Metro Region Social Hour

CASFM will be taking a look at the value of stormwater management on an international level, as we travel to Iraq, Thailand, and Myanmar. Dr. Andrew Earles, P.E., of Wright Water Engineers will highlight the challenges of preserving some of the world’s most valued ancient heritage sites, integrating modern engineering techniques with those of the past.

The Ishtar Gate, was a key feature of Babylon for 2,500 years, and was constructed by the Babylonian King Nebuchadnezzar III around 575 BC. Over the last several millennia, time, groundwater and the desert have combined to jeopardize the remaining ruins of the site and WWE is working with the World Monument Fund to better handle the shallow groundwater and improve stormwater runoff. Wat Chaiwatthanaram is a 17th Century Buddhist temple located in the ancient city of Ayutthaya, Thailand. The temple is located on the banks of the Chao Phraya
River, the largest river in Thailand. In 2011 the site experienced severe flooding, and WWE has been working with the World Heritage Fund to restore the site, improve drainage, and provide flood protection.

Shwe-nandaw Kyaung is an elaborately hand-carved five-story teakwood structure, dating to the 19th century. Located in Mandalay, Myanmar, which used to be referred to as Burma, it was once the northern chamber of Mandalay’s Glass Palace. The structure is under siege from termites that thrive on the moist conditions, and WWE is working with the World Monument fund to help redirect and manage stormwater runoff.