– Collecting the Data: Field Insights with Jonathan Breaux

Episode 1 – Collecting the Data

Collecting the Data: Field Insights with Jonathan Breaux

Surveying Region 4 isn’t easy—alligators, snakes, and remote swamps are part of the job. But Jonathan Breaux explains why collecting precise data to feed hydrologic models is worth every challenge, protecting communities and wildlife across Louisiana.

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Episode Summary

In the Season 3 premiere of FUELED, host Kathryn Fenstermaker sits down with Jonathan Breaux, a Party Chief III who has been with Fenstermaker for over 16 years. Jonathan leads survey crews for Region 4 of the Louisiana Watershed Initiative (LWI), collecting cross-section and structure data crucial for hydrologic and hydraulic modeling.

Jonathan discusses why this work feels more meaningful than his earlier pipeline surveying: accurate data reduces flood risk, protects wildlife and sportsman traditions, and can even lower insurance premiums. He shares field stories navigating remote bayous, swamps, and wildlife while leveraging innovative technologies like single-beam sonar, laser scanning, and drones to reach inaccessible areas.

The conversation emphasizes teamwork, communication, and pride in safeguarding communities and ecosystems. Jonathan’s insights reveal how detailed fieldwork fuels data-driven decision-making that benefits both people and the environment.

“It’s meaningful because we’re collecting data that will protect people, wildlife and our sportsman’s way of life.”

“You have to communicate constantly; out in Region 4 we’re scattered, so teamwork and camaraderie keep us safe and successful.”

Meet the Leader Behind the Vision

Jonathan Breaux joined Fenstermaker as a rodman and advanced to Party Chief III, coordinating multiple survey crews. He leads the data-collection effort for LWI Region 4, gathering channel cross-sections and structure inventories used in hydrologic and hydraulic models. His experience spans oil-and-gas pipelines, residential development, and environmental projects, giving him a broad perspective on surveying and its impact on Louisiana’s infrastructure and natural resources.

“Seeing how the data we collect feeds into models that will reduce flood risk makes all those days in the field worth it.”

Collecting the Data: Jonathan Breaux on Surveying for Louisiana’s Watersheds

In this Season 3 premiere of FUELED, host Kathryn Fenstermaker talks with Jonathan Breaux, Party Chief III at Fenstermaker, about leading survey crews for the Louisiana Watershed Initiative (LWI) in Region 4.

Episode Highlights

The importance of high-quality survey data in reducing flood risk and improving watershed management.
Challenges and strategies for working in Region 4’s remote, diverse terrain.
Modern surveying tools and methods: single-beam sonar, laser scanning, UAS, state plane coordinates, and NAVD 88 vertical datums.
Field experiences navigating alligators, snakes, and swamps while prioritizing crew safety.
The personal and professional motivations that drive Jonathan and his team.

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Established in 1950, C. H. Fenstermaker & Associates, L.L.C. is a highly diversified, multi-disciplinary consulting firm. With a commitment to help our clients succeed, we specialize in surveying and mapping, engineering and environmental consulting.

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