Podcast
Come Heck or Hot Water: Resilient Solutions for a Changing World
Hosted by The Meadows Center for Water and the Environment · EN
Welcome to Come Heck or Hot Water (formerly Fahrenheit 140) - where we dive into the science, and solutions shaping climate resilience efforts. In every episode, we’ll explore the science driving change, and the innovations reshaping how we live, work, and sustain our planet. We’ll break down what’s happening, why it matters, and how you can be part of the solution.
In Season 3, we’re diving into the ins and outs of seawater desalination. We’ll uncover what this promising solution could mean for our future water security.
It’s time to face to face the heat, and make a difference—together.
11episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
Salt to Sanctuary: Desalination and Ecology of Bays and Estuaries
Jul 300:50:45Tap to summarizeCould desalination actually help or hurt coastal environments? In this episode, we uncover the secret life of bays, estuaries, and the critters that call them home. Plus — what could desalination mean for our salty ecosystems? Join our hosts Robert and Carrie as they discuss the ecology of bays and estuaries in relation to desalination with Paul Montagna of Harte Research Institute. Got a question for Robert and Carrie? Submit it here—we might answer it on the show! First up, it’s the Pop Quiz (02:10) Last episode, Bill Norris and I coined the “Hydro-illogical cycle;” what did we mean by that? A) Constructing desalination facilities is most expensive in times of drought vs times of ample water B) Heavy rains and flooding do not necessarily end drought C) More rain can mean more runoff, resulting in increased pollution of our waterways Today’s Keywords: (04:34) Discharge Point: the pipe where the wastewater (brine concentrate) from desalination is released into surrounding water bodies (such as bays or estuaries) Non-point Source Pollution: pollutants that enter water bodies from diffuse sources rather than singular identifiable sources (fertilizer runoff, litter, etc.) Benthic/Benthos: describes anything associated with or occurring on the bottom of a body of water. Today’s Guest: Paul Montagna, Endowed Chair for HydroEcology at Harte Research Institute at TAMU-CC Robert Mace introduces our guest (07:44) Paul Montagna explores the ecological impacts of desalination: Waving the Book: Paul discusses his latest written work, Freshwater Inflows to Texas Bays and Estuaries (GO READ IT!!!). (09:27) River Systems Breakdown: What is considered a bay vs estuary, and how do they connect inland water bodies to the coast? (11:50) Nutrient-Rich Nursery Grounds: How coastal regions contribute to safe breeding grounds. (13:50) Bay-stuary Stressors: Paul outlines several integrated factors threatening the health of coastal habitats. (17:45) Combined Priorities: "They care as much as we do,” learn how desalination plant designs often align with environmental priorities. (24:50) Environmental Benefits of Desal: Can desalination replenish other environmental flows? (32:04) And Don’t Miss What’s Coming Next! Next Episode: Join Robert and Carrie for a discussion about economic considerations of desalination with Gabe Collins of Rice University. Episode Links and Resources: Freshwater Inflows to Texas Bays and Estuaries Texas Desalination Association Submit a question to the pod! Theme song: Come Heck or Hot Water by Robert E. Mace We want to thank pixabay.com for providing the sound effects. Learn more about the Meadows Center at meadowscenter.txst.edu.
Transcribe →From Policy to Pipes: Legislative Considerations for Desalination
May 8, 202500:47:37Tap to summarizeWhat if the future of Texas’ water supply came from the ocean? In this episode, join hosts Carrie and Robert as they sit down with Bill Norris, President of the Texas Desalination Association, to explore how desalination could change the game for the Texas water supply. From the significance of Senate Bill 7 to the potential of seawater plants, we unpack the big moves happening behind the scenes. Don’t miss this fascinating dive into Texas’ water future. Got a question for Robert and Carrie? Submit it here—we might answer it on the show! First up, it’s the Pop Quiz (02:47) In the last episode, Lihy Teuerstein mentioned that IDE Technologies is able to recover up to what percentage of water during the desalination process? a) 85-87% b) 90-94% c) 95-98% Today’s Keywords: (04:20) TDS: Total Dissolved Solids (total concentration of dissolved “stuff” in water) Blended Cost: When a water supply comes from several different sources, and the price reflects the combined price points of the separate sources. Texas Legislative Session: The Texas Legislature meets every two years. Today’s Guest: Bill Norris of Norris Water LLC and president of the Texas Desalination Association Robert Mace introduces our guest (07:13) Bill Norris explores the viability of desalination as a new water source for Texans: From “Square” to “Flare:” Bill shares the history and overview of the Texas Desalination Association and how current bills are shaping up. (08:40) Funding the Future: Understand the Texas Water Fund’s role in water planning and the future of desalination. (14:20) The “Hydro-Illogical” Cycle: Explore the shifts in attitudes about desalination in the Lone Star State. (17:58) Cost/Benefit Analysis: What is a blended cost, and how can this reduce sticker shock for communities looking to implement desalination? (22:40) Better Late than Never: Despite decades of delay, Bill has a positive outlook for implementation. (25:27) Taking Notes: How can Texas learn from other countries about managing desalination? (28:58) And Don’t Miss What’s Coming Next! Next Episode: Join Robert and Carrie for a discussion about the ecological considerations of desalination with Paul Montagna. Episode Links and Resources: lege+water Texas Legislature Bill Search Norris Water LLC Texas Desalination Association Submit a question to the pod! Theme song: Come Heck or Hot Water by Robert E. Mace We want to thank pixabay.com for providing the sound effects. Learn more about the Meadows Center at meadowscenter.txst.edu.
Transcribe →Shoring Up Potable Sources: Bringing Israeli Technology to Texas
Mar 27, 202500:34:52Tap to summarizeWater scarcity is no joke—especially in Texas. But what if the Lone Star State could take a page from Israel’s playbook? Join our hosts, Robert and Carrie, as they sit down with Lihy Teuerstein and Mark Ellison of IDE Technologies. Lihy and Mark break down the similarities and differences between Israeli and Texan desalination operations and introduce us to the environmental benefits of desalination. Got a question for Robert and Carrie? Submit it here—we might answer it on the show! First up, it’s the Pop Quiz (01:45) In the last episode, Robert mentioned that Texas has one of the longest-running desalination plants in the United States. Which Texas city is it located in? A) Corpus Christi B) Muleshoe C) El Paso D) South Padre E) Dell City Today’s Keywords: (03:11) Water Supply: the process of providing water to communities Water Security: the ability of a community to access safe, affordable, and reliable water for its needs Drought: a lack of precipitation or water over an extended period of time, resulting in a water shortage Today’s Guests: Lihy Teuerstein and Mark Ellison from IDE Technologies Carrie Thompson introduces our guests (04:06) Lihy and Mark explore the benefits of bringing Israeli technology to Texas: Israel’s Leading Innovations: Lihy explains groundbreaking tech that gives Israeli desalination its edge. (05:44) Toward the Texas Miracle (Responsibly): Mark outlines how desalination can help the state meet growing water demands (10:57) Putting the Water Where Our Mouths Are: What goes into selecting a desalination site? (13:33) Herding the Cats: Lihy explains the Israeli water grid in comparison to Texas water policy (16:53) From Sea to Shining Stream: How seawater desalination can replenish resources. (20:43) The Recovery Ratio: Explore the exciting new technologies making desalination more sustainable. (23:03) From Drying to Thriving: Mark shares a vision of Texas water security, and the role desalination could play. (25:27) And Don’t Miss What’s Coming Next!Next Episode: Join Robert and Carrie for a discussion about policy and desalination in Texas. Episode Links and Resources: IDE Technologies Texas Desalination Association NaCl (Sodium Chloride) Submit a question to the pod! Theme song: Come Heck or Hot Water by Robert E. Mace We want to thank pixabay.com for providing the sound effects. Learn more about the Meadows Center at meadowscenter.txst.edu.
Transcribe →Gearing Up for a Resilient Future: Seawater Desalination 101
Feb 28, 202500:32:40Tap to summarizeWelcome to season three of Come Heck or Hot Water (formerly Fahrenheit 140)! As changes in climate put strains on our natural resources, we’ve decided to take a deep dive into one possible solution for resilience and long-term sustainability. Join our hosts, Robert and Carrie, for an overview of seawater desalination. In this episode, Dr. Robert E. Mace explains the ins and outs of this agent of resilience. Got a question for Robert and Carrie? Submit it here! First up, we have a big announcement: New name, slightly different format, same great content (00:29) Season 3 Overview (03:28) Today’s Guest: Dr. Robert E. Mace Carrie Thompson re-introduces Dr. Robert E. Mace (04:35) Today’s Keywords: (06:37) Desalination: The process of removing “stuff” dissolved in water. Brine Concentrate: The salty waste byproduct of desalination. Brackish Groundwater: Water in aquifers that is not fresh. PFAS: Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substance, aka “forever chemicals” Freshwater: Generally defined as water with less than 1,000 parts per million of “stuff” dissolved in it. Today’s Pop Quiz: Where can our listeners submit a question to the podcast? A) the link at the bottom of the e-newsletter B) the link in our show notes C) email us directly at meadowscenter@txstate.edu D) All of the above Dr. Robert Mace takes us inside seawater desalination: The State of Freshwater: Dig into the factors impacting freshwater resources around the globe. (11:13) Resilience and Reliability: We need to find “a lot more water,” so where can we find it? (14:46) De-STUFF-ication: The history, process, and methods of seawater desalination. (16:53) What’s the whine about the brine? Explore the issues around the waste byproduct of the desalination process at home and at scale. (19:33) Powering the Process: The energy and economic realities of seawater desalination. (24:12) Who gets the water? If there’s no or low water...does it go to people or the environment? (27:43) And... DON’T MISS OUT! Next Episode: Join Robert and Carrie for a discussion with IDE Technologies about desalination efforts underway in Israel and Texas. (30:24) Episode Links and Resources: Texas Desalination Association Submit a question to the pod! Theme song: Come Heck or Hot Water by Robert E. Mace We want to thank pixabay.com for providing the sound effects. For more information about the Meadows Center, visit meadowscenter.txst.edu.
Transcribe →Trailer: Come Heck or Hot Water - Season 3
Feb 24, 202500:01:29Tap to summarizeWelcome to Come Heck or Hot Water (formerly Fahrenheit 140) - where we dive into the science, and solutions shaping climate resilience efforts. In every episode, we’ll explore the science driving change, and the innovations reshaping how we live, work, and sustain our planet. We’ll break down what’s happening, why it matters, and how you can be part of the solution.In Season 3, we’re diving into the ins and outs of seawater desalination. We’ll uncover what this promising could mean for our future water security.It’s time to face to face the heat, and make a difference—together.
Transcribe →Balancing Priorities: Water Conservation vs. Climate Effect Mitigation
Dec 19, 202400:43:07Tap to summarizeWe’re back with more bonus content to get you through the holidays! Join season two, episode 5 guest, Dr. Soe Myint, as he explores his research on remote water sensing issues and solutions in his Blue Bag Lunch and Learn presentation from March 2023. As the climate becomes more unpredictable, Dr. Myint explores behaviors and strategies for building climate resilience. Listen along as Dr. Myint shares his findings... Introducing the Research: Dr. Myint outlines his presentation on several key research areas. (04:17) Examining Ecosystem Health and Sustainability of Coastal Environments: How mangrove forestation declines affect carbon sequestration in coastal regions. (05:21) Ground and Surface Water Changes: Explore the dynamics influencing water changes in Canada. (10:23) Social Inequity and Environmental Justice: Dr. Myint’s studies reveal socioeconomic disparities in climate effect alleviation. (17:33) Water Use and Drought in the Lower Mekong Basin: Explore annual water use variations across several climates and elevations in the region. (26:53) Agriculture vs. Water Conservation: Which crops are most susceptible to drought, and what practices can be used to mitigate water consumption in agriculture? (30:45) Spatial Optimization Model to Confront the Trade-off Between Water Conservation and Heat Alleviation: This NASA funded project explores the relationship between heat alleviation and green infrastructure in relation to water consumption. (35:35) Sign up for our newsletter and look for more bonus content as we take a brief season hiatus! We’ll be back in February with fresh content, so follow us on social media and stay tuned! Episode Links and Resources: Full Presentation Recording Blue Bag Lunch & Learn Playlist Dr. Myint’s Texas State University Faculty Profile Join our newsletter for updates, bonus content, and audience polls! Theme song: Syzygy by Robert E. Mace We want to thank pixabay.com for providing the sound effects.
Transcribe →Rediscovering Resources: Reliable Rainwater is Just a Roof Away
Nov 26, 202400:52:08Tap to summarizeThis month, we’re delivering the bonus content you deserve! Join our host, Dr. Robert Mace, as he explores his research on how rainwater harvesting can be a viable alternative to conventional water sources. As our water sources are increasingly strained, you can rely on Fahrenheit 140 for creative ideas to keep your taps running! Listen along as Robert shares his findings... Introducing the Research: Robert outlines his study and introduces the RAINFAL spreadsheet tool along with his co-researcher, Ricardo Briones. (01:00) What is Rainwater Harvesting? Man-made catchments provide potable volumes. (03:35) Is Rainwater Reliable? How is reliability defined, and how can rainwater enter strategic water planning? (06:55) Uses and Losses: What differences exist between reservoirs and tanks? (10:36) If it quacks like conservation... Robert explores water supplies in times of drought. (12:31) Sizing it Up: Tank calculation for gauging appropriate storage needs (16:50) Revisiting Firm Yields: Robert makes his data dreams come true by revisiting the research and minimizing “tankziety.” (19:32) Step #1 Find a Grad Student: Calculating firm yield with an extra set of brains. (22:25) RAINFAL: Firm yield calculations made easy with this spreadsheet tool. (23:10) Size Matters: Robert and Ricardo use RAINFAL to find the roof and tank size ratio needed in your area. (35:28) Different Droughts for Different Spouts: How areas respond to drought differently, affecting storage and catchment needs for firm yield. (41:51) Stealing or Storing? Robert debunks a common rainwater harvesting myth. (43:51) Conclusions: Can Rainwater Harvesting work for you, your city, and your state? (45:47) Sign up for our newsletter and look for more bonus content as we take a brief season hiatus! We’ll be back in February with fresh content, so follow us on social media and stay tuned! Episode Links and Resources: Full Presentation Recording Blue Bag Lunch & Learn Playlist The Firm Yield of Rainwater Harvesting in Texas (Meadows Center) From Sky to Supply: The Hidden Potential of Rainwater Harvesting for Texas’ Water Future (Meadows Center Annual Report) Hotter than a Habanero Climate Blog Join our newsletter for updates, bonus content, and audience polls! Theme song: Syzygy by Robert E. Mace We want to thank pixabay.com for providing the sound effects. For more information about the Meadows Center, visit meadowscenter.txst.edu.
Transcribe →In the Hot Seats: Our Experts Answer Your Climate Questions
Oct 31, 202400:41:16Tap to summarizeThis month, you asked the questions, and our cohosts delivered! Join our hosts, Carrie and Robert, as they tackle listener-submitted questions, debunk common climate myths, and share highlights from season two. With producers Anna and Sarah along for the ride, it’s an episode packed with insights, surprises, and even a first-ever Pop Quiz that puts our experts to the test! Up first, Carrie and Robert unpack season two of Fahrenheit 140, dishing on their favorite season highs and lows. Then, the quiz begins—will they rise to the occasion or get stumped by Anna and Sarah’s trickiest questions? (06:08, 12:02) Listen along as Robert and Carrie answer your questions about… The Greenhouse Gas Effect: Robert explains how certain gasses trap heat. (17:15) Resiliency planning: Do you have to believe in climate change to plan ahead? (18:25) Can we slow it down? Is halting climate change possible, or are we just slowing the inevitable? (19:30) Can Earth heal itself? Carrie discusses the Gaia Hypothesis and the problems our planet faces. (22:04) Hurricanes and…toilets? Robert demystifies the Coriolis Effect. (24:36) Glaciers and Pathogens on Doomsday: Which will affect us first: ancient pathogens or major sea-level rise? (25:38) Responsible Cat Management: If cats are liquids, how do we plan for cat resiliency? (27:44) …and bust these myths: Is it the Sun’s fault? Carrie and Robert tackle the real cause of rising temperatures. (030:02) What’s the deal with Chemtrails? Could jet planes actually help cool the planet? (31:00) Natural Variability: Carrie and Robert unpack the data. (32:50) The dreaded “Tipping Point:” Are we nearing this often-mentioned threshold? (34:25) Sign up for our newsletter and look for more bonus content as we take a brief season hiatus! We’ll be back in February with more content, so make sure to follow us on social media and stay tuned! (And don’t forget to vote!) Episode Links and Resources: Global Warming is Not Part of Natural Climate Variability (Scientific American) Climate Variability vs. Climate Change (University of Minnesota Climate Adaptation Partnership) Yes, Cats are Liquids Only in One Dimension (Science.Org) How would sea level change if all glaciers melted? (USGS) Join our newsletter for updates, bonus content, and audience polls! Theme song: Syzygy by Robert E. Mace We want to thank pixabay.com for providing the sound effects. For more information about the Meadows Center, visit meadowscenter.txst.edu.
Transcribe →Facing the Future: Climate Preparedness in San Antonio, Texas
Sep 26, 202400:42:00Tap to summarizeThe climate is changing, weather is getting increasingly unpredictable – so what can we do about it? The City of San Antonio has a few ideas. Join our hosts, Robert and Carrie, for a discussion with Douglas Melnick, the Chief Sustainability Officer for the City of San Antonio, about how the South Texas city is preparing for the changing climate. Our co-hosts bring you the latest climate news covering several topics: Water Planning Under Deep Uncertainty: Robert unpacks his latest Hotter Than a Habanero blog post about water planning during climate change. (02:04) Cheap Housing Boom, Pricey Water Deficits: How Kyle, Texas is the canary in the coal mine for Central Texas water use. (05:09) Misquoted: Robert sets the record straight about his prediction for the Carrizo-Wilcox Aquifer. (7:51) Douglas Melnick takes us through the key aspects of a comprehensive Climate Ready action plan: ‘Climate Ready’ is Changing, too: Being ‘climate ready’ meant something different just a few years ago. Doug outlines the recent developments. (11:51) Defining Challenges: How can communities frame their conversations about climate change? (14:31) Equity for Frontline Communities: Find out how the City of San Antonio is centering equity in their action plan to prioritize these communities. (17:02) Using Water and Saving Water: San Antonio is an international leader in water conservation, but how are they handling growth and disproportionate usage? (19:27) Campaigning for Climate Change: How community partnerships key for increasing community climate literacy and awareness on a budget. (21:27) The Tip of the Iceberg is Looking Bright: Doug shares the top wins of the Climate Ready action plan since 2019. (23:43) Slow Work with High ROI: Get inspiration and advice for your community and hear how climate planning makes long-term financial sense. (25:46) And…THE GOOD NEWS! The Future of Energy is Upon Us: Robert shares wisdom from an “Aggie Futurist,” and explores a future where power is plentiful. (30:24) Texas CHILI (No Beans Allowed): Find out how Texas CHILI “backronym” relates to carbon solutions. (35:10) Episode Links and Resources: City of San Antonio Office of Sustainability SA Climate Ready Action Plan Take the Climate Ready pledge Forecasting the Unpredictable: Water Planning Under Deep Uncertainty (Hotter than a Habanero) Hot, Dry, and Booming: A Texas Climate Case Study (Wall Street Journal) The exponential growth of solar power will change the world (The Economist) Clean energy’s next trillion-dollar business (The Economist) Texas Innovates Launches CHILI Program with 10 Groundbreaking Companies During Houston Climate Week Theme song: Syzygy by Robert E. Mace We would like to thank pixabay.com for providing sounds effects. For more information about the Meadows Center, visit meadowscenter.txst.edu.
Transcribe →Use Water to Save Water: Urban Greening - the Next Climate Cure?
Aug 22, 202400:34:08Tap to summarizeWhat is urban greening, why does it matter, and which communities are at risk? What is the balance between water conservation and urban tree canopies? Join our hosts, Robert and Carrie, for a discussion with Dr. Soe Myint about his latest research on water conservation, urban greening, and environmental justice. Our co-hosts bring you the latest climate news covering several topics: Update on Texas waterways Moving Soon? Discover which cities are most climate resilient and which ones are leaving homeowners to fend for themselves. (02:03) Melting Glaciers: Swiss mountain glaciers are melting at twice the rate of the global average. (03:29) From Toilet to Tap: El Paso is leading Texas in creative water conservation efforts. (05:48) Can Volcanoes Chill? An eruption in the Polynesian Islands is stirring the climate science community. (08:10) Dr. Soe Myint, Chief Conservation Officer for the Meadows Center and Meadows Endowed Chair in Water Conservation, explains how water conservation, urban cooling, environmental justice, and trees are all connected: Heat is the #1 Killer: While populations skyrocket, the urban heat island effect is hitting underserved communities hardest. (10:48) Beyond Throwing Shade: Dr. Myint explains how trees provide more than just a perfect picnic spot. (15:28) Trees vs. Water: Watering trees can actually support conservation efforts and improve water quality. Here’s how. (16:14) Are trees nature’s AC? What on earth is evapotranspiration, and how is it cooling your city? (16:41) Is Your Community at Risk? Dr. Myint breaks down the factors that put certain populations at greater risk of heat-related health events. (17:34) Run, Don’t Walk! Central Texas urgently needs climate resilience planning—yesterday! (24:10) Use Water to Save Water: Dr. Myint unpacks the science behind his catchphrase. (25:54) And…THE GOOD NEWS! Texas > California: Texas is taking the lead on green energy in the U.S. (26:50) Baby Sharks Doo Doo: Galveston Bay becomes a shark nursery. (30:06) Episode Links and Resources: Dr. Soe Myint Published Research Our top-ranking cities for climate resiliency: 2024 study (USA Today) Why melting glaciers affect us all (Swiss Info) El Paso Reuses Every Drop of Water It Can. The Rest of Texas Could Heed the Lesson. (Texas Monthly) The Hunga Tonga Volcano Was Blamed for High Global Temperatures in Recent Years – Now Scientists Aren't So Sure Can Blue States Build? (The Atlantic) Galveston Bay sees 600% increase in baby bull sharks as climate change warms coastal waters (Houston Chronicle) Green Infrastructure Resources: Environmetal Protection Agency: Green Infrastructure Funding Opportunities Texas A&M AgriLife Extension: Texas Green Infrastructure Resources Texas Water Development Board: Green Project Reserve Theme song: Syzygy by Robert E. Mace We would like to thank pixabay.com for providing sound effects. For more information about the Meadows Center, visit meadowscenter.txst.edu.
Transcribe →