LANDSCAPE & STORM WATER SOLUTIONS LLC
About
Island Designs was established after the hurricanes, Maria and Irma, tore through and devastated the Caribbean, leaving massive destruction in their wake. It has been estimated that the Caribbean islands suffered over $5.4 billion dollars of damages from these 2 storms alone. As a result, Dave Zimmerman and Duane Ferguson teamed up to help a small, family-owned St. Thomas resort, and witnessed first-hand just how vulnerable many properties, as well as their surrounding topography, are to natures forces. With over 50 years of combined industry experience, they saw a need, and unite on a mission to create sustainable, environmental solutions and enhancements for island resorts, and municipalities alike.
Dave Zimmerman
Professional Landscape Designer, CCPI, CSRWI
Mr. Zimmerman has been in the landscape industry for over 20 years. In 2001, he founded Zimmerman Landscaping, which he has grown into an award winning brand serving the state of New Jersey. He has obtained several certifications including ICPI (Interlocking Concrete Pavement Institute) -- for the installation of paver patios, walkways and driveways -- NCMA-SRW (National Concrete and Masonry Association for Segmental Retaining Walls) -- for the installation of natural and man made retaining walls -- and Seal & Lock for the cleaning, sealing, and maintenance of all interlocking concrete pavements. He is also a proud member of the National Association of Landscape Professionals, as well as The Association of Professional Landscape Designers, where he is honored to serve on the sustainability committee. Mr. Zimmerman has also achieved Techo-Pro status representing the finest in the hardscape industry for both permeable and non-permeable pavements.
Alongside his hardscape expertise, he holds extensive knowledge in plant material identification and site selection, drainage solutions, erosion control, mulch and decorative stone work, water features, fire features, outdoor lighting, natural privacy fences, heavy equipment operation, property evaluation and estimating.
With thousands of designs under his belt, Mr. Zimmerman specializes in sustainable landscape design, installation and maintenance with an emphasis on drainage/water management, and structural integrity.
Duane Ferguson P.E.
Civil/Structural Engineer
Mr. Ferguson received his Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering from West Virginia University. He has over 35 years of experience in the engineering and construction industry and
is a member of the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) and the International Code Council (ICC). In addition, he holds his Professional Engineering license in 17 U.S. jurisdictions,
including the U.S.V.I.
Mr. Ferguson’s vast experience in civil site design, construction and construction management includes a specialty in storm water management and storm water runoff. He has managed and overseen the construction of environmental cleanup projects, major storm water quality and quantity facilities, convenient store and restaurant construction, as well as large commercial building construction.
Mr. Ferguson also holds OSHA certifications in construction site safety, and he has evaluated commercial facilities for compliance with building codes and ADA requirements. Furthermore, Mr. Ferguson has provided expert testimony in courts of law including construction-related issues, flooding, storm water, ADA requirements, and premise liability.
Dennis Lazanja
Landscape/Hardscape Designer, Estimating/Sales
Christy Sides
Marine Scientist
Ms. Sides received her Bachelor of Science degree in Marine Science with a specialty in Marine Biology and Environmental Studies from Eckerd College. She provides valuable input to each project with environmental consulting focusing on the marine environment. Working with CAD and LiDAR technologies, each project is evaluated to determine the impacts and best mitigation practices to protect the surrounding environment as well as apply a "ridge to reef" model on each project ensuring that no marine resources will be affected.
Mr. Lazanja holds a BS in finance, and has been in the landscape industry for over 10 years. With 10 years of previous experience in business development and client management, he brings an important aspect to the landscape field that is often overlooked. Mr. Lazanja also holds vast knowledge in hardscape design, installation, crew training, estimating, sales, project management and client relations. He has designed and installed thousands upon thousands of square feet of paver walkways, patios, driveways, parking lots and retaining walls. His excellency in design and calculation save clients top dollar on wasted materials.