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Caldwell Protects Mississippi's Youngest Citizens Through Safe Water Program
For Wade Caldwell, a love of nature sparked an early appreciation for water as a vital resource. Today, that passion drives his work as an extension associate with the Water Resources Research Institute at Mississippi State University, where he supports SipSafe—a program dedicated to ensuring safe drinking water for children.
Funded by the Environmental Protection Agency and administered in Mississippi by the MSU Extension Service, SipSafe provides free water screening at eligible schools and childcare facilities. The goal: reduce lead exposure in children from birth to age five.
"Every living thing needs water, and every facet of the world uses water in some way," said Caldwell, who holds a degree in Wildlife, Fisheries and Aquaculture from MSU. "This job has opened my eyes to just how essential safe drinking water is—and how important it is to monitor its quality."
Caldwell has traveled to nearly every county in Mississippi collecting samples for SipSafe. At each site, he identifies spots where young children may interact with water—classroom sinks, kitchen taps, bathroom faucets, janitor closets, even outdoor spigots—and transports those samples to the Mississippi State Chemical Laboratory (MSCL) for analysis.
Once lab results are in, SipSafe provides reports and helps staff interpret the findings. The program also assists water utilities across the state, helping them meet EPA lead testing requirements.
To date, nearly 90% of tested water has fallen well below the EPA's action level of 15 parts per billion. For facilities with elevated levels, SipSafe offers practical strategies to bring them into compliance. This year, the program expanded to include a remediation component, helping cover the cost of replacing old, lead-containing fixtures.
While much of Caldwell's work is technical, he says communication has become just as important—especially when working with schools and childcare centers.
"Talking to people every day used to feel intimidating, but now it's second nature," Caldwell said. "The people I meet care deeply about the children they serve. That shared purpose makes the work incredibly meaningful."
From the field to the lab to the classroom, Caldwell's commitment is helping protect Mississippi's youngest citizens—one sample at a time.
The Water Resources Research Institute at Mississippi State University is a leader in addressing critical water and land use challenges. Collaborating with leading water resources officials, the institute develops innovative research solutions that benefit Mississippi, the region and the nation. Learn more about the institute at www.wrri.msstate.edu.
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