Kasia Wasescha, Environmental Engineer in the Public Drinking Water Unit of the St. Louis Regional Office, has been selected as the Division of Environmental Quality Team Member of the Month for August 2025. She was selected for her professionalism and leadership during a complex and time-sensitive construction approval process for the new American Foods Group (AFG) plant.

Kasia conducted a final construction approval for the installation of new wells at the AFG facility, when she discovered that while the wells had been permitted, the rest of the water system had not. “Kasia demonstrated her initiative and collaborative attitude by working closely with her PDW colleagues Joe Blume and Megan Torrence, and AFG corporate, to clarify requirements and guide the facility through the permitting process,” said Tracy Haag, Kasia’s supervisor who nominated her for this award. “When AFG submitted a comprehensive, 1,000+ page application just days before their scheduled opening, Kasia worked diligently alongside the team to complete a thorough review under tight deadlines.”

Tracy goes on to say, “Kasia’s above and beyond performance in this high-pressure situation exemplifies the professionalism, accountability, and teamwork we value in the Department of Natural Resources.” Kasia also received praise from the Director of Environmental Health and Safety of AFG for her patience and responsiveness through the process.

Thank you Kasia! We are lucky to have you on the DEQ team.