The Steven Iwinski YP Grant honors the legacy of Steve Iwinski, a pioneer in erosion and sediment control whose passion for clean water, science, and education left an indelible mark on the industry. Steve’s career began protecting estuaries from mining runoff in Southeast Alaska, eventually bringing his groundbreaking work with flocculants to construction stormwater in the Southern U.S. in the 1990s.

Steve was known for his huge personality, insatiable curiosity, and willingness to share his knowledge, especially with students and young professionals. He was a strong advocate for education and the advancement of technology to continually improve erosion and sediment control and stormwater practices. Steve believed deeply in the power of innovation, and he dedicated his career to pushing the industry forward through research, hands-on problem solving, and open collaboration.

His sudden passing in 2016 was a profound loss, but his legacy lives on in his company, his daughters, and in the countless people and ecosystems he helped protect.

This grant celebrates Steve’s spirit by fully funding one Young Professional each year to attend the annual IECA conference, including travel, meals, and registration costs. Launched on the 10th anniversary of his passing, the program is dedicated to fostering the next generation of environmental stewards and advancing the science and practice of erosion and sediment control.