Introduction to Environmental Science and Law in Manitoba

In-person class. Winnipeg Chamber of Commerce 259 Portage Ave #100 in the Lead Meeting Room

Module 1 – Wednesday, September 4. 8:30-12:30 (half day)
The first session will provide an overview of our impact on the environment, including an introduction to invasive species, climate change, and world views. The class will explore using science to address environmental problems; ecosystems associated with energy and the physical environment; and our precious resources: Water, wastewater, soil, land conservation, agriculture and their preservation.

Module 2  – Tuesday, September 10. 8:30-4:30 (full day)

The second session will provide an overview of environmental history, legislation, and economics, providing the larger context in which environmental law exists. The class will cover environmental regulations in Manitoba and the regulatory processes for each of these key laws. The discussion will include how your work interfaces with Environmental Law, and knowing where to go for additional resources.

Instructor: Raven Sharma, BSc., GSc., B.A

Raven Sharma is currently the Manager of Utilities for the City of Selkirk and is also an instructor for Red River College Polytechnic water and wastewater certification courses. She has worked in the water and sewer industry for 10 years and has operated and managed wastewater plants, water treatment plants, wastewater collection systems and water distribution systems. 17 years ago, Raven laid her first watermain when working in Alberta for a year with a construction company. She has a Bachelor of Science, Geological Science, and Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Manitoba. She was a volunteer firefighter for 6 years and has recently been appointed to the board of directors and chair for the North American Society for Trenchless Technologies. Raven also sits on the Manitoba Water and Wastewater Association as a board of directors. Raven also teaches environmental science and law in conjunction with the University of Manitoba and Manitoba Environmental Industries Association.

Her passion is mentoring and teaching operators throughout Manitoba how to troubleshoot and deal with ongoing issues with climate change and aging infrastructure. Raven’s research includes different optimization of removal of ammonia within wastewater. Raven was awarded a NSERC in 2010 under the Canadian Astrology Training Program for 2 years. Her primary research has been geotechnical and hydrogeology. Raven was part of a scientific research team who led rover simulations that would eventually go to Mars for NASA and the Canadian Space Agency in search of water and life.