In this issue, discover how innovative projects, emerging technologies, industry leadership, and dedicated professionals are advancing water quality, ecosystem restoration, and resilient communities.
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Positive Imprint: ISG Case Studies |
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| Advancing Fountain
Lake Restoration
Through Dredging
Albert Lea, MN
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Fountain Lake has been the focus of a long-term, multi-phase restoration effort led by the Shell Rock River Watershed District to address water quality impairments and enhance the lake's ecological health.
Building on previous habitat restoration and water quality improvement initiatives, ISG progressed Phase 3 with dredging to remove phosphorus-rich sediments that contribute to nutrient loading and impaired lake conditions. By targeting a key source of water quality degradation, the dredging project supports cleaner water, improved habitat, and the long-term resilience of one of southern Minnesota’s most valued recreational resources.
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Leveraging Applied Technology |
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| Using Sonar Technology to Inform Lake Management
Circle Lake, MN
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The Circle Lake Improvement District engaged ISG to conduct a bathymetric survey to better understand conditions beneath the water’s surface and support future lake management efforts. Using single-beam sonar and GPS technology, the survey is collecting detailed lakebed elevation data across approximately 856 acres to create a digital elevation model and contour map of underwater features. The resulting information will establish a valuable baseline for future planning, monitoring, and restoration decisions within the lake.
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In The Know: Funding Opportunities |
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ISG's funding specialists excel in securing grants, having obtained over $45 million in public and private funding across the Midwest. Our connections with local, state, and federal agencies support swift, tailored grant applications that meet criteria and boost acceptance rates. Continuously updated on federal and state funding, our team navigates evolving programs, guiding clients toward optimal opportunities. With a focus on legislative awareness, we maximize funding, leveraging every available dollar for impactful projects.
Check here for upcoming funding opportunities, success stories, and resources on navigating the complexities of grant applications for your drainage and
water quality initiatives.
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Section 319 Grant Program
Arkansas
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Federal funding through the EPA to help reduce non-point source pollution
- Eligible Applicants: State or local government agencies, nonprofit organizations, and academic institutions
- Match Requirement: 40% non-federal dollar
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Eligible Activities For Watershed-Scale Projects:
- Must align with the Arkansas Department of Agriculture’s Nonpoint Source Pollution Program Management Plan
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Implementation of best management practices
- Technical assistance
- Education and outreach
- Demonstration projects
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Water quality monitoring
- Applications Due: August 31, 2026
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Click HERE for more information
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Fishers + Farmers Partnership
Upper Mississippi River Watershed
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Federal funding through the National Fish Habitat Partnership via the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
- Project Focus: Enhancing farm value while restoring aquatic habitats and native fish populations in Mississippi River basin streams
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Match Requirements: 1 to 1 preferred
- Eligible Activities: Project planning, site assessments, travel to/from project, project oversite, equipment for monitoring, earthwork, short-term monitoring, outreach to advance conservation, and easements with an operation and maintenance plan
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Applications Due: September 10, 2026
- Webinars will be held in August and September 2026
- Focus area:
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Click HERE for more information
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Let's Connect: Upcoming Conferences |
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August 19–20
2026 Minnesota Association of Drainage Inspectors (MADI)
Fall Conference
St. Cloud, MN
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| Game Changer:
Collin Smith, PE
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Passion for ecosystem restoration starts with people. In this employee spotlight, water resource engineer Collin Smith shares what inspires his work in river, stream, and wetland restoration and how collaboration helps turn diverse experiences into better project outcomes. Hear why he values ISG’s culture of mentorship, knowledge-sharing, and empowering team members to apply their unique strengths to meaningful environmental projects.
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| Expanded Water Expertise
in Arkansas
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ISG continues to grow its Arkansas water resources team with the addition of water resource engineer Kelsey Criswell and environmental scientist Eric Fuselier. They bring expertise in ecological restoration, watershed planning, water quality improvement, environmental compliance, and natural resource management. Their experience spans environmental permitting, wetland and stream restoration, climate resilience planning, watershed and stormwater management, and water quality assessments. By integrating science-based environmental solutions with practical engineering, Kelsey and Eric strengthen ISG’s ability to deliver sustainable, resilient, and cost-effective outcomes for communities, public agencies, utilities, and landowners. Their addition advances ISG’s commitment to providing the multidisciplinary expertise that results in project success for clients and our natural resources.
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Architecture + Engineering + Environmental + Planning
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