© 2025 Iowa Public Radio
Play Live Radio
Next Up:
0:00
0:00
0:00 0:00
Available On Air Stations

Last year's drought could have massive effects on water quality this year

Ways To Subscribe
River to River, hosted by Ben Kieffer

Former research engineer Chris Jones warns last year's drought could have a massive impact on water quality this year. On this River to River, host Ben Kieffer speaks with Jones about his water quality concerns and Jones answers listener questions.

Then, Montezuma was among few cities that regained power not long after the 2020 Derecho hit, but their backup system ran on diesel, an expensive energy source with harmful emissions. A new ISU project would create a system that is more sustainable and affordable while maintaining its resilience.

Kieffer speaks with associate professor Zhaoyu Wang and Montezuma Municipal Light and Power superintendent about what this project means for rural communities across the state.

Guests:

  • Chris Jones, former research engineer, Iowa Institute of Hydraulic Research — Hydroscience and Engineering, author of The Swine Republic
  • Zhaoyu Wang, associate professor of electrical and computer engineering, Iowa State University
  • Kevin Kudart, superintendent, Montezuma Municipal Light and Power
Ben Kieffer is the host of IPR's River to River
Dani Gehr is a talk show producer for Iowa Public Radio. She holds a bachelor's degree from Iowa State University. Since 2022, Gehr has worked with IPR's talk team to bring news and features to IPR's listening audience.