Great inspiration can come from a simple conversation, so,
to keep you inspired, ASABE is pleased to offer this series of
casual interviews with Society members. This month, spend a few
moments getting acquainted with. . .
Jon Fripp
Stream Mechanics Civil Engineer
USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service
Born/raised: Williamsburg, Virginia
Current home: Arlington, Texas
Education: BS, MS, Virginia Tech
Jon Fripp performs a variety of hydraulic studies and
evaluations related to the planning, design, construction, and
operation of many types of water resource projects. This work has
included stream bank stabilization, soil bioengineering, fish
habitat improvement, dam safety analysis, flood control projects,
sedimentation analysis, reservoir reallocation, environmental
stream restoration, storm water management, acid mine drainage
abatement, fish passage, navigation locks and dams, flood control
dams, pipe network design, and fish hatchery design. Jon is a
leading authority on stream restoration. He worked on the planning,
design, and construction of watershed restoration projects across
the United States and around the world. He has coauthored
several technical articles and guidance documents. Jon is also one
of the three technical editors that assembled the NRCS Stream
Restoration Design Handbook. Before joining the NRCS in
2000, Jon worked for the US Army Corps of Engineers. While
with the USACE, Jon completed a detail at the US Army Corps of
Engineers Waterways Experiment Station as a research civil engineer
where he investigated channel response to urbanization as well as
developed design guidance in river design and stabilization.
He is also a trainer of US personnel in Afghanistan and has
spent much time lending his expertise to philanthropic
organizations.
With what kind of projects are you involved? My
current work involves a variety of water-related projects,
including flood control, environmental restoration, and water
supply. In addition to providing independent reviews of complex
engineering designs, I travel domestically and internationally,
providing technical assistance, design and construction oversight,
field workshops and formal training sessions. The interactive
training sessions are very popular because they often involve an
actual hands-on restoration projects.
What was it about the discipline that drew you to
agricultural and biological engineering? The opportunity
to contribute to a better world!
What element of your work gives you the most
satisfaction? I enjoy being able to use my knowledge,
skills, and experience to help others.
Can you elaborate on your work with philanthropic
organizations? Yes, many, including projects with
Engineers Without Borders (EWB), Habitat for Humanity, and a
variety of secular and religious-based NGOs.
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