Dr. Linda Weavers Moderates a Panel Discussion at the Second Annual Community Engagement Conference

The Ohio State Community Engagement Conference: Partnering for a Resilient and Sustainable Future, held January 23-24 had an attendance of over 500 researchers, extension agents, and community partners. Dr. Linda Weavers, Ohio Water Resources Center co-director, moderated a panel on water which featured David Rankin, Executive Director of the Great Lakes Protection Fund, Ken Heigel, Assistant Executive Director of the Ohio Water Development Authority, and Robert Davis, Director of City of Cleveland Department of Public Utilities. David Rankin highlighted the value yet uneven distribution of freshwater. Ken Heigel impressed upon us that many counties in Ohio have declining population causing challenges with managing water assets and maintaining affordability. Robert Davis talked about Cleveland’s participation in the US Water Alliance and Cleveland’s efforts on water equity. Ohio has myriad water challenges that many of us are researching with an aim to find solutions. Fortunately, we also have dedicated water stakeholders in Ohio that provide partnership opportunities, potentially increasing the impact of research results. Let us know if we can help make connections for your next research project!