Meet Tom Langer,
A Career Dedicated to
Public Health in Kansas
For more than 20 years, Tom Langer, the founder of Tallgrass Environmental Consulting has served Kansas communities in environmental and public health leadership roles at both the local and state level. His career has been grounded in one consistent goal: protecting the health and safety of the communities he serves.
Tallgrass Environmental Consulting was established to continue that work — providing practical, regulation-aligned environmental health guidance to homeowners, contractors, local governments, and community leaders across Kansas.
A Practical,
Community-Focused Approach
Environmental health decisions affect real people — families, property owners, and communities. Tallgrass Environmental Consulting approaches every project with clear communication, thoughtful evaluation, and a strong understanding of Kansas regulations.
Rather than offering one-size-fits-all solutions, he works collaboratively with clients to ensure systems are properly designed, policies are carefully evaluated, and potential risks are addressed responsibly.
Public Health Leadership Experience
Retired Administrator & Local Public Health Officer
Cowley County Health DepartmentFormer State Director of Environmental Health
Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE)Former Director of Healthy Homes Program
KDHEFormer Director of Lead Poising Prevention Program
KDHE
Tom has led environmental health programs, regulatory compliance efforts, and public health policy initiatives across Kansas. His expertise includes on-site wastewater system design, septic and lagoon evaluation, well water safety, housing health hazards, and health impact assessments.
This experience allows Tallgrass Environmental Consulting to deliver practical, regulation-aligned solutions that protect both families and communities.
Why Work With Tallgrass?
After retiring from public service, Tom Langer founded Tallgrass Environmental Consulting to continue supporting Kansas communities in a more direct and flexible capacity.
Tallgrass was created to provide experienced guidance without unnecessary bureaucracy - focusing instead on practical solutions, clear recommendations, and long-term protection of public health.
His commitment remains the same as it has been throughout his career: steady leadership, informed decision-making, and service rooted in community well-being.
Common Questions about Water, Wastewater, and Rural Homes
Thinking of building or buying a home in the country?
If your dream is to move out of the city for more room and outdoor space, there are vital issues that you should always consider!
New to living in a house with an
on-site wastewater system?
If you’ve only lived in a home located inside of a city you have never had to worry about the wastewater that leaves your home. That changes in rural homes!
There are no public water hookups where I want to build a house! How safe is well water?
In many rural areas there is no publicly supplied drinking water available and your reliance on a well for drinking water is critical.
Basic Septic Tank Knowledge – what you need to know
Septic systems MUST be maintained and serviced regularly in order to provide a lifetime of service to the homeowner.