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Mobile Irrigation Lab.

MSU scientists developing tools that help farmers improve irrigation, energy efficiency

Research is showing how Michigan growers can save money, improve crops, and protect valuable water resources.
Michael Hickner in the lab.

The chemistry behind next-gen materials

Endowed Professor Michael Hickner is creating new materials at MSU to improve energy and water technologies.
The Grand River Mini Bubble Barrier.

Mini Model Gathers Community Feedback on Lansing Bubble Barrier

A miniature model is allowing Michigan residents to visualize how the bubble barrier technology will operate in the Grand River.
Jan Urban-Lurain and Ethan Theuerkauf.

RU4M Workshop Addresses Great Lakes Coastal Resilience

How should Michigan communities respond to changing Great Lakes shorelines? This question brought researchers and local leaders together for a Research Universities for Michigan (RU4M) workshop on Aug. 4, 2026.
Wastewater treatment infrastructure.

Ask the expert: How does cyclospora make its way into our food?

MSU Water Alliance Director Joan Rose provides insights into Cyclospora, including how it can enter our food supply and how challenging it can be to mitigate.
A locust up close.

How insects could help detect PFAS contamination

Neurons in a locust’s brain can distinguish among multiple PFAS compounds, including PFOS, one of the world’s most common “forever chemicals".
Cyclospora parasite up close.

Wastewater testing explored to track Michigan’s cyclospora outbreak

As Michigan experiences the largest cyclosporiasis outbreak in its history, MSU researchers say wastewater surveillance could help identify hotspots, monitor the outbreak and guide public health response.
Michigan beach.

Four Michigan Universities Partner to Address the State's Beach Water Testing

Researchers at four Michigan universities have partnered up to field-test a new portable instrument called Bactiquick which could change the way the state monitors its beaches.
Green frog in a pond.

Bridging disciplines to address invasive species and disease risks in the pet trade

The global movement of exotic animals in the pet trade is multibillion-dollar industry and spans hundreds of countries. Unfortunately, trade can also facilitate the movement of invasive species and diseases.
Wildfire smoke.

Can irrigation or rain clear wildfire smoke?

Understanding how wildfire smoke behaves can help people make informed decisions during smoke events. While spraying water may seem like a good idea, research shows it is not an effective way to reduce smoke particle concentrations.
Aerial view of farmlands.

MSU's IWR and Extension Partner to Train Technical Assistance Providers for Pay-for-Performance Conservation Program

This partnership is equipping agricultural professionals and farmers with the knowledge and tools needed to implement conservation practices that improve water quality while supporting farm productivity.
Person sampling water.

How Spartans and citizen scientists team up to protect Michigan’s natural spaces

Over 500 volunteers participate in the Vernal Pool Patrol program, identifying, mapping, monitoring and providing data on vernal pools across the state to assist MSU researchers.