Hedgerow Software couldn’t be more excited to exhibit at MEHA’s upcoming AEC for environmental health professionals in Traverse City, Michigan. Bob Gouin, a regular AEC attendee, former EH Director in Michigan for 25+ years, and current business analyst at Hedgerow, will be joining Adam Souza our head of business development onsite. I asked Bob and Adam what they are most looking forward to at AEC. Without further ado, here are four reasons we’re so excited about MEHA’s upcoming event:
Marijuana Regulation in Michigan
Given the lightning rod topic that marijuana related programs can be, we’re excited to learn more about how agencies are managing programs related to the Michigan cannabis industry. Are agencies adding new field inspectors and back office staff to support new programs or utilizing existing resources that now must do more? Are agencies able to leverage an existing toolkit or do they need new tools to manage the nuances within the industry (i.e. edibles vs industrial hemp)? What are agencies most concerned about with regards to it? As you can see, we’re really excited to learn more about EH agency thoughts on this topic.
adam london keynote
Adam London’s session about COVID response will undoubtedly be interesting, especially considering what he’s been through -- along with many other public health and EH professionals over the past few years. I blogged about the challenges of being in public and environmental health during the pandemic, as we’ve learned the difficulties from our agency clients firsthand and through Adam London’s powerful story. We’re looking forward to his latest thoughts on COVID’s impact on the public health system.
IFPTI Copper Mug Study
Another session we can’t wait to see is on the National Environmental Assessment Reporting System (NEARS). Being able to efficiently capture, aggregate, and utilize data to advance environmental health is critically important. Whether it be the ability to understand how and why foodborne illness outbreaks occur or to help environmental health leaders justify budgets for access to additional employees, programs, and tools/technology to make field and management more productive. Hedgerow EHS technology plays a critical role in this as well, so we’re very passionate about the topic.
(Image Credit: Centers for Disease Control)
As someone who’s had a few copper mug mule cocktails, I’m really curious about this research study by Amanda Garvin at IFPTI. Should copper as a surface in contact with alcohol be banned from establishments due to potential health risks? How should EH teams manage higher risk substances like copper cups in restaurants and bars? I’m curious to see the latest research and how EH teams manage programs like it.
There are many other agenda topics that look interesting and didn’t make our shortlist, from sampling to water use assessments, food and beverage safety, etc. What are you most excited about? Leave a comment or send me a direct message. Also, make sure to connect with Bob Gouin and Adam Souza on LinkedIn and stop by the exhibit hall to say hello.
