What is No-Dig?

By any measure, the International No-Dig Show, March 27 - April 2, 2009, in Toronto was a success. The record-setting event brought together 1,900 attendees and 124 exhibiting companies from 43 countries around the world. The exhibition hall with more than 243 - 10x10 booths sold was the largest in No-Dig's history and showcased products from around the world. There were 140 technical papers presented over five concurrent tracks. International speakers came as far afield as Denmark, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, China, Poland, Netherlands and the United Kingdom.

The gathered international community enjoyed an exceptional six days of education, solution sharing and peer networking. The purpose of the conference was to showcase the latest in trenchless innovations and provide educational and networking opportunities with leading experts on a global scale.

The International No-Dig Show was co-sponsored by the International Society for Trenchless Technology (ISTT). This is the fifth international No Dig event to be held in North America. The first in Washington in 1988 positioned trenchless technology on the map on this side of the Atlantic. NASTT and ISTT worked together again in Washington in 1992, in New Orleans in 1996 and in Las Vegas in 2003. The event in Las Vegas built on past achievements and was a great success despite concerns about the SARS outbreak in Hong Kong.

"Today we meet in Toronto at a time when world leaders are meeting for the G20 summit in London. Challenging times lie ahead for our economies but in many parts of the world our industry is going take a lead in rebuilding our infrastructure from the bottom up. I'll bet we have more fun than the guys in London," said Dec Downey, ISTT Chairman in his opening address.

"It's been a real pleasure to work with NASTT in the preparation of this event. A lot of hard work has gone into putting together a truly international technical conference for which we can all be proud. I would personally like to thank Joe Loiacono, the Program Chair of this year No-Dig, and the forty plus members of the Program Committee and other countless volunteers who have put together a truly outstanding technical program and exhibition," said Downey.

Joe Loiacono was presented with an appreciation award for his hard work and dedication for serving as Program Chair of the event. He also credited the Program Committee members, session leaders, NASTT and BMI staff, and the attendees "who come and make everything happen."

"You are the ones, year after year, who provide our industry exhibitors and researchers with the problems and issues which they use to invent new products and technologies or improve the existing ones. You are the ones who make this industry grow by your networking and sharing of experiences at No-Dig. Thank you again!" said Loiacono.

Chris Brahler, NASTT Chair, highlighted the conference's successes in his closing address. "We embarked on a technical conference and expo that broke all NASTT records for number of papers presented, for number of exhibitors, and the number of attendees. As if that wasn't enough, we had a terrific turnout at the Educational Fund Auction raising over $40,000," said Brahler.

"Our Gala Dinner and reception was really first class in every respect, and there we recognized outstanding projects and innovative products. We honored the life achievements and contributions of many people including countless volunteers who are responsible for putting on this conference."

"Yes, this has been extraordinary week filled with many memories shared with good friends, and new approaches and practices learned. My hope is that everyone comes away from the 2009 No-Dig conference feeling inspired and energized!" said Brahler.

In 2010, NASTT will return to the birthplace where it all began in Chicago to hold the next No-Dig Show and to celebrate its 20th anniversary. Conference organizers have many special events planned including a historical timeline and exhibit to showcase the founding members. The conference theme of "Rebuilding North America's Underground Infrastructure using Trenchless Technology" will prove to be timely and relevant given that throughout North America there is a renewed focus of infrastructure investment. NASTT is now accepting abstracts for its technical paper program. Abstracts are due June 1st. Please visit www.nodigshow.com for more information.

The ISTT will host its International No-Dig in Singapore, Nov. 10-13, 2010. Visit www.istt.com for more information.