As the need for sustainable water management becomes increasingly critical, developing the next generation of leaders is paramount.

One promising solution is the Colorado Water Fellows Program, which connects students with water issues and equips them with practical experience.

In this episode, Jessica Thrasher, Water Equity Programs Leader at the Colorado Water Center, discusses bringing together students from various majors to gain a holistic understanding of water management.

She highlights the importance of diversity in backgrounds and perspectives in addressing water challenges, and the role of hands-on experiences and internships in preparing students for careers in the water sector. Jessica also covers the program's expansion and its contributions to a more equitable and informed water workforce.

This episode is part of the Color Of Water series, a collaboration between waterloop and the Water Hub that features interviews with diverse experts from communities across the country.

Communities along the Mississippi River face numerous challenges from natural disasters such as floods, hurricanes, and droughts.

This episode explores how adopting nature-based solutions can bolster resilience against these impacts.

Mayor Errick Simmons of Greenville, Mississippi, shares insights into his community's efforts and the collaborative initiatives of the Mississippi River Cities and Towns Initiative.

Simmons discusses the environmental and economic benefits of implementing nature-based infrastructure, such as floodplain reconnections and marsh restoration. He also highlights the importance of equitable strategies that support the community and foster corporate responsibility.

The conversation covers innovative funding models involving carbon credits and the reinsurance industry, emphasizing the need for sustainable and long-lasting solutions to protect communities along the river.

waterloop is a nonprofit news outlet. The Mississippi By Nature series is supported by the Walton Family Foundation and outfitted by Patagonia.

Floodplain reconnection has emerged as a crucial solution to mitigating flooding, improving water quality, and supporting biodiversity along the Mississippi River corridor.

In this episode, Chris Rice of The Nature Conservancy discusses the restoration of Mollicy Farms, the largest floodplain reconnection project ever undertaken in the U.S.

Chris explains the extensive efforts involved in breaching levees, planting millions of trees, and reestablishing natural water flows to revive the 25-square mile floodplain along the Ouachita River in Louisiana.

The conversation highlights the significant environmental and community benefits of restoring such areas, including floodwater storage, habitat creation, and water filtration.

Additionally, Chris delves into the partnerships and challenges encountered throughout the project, providing insights into how similar initiatives can be implemented elsewhere.

waterloop is a nonprofit news outlet. The Mississippi By Nature series is supported by the Walton Family Foundation and outfitted by Patagonia.