New Water Scientist Elevates ISG's Expertise, Advancing Regional Initiatives

ISG continues to advance its leadership in water quality with the addition of research scientist Dr. Rose Mumbi, whose expertise in soil chemistry and water quality management positions ISG to deliver solutions backed by unmatched scientific expertise. Rose’s specialized knowledge in phosphorus dynamics, nutrient reduction, and watershed systems directly elevates ISG’s ability to deliver science-driven, practical solutions to the Midwest’s most pressing water challenges.

“Joining ISG was an easy decision,” Rose said. “When you find a company that shares your passion for the environment and embraces challenges as opportunities, it just clicks, especially if you’re like me and thrive on tackling meaningful challenges.”

Her arrival comes at a pivotal time as ISG expands its presence in Ohio and continues to advance initiatives across Minnesota, Iowa, and the broader Midwest, particularly in balancing agricultural productivity with water quality protection. This summer, Chuck Brandel, Emily Perrott, Spencer Pech, and Rose visited project sites across Ohio, connecting with stakeholders and exploring opportunities to balance stormwater management, flood mitigation, water quality, and community needs. The trip underscored both the strength of ISG’s partnerships and the opportunities ahead with our growing footprint.

Expertise + Experience

Rose brings a strong foundation in environmental and soil science, with a Ph.D. in soil science and extensive research experience on phosphorus dynamics in agricultural watershed systems—an expertise that is especially critical in states like Ohio, Iowa, Minnesota, and beyond. Decades of heavy fertilizer use, monoculture farming, and intensive land management have contributed to nutrient runoff, soil erosion, and declining water quality. These issues are further compounded by climate change, which increases the intensity of rainfall events, accelerates runoff, and heightens the frequency of harmful algal blooms (HABs).

Rose’s research directly addresses these complex challenges. She has collaborated with local farmers to promote conservation practices that reduce nutrient losses and has partnered with agencies such as the U.S. Department of Agriculture-Agricultural Research Service (USDA-ARS) Soil Drainage Research Unit and The Ohio State University Department of Food, Agricultural and Biological Engineering (FABE) on projects aimed at protecting Lake Erie. Through these collaborations, she has translated scientific insights into practical solutions for agricultural and water stakeholders, providing a solid foundation for ISG to support communities in the Midwest and beyond.

Her technical expertise includes:

• ‍Phosphorus Research + Water Quality: Rose has published peer-reviewed studies on phosphorus cycling, transport, and retention in agricultural landscapes. Her work on extreme precipitation, artificial drainage, and phosphorus loss offers science-based strategies for nutrient reduction in tile-drained systems typical of the Midwest.‍
• Soil + Hydrological Processes: With a deep understanding of preferential flow and subsurface sediment transport, she investigates key pathways for nutrient leaching and runoff, helping to identify leverage points for effective water quality management.‍
• Nutrient Source Identification: Using isotopic tracing techniques, Rose has identified phosphorus sources in runoff and leachate, supporting more precise and targeted management practices in tile drained landscapes.‍
• Legacy Phosphorus + Conservation Planning: Her involvement in national-scale initiatives such as the USDA-ARS National Legacy Phosphorus Assessment Project, Long-Term Agroecosystem Research Network (LTAR), and the Conservation Effects Assessment Project (CEAP), demonstrates her ability to integrate field and watershed-scale research, with meaningful stakeholder engagement. This work advances cost-effective conservation planning and informs strategies for sustainable agriculture and improved water quality management.

Application for ISG’s Work

Bridging the gap between scientific research and applied water management, Rose’s background allows ISG to:

• Develop data-driven strategies for agricultural drainage, stormwater, and watershed management that reflect the complex interactions between soils, hydrology, and agricultural practices.
• Apply nutrient reduction and sustainable infrastructure approaches that are grounded in rigorous research, improving the long-term effectiveness of conservation practices.
• Enhance collaboration with agencies, producers, and communities by translating technical findings into practical solutions that address environmental and economic considerations.

Looking Ahead

Rose’s expertise strengthens the firm’s capacity to address regional water challenges, from stormwater management in urban settings to nutrient reduction in agricultural watersheds. Her contributions position ISG to deliver resilient, science-informed solutions that meet community needs while advancing water quality goals across the Midwest.