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from the desk of
Brent Saltzman
We’ve started 2024 off with a bang by just completing our 2024 Damage Prevention Summit. It was great visiting with stakeholders from virtually every facet of our industry (excavators, owner/operators, locators, and equipment/software providers) at this conference. Additionally, we had some outstanding presentations informing us of everything from the broadband deployment schedule to addressing abandoned facilities and from competent person requirements to using the Louisiana 811 mobile app.
We also had the opportunity to acknowledge and show our appreciation to a couple of well-deserving individuals: Ed Landgraf and Joey Laborde. Ed was recognized as this year’s winner of the prestigious Vic Weston Damage Prevention Champion Award given annually to the person who has been and continues to be, a leader devoted to making Louisiana a safer place to live and work through his efforts with Coastal & Marine Operators (CAMO). Ed has tirelessly worked to educate marine excavators not only in Louisiana but around
the country about contacting 811 prior to marine-type excavation activity. Additionally, he has aided in changing the Louisiana Dig Law language enhancing it to meet the specific needs of this stakeholder group. Joey was recognized as the 2023 Locator of the Year. Excavators that nominated Joey stated that he is someone they could depend on for being on time and accurate. Another stated that Joey is always on top of his game and always available when called upon. And yet another stated that they have never had someone as efficient and dedicated as Joey. It was my honor to recognize these two gentlemen who really make a difference in Louisiana.
At the conclusion of the Summit, we had an intense Locate Rodeo whereby those who perform this vital function – locating underground facilities – could compete against each other. They were judged on their time and accuracy. This year’s competition was the largest we have ever had with twenty-four entrants vying for a whopping $1,250 grand prize! Topping the list for this year’s event was James Henning from Entergy, so congratulations for this huge honor of being the best of the best!
Events such as this are not only educational but there’s ample opportunity during the conference
to network with peers in our industry and have fun at the same time. If you missed out this year, hopefully, we will see you at next year’s Summit where you can experience firsthand what all the fuss is about.
Finally, it is not too late to register for the upcoming Global Excavation Safety Conference that will be held in New Orleans for the first time in its 20-year history March 19-21! Louisiana 811 is the host state for this educational global conference, and I urge you to attend. To find out more about this exciting event, check out our website at www.la811.com. You don’t want to miss it!
Until next time, stay safe and God bless.
Brent Saltzman Executive Director Louisiana 811
2024, Issue 1
Louisiana 811
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