ENVIRONMENTAL CONNECTION / THIRD QUARTER 2025 / IECA.ORG 37 shaping and preserving our environment through innovation in horticulture, erosion control and sports turf management. His career efforts have helped shape agriscience on a global scale, preserving and maintaining millions of acres of land.” Such comments bring the elder Butman to tears. He is proud of his two sons, Jake and Adam, and daughter, Brittney, as well as his wife, Eileen, of 46 years, who kept the household running when Butman’s job demanded heavy travel. Now that Butman has retired, he is looking forward to some consulting opportunities along with some Board activities. But more importantly, he will be spending more time with his family, including his six grandkids, and improving his golf game. “Now that I have more time to play, I have no excuses,” he said. About the Expert • Joy Dickinson is the editor of Environmental Connection. Figure 3. Butman found presenting individual awards to be very rewarding. INDUSTRY PROFILE Val Barragan: IECA’s Education And Conference Manager The International Erosion Control Association (IECA) is welcoming Val Barragan as education and conference manager. Barragan joins the IECA with a passion for impactful program development and a strong background in event management, stakeholder engagement and educational strategy, according to Samantha A. Roe, IOM, Chief Executive Officer of the IECA. “Based in Denver, Colorado, USA, Val brings years of experience designing and executing dynamic educational programs and conferences that drive engagement and deliver value,” Roe said. “In her new role, she will lead the planning, development and execution of IECA’s educational initiatives and events, while working closely with members, partners and industry experts to further our mission of protecting soil and water resources through high-quality education.” Barragan has eight years of experience in scientific communication, stakeholder engagement and public health initiatives. She has a BAAS in biology and technical writing from Texas (USA) State University. She will play a key role in enhancing the reach and impact of IECA’s conferences, workshops and webinars. “Her leadership will ensure that our members continue to benefit from innovative programming and valuable networking opportunities,” Roe said. Barragan said, “I’m thrilled to join IECA as the new education and conference manager, where I’ll blend my passion for sustainable resource management with my love for connecting people through education. With a background in science communication, I’m committed to advancing erosion control solutions and empowering our community with impactful knowledge.” Figure 4. Butman examines erosion control techniques near Beijing with China representative Jia Hu.
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