ET covers are engineered soil-and-vegetation systems that prevent rainfall and snowmelt from infiltrating contaminated material by storing water in a thick, organic-rich soil layer and releasing it back into the atmosphere through evaporation and plant transpiration. ET covers isolate contaminants through natural water-balance processes, protecting groundwater and surface water while blending sustainably with the surrounding environment.

“The ET cover basically acts like a sponge… it is thick enough that it absorbs all the moisture, precipitation, and infiltration throughout the year as the plants uptake the water and all the vegetation uses the water before it has a chance to soak through the soil.”

He highlighted the extensive coordination required among local, state, and federal agencies; two railroad corporations; Montana Resources; and multiple other stakeholders. John also outlined WET’s work developing critical project plans—ranging from the remedial action work plan and quality assurance project plan (QAPP) to traffic control, dewatering, waste management, and site access logistics.

“There was a lot of different stakeholders in this project…a lot of different players in the game and a lot of cooperation was needed to get this project done.”

The presentation concluded with an overview of the successful completion of Phase I in 2018 and the planned continued progress toward a community hub center. Attendees gained a clear understanding of the technical challenges overcome and the long-term environmental benefits now taking shape at the Parrot Site.

Watch the full presentation from the Butte Archives:

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FROM OIL SPILL TO ENVIRONMENTAL RECOVERY: WET’S BIG CLEANUP NEAR POPLAR—POPLAR, MONTANA

Kali Cummings — Mon, 12 Jan 2026 16:16:55 +0000

FROM OIL SPILL TO ENVIRONMENTAL RECOVERY: WET’S BIG CLEANUP

Poplar, Montana

Water & Environmental Technologies (WET) is leading a major cleanup effort northeast of Poplar, Montana, to address petroleum contamination in soil and groundwater. The site was affected by a historic crude oil spill from an old production well that allowed oil and brine to migrate into the shallow aquifer and reach the ground surface in some areas. Years of the plume moving underground left a layer of floating petroleum, known as light non-aqueous phase liquid (LNAPL), trapped above the groundwater, along with residual hydrocarbons bound in the surrounding soils.

Site Excavation and Soil Treatment

Between July and October 2024, approximately 49,000 cubic yards of soil were excavated from the site to depths of nearly 40 feet below ground surface (bgs), with about 46,600 cubic yards contaminated with LNAPL. The affected soil was treated by a process called soil shredding, where the excavated material was broken down to remove large clumps and then sprayed with concentrated hydrogen peroxide. This treatment chemically oxidized petroleum hydrocarbons, breaking them down into non-hazardous compounds like water and carbon dioxide. After treatment, soil samples were collected and analyzed to verify that petroleum-related compounds were reduced below Montana Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) screening levels, allowing the soil to be reused as clean backfill. During excavation, WET identified residual contamination at roughly 35 feet bgs within the groundwater zone. To address this remaining source area, a subsurface injection system with perforated pipes was installed along the bottom of the excavation prior to backfilling, serving as the foundation for subsequent in-situ chemical oxidation (ISCO) treatment using hydrogen peroxide.

Phase 1: LNAPL Recovery System

The initial phase of the cleanup involves physically removing as much floating petroleum, or LNAPL, as possible from the groundwater. This layer of crude oil has accumulated over time at the top of the aquifer, serving as a continuous source of contamination. Before chemical treatment began, it was crucial to start extracting this free product to reduce the overall contaminant amount and prevent further migration through the subsurface.

To achieve this, WET designed and installed a network of recovery wells strategically located throughout the impacted area. Each well is equipped with a filter pump that uses an oleophilic (oil-attracting) and hydrophobic (water-repelling) membrane to selectively collect petroleum products floating on the water table. The system automatically adjusts to fluctuations in groundwater levels—up to 3 feet of seasonal variation—ensuring efficient recovery without drawing excess groundwater.

The recovery network is divided into five operational zones, each linked to a booster station located in a small, insulated shed. At each booster station, pneumatic pumps extract product from the wells and direct it through underground pipelines to a central recovery building. Each station features a programmable logic controller (PLC) that automates pump operations, monitors flow rates, and communicates with the central control system.

All recovered petroleum products are routed to a 1,500-gallon vented storage tank equipped with redundant float alarms and automatic shutoff valves to prevent overfilling. This fully integrated recovery system allows for continuous, low-maintenance operation while complying with strict environmental safety standards. WET personnel monitor system performance through on-site inspections and data tracking, ensuring efficient recovery and safe handling of the recovered product.

Phase 2: Peroxide Injection System

After the free product recovery started, WET moved to the second remediation phase: in-situ chemical oxidation (ISCO) with hydrogen peroxide. This phase focuses on the residual hydrocarbons remaining in soil pores and the smear zone that couldn’t be mechanically removed.

Hydrogen peroxide is a strong yet environmentally safe oxidant that, when injected into the subsurface, decomposes into oxygen and highly reactive hydroxyl radicals. These radicals attack and decompose petroleum hydrocarbons, converting them into harmless products such as carbon dioxide and water. The oxygen released during this process also enhances natural microbial activity, thereby improving aerobic biodegradation and accelerating long-term groundwater cleanup.

The injection system includes a vertical well connected to about 200 feet of perforated lateral piping at the base of the excavation. Concentrated hydrogen peroxide (50% solution) was delivered to the site in 265-gallon totes and diluted to a 10% solution before injection to ensure safe, controlled underground reactions. The diluted solution was mixed and gravity-fed through the system at a steady rate over 20 hours, totaling approximately 12,000 gallons.

A small-scale test confirmed that the diluted solution provided effective oxidation without producing excessive heat. Temperature probes were installed in monitoring wells to gather data during and after injection, ensuring safe and efficient treatment. The peroxide injection system was designed to support the Phase 1 recovery efforts by breaking down hydrocarbons that mechanical recovery couldn’t reach, helping to restore groundwater quality and speed up natural attenuation.

Ongoing Monitoring and Results

WET continues to monitor the site with a network of 19 wells—13 within the LNAPL recovery area and six near the former waste pit. Monitoring involves measuring LNAPL thickness, groundwater levels, and temperature changes to evaluate the performance of both the recovery and oxidation systems. Data from these wells helps assess contaminant reduction and guides future remediation efforts.

Through careful engineering, field implementation, and the combination of mechanical recovery with in-situ oxidation, WET’s goal is to significantly reduce the petroleum impacts at the site. The project demonstrates how innovative treatment design, safe chemical handling, and long-term monitoring can work together to restore groundwater quality and support the ongoing environmental recovery of the area.

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BUTTE SCHOOL DISTRICT #1 BUS BARN REMEDIATION—BUTTE, MONTANA

Kali Cummings — Mon, 12 Jan 2026 15:48:40 +0000

BUTTE SCHOOL DISTRICT #1 BUS BARN REMEDIATION

Butte, Montana

The Butte School District #1 (the District) Bus Barn on East Front Street has served as the main location for fueling, parking, and maintaining school buses for many years. In 1992, during routine removal of two underground fuel tanks, petroleum contamination was discovered beneath the facility. Although crews removed contaminated soil at that time, the site could not reach final environmental closure because the necessary confirmation samples were not submitted to the Montana Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ).

Years later, the District worked with WET to carefully assess and address the remaining impacts. From 2012 to 2019, ten groundwater monitoring wells were installed, and samples collected through 2023 confirmed the presence of petroleum compounds and legacy fuel additives like 1,2-dichloroethane (1,2-DCA) and ethylene dibromide (EDB). This data helped define both the horizontal and vertical extent of contamination across the site.

Once site conditions were understood, WET carried out a pilot cleanup using a combined air sparging and soil vapor extraction system (AS/SVE). This system works in two complementary ways: air sparging injects clean air into contaminated groundwater to promote natural biodegradation and help break down petroleum compounds on site, while soil vapor extraction removes vapors from the surrounding soil and treats them above ground. By addressing both groundwater and soil contamination simultaneously, this approach speeds up cleanup and prevents further spread of contaminants. The pilot test showed that AS/SVE could effectively target the contamination and laid the groundwork for designing a full-scale remediation system.

In March 2024, DEQ issued a formal request for the next phase of corrective action to move the site toward final closure. WET responded by designing and installing a full-scale AS/SVE system. This involved expanding the pilot system to include five new treatment wells, one additional SVE well, four monitoring points (including one specifically for soil vapor sampling), three vapor points, and several observation wells. The air sparging wells helped treat dissolved petroleum in groundwater, while the vapor extraction well and monitoring points captured soil vapors and tracked system performance in real time. During drilling, soil and duplicate quality-control samples were collected to verify site conditions and ensure that the final system design addressed all contamination areas.

Monitoring played a crucial role in the cleanup process. Three observation wells were installed inside the building, and additional wells outside were set up to monitor groundwater and underground conditions over time. Since part of the system was beneath the building footprint, three vapor pins were installed to track sub-slab vacuum conditions, ensuring effective capture of soil vapors and maintaining the safety of building occupants during operations.

Because the Bus Barn continued operating as an active facility supporting district transportation, the installation of the full-scale system was carefully scheduled for the summer months when buses were off-site and activities were minimized. Most of the property was paved, with only a few small unpaved areas and the maintenance shop located in the southeast corner. The subsurface soils consisted of silt, clay, and sand, with groundwater approximately 28 feet below the surface. The facility relied on the City of Butte’s municipal water system, ensuring that no private drinking water supplies were affected during cleanup.

The combined strategy of pilot testing, system expansion, and thorough monitoring helped WET move the site closer to complete environmental closure while ensuring safety, efficiency, and transparency. This project showcases proactive environmental care and emphasizes the District’s and WET’s dedication to safeguarding the community and the surrounding environment.

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FROM HEAT TO INSIGHT: A THERMAL UAV APPROACH TO WATER INFRASTRUCTURE

Kali Cummings — Sat, 10 Jan 2026 00:21:42 +0000

FROM HEAT TO INSIGHT: A THERMAL UAV APPROACH TO WATER INFRASTRUCTURE

WET performed a cutting-edge aerial survey of an irrigation ditch in southwest Montana. The project’s goal was to map and photo-document the ditch corridor accurately and identify potential areas of concern along with the alignment. By combining high-resolution aerial imagery with thermal imaging technology, WET provided actionable insights that helped the client protect critical infrastructure and plan targeted maintenance.

WET deployed a survey team using advanced unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) technology to capture detailed imagery along the 4.3-mile-long corridor. Using survey-grade Real-Time Kinematic Global Navigation Satellite System (RTK GNSS) control points and Structure-from-Motion (SfM) processing, WET generated high-resolution ortho-photos and topographic models, accurately defining the ditch centerline and easement boundaries.

RTK GNSS is a precise method for determining exact positions on the Earth’s surface using satellite signals. Unlike standard GPS, which may have accuracy limited to a few meters, RTK GNSS provides centimeter-level positioning in real time. On-site, a base station is set up at a known location, and a rover unit is positioned along the survey corridor. The base station sends correction signals to the rover, which instantly adjusts its satellite data to achieve exact coordinates. This process ensured that all aerial mapping, orthophotos, and topographic models were accurately referenced to real-world locations, enhancing mapping precision and providing a clear visual record of the corridor for future planning and monitoring.

To complement the aerial mapping, WET conducted a thermal survey along a portion of the ditch to pinpoint potential seepage and leak locations from the ditch. Thermal imagery detects subtle temperature differences on the ground surface, making it possible to see variations that are invisible to the naked eye—such as cooler, wetter areas that may indicate leaks or seepage from the canal. Leveraging a dual thermal infrared and RGB camera system, the team acquired both video types simultaneously over a 4.5-mile stretch, including a 300-foot-wide corridor covering the ditch and adjacent bench. The thermal data was analyzed to highlight areas of potential concern, providing the client with early detection of issues before they escalated into costly problems.

This project demonstrates WET’s expertise in integrating innovative UAV technologies with practical engineering solutions. By combining traditional mapping and thermal imaging, WET delivered a comprehensive, actionable assessment that empowered Granger Ranches LP to proactively manage their ditch easement, maintain infrastructure integrity, and make informed decisions for long-term corridor management.

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SITE & REMEDIAL INVESTIGATIONS & DESIGNS: PROTECTING COMMUNITIES AND THE ENVIRONMENT

Kali Cummings — Fri, 07 Nov 2025 02:41:27 +0000

SITE & REMEDIAL INVESTIGATIONS & DESIGNS: PROTECTING COMMUNITIES AND THE ENVIRONMENT

When environmental impacts are identified, WET steps in to assess, define, and address the challenge. Our team specializes in large-scale site and remedial investigations—projects that remove contaminants, while also protecting land and water, and also often influence the well-being of entire communities.

From defining the scope of impacts to creating customized monitoring or remediation plans, we ensure each site is managed accurately and responsibly. As projects enter the monitoring stage, our proven approach delivers reliable long-term data with safe monitoring practices over time—safeguarding the environment and communities.

At WET, every investigation is more than just a technical process—it’s an investment in the people, places, and environments we all rely on.

Ready to learn more about how WET protects communities and restores the environment?

Check out our services:

Site Investigation & Monitoring
waterenvtech.com/site-investigation-monitoring/
Remediation Design & Construction for Soil & Water
waterenvtech.com/soil-water-remediation/

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ROCKY BOY CHIPPEWA CREE TRIBE PROJECTS—ROCKY BOY RESERVATION, MONTANA

Kali Cummings — Thu, 23 Oct 2025 18:03:38 +0000

DESIGNING FOR TODAY, ENGINEERING FOR GENERATIONS: ROCKY BOY PROJECTS 2025

Rocky Boy Reservation—Box Elder, Montana

For nearly a decade, Water & Environmental Technologies (WET) has partnered with the Chippewa Cree Tribe of the Rocky Boy’s Indian Reservation in northern Montana, providing engineering, environmental, and infrastructure planning services across multiple Chippewa Cree Tribal Departments. Our work has included designing wastewater lagoons, roads, and water storage tanks, as well as preparing successful grant applications, preliminary engineering reports, environmental assessments for NEPA, and training programs for Tribal staff. Projects have spanned essential community services and land development, including water, wastewater, solid waste, housing developments, roads, and cultural resource protection, which have been nearly entirely built using Tribal labor and equipment. These projects represent far more than technical achievements. They reflect enduring partnerships rooted in collaboration and an understanding of Tribal sovereignty and funding mechanisms.

Working with sovereign nations like the Rocky Boy’s Reservation requires a more profound understanding than traditional consulting. Tribes are not just stakeholders within standard state and federal systems; they are sovereign governments with their own priorities, procedures, and protocols. Successful projects must navigate a unique framework that includes Tribal law, federal funding programs, oversight by the Bureau of Indian Affairs, Federal EPA oversight, and locally available labor and resources. Over time, WET has learned that each project, whether a lagoon cleanout, road repair, or subdivision design, is part of a larger effort to strengthen Tribal infrastructure and promote self-sufficiency. By collaborating with Tribal departments, WET has gained not only technical expertise but also a practical understanding of what it means to partner with a sovereign nation.

Work has carried on steadily through the summer of 2025 and will continue into the fall, with crews advancing the project as far as possible before the winter season brings construction to a pause.

September marked the start of the Newtown Sewer Main Extension project along Duck Creek Road, a vital infrastructure upgrade on the Rocky Boy’s Reservation. Secured through American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) competitive grant funding with the State of Montana, this project involved the installation of a complete sewer system with both gravity and mechanically pumped force mains to ensure reliable wastewater collection and conveyance for residents and Tribal facilities in the Agency community. Gravity mains utilize the natural slope of the land to move wastewater, while force mains depend on pumps and pressure to transport flow in areas where gravity alone isn’t enough—such as flat ground, steep terrain, or uphill sections. Construction is scheduled to continue through September, October, and November, progressing until the snow arrives. By investing in this crucial utility, made possible through ARPA support, the Chippewa Cree Tribe is bolstering long-term community health and environmental protection while setting the stage for future growth and development in the heart of the reservation.

The Eagleman Water System project also broke ground in September and marks a significant step forward in modernizing local water infrastructure. WET’s engineers designed and oversaw the construction, providing surveying, on-site representation, and as-built documentation to guide the work. The project included rerouting waterlines, upsizing mains, and connecting the new distribution system to existing mains., These improvements not only ensure reliable service to residents but also strengthen the system’s capacity, resilience, and long-term efficiency.

Another major infrastructure effort during the summer and fall of 2025, supported by additional competitive ARPA grant funding, has been the dredging of the Middle Dry Fork sewer lagoon. This work uses a newly purchased pontoon dredge—a floating machine that stirs up and suctions sludge from the lagoon bottom, pumping the material to a collection pond for dewatering while returning clean water to the lagoon. Operating from the water’s surface, the dredge allows efficient sludge removal to restore and maintain the lagoon’s treatment capacity. At the same time and in the same area, construction is underway on the new Multi-Community Lagoon Expansion, a facility designed by WET engineers to further expand wastewater treatment capacity for the Tribe in the primary development area located between Lower Dry Fork housing and the Boneau community.

The new senior housing subdivision marks a significant milestone for the Rocky Boy’s Tribe, providing 28 modern homes explicitly designed for elder families in the community. As of September 2025, construction has been completed with all homes installed, water and sewer infrastructure in place, curbing finished, and asphalt paving complete throughout the subdivision. The subdivision represents a significant investment in comfort, safety, and accessibility for Tribal seniors—creating a welcoming place with much-needed additional home capacity in close proximity to the Rocky Boy Health Center, Administrative Site Infrastructure, Tribal Headquarters, and Youth Center facilities.

That was not the only housing development going up around Rocky Boy in 2025. Near the Rocky Boy Health Center, several new homes and two recently completed roads have been finished as part of the Clinic Housing project, providing essential housing for the reservation’s medical staff. From 2022 to 2023, WET played a key role in this project, handling the design, construction oversight, and securing all necessary permits to ensure the homes met both Tribal and regulatory standards.

Rounding out the 2025 projects was the lining of the Boneau underground concrete water tanks. Lining a tank involves cleaning the interior and adding a protective coating to keep the water safe and the tank leak-free. For this project, WET engineers oversaw the entire process, beginning with an initial inspection and testing that demonstrated safe confined-space entry. The tanks were thoroughly cleaned and dried, a protective liner was installed, and the liner was spray-sealed to ensure a watertight and potable water-compliant finish. WET staff inspected each step to guarantee both quality and safety throughout the project.

Together, these projects showcase not only WET’s technical skills but also the strength of our partnership with the Chippewa Cree Tribe. From wastewater systems and water storage upgrades to housing and roads, each project contributes to a broader effort to bolster Tribal infrastructure, promote self-sufficiency, and improve community well-being. By working closely with Tribal departments, respecting Tribal sovereignty, and managing the unique challenges of funding and construction on the reservation, WET has helped deliver sustainable, durable solutions that benefit residents today and build a foundation for future generations. The work completed by 2025 reflects this ongoing dedication, proving that thoughtful engineering and collaboration can create a meaningful, lasting impact on the community and the Tribe’s ability to thrive.

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LEAD POISONING PREVENTION IN WATER SERVICE LINES—MONTANA

Kali Cummings — Thu, 09 Oct 2025 21:26:37 +0000

LEAD POISONING PREVENTION IN WATER SERVICE LINES

Montana

Getting the Lead Out: Montana’s Lead Service Line Inventory Effort

For many decades, communities across the country have struggled with the hidden danger of lead in drinking water. The issue doesn’t stem from the water itself but from the old service lines—the pipes that carry water from the street main into homes and businesses. In many towns, especially those with houses built before the late 1980s, these pipes were occasionally made of lead.

The risks are well known. Even small amounts of lead can cause serious health issues, especially for children. Recognizing this, the federal government launched a nationwide campaign to ensure every public water system completes a detailed inventory of its service lines to identify where lead is still present in communities. To support this effort, Montana received more than $100 million in federal funding to support communities with inventorying, and the removal and replacement of lead service lines, ultimately promoting the health and safety of our people. Water & Environmental Technologies (WET) has been working alongside government officials, regulatory agencies, and community representatives throughout the state ensuring our communities have safe drinking water.

Through the Community Technical Assistance Program (CTAP), WET has partnered with public water supply systems of all sizes—from rural utilities serving just a few families to larger cities serving tens of thousands. The mission is simple but vital: identify the material of every service line, both on the “street side” and the “customer side,” and determine whether any lead or galvanized lines that need replacement no longer remain within the system.

Carrying out this mission requires a balance of technical expertise and community involvement. WET’s engineers and specialists begin by examining the paper trail—reviewing as-built drawings, curb cards, and decades-old service records—to identify where lead or galvanized pipes might still be in use. Simultaneously, outreach to residents has been equally important. Customized mailers, door hangers, newsletters, and websites linked via QR codes have made it easier for homeowners to share information about their service lines. Additionally, social media campaigns and community articles have helped explain why this inventory matters and how residents can participate.

The project also utilizes modern mapping tools. WET has developed interactive GIS platforms that enable water operators to view their entire system in real-time, update information from the field, and share inventory data with state regulators and community leaders. These tools facilitate organizing the inventory, tracking progress, and maintaining access to information for years to come.

Nevertheless, paper records and maps can only tell part of the story. To verify what’s actually in out there, WET has sent trained staff door-to-door to inspect service lines firsthand. These field inspections, combined with resident input, are essential to building a complete and accurate inventory. When lead or galvanized requiring replacement lines are identified, WET assists communities in preparing the necessary public notifications, ensuring residents are informed and protected while replacement plans are developed.

Overall, this process does more than fulfill a federal requirement. It fosters trust between communities and local water systems, establishes a clear plan for future replacements, and, most importantly, safeguards public health. By combining regulatory expertise, hands-on fieldwork, and a dedication to community involvement, WET has helped Montana’s towns and cities take a meaningful step toward safer, more resilient water infrastructure.

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ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS RECESS REDESIGN—BUTTE, MONTANA

Kali Cummings — Thu, 09 Oct 2025 20:16:29 +0000

RECESS REDESIGN—PLAYGROUND EQUIPMENT UPDATE

Butte, Montana

WET recently partnered with Butte School District #1 (the District) to reimagine and upgrade playgrounds at Whittier and Hillcrest Elementary Schools. The project achieved great results on a modest budget—creating safe, creative play areas for local students.

Our team conducted topographic surveys, prepared construction documents, engaged parents, and oversaw construction to turn these playgrounds from ideas into reality. Parents played a key role in the design, with surveys helping shape equipment choices and color schemes—ensuring the final spaces reflect the community’s vision.

Overall, the playgrounds were revitalized through careful design and budget-friendly planning. WET provided complete support from initial surveys to final inspections, ensuring every detail met safety standards and the District’s goals.

At WET, we’re proud to help create spaces where kids can learn, play, and grow—because strong communities start with strong places.

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