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In Mississippi, Water is Everybody's Business

In Mississippi, Water is Everybody

By: Dr. Jason Barrett, associate Extension professor and interim director of the Mississippi Water Resources Research Institute at Mississippi State University

As a water-rich state, Mississippi has much to be thankful for—and much to protect and preserve. In WATERMARKS, you'll learn about the work being done by the Water Resources Research Institute to nurture Mississippi's most important natural resource.

In the state named for North America's largest river, our water defines us. The fertile alluvial valley created by the Mississippi River sustains our largest industry—agriculture. Water has supported lives and livelihoods through the centuries, and looking to the future, we must ensure that all Mississippians have access to a safe, sustainable water supply.

That's why water is at the heart of everything we do. As one of 54 institutes established by Congress in 1964, we're charged with administering and coordinating research programs involving water and related resources for the Magnolia State.

In simpler terms, we help solve problems. From improving irrigation systems to testing for lead in drinking water, the institute delivers research-based, practical information for the public while teaching and training the next generation of scientists.

As part of the Agriculture, Forestry, and Veterinary Medicine division, we're also advancing Mississippi State's three-part mission of education, research and extension—and providing opportunities for students and faculty to lead our world into the future.

In the first issue of WATERMARKS, you'll hear about initiatives we're spearheading and the experts on our team who are making sure that communities throughout Mississippi benefit from our services.

You'll also gain insights to how we're advancing research in critical areas and using technology and innovation to improve water-management systems and practices.

Thanks for taking the time to get to know us. We'd like to hear from you, too! If you have questions or suggestions for future newsletter topics, drop me a line at Jason.Barrett@msstate.edu.

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