Richard Farella, PE, CFM

Rich began his career in 2014, following graduation from the University of Virginia with a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering and a minor in environmental science.  Following seven years with a national engineering firm, he has applied his experience in water resources engineering and credentials as a Certified Floodplain Manager to projects at Meliora since August 2021.  

With expertise in surface water hydrologic and hydraulic analysis, design of stormwater management and green infrastructure systems, preparation of floodplain and drainage studies, design of hydraulic structures, and inspection of stormwater management facilities, including LID practices, ponds, and dams, Rich is passionate about improving water quality in the mid-Atlantic region. He has experience in stream restoration, including taking Dave Rosgen’s advanced courses on the subject, as well as a considerable amount of dam safety experience and knowledge of FEMA regulatory processes.

Rich is a licensed Professional Engineer in Pennsylvania and Virginia, and a member of the Association of State Floodplain Managers. He loves to travel and hike, and past adventures have taken him to exotic locales like Patagonia and Mt. Everest’s base camp in Nepal. When not hiking or working, he can be found either on stage or backstage for theater productions in the Philadelphia region. While living in the D.C. metro area, Rich was actively involved in the area theater community as an award-winning director, performer, set designer, and sound engineer.