Posts by shaina

Columbia River tribes have long recognized the importance and drastic decline of the Pacific lamprey.  Years ago, they began raising alarms, initiating action, and collecting data. This groundwork led to the development of the first Pacific Lamprey Restoration Plan in 2011.   After years of dedicated work, a new, more in-depth plan has arrived. This…

Complex environmental challenges demand integrated solutions. Multi-benefit projects, such as realigning levees to reconnect floodplains, can be powerful tools to help us address water challenges. They tackle climate adaptation, water management, and ecosystem restoration all at once. However, securing funding for these comprehensive initiatives often proves difficult. Traditional funding sources typically support single-purpose projects.  …

Irrigation (at some level) is essential for much of the US’s agricultural production. In the Great Plains region irrigation is used to supply water during dry periods, encourage crop growth, and maximize yields. A new study looks at how irrigation may affect summer heat stress (a combination of temperature and humidity) and public health impacts.…

Increasing water scarcity has resulted in more agricultural fields being left unplanted in California. The fallowed farmlands are now the state’s top source of human-caused dust. New research shows they account for 88% of anthropogenic dust events, especially in the Central Valley. Dust storms from these areas threaten public health, road safety, and long-term water…

A new algae system could revolutionize farming practices in Arizona, helping farmers achieve better crop yields with significantly less water. This approach – developed through a collaboration between Arizona State University and Phoenix-based soil health company MyLand – offers a vital solution for regions facing water scarcity. The aim is to create “more crop per…

New research from Colorado State University and Cornell University shows that solar arrays can actively reduce drought stress in Colorado’s grasslands. By casting partial shade, the panels boost moisture levels and drive plant growth, especially in dry years. The study strengthens the case for using solar arrays to stabilize ecosystems while producing renewable energy.  …

Smart water metering has grown to a $6.8 billion global market, solidifying its position as a key driver of digital transformation for utilities. According to a new report, utilities are embracing advanced metering technologies to boost operational efficiency, recover revenue, and engage more actively with customers.   Metering systems – including advanced meter reading (AMR)…

Nevada has launched a voluntary water rights buyback program to address the long-standing issue of groundwater over-pumping. Approved in June, the initiative allows the state to purchase and permanently retire groundwater rights in over-allocated basins. It’s a major step toward restoring balance in areas where groundwater use is exceeding sustainable levels. However, the program still…

A new report about Safe Drinking Water and Public Health across the globe emphasizes the steps the water sector must take to adapt to a quickly changing climate. It shows how floods, heatwaves, and aging infrastructure are threatening access to safe drinking water. As these risks grow, so does exposure to waterborne pathogens, especially in…

The water sector is presently facing a growing challenge: securing consistent funding for capital improvements. According to the latest State of the Water Industry report by the American Water Works Association, this issue has now overtaken source water protection as the top industry concern. Notably, only 41% of utilities report being able to fully fund…