Freshwater, the University of Minnesota Water Resources Center, and Rice Creek Watershed District are partnering to offer more education and collaborative opportunities to explore the nuances of iron enhanced sand filter system maintenance, operations, and design. We are doing this through site visits and an in-person workshop to further collective understanding among practitioners, researchers, and decision makers.
Workshop - Exploring Iron Enhanced Sand Filters
Join us for an interactive workshop to explore the nuances of iron enhanced sand filter systems for stormwater treatment. You'll hear from researchers, practitioners, and engineers about the relevant decision inputs for constructing iron enhanced sand filters, ongoing maintenance required, and recent advancements and research in iron enhanced sand filter design.
When: Friday, January 16, 2026 from 9:30 AM - 3:00 PM
Where: Court International Building, 2550 University Avenue W, Suite 320N, St. Paul
Who: This workshop is intended for stormwater maintenance staff, municipal planners, stormwater engineers, and anyone who owns, operates, or maintains iron enhanced sand filters.
Agenda
9:30 – 10:00 – Check-in
10:00 – 10:15 – Welcome
10:15 – 11:00 – Panel discussion: Local iron enhanced sand filter engineers discuss design, construction, and lessons learned.
11:00 – 11:45 – Panel discussion: Operators discuss iron enhanced sand filter maintenance challenges.
11:45 – 1:00 – Lunch & Networking
1:00 – 1:45 – Presentation: Recent advancements and research on iron enhanced sand filters.
1:45 – 2:00 – Closing
2:00 – 3:00 – Networking Reception
Site Visits
October 29 - Hansen Park, New Brighton
- When: Wednesday, October 29th at 2:30pm-4:00pm
-
Where: Meet at Hansen Park (1555 5th Street NW, New Brighton, MN 55112)
-
What you will do: Explore an active iron enhanced sand filter system and take advantage of an opportunity to pick the brains of Rice Creek staff that maintain and monitor the system.
- Who should attend: Ideal for anyone who knows the basics of iron enhanced sand filter systems and is interested in swapping tales of system stewardship, maintenance, and monitoring to solve technical challenges together.
-
Optional: Happy hour afterwards at The Exchange Food and Drink 4:00pm-5:30pm.
Registration for this site visit is closed.
Spring 2026 - To be determined
Reach out to Chyann if you're interested in hosting a tour of your system!
