Cold weather can pose unique challenges for on-site wastewater systems—but with the right preparation, problems can be prevented before they start. In this episode, host Anthony Craven is joined by Jason Barrett, Associate Professor with the Mississippi State University Extension Service and Director of the Mississippi Water Resources Research Institute, to discuss best practices for maintaining on-site wastewater systems during the coldest months of the year. Listeners will gain practical, research-based tips to help protect systems from freezing temperatures, ensure continued performance, and avoid costly wintertime issues.

This episode explores the growing energy and water demands of data centers as artificial intelligence is driving rapid expansion across the country. The discussion highlights how AI-focused data centers differ from traditional facilities, why their electricity and water use is increasing, and what this means for small and rural communities. The conversation also explores how local governments and small water systems can prepare when data centers move into their region.

This episode is hosted by Danish Kumar, Climate Change Program Manager at The University of Maryland Environmental Finance Center, with with energy expert Dr. Rakesh Radhakrishnan.

Small water systems are struggling to keep up with compliance and rising costs. In this episode, we explore how new policy tools, partnerships, and restructuring can unlock solutions for the future. This episode is hosted by Danish Kumar, Climate Change Program Manager at The University of Maryland Environmental Finance Center, with Ellen Kohler, Director of Applied Research and Policy at The Water Center at the University of Pennsylvania.

In this episode, we talk with Dr. Clare Pace (PhD, MPH) a postdoctoral researcher for the University of California, Berkeley Water Equity Science Shop (WESS). Dr. Pace shares insights about PFAS for small and rural water systems. Starting with the basics, we discuss what PFAS are, where they come from, known and unknown health risks, the current PFAS regulatory landscape for water and wastewater systems in the United States, and advice for water systems and policymakers who are thinking about PFAS.

What happens behind the scenes to ensure clean, safe water leaves our communities? In this episode, host Anthony Craven talks with Dr. Jason Barrett, Director of the Mississippi Water Resources Research Institute at Mississippi State University, and Eric Williams, Senior Project Manager at the MWRRI, about the municipal wastewater permitting process. Together, they break down why permits matter, how the process works, and the critical role it plays in protecting public health and the environment.

Aging pipes, outdated meter reading systems, and strained budgets are putting more pressure than ever on our nation’s water utilities. In this episode, host Anthony Craven sits down with Eric Williams, Senior Project Manager with the Mississippi Water Resources Research Institute at Mississippi State University, and Dr. Jason Barrett, MWRRI Director, to unpack the biggest challenges facing utilities today. From infrastructure upgrades to modern billing technologies, they explore what’s at stake and how communities can prepare for a more resilient water future.

Changing weather patterns and climate are putting new pressure on septic systems. From rising groundwater to more frequent flooding, many communities are already seeing the impacts. In this episode, Dr. Andrew Lazur and Dr. Allison Reilly explore how climate change is affecting septic system performance, the public health risks that come with system failures, and practical steps homeowners and local leaders can take to prepare for the future. The conversation also covers options for upgrading systems, connecting to centralized sewer, and building long-term community preparedness with a data-driven approach.

In this second episode of a two-part series, University professor and water quality expert Kerry Howe and Ryan Magee, technical assistance provider at the Southwest Environmental Finance Center, continue their conversation about the meaning behind the term water quality as it applies to public water systems. From turbidity to different types of source water to chlorination, Kerry helps clarify how water systems use various layers of treatment to ensure that the water coming out of a tap is safe for public consumption. If you haven't listened to Episode 1, it was published on August 26, 2025, and can be found here: https://open.spotify.com/episode/0wb18ZmRAedU1VnBQR1FXs