News

Summer is a season of growth and opportunity

Jason Barrett

By: Jason R. Barrett
WRRI Director

Summertime is go-time for the Water Resources Research Institute at Mississippi State University.

Throughout the summer, many WRRI employees are in crop fields conducting research on agricultural plots and working with producers to monitor the growth and production of rice, soybeans, cotton and corn.

This edition of WATERMARKS reflects the crop science we're advancing through MSU's research partnerships, as well as the training and hands-on experience we provide for new generations of researchers. Through their focus on sustainable irrigation, they're helping farmers improve crop yields using less water—a combination that benefits the agricultural industry and the environment.

Summer is also a high-usage time for water utilities, both large and small, that serve communities throughout Mississippi.

WRRI has a long history of providing financial, technical and managerial assistance to communities looking to upgrade their water and wastewater infrastructure. This year, we're adding a second senior project manager to expand our capabilities in this critical area and ensure that communities are served by safe, reliable and sustainable water systems.

We're also ramping up our role in the utility realm with the passage of Senate Bill 2526, which created the Mississippi Rural Water Oversight Committee. As an appointee of Lt. Gov. Delbert Hosemann, I began working with the new committee on July 1 to help monitor the financial and operational health of rural water associations across Mississippi.

Ultimately, the committee is focused on making sure that customers receive high levels of service, quality and reliability, along with higher levels of accountability from their utility providers.

Having a seat at the table speaks to the leadership and expertise that WRRI is known for throughout the state. It's also a reminder that when it comes to water resources, Mississippi can always count on WRRI for practical strategies and solutions.

View More News