Ripple Effect: Recent Episodes
Emily Lewis
Join Emily E. Lewis, Clyde Snow Water Law Attorney, in discussing contemporary water issues touching on technology, law, finance, and water creativity. Ripple Effect: Putting Water into Context.
Dani Zebelean, Environmental Engineer III with the Utah Division of Drinking Water, joins us to discuss Minimum System Specific Sizing Standards. We discuss how Utah is working to get a better understanding of its water user by moving from a baseline estimate of per connection water use to the actual amount of used based on meter use. This is a brass tacks discussion about an important data set used to inform municipal water exactions, source and supply constraints, and many other overlapping areas of Utah water law.
Robyn Grimm, Chief Executive Officer & President of the California Water Data Consortium, joins us to discuss the Consortium and its very cool mission. As a public/private collaborative non-profit, the Consortium makes the most of California's water data by: 1) developing tangible ways to apply and scale data systems; 2) convening the parties collecting, distributing, and reporting on water data to establish best practices and coordinated strategies; 3) informing data policies and modernization; and 4) telling the story of California water data. This is a great discussion and a very cool organization that could be replicated in other States looking to bring more value to their water data.
Laney Meeker, Programs Supervisor for the Statewide Planning Section of the Arizona Department of Water Resources, and Christian Fauser, Western Water Policy Associate for the Theodore Roosevelt Conservation Partnership, join us to talk about several very exciting Arizona programs. They are currently working on an innovative Rural Partnership Program, the Arizona Watersheds Project Database, and interactive funding tools to join partners, programs, and funding opportunities. Lots of helpful and useful information.
Jonathan Jennings, Meteorologist and Cloud Seeding Coordinator for the Division of Water Resources, joins us to discuss Utah’s expanded and improved cloud seeding program. This is a great discussion about what cloud seeding is, what Utah’s goals are, and the potential to significantly increase our snowpack and necessary spring runoff. A great rundown of this super fun program: the future is here.
Joseph Blackman, Founder of Vitendo Training Solutions and Host of the Public Works Podcast, joins us to talk about his niche business of creating custom training videos for utilities. Joseph has hit on a great solution meeting a real need of utilities to find creative and effect ways to pass along their institutional knowledge. Joseph makes short custom videos and interviews with key employees discussing how the specific pieces of infrastructure and tools of a particular utility work and best practices. Through Joseph’s creative use of QR codes new and existing employees can access these videos at any point in time: for training, in the field, and as issues arise. This is an incredibly scalable and useful tool that will cut down on utility costs and inefficiencies while increasing employee morale and competency.
Stephanie Santell, Senior Advisor in EPA’s Policy Office and Chair of the Resilient Infrastructure Work Group on Climate, joins us to discuss EPA’s new Climate Resilience and Adaptation Funding Toolbox (CRAFT) and so much more. This discussion provides a great summary of the purpose and function of the Federal Environmental Protection Agency (to protect the environment and human health) and some very innovative and exciting EPA programs. Stephanie discusses the agency’s activities, which includes climate considerations for all agencies' activities and offices. From a public service perspective, we discuss the new and exceptional CRAFT website, which provides very hands-on and user-friendly resources to help EPA’s funding applicants and recipients make climate-informed investments. CRAFT is chock-full of cool stuff. Check it out at https://www.epa.gov/resilient-investments.
TJ Budge of Racine & Olson joins us to give a fantastic update on the 2015 Idaho Groundwater Pumpers Association (IGWA) Settlement Agreement. The 2015 Settlement Agreement adopted an innovative conjunctive management program of balancing senior surface water rights and junior groundwater use with conservation measures, aquifer recovery and recharge, and collaborative modeling efforts. The provisions of the 2015 Settlement Agreement were tested in the drought years of 2021 and 2022, resulting in tensions amongst users and new litigation. The Parties have now revised and entered a new Settlement Agreement keeping key elements of the 2015 Settlement Agreement and revising more problematic provisions. Great discussion about “living law.”
Marian Rice joins us to talk about the many hats she wears and several exciting programs at the University of Utah. Marian sits as the: Associate Director of Energy Futures Engine; Associate Director of Peak Water Sustainability Engine; the Lead Critical Minerals Working Group; and is on the Leadership Team NSF Southwest Sustainability Innovation Engine. The University is using these programs to break down silos and connect academics to government agencies, consultants, and industry projects. Lots of exciting potential and possibilities at the U right now!!
Andrew Shaw, Wake the Great Salt Lake Coordinator for the Salt Lake City Arts Council and Kellie Bornhoft, Artist, Professor, and Grant Recipient, join us to talk about the Wake the Great Salt Lake Art Project and Kellie’s “By A Thread” art installation. Hopefully one of several discussions, we talk about the Bloomberg funded art project, Kellie’s artwork as the first of 12 art projects, and the Wake the Great Salt Lake’s goals of raising awareness and conversation about the Great Salt Lake. So fun to step out of the academic arena for a moment and discuss the importance of art and different perspectives in addressing the complicated and critical issues surrounding the Great Salt Lake.
Paige Damiano, Director of The Water Table, and Patrick McCarthy, Water Policy Officer of the Thornburg Foundation, join us to talk about the funder collaborative that is The Water Table. This is a fantastic discussion on the role and power of coordinating and leveraging philanthropic funds to support water initiatives and projects. Philanthropic dollars are a huge part of funding the water solutions – this innovative approach makes those dollars go as far as possible and make the largest impact in creating social benefit.
This week we are revisiting an earlier episode that is still highly relevant to today's water discussion. We are looking back on episode 16: Reclaiming the Discussion.A talk with Mike Luers of the Snyderville Basin Reclamation District regarding water reclamation and reuse. Interesting tidbits about fish on Prozac and re-framing the narrative on waste water.
Page Weil, Senior Water Resources at LRE and Erik Skeie, Special Projects Coordinator at Colorado Water Conservation Board, join us to discuss airborne snow observatory efforts in Colorado. This is a great companion episode to our earlier discussion regarding Utah’s ASO efforts. This episodes goes further into the organization and function of the Colorado Airborne Snow Measurement Group and they are helping stakeholder members use ASO data to their advantage. Fantastic discussion!
Check out their website https://coloradosnow.org/
Megan Jenkins, Chief Marketing Officer of Yoppify, makes a return appearance to discuss their Washington County Water Conservancy District pilot project to use Yoppify’s electronic platform to collect retail water use data and communicate with water users. Yoppify is assisting WCWCD’s municipal customers to automate leak notifications, increase AMI engagement, proactively identify disproportionally large water users for targeted conservation marketing, and provide general water use and conservation information. Great discussion about how their flexible tools can help collect big picture data and improve end user experiences.
We are joined by an all-star team from the Utah Geological Survey – Hugh Hurlow, Program Manager of the Groundwater and Wetlands Program, Paul Inkenbrandt, Senior Geologist, and Emily Jainarain, Hydrogeologist, to discuss the new UGS Utah Groundwater Data Hub. The new Hub combines UGS’s existing groundwater data and is built to grow and include other datasets as the site develops. This is an extremely informative resource to find science backed information about ground water level trends, watershed information, and how groundwater informs critical issues like the Great Salt Lake.
This week we are revisiting an earlier episode that is still highly relevant to today's water discussion. We are looking back on episode 34: Building a Market.
Great discussion with Kristina Ribellia, Founder and Chief Operations Director of Western Water Market. We discuss gaps in the water market and how to build a platform that is useful for water users, professionals, and western water market knowledge.
Jeff Deems from Airborne Snow Observatories and Lily Bosworth from the Colorado River Authority of Utah join us to talk about their joint venture to more accurately measure snowpack in the Colorado Basin. ASO employs a new flight technology using a combination of LIDAR and a high resolution spectrometer to remotely sense the depth of snowpack and get the snow water equivalent. This data is used for better snow run-off forecasting and reservoir operations. A really cool technology with the potential to be incredibly helpful in the coming years. Check-out the Authority’s very cool public ASO Data Site to see the results of their Pilot Project.
Bart Leeflang, Assistant General Manager of Central Utah Water Conservancy District, joins us to discuss Central’s SID pilot projects efforts. This discussion is much broader than the Pelican Lake project but also gives us a helpful insight into the role, importance, and evolution of Central – the lynchpin of Utah water.
Shane Coors, President, and Tony Powell, Senior Water Resources Engineer, from Precision Water Resources Engineering join us to talk about the RiverWare modeling software and the importance of modeling for large water systems. They discuss their theory of “stewardship through technology” and helping clients model a number of hydrologic, water rights, and water policy/contract considerations across river systems. An incredibly helpful discussion about a key tool in creating more accurate and resilient management of river systems.
Tage Flint joins us to discuss Utah Water Ways, Utah’s new entity tasked with coordinating state water conservation efforts. Tage brings his decades of experience to help Utah make the most of its conservation programs and initiatives.
Rebecca Jewett, President and CEO, and Kristie Nackord, Vice President External Affairs, of the Palmer Land Conservancy, join us to discuss their innovate agricultural partnerships in Southern Colorado aim at conserving water and promoting the local community. We also talk about their very cool Marisol Film project as a unique way to tell their story and engage a larger audience.
Clyde Snow’s own Nate Broadhurst joins us to talk about a recent Utah Court of Appeals decision distinguishing the difference between water rights and water shares. Spoiler, water rights are real property and water shares are personal property governed by corporate law. Great discussion and some clarity on a topic that continues to plague Utah law.
Tim Davis, Deputy Commissioner, discuses the role and activities of the Office of the Great Salt Lake Commissioner. The Office is about a year old and plays a critical role in coordinating state and federal agency action on the Great Salt Lake. We discuss immediate goals for the next year, 5 year goals, and long-term planning. Tim gives us a great overview of this very important Office and get us excited about the Great Salt Lake!
This week we are revisiting an earlier episode that is still highly relevant to today's water discussion. We are looking back on episode 40: From Mars and Life Itself.THIS IS A MUST LISTEN conversation with Bonnie Baxter, Professor of Biology and Director of the Great Salt Lake Institute at Westminster College. Bonnie talks about several key Institute programs, including their partnership with NASA to explore microbial links between the Great Salt Lake and Mars. Be prepared to stretch your mind.
Shania Shay Owner and Editor of the Water Report joins us to follow-up on our January discussion about hot trends and topics in the water world. We cover PFAS, Lead, and micro-plastics, the water energy nexus, aging infrastructure, and wonder what AI hallucinations are going to do to the water world!! As always a great discussion with a consummate professional.
This week we are revisiting an earlier episode that is still highly relevant to today's water discussion. We are looking back on episode 43: Silver-Buckshot.Jesse Clark of Stream Landscape Architecture and Planning talks us through his many projects and the importance of urban stream health and creative storm water solutions. Great discussion about the importance of many small positive actions.
This week we are revisiting an earlier episode that is still highly relevant to today's water discussion. We are looking back on episode 21: River City.
Soren Simonsen, Executive Director of the Jordan River Commission, discusses the importance of vibrant urban water ways and the Commission’s efforts to revitalize the Jordan River corridor.
Chris Austin, publisher of Maven’s Notebook, walks us through her EXCELLENT website covering all things California water news. Maven’s Notebook is brimming with timely and comprehensive information on a number of hot topics. Chris discusses collaboration as both the rising trend and best hope for implementing creative and impactful solutions to California water issues.
Lynn de Freitas, Executive Director of Friends of Great Salt Lake, joins us to discuss their 2024 Great Salt Lake Issues Forum – "Great Salt Lake: To Preserve and Protect in Perpetuity, How are We Doing?" A great conversation about how to gauge progress on the Lake (spoiler we have made a lot of progress) and critical steps the State of Utah is taking to tackle this challenge. As always, Lynn is a pleasure to speak with and brings a great perspective from her decades in the trenches.
Jon Parry, Assistant Manager for Weber Basin Water Conservancy District, joins us to discuss the many benefits of their solar panel demonstration project over the Layton Canal. This project is so cool on so many levels and has some serious potential for scalability win-win-wins all over the place. Great discussion about an exciting development in Utah.
Christopher Link, Founder, joins us to discuss his HDH Desalination Technology and his HALO Team’s participation in Elon Musk’s X-Prize Competition. Do not miss this conversation! So many interesting and innovative ideas occurring about how to incentivize useful water tech and desalination processes. I learned a ton and am excited to share Chris’s work with our listeners.
Robert Walsh of Australian Water Life joins us to discuss the importance of micro-invertebrates in our fresh water system. Great discussion that reaches back into our 7th grade taxonomy skills and understanding the real world impacts of overlooking these little creatures. A very informative and needed science peak into water system. Check out images and more at http://www.australianwaterlife.com.au/
Justin Scott-Coe, General Manager of Monte-Vista Water District, joins us to discuss his new Podcast and collaboration with Maven’s Notebook - the Water Shelf. The Water Shelf is the just the place for that certain co-hort of water lovers and book lovers. Justin talks us through the top 5 of his top 20 water books and we scheme future episodes: Western-Water Lit; Dystopian Future Water Lit; Water Thrillers; all the fun themes. A great discussion with more to be had!
Marcelle Shoop – Executive Director, and Adam Wickline of the Great Salt Lake Watershed Enhancement Trust join us to talk about the Trust’s mission to protect and preserve water for the Great Salt Lake. We discuss their water transactions program, their wetland improvement program, and the associated distribution improvements and water management benefits these activities are bringing. In their first years the Trust has secured 64,000 AF of water for the Great Salt Lake – a tangible brass tacks success story for Lake recovery.
Jeff Gittins of Smith Hartvigsen joins us to discuss the water bills passed during the 2024 Legislative Session. Jeff does a great job of explaining updates to saved water, new long-term planning efforts, and hot items to be watching out for.
Amber Brown, Director of Government and Legislative Affairs, and Hannah Freeze, Program Manager, join us to discuss the Utah Department of Agriculture and Food’s Agricultural Water Optimization program. The State of Utah has invested heavily in studying and employing water efficiency practices suited for Utah’s unique conditions. We discuss specific projects, water savings potential, and how the program operates. Very informative!
Emily Zmak, Deputy Chief of Interstate Federal and Water Information Section at the Colorado Water Conservation Board, joins us to talk about her agency and the work they do. Great discussion about the people, processes, and information needed to inform top decisions makers and execute State water policies. Very informative and timely!
Tara Vander Dussen, Co-Host of the Discover Ag. Podcast, joins us for a lively and informative discussion about agricultural news and information. We dive into the presence and impact of social media, themes and trends, and why the new “food curious” movement is reshaping the agricultural discussion. Super fun discussion!
Be sure to check out Tara's Podcast: (www.thehandsthatfeedus.com/podcast-1)
Amy Haas, Executive Director of the Colorado River Authority of Utah, talks us through the inception of the entity, how it executes its mission to protect and defend Utah’s portion of the Colorado River, and where the Authority is leading out in tackling hard questions. Plus we get Amy’s perspective as the consummate cat wrangler of complicated cats! Great and informative session!
Alex Johnson, Chief Strategic Officer for Virridy, walks us through this Company’s unique, and very innovative, platform to merge monitoring water quality improvements with selling carbon credits on the voluntary carbon market. Hint – treating water is energy intensive and reducing the need for treatment results in real verifiable carbon reductions. Absolutely fascinating discussion!
In this very special episode, Emily joins the podcast not as a host, but as a guest! Join us as our beloved host Emily Lewis takes the spotlight on an entirely separate water podcast - 'Scaling Up! H2O.' Here's your chance to get personal with our host. Learn all about Emily and her work in the water world.
Be sure to check out Scaling Up! H2O for more awesome water-related content! (original episode can be found here)
Jordan Clayton, Supervisor for the Utah Snow Survey at NRCS, joins us to discuss the status of Utah’s snow year and our water supply. Good news – after a slow start, the State is overall at 102% of normal. Bad news – we have a long way to go in the water year and we need to keep watching. Super informative and timely discussion.
Jeff Gittins joins us to discuss upcoming bills for the 2024 Legislative Sessions. A couple key bills, notes, and lots of follow-up tweaks for the last couple years of policy. As always, a great discussion; and check-out Jeff’s Utah Water Law and Water Rights blog.
Shaina Shay, Owner and Editor of The Water Report, shares her insights as to what will be big in 2024! PFAS, the Energy Water Nexus, Colorado River, Technology, and Aging Infrastructure all make an appearance. Shaina always brings thoughtful commentary and a unique perspective to the discussion. Great episode to start the year with!
This week we are revisiting an earlier episode that is still highly relevant to today's water discussion. We are looking back on episode 74: Pumped Hydro-Electric Storage.
Matthew Shapiro, of rPlus Energies, talks us through pumped energy storage projects, their role in the renewable energy portfolio, and key considerations for getting a project completed. Great discussion about a timely activity!
This week we are revisiting an earlier episode that is still highly relevant to today's water discussion. We are looking back on episode 06: To Market, To Market.A discussion with Bret Bovee of WestWater Research about the mechanics of water markets and considerations for increasing water market activity. Extremely informative and timely!
This week we are revisiting an earlier episode that is still highly relevant to today's water discussion. We are looking back on episode 44: Utilizing the Community.
A must listen again! Tony Parrott, CEO, and Sharise Horn, Director of Community Benefits and Partnerships from the Louisville & Jefferson County Sewer District give us a GREAT overview of their recruitment, retention, and procurement policies. Their plan is both pragmatic and progressive and one to model to create a utility that is inclusive, forward thinking, and built for the conditions of today. Great conversation with leaders in the field.
We are joined by two special guests: Andrew Morris, Senior Manager of Policy and Programs for the Alliance for Water Efficiency; and Rick Maloy, Director of Communications for Central Utah Water Conservancy District. We discuss water tax policies on a local and Federal level and the need for better water-savings tax incentives.
This week we are revisiting an earlier episode that is still highly relevant to today's water discussion. We are looking back on episode 109: Water Education.
Monica Hoyt, Shannon Babb, and Nikki Wyman discuss Central Utah Water Conservancy District and Sandy City's numerous water education programs. A fascinating look at the importance of building water knowledge, our state education system, and effective ways to reach the public. Fun and educational.
Two special guests join us from the Utah Geological Survey: Kathryn Ladig, Project Geologist, and Paul Inkenbrandt, Senior Geologist. We reconnect to hear an update on their Eddy Covariance Towers. We discuss the science behind the technology and how the data from these towers is used.
Brian Deurloo, President and Founder of Frog Creek Partners, gives us the story of his novel invention: the Gutter Bin stormwater filtration system. We learn the inspiring details of Brian's efforts to better himself and the water world. An elegantly simple and effective solution for tackling pollution at the source.
This week we are revisiting an earlier episode that is still highly relevant to today's water discussion. We are looking back on episode 68: Regenerative Agriculture.Shelby Smith, Master's Candidate at the UCSB Bren School of Environmental Science & Management, walks us through her recent research for The Nature Conservancy’s Colorado River Program about the state of regenerative agriculture and its impact on water conservation. A great discussion identifying the gaps in what we do and don’t know about a promising practice, and ideas on the next steps forward.
Shaina Shay, Owner and Editor of The Water Report, gives us a great overview of this invaluable newsletter and her approach to water reporting. We discuss the importance of long format journalism and trends she is seeing across various water sectors.
Matt Howard joins us for a follow-up discussion on the WAVE program and other exciting programs at the Water Council, including being selected as a Resiliency Innovative Engine.
This week we are revisiting an earlier episode that is still highly relevant to today's water discussion. We are looking back on episode 85: ESG Reporting and Water.
Matthew Howard, Vice President of Water Stewardship at The Water Council, talks us through coming ESG reporting requirements for publicly traded companies, the Water Council’s WAVE program, and the importance of third-party verification. A great discussion the water community should be following and paying attention to.
This week we are revisiting an earlier episode that is still highly relevant to today's water discussion. We are looking back on episode 72: Non-Functional Turf Grass Be Gone!
Assemblyman Howard Watts of the Nevada Assembly talks about Assembly Bill 356 and his work with the Southern Nevada Water Authority to remove non-functional grass. Great discussion about a useful and impactful program!
Carly Biedul, Coordinator of the Great Salt Lake Institute at Westminster University, gives us an update on the health of the Great Salt Lake. We have a long way to go, but the 2022/2023 winter lifted lake levels and spirits.
Tia Cavender of Dig Deep Research walks us through the means in which recent federal legislation distributes a historic amount of money to water users. She gives practical tips on how to find and apply for loans and grants and how to navigate a complex funding world.
This week we are revisiting an earlier episode that is still highly relevant to today's water discussion. We are looking back on episode 53: LEEDing the Way.Emily E. Lewis has a great discussion about what is, what can be, and what is next! Whitney Ward, Principal at VCBO Architecture, walks us through the LEED Certification process and how our built environment impacts our water footprint. They dive into specific ways society can design buildings that are both functional and make the best of use of water and other limited resources.
This week we are revisiting an earlier episode that is still highly relevant to today's water discussion. We are looking back on episode 88: New Mexico Milkmaid.Tara Vander Dussen, Co-Owner of Elevate Ag., walks us through the operations and regulatory state for running a commercial dairy. We also discuss the need for effective story telling and communication about the importance of agriculture and building a broader understanding for its role in the water community.
On this episode we have three special guests – Davíd Pilz and Amy McCoy of AMP Insights, and Cora Snyder of Pacific Institute. Join us as we discuss the Pacific Institute's recent report aptly nicknamed "Joining Forces". We go in depth about their efforts to improve the water world by leading Corporations to fund innovative projects. A great discussion with some of my favorites.
Sarah Page, Lead Drinking Water Specialist at the Utah Division of Drinking Water, gives an in-depth break down of PFAS. In this timely and important discussion, we explore what they are, how they've become so prevalent, and how they affect our health. We tackle the difficult questions, addressing how to lower the spread of PFAS and what future EPA regulations could mean for our drinking water. Extremely informative.
Lily Bosworth, Staff Engineer for the Utah Colorado Authority of Utah, joins us to give an update on the SCPP. Great discussion about recent leasing efforts in the Colorado and brass tacks, like determining per acre-foot values, navigating changing economic conditions, types of conservation projects, and exciting developments to quantify water savings through satellite remote sensing. Looking to the future, the lessons learned through the 2023 SCPP may be able to be applied as a more permanent drought mitigation tool or demand management program for the State of Utah.
This week we are revisiting an earlier episode that is still highly relevant to today's water discussion. We are looking back on episode 103: Remote Sensing - Step Into The Future.Derrek Houtz, CEO and Co-Founder of TerraRad gives a great overview of the history and applications of remote sensing technologies. He also discusses his company's unique microwave sensing abilities to isolate groundwater moisture and review the efficiency of various irrigation technologies. An extremely useful tool for the future.
The recent Supreme Court ruling could have massive repercussions. Join us in this timely discussion as Joan Card, Partner at Culp & Kelly, addresses the consequences. Learn how this affects the Clean Water Act and what this means for the Waters Of The United States. Very informative!
This week we are revisiting an earlier episode that is still highly relevant to today's water discussion. We are looking back on episode 78: Drinking Water Regulations.Colt Smith of the Utah Division of Drinking Water provides an extremely useful overview of public water supplier regulations. A very, very informative and engaging discussion!
This week we are revisiting an earlier episode that is still highly relevant to today's water discussion. We are looking back on the momentous episode 100: Klamath Drainage District.
Reagan Desmond walks us through the complicated and complex world of the Klamath Basin. From Endangered Species actions, to water quality issues, to drought, the Klamath is a microcosm of the larger water world. Fantastic discussion!!
Byron Kominek, Owner and Manager of Jack's Solar Garden, explains how he revitalized his family farm with modern technology. A creative approach that mixes old-world farming and new-world energy production in mutually beneficial symbiosis. A worthwhile listen.
Dan Haller, Principle Engineer at Aspect Consulting, and Kristina Ribellia, Founder and President of Wester Water Market Exchange, discuss their recent efforts to help Selah-Moxee execute a multi-party water auction. Super practical discussion about the brass tacks of water market transactions. A really informative episode with some of our favorites.
Clint Larson, Manager of Major Projects and Custom Homes for Ivory Homes, walks us through his organization's transition to adopting water wise landscaping and planning at the subdivision scale. A great talk about organizational change, growth in Utah, and effective implementation of innovative water practices.
Chelsea Benjamin, Water Policy Fellow at Western Resource Advocates, expounds on her team's research of artificial turf. There's far more to consider than just cost and water savings. A fascinating discussion full of facts that may surprise you.
Chris Peacock, CEO of AquaOso and AgCor, talks us through the fascinating evolution of their AquaOso water risk platform into a multi-faceted tool informing the broader agricultural lending and climate risk space. Chris and his team are working on a truly innovate platform that is not only helping the agricultural community adapt to current conditions, but become more resilient for the future.
Bradley Parry, Vice Chairman of the Northwest Band of Shoshone, talks us through the Shoshone sovereign nation's approach to water management from both a physical and legal perspective. We learn of the great history and respect Shoshone give to land and water - an approach that would benefit us to emulate!
Nora Pincus, Managing Partner of Nebari Partners, joins us to discuss her work at the intersection of mining and capital lending. A fascinating discussion about mining, the clean energy transition, and living boldly.
Rose Smith, Stream Ecologist and Lead on the Sageland Collaborative’s Riverscape Restoration Program discusses her work with Beaver Dam Analogs (BDAs). BDAs are a surprisingly simple solution to landscape change and bringing watersheds back into balance. By slowing the flow in the watershed BDAs can assist with sedimentation issues in reservoirs, fire mitigation, and water quality gains. A fun conversation with a colleague doing interesting and impactful work.
Lynn de Freitas, Executive Director of Friends of Great Salt Lake, gives us her perspective on the mission of the organization and how they are accomplishing their mission in the complicated world of 2023. Relevant information on the eve of the Stegner Center Symposium.
Jeff Gittins of Smith Hartvigsen makes a return appearance to do a Wrap-up of the 2023 Legislative Session. A lot happened in a few short weeks – especially at the end of the Session! In particular pay attention to HB491 creating a new Great Salt Lake Commissioner, SB76’s sneaker provision shortening the time to review Temporary Shareholder Change Applications, and SB277’s sea change to water law allowing for Change Applications to recognize saved water. Whew!
Fraser McLoed Chief Products Officer for Civic Ledger walks us through his company’s return to basics by reformatting their block-chain technology to assist with water accounting. As always, Fraser provides a lively perspective on water use and management from a variety of perspectives and professions. A great discussion about the need for a solid grasp on water fundamentals in order to move towards more innovative market mechanisms for water management.
Megan Jenkins of Yoppify, LLC, discusses Yoppify’s unique niche of providing water utilities a malleable platform to create targeted messaging campaigns about water use. This extremely useful tool allows utilities of all sizes to message directly to sub-sets of water users to best distribute information about needed water reductions, conservation programs, rebates or other helpful information. Very good discussion about the power of messaging and the needs of different communities.
Jordan Clayton, Supervisor of Utah Snow Survey at the NRCS/USDA, provides a very insightful discussion about snow pack data and prediction tools. Extremely informative discussion unpacking what data we collect, how it is used, and what to be looking for in the future as we address a changing climate. Must listen. Oh, and 2023 is a massive water year. Very exciting.
Amy Green, President, and Adam Inglish, IT Guru, talk about RWTA and the important work they do helping small rural systems install and operate monitoring and measuring stations. RWTA’s software ExacTraq has been in use now for over 20 years helping water users organize and track their water use. With increasing needs to collect data on waterways across the state RWTA plays a vital role of matchmaker and service provider. Practical and timely discussion.
Jeff Gittins of Smith Hartvigsen, Attorneys at Law, joins us to discuss the slate of new water bills for the 2023 Legislative Session. This year’s bills build on the blockbuster success of 2022 by making practical tweaks to Utah water law. It's exciting to see the development of water policy in the State and how we are building a more resilient and responsive toolkit. Jeff also hosts a wonderful blog – Utah Water Law and Water Rights - that is a very helpful and timely record of what is happening in the State.
http://utahwaterrights.blogspot.com/.
Steve Jones, CEO of Hansen Allen & Luce, discusses how municipalities can best utilize their water rights portfolio by adopting a mass balance management approach. Mass balance accounting will help municipalities make their water go further, help with regional water planning, and collect the data necessary for creative water management solutions. Very timely and practical topic.
Kevin Mercer of Raingrid talks us through the use of rain barrels as distributed stormwater infrastructure avoiding the need for expensive water treatment services. This is a great free ranging discussion about real solutions to stormwater treatment, More importantly, we discuss the broader water energy nexus and rethinking our approach to water and water systems. A fun time was had by all.
Lily Bosworth of the Colorado River Authority of Utah explains the new 2023 System Conservation Pilot Program (SCPP). SCPP was originally instituted between 2015-2018 to gauge interest in leasing water to aid declining Colorado River flows. As part of the Upper Colorado River Commission’s 5 Point plan, SCPP has been reinstituted for 2023 to assist with acute drought conditions. Super informative and timely!!
Mike Johnson, Chief Legal Counsel for SITLA, talks about the agency’s mission to hold in trust and manage certain State lands for the benefit of public education. SITLA is a major landowner and presence at the center of natural resource management and trends.
Caleb Buahin and Bill Knight of Xylem’s Decision Intelligence Solutions team join us to talk about their work creating digital solutions for water clients. We talk a lot about data aggregation, digital twin technologies, and the increasing ease of using such tools. A really interesting and timely discussion.
Rick Maloy, Water Conservation Manager for Central Utah Water Conservancy District, provides a fascinating deep dive into how States calculate their per capita water use. Spoiler – it is complicated. Rick talks about the three different methodologies, Total Demand, Water Use Reporting, and Consumptive Use Calculations, as well as the various other conditions that make it difficult to get to an apples to apples comparison. Great discussion for debunking some of the water use myths about Utah and setting the stage for a much more nuanced discussion.
Psychologist Ariana Moran talks through her practice of working with clients experiencing climate distress. We end with a much bigger discussion about what it means to be living in a society experiencing a changing and challenging world.
Roger Hansen, retired Bureau of Reclamation Chief Planning Officer and overseer of Canal Operations, talks through the process and considerations for scaling telemetry systems built for large conservancy districts to smaller systems. A helpful primer in a timely matter.
Roger Hansen, retired Bureau of Reclamation Chief Planning Officer and overseer of Canal Operations, talks through the process and considerations for scaling telemetry systems built for large conservancy districts to smaller systems. A helpful primer in a timely matter.
This week we are revisiting an earlier episode that is still highly relevant to today's water discussion. We are looking back on the discussion of episode 52: Cloud Seeding with Charles;Charles Holmgren of Holmgren Farms Inc. (and many other hats) talks about his experience in participating in the State of Utah’s cloud seeding program. A good discussion about the real world impacts and experiences with weather modification.
Harry Seely and Brett Bovee of West Water Research join us to discuss how West Water approaches water rights valuations. We also dip into the topic of market for Ag optimization water
This week we are revisiting an earlier episode that is still highly relevant to today's water discussion. We are looking back on the discussion of episode 22: Hot Springs to the Rescue!;A soothing balm for our turbulent time. Great discussion with Paige Byron Curry on the history, importance, and redevelopment of Astoria Hot Springs - a very special place and reminder of the cultural importance of water.
Monica Hoyt, Shannon Babb, and Nikki Wyman discuss Central Utah Water Conservancy District and Sandy City's numerous water education programs. A fascinating look at the importance of building water knowledge, our state education system, and effective ways to reach the public. Fun and educational.
Bonnie Baxter, professor of Biology and director of the Great Salt Lake Institute at Westminster College, provides a sobering account of the state of the Great Salt Lake. Mandatory listening for understanding the scale and scope of the problem and our very close proximity to ecological collapse. A dire situation but a hopeful call to action.
Mae Stevens, Chair of Banner’s Water Infrastructure Group gives a great breakdown of the ample water funding available under the recently passed Federal Inflation Reduction Act. As always, Mae is a wealth of knowledge and pleasure to talk with
Professor Jason Robison joins us to discuss the latest activities for the Colorado River, including the BOR's recent Tier(2) Shortage Declaration, status of interstate negotiations, and so much more. A must listen
Mayor of Ivins City, Utah, and Washington County Water Conservancy Board Member, Chris Hart joins us to discuss what it is like to facilitate growth in a water tight area. Great discussion about where our water comes from, the role of Cities and Conservancy Districts in providing water, and what the future of Southern Utah might look like.
Barry Gluck walks us through his company’s leak detection technology and its impacts for saving water and informing customers about their water use. Very applicable technology!
This week we are revisiting an earlier episode that is still highly relevant to today's water discussion. We are looking back on the discussion of episode 12: Moving up!; Elesif McDonald breaks down vertical farming in an exciting discussion about agriculture of the future.
Derrek Houtz, CEO and Co-Founder of TerraRad gives a great overview of the history and applications of remote sensing technologies. He also discusses his company's unique microwave sensing abilities to isolate groundwater moisture and review the efficiency of various irrigation technologies. An extremely useful tool for the future.
Jason Lee, Director at Quantified Ventures, discusses the organization's work on water related environmental impact binge structured investments and other innovative financing tools for water projects
Val Fishman, Chief Development Officer of Common Good Water talks us through their innovative implementation of sub-surface drip irrigation systems. By combining infrastructure, ongoing service connections, and corporate sustainability credits Common Good is creating long term water savings for California Central Valley alfalfa farmers and beyond.
Reagan Desmond walks us through the complicated and complex world of the Klamath Basin. From Endangered Species actions, to water quality issues, to drought, the Klamath is a microcosm of the larger water world. Fantastic discussion!!
Wes Sorensen CEO of Novva Data Centers talks us through data centers as utilities, the traditionally large water footprint for such centers, and Novva's unique approach to waterless data centers. A fascinating discussion!
Heather Solee shares her experiences of over 20 years river guiding on the Colorado River. A unique perspective from the ground!
Bill Butcher of Marsing Livestock talks us through his experience farming in Price, Utah, in 2022 and what actions would best help him navigate a changing future. Great discussion with one of my favorite people.
Jake Serago, water resources engineer with the Division of Water Resources, shares with us his passion and knowledge of the Joint Bear River Planning Model. We get a unique glimpse at the possibilities that arise when technology and legal structures combine and how they can help inform water appropriation decisions for a better future
We check back in with Kristan VandenHeuval of The Water Tower in Buford, Georgia, about their innovative campus approach to building the local “water ecosystem.” Through a mix of research, community engagement, and technology investment the Water Tower attracts, trains, and connects local water professionals.
Trevor Neilson, General Manager for the Bear River Canal Company, talks us through BRCC’s 7 million dollar modernization project and the flexibility it will provide to BRCC shareholders in meeting future conditions. Very informative conversation.
This podcast is brought to you by the law firm of Clyde Snow and Sessions, based in Salt Lake City with offices in Oregon and California. For over 65 years Clyde Snow has represented clients throughout the West. Clyde Snow - Serious About Solutions.
Nothing said in this podcast should be taken as providing legal advice or as establishing an attorney-client relationship with you or anyone else.
This Podcast was produced by Andrew Humphries. Listen to Ripple Effect on iTunes, Spotify, or wherever you get your favorite Podcasts. Thank you for listening!
Kristina Ribellia, Founder and President of Western Water Market, gives us an update of their activities over the last year. Kristina fills us in on her new water auction platform designed to facilitate a water bank in Yakima Valley.
This podcast is brought to you by the law firm of Clyde Snow and Sessions, based in Salt Lake City with offices in Oregon and California. For over 65 years Clyde Snow has represented clients throughout the West. Clyde Snow - Serious About Solutions.
Nothing said in this podcast should be taken as providing legal advice or as establishing an attorney-client relationship with you or anyone else.
This Podcast was produced by Andrew Humphries. Listen to Ripple Effect on iTunes, Spotify, or wherever you get your favorite Podcasts. Thank you for listening!
TJ Budge, Attorney with Racine Olson discusses conjunctive management of the Eastern Snake Plain Aquifer and the Snake River. A very informative discussion about what Idaho has done to be out in front of the conjunctive management issue.
This podcast is brought to you by the law firm of Clyde Snow and Sessions, based in Salt Lake City with offices in Oregon and California. For over 65 years Clyde Snow has represented clients throughout the West. Clyde Snow - Serious About Solutions.
Nothing said in this podcast should be taken as providing legal advice or as establishing an attorney-client relationship with you or anyone else. Thank you for listening!
Matt Olsen, Assistant General Manager of Jordan Valley Water Conservancy District, explains how Jordan Valley learned to use their special powers as water providers to influence water wise land use planning. A very informative and practical discussion.
This podcast is brought to you by the law firm of Clyde Snow and Sessions, based in Salt Lake City with offices in Oregon and California. For over 65 years Clyde Snow has represented clients throughout the West. Clyde Snow - Serious About Solutions.
Nothing said in this podcast should be taken as providing legal advice or as establishing an attorney-client relationship with you or anyone else. Thank you for listening!
Miles Hansen CEO and President of the World Trade Center Utah, discusses what the WTC does, and how it promotes Utah businesses abroad. Great discussion about adaptation and possibility.
This podcast is brought to you by the law firm of Clyde Snow and Sessions, based in Salt Lake City with offices in Oregon and California. For over 65 years Clyde Snow has represented clients throughout the West. Clyde Snow - Serious About Solutions.
Nothing said in this podcast should be taken as providing legal advice or as establishing an attorney-client relationship with you or anyone else. Thank you for listening!
A collaborative discussion with Dr. Perry Cabot of Colorado State University, Aaron Derwingson of The Nature Conservancy's Colorado River Program, and Paul Bruchez, Farmer and Member of the Colorado Water Conservation Board discuss their large-scale depletion accounting pilot project. We discuss the role of Open ET satellite imaging to determine actual evaporative losses from crops as well as on-going on-farm mitigation and operational studies to promote farm health in the face of water shortage and drought.
This podcast is brought to you by the law firm of Clyde Snow and Sessions, based in Salt Lake City with offices in Oregon and California. For over 65 years Clyde Snow has represented clients throughout the West. Clyde Snow - Serious About Solutions.
Nothing said in this podcast should be taken as providing legal advice or as establishing an attorney-client relationship with you or anyone else. Thank you for listening!
Tara Vander Dussen, Co-Owner of Elevate Ag., walks us through the operations and regulatory state for running a commercial dairy. We also discuss the need for effective story telling and communication about the importance of agriculture and building a broader understanding for its role in the water community.
A great discussion with Nicola Lei Ravello, Responsible Investment Analyst of White Stag Investing. A continuation of our conversation on water in financial markets.
To listen to our other episodes on this topic check out:
Ripple Effect 85: ESG Reporting and WaterRipple Effect 70: Corporate Water Stewardship
Free roaming discussion with Todd Votteler (Editor-in-Chief, Texas Water Journal, Host of Talk + Water Podcast, Owner of Collaborative Water Resolution) about the initiation of Texas's review of water banking and water marketing programs. Todd provides some interesting insights into the complexity of Texas groundwater laws and the history of the Edwards Aquifer. A good working dialogue about unpacking what it means to create a "water market."
Matthew Howard, Vice President of Water Stewardship at The Water Council, talks us through coming ESG reporting requirements for publicly traded companies, the Water Council’s WAVE program, and the importance of third party verification. A great discussion the water community should be following and paying attention to.
Nathan Bracken and Peter Gessel of Smith Hartvigsen review the 2022 Utah Legislative Session. We discuss several key bills affecting the Great Salt Lake, activity on Utah Lake, and several other bills affecting water in the state. A timely and topical conversation!
To listen to episodes mentioned in this conversation check out:
Episode 25: Navigating Our Way - Fred Donaldson of the Utah Attorney General’s Office walks us through the State of Utah’s claim to and contemporary management of submerged sovereign lands.
Episode 50: Drought Triage - Kelly Kopp, Professor and Extension Specialist in the Plants, Soils & Climate department at Utah State University, shares her extensive knowledge about landscape water conservation and water-wise plants and practices.
Dr. Michael Stanley Gallisdorfer, applied physical geographer, walks us through the effect access to water has had on the Russia-Ukraine conflict in the past and it's application to the recent invasion of Ukraine.
Dr. Anjali Mulchandani, Assistant Professor at University of New Mexico and leader of their Water and Environmental Resource Sustainability Group, walks us through what atmospheric water harvesting is, how it works, where it works, and the potential it holds for the future. A fascinating discussion!
To check out more of Anajli's work visit her Google Scholar profile page here.
Great discussion with Graham Gilbert, Partner at Parsons Behle & Latimer, about the bread and butter of a water law practice. We discuss the wide variety of topics a water lawyer interacts with and the joy of working in a collegiate and challenging area of law.
Great discussion with Scott Bergendorf about his role as the Provo River Commissioner . We discuss the brass tacks of water distribution as well as barriers and opportunities for addressing distribution challenges. Very helpful discussion about a key element of Utah water law and management.
Niel Allen, Professor Emeritus and Matt Yost, Agro-Climate Extension Specialist and Director of Crops at Utah State University, give us an update on the Utah Agricultural Water Optimization Task Force. We talk through some of the Tasks Force's findings and preliminary recommendations. We also discuss the Utah Department of Agriculture and Food's Ag. Water Optimization grant funding opportunities.
To listen to Matt Yost's first episode of Ripple Effect check out Episode 63.
To learn more information about Eddy Covariance Towers check out Episode 36.
Check out the Task Force Website here and learn more about the Water Optimization Program here.
Colt Smith of the Utah Division of Drinking Water provides an extremely useful overview of public water supplier regulations. A very, very informative and engaging discussion!
This week we are revisiting an earlier episode that is still highly relevant to today's water discussion. We are looking back on the discussion of episode 14: Power for the People; Sorenson Engineering walks us through the benefits, considerations, and potential for small hydroelectric facilities in canal and distribution systems.
Taylor Hawes, Colorado River Program Director at the Nature Conservancy, and Amy McCoy, AMP Insights, join us to discuss their work on the recently published Ten Strategies for Climate Resilience in the Colorado River Basin. Great discussion on concrete actions for resiliency.
Jeff DenBleyker of Jacobs Engineering joins Emily Lewis to discuss highlights from 2021 and trends and themes for 2022.
More information on topics talked about in this episode can be found in the previous episodes below:
Matt Yost - Episode 66: Agricultural Efficiencies
Moleaer - Episode 61: Nanobubbles Will Blow Your Mind!
Tia Cavendar, Founder and CEO of Dig Deep Research walks us through her company’s proprietary process of matching local water suppliers with grant funding opportunities. By taking a holistic look at a water supplier’s funding needs and grant opportunities Dig Deep makes sustainable funding plans for its clients. A seriously helpful service!
This week we are revisiting an earlier episode that is still highly relevant to today's water discussion. We are looking back on the discussion of episode 48: Resilience Through Groundwater Banking. James Bodnar, Water Transfers and Exchanges Program Manager at the Metropolitan Water District of Southern California, breaks down Metro’s innovative use of groundwater banking to provide urban resiliency in times of drought. A great discussion about the need for collaborative and creative efforts between agricultural and urban communities. This is a template to explore and copy across the West.
This week we are revisiting an earlier episode that is still highly relevant to today's water discussion. We are looking back on the discussion of episode 45: Meeting the Moment. Orianna Bretschger from Aquacycl talks about distributed infrastructure and her modular on-site waste water treatment system. A riveting conversation about bio-chemical reactions, the healthy role of capitalism, how to make a difference, and what is needed to make the future now.
Matthew Shapiro, of rPlus Energies, talks us through pumped energy storage projects, their role in the renewable energy portfolio, and key considerations for getting a project completed. Great discussion about a timely activity!
This week we are revisiting an earlier episode that is still highly relevant to today's water discussion. We are looking back on the discussion of episode 11: The Future of Water Distribution with Jay Humphrey of Emery Water Conservancy District and Amy Green from the Rural Water Technology Alliance. They unpack what it takes to measure and monitor a large scale distribution system. This is the future - a must listen.
Assemblyman Howard Watts of the Nevada Assembly talks about Assembly Bill 356 and his work with the Southern Nevada Water Authority to remove non-functional grass. Great discussion about a useful and impactful program!
Heather Tanana, Assistant Research Professor and Wallace Stegner Center Fellow at the S.J. Quinney College of Law at the University of Utah, Associate Faculty at Johns Hopkins Center for American Indian Health, walks us through the exciting funding opportunities for Indian Country under the recently passed bipartisan infrastructure bill. Heather brings fantastic professional and personal insights to the discussion. Great listen!
Click here for the full report of Recommendations for Operational, Administrative, Policy, and Regulatory Reform; Universal Access to Clean Water for Tribes.
Cora Kammeyer, Senior Researcher at the Pacific Institute, talks us through her organization's work to implement the UN's CEO Water Mandate. Great discussion on the state of corporate water stewardship and next phases in a changing world.
Marcelle Shoop, Saline Lakes Program Director for the National Audubon Society, brings welcome news of legal efforts to find a means of bringing water to the Great Salt Lake.
The National Audubon Society with working partners Rio Tinto Kennecott, Central Utah Water Conservancy District, Division of Wildlife Resources, received authorization to bring almost 20,000 acre feet of water to the Lake.
Shelby Smith, Master's Candidate at the UCSB Bren School of Environmental Science & Management, walks us through her recent research for The Nature Conservancy’s Colorado River Program about the state of regenerative agriculture and its impact on water conservation. A great discussion identifying the gaps in what we do and don’t know about a promising practice, and ideas on the next steps forward.
Ralph Wurbs, Professor of Civil and Environmental Engineering at Texas A&M University discusses the State's Water Rights Analysis Package ("WRAP") modeling system. Ralph dives into the many ways the state of Texas uses one statewide modeling program to both inform state water resources planning and water permit management. An extremely useful tool!
Fascinating discussion with James R. May, Distinguished Professor of Law at Widener University of Delaware, unpacking the components of what it means to recognize environmental rights. Great look at rethinking the function of our democracy to recognize and promote an innate right to a clean and healthy environment and a stable climate, and whether nature itself can possess rights. A good brain scrubber of a talk.
Joseph Dellapenna, former Professor of Law at the Charles Widger School of Law at Villanova, current visiting Professor of Law at Beijing University in their school of national law, talks us through the history and application of Riparian water rights doctrine.
Lewis Heaton of the North Dakota Grazing Land Coalition speaks with us about his association's practices for bringing modern grazing methods to North Dakota and alternative revenue streams for grazing operations.
Matt Yost, Assistant Professor, Agroclimate Extension Specialist, of Utah State University, gives a great breakdown of contemporary agricultural efficiency tools and techniques. He talks us through several different kinds of irrigation techniques as well as modern management and operations procedures. Agricultural efficiency is a key goal of western water policy and this is a fantastic brass tacks discussion of what that looks like on the ground.
Shay Myers of Owyhee Produce walks us through a contemporary agricultural process, including what keeps him up at night and what needs to happen for a brighter future. Great listen with an engaging guest!
Wow, wow, wow. This episode is a MUST LISTEN. Nick Dyner, CEO of Moleaer discusses his fascinating nanobubble technology and its applications in both the agricultural and municipal water sphere. This is a solution of the future we need to start applying today.
Shan Arora walks us through the exciting Kendeda Building for Innovative Sustainable Design at Georgia Tech. The Kendeda Building is part of the Living Building Challenge and designed to be net positive in terms of its relationship with the environment. To address a rapidly degrading environment, society needs to embrace bold and innovate solutions – the Kendeda Building is just that.
Visit livingbuilding.gatech.edu for video tours and more information about the Kendeda Building.
A great free-ranging discussion with Robert Glennon (Regents Professor Emeritus at the University of Arizona, Chair of the Morris K. Udall Professor of Law & Public Policy Emeritus, and author of "Unquenchable: America's Water Crisis and What To Do About It,") about barriers and opportunities within Western Water Law. Prof. Glennon brings decades of experience and perspective to a really fun, slightly wonky, discourse about the state of water and how to move forward. Parting words – don’t despair – the water community is creative, innovative, and up for the challenge.
Todd Reeve of the Bonneville Environmental Foundation walks us through the group’s efforts to connect corporate partners with water conservation projects. It’s a great look into leveraging “win-win” scenarios that promote corporate sustainability goals and produce real wet water results. Great discussion with an innovative enterprise.
Candice Hasenyager, Deputy Director of the Utah Division of Water Resources gives us an overview of Utah’s extreme drought conditions. It's real, it's nasty, and moving the water conversation forward. Great and timely listen.
Mae Stevens of the Signal Water Group returns for a great discussion about the status of federal water funding and the many opportunities presented under the Biden Administration. There is a lot going on so hold your hats!
Colter DeVries - Ranch Investor Podcast, Professional Ranch Management, Broker MT WY CO, talks us through land use transitions in the Western United States and the impacts of the Covid-19 Pandemic on Ranching communities. Colter also talks about the future of tokenization of Ranch Properties and the potential for block-chain technologies to play a role in monetizing and tracking ranch assets.
Pulling from their decades of experience, David Pilz and Andrew Purkey of AMP Insights, provide a brass tacks discussion about what is needed to translate interest into a successful local water market. We cover the basic considerations, conditions, and context AMP Insights uses to assess partner goals, local market activity, and drivers when designing impactful water transactions. A rich and useful discussion for the water community.
Emily E. Lewis has a great discussion about what is, what can be, and what is next! Whitney Ward, Principal at VCBO Architecture, walks us through the LEED Certification process and how our built environment impacts our water footprint. They dive into specific ways society can design buildings that are both functional and make the best of use of water and other limited resources.
Charles Holmgren of Holmgren Farms Inc. (and many other hats) talks about his experience in participating in the State of Utah’s cloud seeding program. A good discussion about the real world impacts and experiences with weather modification.
Fraser McLeod, general water guru, provides a riveting discussion of how the Murray-Darling Basin approached their water scarcity issues and created one of the world’s most developed water markets. For the second half of the discussion Fraser talks through his most recent venture, WaterLedger, as a blockchain tool for facilitating water market activity. Great discussion with an expert in many water fields!
Kelly Kopp, Professor and Extension Specialist in the Plants, Soils & Climate department at Utah State University, shares her extensive knowledge about landscape water conservation and water-wise plants and practices. The discussion runs the gambit from cutting edge research into drought tolerant turf grass and landscape ecosystem services to what you can do right now to conserve water and ease the impacts of drought (hint don’t overwater your grass – it doesn’t need and the savings makes a big impact on our water footprint).
Cora Kammeyer of the Pacific Institute walks us through the new California Water Futures Market. We break down what it is, how it functions, and what its impact might be on the water community. A must listen!
James Bodnar, Water Transfers and Exchanges Program Manager at the Metropolitan Water District of Southern California, breaks down Metro’s innovative use of groundwater banking to provide urban resiliency in times of drought. A great discussion about the need for collaborative and creative efforts between agricultural and urban communities. This is a template to explore and copy across the West.
A year after the beginning of the COVID pandemic, Emily sits down with Laura Briefer, Director of the Salt Lake City Department of Public Utilities, for a look back over 2020. Laura provides some great insights on lessons learned, surprising discoveries, and a stronger path forward for Salt Lake City utilities.
A fantastic talk with Alex Loucopoulos of Sciens Water, an alternative asset management firm. Alex breaks down the need for capital investment in mid-level water infrastructure and projects. This is a great look at how a private ownership model can address critical water needs.
Orianna Bretschger from Aquacycl talks about distributed infrastructure and her modular on-site waste water treatment system. A riveting conversation about bio-chemical reactions, the healthy role of capitalism, how to make a difference, and what is needed to make the future now.
A must listen again! Tony Parrott, CEO, and Sharise Horn, Director of Community Benefits and Partnerships from the Louisville & Jefferson County Sewer District give us a GREAT overview of their recruitment, retention, and procurement policies. Their plan is both pragmatic and progressive and one to model to create a utility that is inclusive, forward thinking, and built for the conditions of today. Great conversation with leaders in the field.
Jesse Clark of Stream Landscape Architecture and Planning talks us through his many projects and the importance of urban stream health and creative storm water solutions. Great discussion about the importance of many small positive actions.
In a companion episode to our Bonnie Baxter talk, Jaimi Butler of the Great Salt Lake Institute takes us back the Great Salt Lake and unpack one more layer of this fascinating jewel of an inland sea.
This is a recipe for success. Kristan VandenHeuval of The Water Tower in Buford, Georgia, walks us through their "ecosystem of innovation." Kristan and her team are building a novel and impactful approach to supporting smaller scale utilities and helping the surrounding communities succeed.
THIS IS A MUST LISTEN conversation with Bonnie Baxter, Professor of Biology and Director of the Great Salt Lake Institute at Westminster College. Bonnie talks about several key Institute programs, including their partnership with NASA to explore microbial links between the Great Salt Lake and Mars. Be prepared to stretch your mind.
Diane Menuz, Wetland Coordinator with Utah Geologic Survey discusses the importance of wetlands and her role in mapping. assessing, and understanding Utah's wetland environments. Great context for why and how information about wetlands can be used to inform decision making.
Dan Haller of Aspect Consulting takes us through Washington's Trust Water Rights Program and how water banking works on the ground in the state. Great discussion with many parallels to our efforts in Utah.
A MUST listen fast paced talk with Jason Robison, Professor and Writer of all things Colorado River. Jason gives a fantastic overview of the history of the Colorado River Compact, various highlights and key pieces of the Law of the River, where we are going and what to expect. Jason brings a wonderful perspective from his "confluence" of study of water law, western land use, and tribal issues. A great primer and jumping off place for those interested in Colorado issues. We will have Jason back!
Paul Inkenbrandt walks us through the role of the Utah Geologic Survey, some of the State's groundwater monitoring measures, and UGS's burgeoning Eddy Covariance Tower system. Great discussion of the "on the ground" and below the ground activities in the State.
Keith Larson and Thayne Clark of Bowen Collins bring it home with a great discussion on the Bear River Project and the role of conservation on informing and potentially delaying the need for large scale infrastructure projects. Great discussion with two incredibly knowledgeable individuals. Watch their Great Salt Lake Advisory Council Presentation from 9.9.2020 here. And, check out the Great Salt Lake Advisory Council Conservation Impacts Study here.
Great discussion with Kristina Ribellia, Founder and Chief Operations Director of Western Water Market. We discuss gaps in the water market and how to build a platform that is useful for water users, professionals, and western water market knowledge.
A good discussion with Todd Walton, Executive Director of Winter Wildlands Alliance, about watershed protection from a very different and unexpected angle. We discuss the importance of organizational effectiveness.
Ted Knowlton, Deputy Director of the Wasatch Front Regional Council, walks us through the complex and critical work of the WFRC. He highlights the need for integrated planning as necessary for building our best communities. Water, transportation, and community character all play a role in designing the Utah of the future.
Energetic discussion with Mae Stevens, Executive Vice President and Chair of Signal Water Group. Mae walks us through the contemporary history of federal funding for water projects (spoiler steep decline), water funding trends, and what to look out for under a new Biden Administration. Importantly, she reminds us the need for citizens to call their representatives and request federal support of water projects.
GREAT discussion with Devin McKrola from Central Utah Water Conservancy District breaking down the Wasatch County Water Efficiency Project. This truly is an amazing project with so many benefits to the citizens of Utah. Plus we get to water dork out about the Morse Decree!
Dave Skuodas from the Mile High Flood District discusses the unique way his agency tackles urban stream challenges and mitigates flooding impacts. As a “placemaker” the District’s multi-disciplinary approach protects people and property while turning urban stream environments into inviting spaces to gather and engage with nature and the community. Really cool projects and a good discussion.
Brian Jackson of the Environmental Defense Fund walks us through Colorado’s Constitutional Amendment DD and how taxing sports betting has become a new revenue source for water projects. Who knew the pandemic would make table tennis the highest grossing sport for betting – weird and strange times.
Fantastic and timely discussion with Dr. Danya Rumore, Director of the Wallace Stegner Center’s Environmental Dispute Resolution Program. Dr. Rumore discusses the need for collaborative efforts to resolve complicated problems and how to move toward a shared vision for the future.
Crystal Simons of the American Conservation Experience discusses the importance and function of conservation easements as a means of private land conservation and potential applications to the water field.
Fred Donaldson of the Utah Attorney General’s Office walks us through the State of Utah’s claim to and contemporary management of submerged sovereign lands.
Steve Clyde and Emily Lewis break down 2020 Constitutional Amendment D – Municipal Water Rights. Learn what the proposed amendment does and why it gives much needed flexibility to our municipal suppliers.
Great discussion with Sarah Shechter Assistant Utah Attorney General unpacking the significance and substance of Utah’s Water Rights General Adjudication process.
A soothing balm for our turbulent time. Great discussion with Paige Byron Curry on the history, importance, and redevelopment of Astoria Hot Springs - a very special place and reminder of the cultural importance of water.
Soren Simonsen, Executive Director of the Jordan River Commission, discusses the importance of vibrant urban water ways and the Commission’s efforts to revitalize the Jordan River corridor.
Chris Peacock Founder and CEO of AquaOso Technology breaks down his water risk platform and how it is paving the way for better decision making and collaboration. A MUST listen.
Erica Gaddis breaks down her role as the Director of the Utah Division of Water Quality and the Division's top priorities for the future. Low impact development, nutrient plans, and wastewater treatment upgrades all play a critical role in protecting the State's waters.
A discussion with Emily Lewis, Utah Water Banking Project Manager, about the Utah Water Banking Project and state wide water marketing report. This educational discussion is intended to inform water users about the status of the project and initial considerations for thinking about potentially developing a water bank in your area.
Laura Ault, Utah Shared Stewardship Coordinator, walks us through current efforts to transform how Utah manages its forest health in key watersheds. This new model moves us toward the goal of integrated inter-agency management and could serve as blueprint for how to manage other connected areas of the water sector.
A talk with Mike Luers of the Snyderville Basin Reclamation District regarding water reclamation and reuse. Interesting tidbits about fish on Prozac and re-framing the narrative on waste water.
A lively discussion with Eric Vogeler about block chain technologies and how they might apply in water concert and assist the future of water management.
Fantastic discussion with Sorenson Engineering on the benefits, considerations, and potential for small hydroelectric facilities in canal and distribution systems.
A discussion with Paul Burnett of Trout Unlimited unpacking the structure and multifaceted benefits of an instream flow project.
Elesif McDonald breaks down vertical farming in an exciting discussion about agriculture of the future.
A discussion with Jay Humphrey of Emery Water Conservancy District and Amy Green from the Rural Water Technology Alliance unpacking what it takes to measure and monitor a large scale distribution system. This is the future - a must listen.
A discussion with Jeff Davis regarding aquifer storage and recovery projects. Can they help Utah meet its complex growth and demand patterns?
A compliment to Episode 8, an in-depth discussion with Seth Arens of the Western Water Assessment breaking down climate models and executing stakeholder climate/drought planning. Get your science hat on and let’s get to work!
Brian McInerney, recently retired Hydrologist for the National Weather Service, breaks down climate projections for Utah, his work with the Utah Climate Project, and the importance of including objective climate science in water management and planning.
Emily Lewis sits down with John Crandall - Managing Director of Stifel's Public Finance Team and return guest Laura Briefer - Director of SLC Department of Public Utilities. A timely and informative episode on the impacts of COVID-19 disruptions for municipal water rates and water infrastructure funding.
A discussion with Bret Bovee of WestWater Research about the mechanics of water markets and considerations for increasing water market activity. Extremely informative and timely!
Utah Agricultural Water Optimization Task Force – A discussion with Rep. Tim Hawkes and Jeff DenBleyker of Jacobs Engineering on the formation, purpose, and practices of the Task Force. Highlights include why focusing on agricultural water efficiencies is critical to solving Utah’s water growing water demand and how to make those practices benefit local producers.
A discussion with Joan Card at Culp & Kelly regarding the history and significance of the final Waters of the United States Rule.
Hannah Follender and Jon Clyde join the discussion to talk about Utah’s new and growing cannabis industry and the nexus with federal water projects.
Salt Lake City Department of Public Utilities Director Laura Briefer discusses the scale and scope of Salt Lake City Department of Public Utilities. We also discuss the core principles informing her leadership of the Department and priorities for 21st century municipal supplier.
The heart of the Bear River Canal Company system has been in operation since the late 1880s. BRCC representatives Curtis Marble and Trevor Nielson discuss Company history, coming challenges, and opportunities for the future.