Water

Engineering Resilient Watershed Infrastructure

We help our clients sustainably manage watershed systems and deliver resilient infrastructure to protect and enhance water quality and water supply.

Statement of Qualifications

Water Sector

Sustainable Water Infrastructure

Water is a critical inflection point in planning, building and delivering resilient infrastructure to communities. Ulteig’s innovative approach to watershed and stormwater planning leverages advanced, open-source tools—such as continuous simulation, genetic optimization, statistical analysis, geoprocessing and cloud computing—alongside deep interdisciplinary expertise.

Our teams of engineers, hydrologists, environmental scientists, biologists and programmers lead first-of-their-kind projects that address complex water challenges. We also specialize in data storage, mapping and visualization, including the creation of dynamic dashboards that bring clarity to complex datasets throughout the project lifecycle.

As challenges from climate variability and population growth intensify, we continually develop innovative solutions to reduce impacts and build long-term resilience. Our integrated teams deliver consultative, data-driven support that meets the growing demand for transparent, science-based decision-making across increasingly complex programs.

Highlighted Expertise

Environmental Planning & Monitoring Services

Advisory Services

Planning and Monitoring to Minimize Environmental and Cultural Resource Impact

At Ulteig, we combine innovative thinking with a dedicated environmental team that sees the big picture. Our approach integrates cutting-edge technology and strategic project management to deliver solutions tailored to your needs. From monitoring and permitting to reporting and analysis, we collaborate with you to identify the services that will best support your project—all while minimizing environmental and cultural resource impacts and ensuring full compliance with federal, state and local regulations.

Our team doesn’t just provide services—we streamline your entire process. We handle field work, environmental and cultural resource documentation, permitting and construction inspections with precision and efficiency. Through proactive planning and strong collaboration with agency stakeho

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Geographic Information Systems (GIS)

Capability

Geographic Information Systems (GIS) technology is one of many innovative services that Ulteig offers to meet the unique mapping needs of our clients. Our GIS team expertly uses the most advanced software in the industry to provide customized geospatial solutions built around your business requirements. Ulteig’s GIS solutions range from data collection and custom mapping to web mapping solutions and technical support for Ulteig’s Lifeline Sector clients.

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Software & Web Applications

Capability

Modern water management demands more than data collection: it requires tools that transform that data into actionable insight.

Our in-house developers work alongside engineers, scientists and planners to build custom, web-based applications that streamline decision-making, improve collaboration and enhance transparency. Whether we’re creating real-time dashboards for project monitoring, regulatory compliance tools or cloud-based platforms for data visualization and scenario analysis, our solutions are designed to be intuitive, scalable and responsive to our clients’ unique needs.

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Water Resources Engineering

Capability

At Ulteig, we are experts in water resources engineering and the field of hydrology and hydraulics. Our professionals assist public- and private-sector clients in managing stormwater runoff and surface water resources to sustain or improve water quality, minimize flooding and address regulatory challenges. Our projects have ranged from simple drainage design to major flood control works, and we will work closely with you in customizing projects that meet your needs. We integrate natural elements into civil design and look to natural hydrologic systems as inspiration for our constructed solutions. We can leverage Ulteig’s diverse capabilities in financial, environmental and planning services.

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Watershed Analysis

Advisory Services

Watersheds serve critical environmental, recreational and economic functions within our communities: from supporting ecosystems and agriculture to safeguarding water quality and enabling outdoor recreation. We bring deep, hands-on experience to every modeling engagement, having developed and calibrated models for more than 75 watersheds worldwide.

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Innovative Technology & Consultation

PathFinder®

PathFinder® distinguishes itself in the market through a unique set of benefits. As a systematic and impartial decision-making engine, users can assess options without bias, relying on thorough and objective criteria.

This ensures that you’re not just receiving a standalone tool but also gaining access to the extensive knowledge and experience Ulteig has amassed over decades in the industry.

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Comprehensive Solutions for Utility-Scale Sites

SiteSense®-SCADA/EMS

Built on industry-standard hardware and software, this solution ensures optimal interoperability and maintainability. Its modern and flexible design features powerful core capabilities that can be extended to meet your specific needs.

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Digital Tools for Smarter Project Management

PinPoint®

PinPoint® is tailored to meet the essential requirements of transportation planning, design and infrastructure engineering services. It offers a user-friendly interface designed to mitigate project overruns and navigate potential obstacles by leveraging up-to-date project data. This enables transparent, efficient and well-informed decision-making processes throughout every project stage.

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Advance Your Renewable Energy Projects with Confidence

Developer Services Suite

Navigate complex regulatory frameworks while managing interconnection, siting and environmental requirements: Ulteig’s Developer Services Suite pairs industry insights with a comprehensive technology solutions bundle designed to enhance project outcomes.

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Featured Insight

Ulteig Acquires Paradigm Environmental, Expanding its Water Resources Expertise

Ulteig has acquired Paradigm Environmental, a consulting firm that combines advanced technology with water industry expertise, to provide world-class solutions for water resource management. This mutually beneficial relationship provides structure and resources to continue Paradigm’s growth trajectory while allowing them to deliver novel water resources and sustainability programs for our clients and communities.“Joining forces with Paradigm Environmental creates an opportunity for Ulteig to transform our impact in the Water Lifeline Sector,” said Ulteig President and CEO Doug Jaeger. Both companies share a passion for innovation, commitment to client success and a strong, employee-centric work culture. Learn more here.

Featured Insight

Flood Management Adaptation Measures in a Changing Climate

Flooding has always been a natural hazard, the advent of climate change has seen a dramatic increase in the intensity, duration and frequency of severe weather events. As global temperatures rise, so does the potential for these extreme weather events, including intense rainfall and rapid snowmelt—both primary contributors to flooding. This evolving threat necessitates innovative and resilient flood management solutions to safeguard communities and critical infrastructure. The Growing Challenge of Flood Management The relationship between climate change and flooding is complex yet undeniable. Warmer temperatures can lead to more intense and frequent storms, while causing glaciers and ice caps to melt, contributing to rising sea levels. These combined factors mean that areas not previously prone to flooding are now at risk and those already vulnerable face more severe consequences. Effective flood management in this changing climate involves a multi-faceted approach, integrating advanced technology, innovative engineering and comprehensive adaptive planning. The goal is not just to mitigate the immediate impacts of flooding but to build resilient systems that can adapt to future climatic uncertainties. Leveraging Integrative Flood Management Solutions To manage and mitigate flood risks effectively, it’s essential to take a holistic approach, employing various strategies. 1. Enhancing Infrastructure Resilience

Upgrading Levees and Dams: Strengthening existing structures and building new ones to withstand higher water volumes and pressures.

Flood-Proofing Buildings: Implementing design modifications such as elevating buildings, using flood-resistant materials and installing barriers to prevent water ingress.

2. Natural and Nature-Based Solutions

Wetland Restoration: Wetlands act as natural sponges, absorbing excess water during heavy rainfall and slowly releasing it, reducing flood peaks.

Reforestation and Afforestation: Trees and vegetation can help stabilize soil and absorb water, reducing runoff and the risk of landslides.

3. Advanced Forecasting and Warning Systems

Early Warning Systems: Utilizing weather prediction models and real-time data to provide timely warnings to communities at risk.

Flood Mapping and Risk Assessment: Creating detailed flood maps to identify vulnerable areas and plan accordingly.

4. Community Involvement and Preparedness

Public Education and Training: Informing residents about flood risks and emergency procedures.

Community-Based Flood Management: Engaging local communities in planning and decision-making processes to ensure practical and accepted solutions.

Case Study: Hamburg, Iowa A prime example of effective flood management and resilience-building is the project undertaken by Ulteig in Hamburg, Iowa. This small town, located at the confluence of the East and West Nishnabotna Rivers and the Missouri River, faced devastating floods in the spring of 2019. Record rainfall and rapid snowmelt caused the Missouri River and its tributaries to overflow, submerging much of Hamburg. The floodwaters reached unprecedented levels, severely damaging infrastructure, homes and businesses. The town’s water supply was particularly hard hit, with both municipal wells submerged and one rendered non-operational. Ulteig's Response Ulteig, leveraging our expertise in both transportation and water infrastructure, spearheaded the reconstruction efforts. Key actions included:

Replacing Municipal Wells: Installing two new wells designed to withstand future 100-year flood events, ensuring a reliable water supply.

Elevating Critical Infrastructure: Constructing the new wells and their housing at heights above the anticipated flood levels to prevent future damage.

Permanent Levee Construction: Collaborating with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to build a robust levee capable of withstanding 500-year flood events.

Backup Power Solutions: Implementing a propane generator to ensure the wells operate even during power outages.

Community Resilience and Future Preparedness The project in Hamburg highlights the importance of community involvement and resilience planning. Despite numerous challenges, including supply chain disruptions during the COVID-19 pandemic, the project was successfully executed through close collaboration with local residents and multiple government agencies. Ulteig staff emphasized the community's determination: "The people were dedicated to the community that they had built, and they wanted to come back stronger." Prepare for Future Challenges Effective flood management requires ongoing innovation, stakeholder engagement, collaboration and adaptive planning. As we continue to face the realities of climate change, comprehensive and forward-thinking approaches will be crucial in safeguarding our towns and cities. Connect with Ulteig today to learn how we can help safeguard your community.

Featured Insight

Talent Highlight: Meet Ulteig’s Cultural Resources Team

Ulteig's Cultural Resources team is a growing force in environmental services. With a team of experts and a wealth of experience, they navigate the complex landscape of cultural resource management across the Midwest and beyond. The team plays a crucial role in helping federal and state agencies and our clients comply with the National Historic Preservation Act and navigate Tribal Consultation, avoiding costly impacts on development projects. Their work also preserves history and enriches our understanding of the past, benefiting communities and project stakeholders alike. Meet Ulteig’s Cultural Resources Team The Cultural Resources team, led by Senior Cultural Resource Specialist Jeani Borchert, holds extensive and diverse backgrounds in anthropology, archaeology and environmental resource management. Jeani Borchert: Holding an MA in Anthropology/Archeology and formerly with the North Dakota Department of Transportation, Jeani is known for her award-winning work creating an effective tribal consultation process in collaboration with regional Tribes. Ben Rhodd: With a MS in Environmental Resource Management, Ben is a pioneering Indigenous archaeologist with over 40 years of experience, including national and international projects. Michele Wiker: Holds a BA in anthropology, with more than 20 years of fieldwork experience throughout the US. Ricky Hight: Brings a unique perspective with a BA in math and economics, as well as extensive fieldwork experience spanning more than 20 years throughout the US. Ulteig’s Cultural Resources Capabilities Our Cultural Resources team works across the four Lifeline Sectors of power, renewables, water and transportation as well as other industries. From the oil and gas industry to building tribal involvement in renewables projects, they are uniquely positioned to deliver outstanding services, including: Section 106 Compliance: Ensuring development projects do not adversely affect cultural resources while working with industry clients to deliver their projects in a timely and beneficial manner. NAGPRA Consultation: Proposing projects to museums for Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act compliance. Tribal Consultation: Building strong relationships with tribes, including training initiatives for the Sisseton Wahpeton Tribe, through traditional cultural specialist training. As the team grows, we look forward to partnering with stakeholders throughout North America. The Importance of Cultural Resource Management The National Historic Preservation Act was established to ensure federal agencies consider the impact of their projects on cultural resources. This legislation arose from a need to protect our historic built environment and prehistory, which were at risk of being lost. Understanding and valuing our past provides essential perspective. Ulteig’s Cultural Resources team assists companies in navigating these processes efficiently and cost-effectively. Avoiding adverse effects on historic properties is beneficial to all interests including cultural resources and business. Ultimately, safeguarding cultural resources benefits everyone by maintaining our connection to the greater story of history. Partner With Ulteig for Expert Cultural Services Ulteig’s Cultural Resources team stands out as a leader in cultural resource management and tribal consultation, offering unparalleled expertise and commitment to preserving our shared heritage. As they continue to expand their reach and impact, they remain a vital partner for clients seeking to comply with federal law and balance development with cultural preservation. They also work effectively with clients who are not required to comply with Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act, but who wish to avoid impacting cultural resources in the development of their projects. Learn more about Ulteig’s cultural services, and connect with us to discuss how we can support your next project.

Team Member Spotlight

Stephen Carter

PE: Market Director - Water

Stephen Carter serves as Market Director for Ulteig’s Water Lifeline Sector, having recently joined the firm from Paradigm Environmental, where he was a director and partner. Steve has decades of experience supporting federal, state and municipal agencies with water resources, watershed and stormwater management. He is a leading expert on the Clean Water Act and NPDES permits, and has led innovative studies to help improve water quality of rivers, lakes and estuaries throughout the U.S. Steve has also supported numerous municipal agencies in the development of capital improvement plans, master plans and watershed plans that improve flood control and water quality, address sustainability and climate change resiliency, and consider the needs of the community. Steve led the development of Los Angeles County’s Watershed Management Modeling System, which has supported numerous watershed management programs, stormwater and green infrastructure master plans, and stormwater project designs throughout the county. He has provided similar support for other cutting-edge programs throughout the U.S., ranging from development of the award-winning San Mateo Countywide Sustainable Streets Master Plan, to ongoing support to the State of California to address the drought emergency through the hydrologic analysis of drought-prone rivers throughout the state and the impact of increasing water demands.

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Have a project in mind, or just want to connect to learn more? We’re ready to help you create stronger, smarter infrastructure for the communities you serve.

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