Julie’s passion for the ecological health of our water and natural resources translates seamlessly to her responsibilities at ISG.

Committed to protecting and restoring water and natural resources, Julie leads ISG's Water Business Unit with nearly 30 years of strategic leadership experience. Keenly aware of the nexus and dependency of people and the environment, she thrives on working collaboratively with stakeholders to optimize the best outcomes that build resilience in natural systems while supporting community needs.

Julie’s work is anchored in offering clients actionable solutions that work in real-world applications, pushing design innovation, and expanding ISG’s geographical reach. Outside of work, Julie recharges in nature too. You can find her snowshoeing in prairies, hiking in forests, or boating on one of Minnesota’s 10,000 lakes.

America's Watershed Initiative (AWI) Board Member
2025-Present

CliftonStrengths
Strategic | Learner | Relator | Self-Assurance | Maximizer
RELATED ARTICLES
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The Future Of Southern Minnesota Lakes Conference Highlights Lake Solutions + New Lake Management Workshop

Julie Blackburn, CFM

ISG’s 2026 Future of Southern Minnesota Lakes Conference brought together lake advocates, researchers, and local leaders to share solutions and launch a hands-on Lake Management Workshop for improving regional lake water quality.

Industry Insights
Press Releases

The Future of Southern Minnesota Lakes Conference Returns To Inspire Action on Lake Planning, Preservation, and Restoration

Julie Blackburn, CFM

ISG is bringing back The Future of Southern Minnesota Lakes Conference for its fourth year from March 6–7, 2026 creating space for lake association members, environmental professionals, and community leaders dedicated to preserving and restoring Southern Minnesota lakes.

Press Releases
Industry Insights

Uncovering The Hidden Value of Wetland Delineations, Rare Species Surveys, and Habitat Planning

Julie Blackburn, CFM

Terms like wetland delineation, rare species survey, and habitat planning are often viewed as technical steps in land development or conservation work.

Industry Insights

The Third Annual Lakes Conference Is Set To Bring Water Expertise and Inspiration To Lake Stewards

Julie Blackburn, CFM

ISG is excited to host the third annual Future of Southern Minnesota Lakes Conference at the Mayo Clinic Health System Event Center in Mankato, Minnesota.

Press Releases

Engineering Urban Stormwater Solutions for Community Growth

Julie Blackburn, CFM

As Mankato expanded eastward with a new middle school and residential areas, the City faced significant challenges related to downstream flooding and water quality.

Industry Insights

Community Resiliency: Plan Now To Protect The Future

Julie Blackburn, CFM

Following the 2024 wettest spring on record in the state, flood risks have become a pressing concern for Minnesotans. Whether dealing with damage firsthand, volunteering in clean-up, or feeling the impact in another way, many realize that future planning for intensifying weather patterns is crucial.

Industry Insights