SDSU's Water Use Research Empowers Locals

By Scout Nelson

Sushant Mehan, an assistant professor at South Dakota State University and an SDSU Extension Water Resource Engineer Specialist, is spearheading a critical initiative focused on water resource management across South Dakota. This year, Mehan’s primary mission is to gather insights into how local communities use and value their water resources through a comprehensive survey.

Launched in the summer of 2024, this survey is conducted in partnership with the SDSU School of Design and supported by regional water development districts. It is designed to collect data until August 31, 2025, providing a substantial timeframe for widespread community participation.

Mehan’s approach categorizes water concerns into two types: acute and chronic. Acute issues like the flooding experienced in eastern South Dakota in spring 2024 are immediately noticeable and demand quick responses. Chronic problems, such as excessive nutrients in lakes, pose ongoing challenges that require sustained effort and deeper understanding.

The results of this survey will not only inform future research and development but also facilitate targeted outreach programs across the state. Mehan and the SDSU Extension Community Vitality aim to educate residents about available resources, testing facilities, and how to interpret and act on water quality data effectively.

“This initiative will empower South Dakotans to advocate for themselves and their communities by providing them with the knowledge and tools necessary to address water-related issues,” Mehan explained. He emphasizes the importance of community involvement in shaping solutions that are both effective and sustainable.

Mehan also keeps a close eye on national water quality concerns, such as the impact of PFAS, underscoring the importance of a well-informed public in addressing these pervasive challenges. Through this survey, SDSU Extension hopes to harness the power of community input to drive better water management practices that reflect the real needs and values of South Dakotans.

For more information or to participate in the survey, residents are encouraged to visit the project page or contact Sushant Mehan directly at SDSU. This initiative represents a significant step towards sustainable water resource management in South Dakota, driven by community engagement and scientific research.

Photo Credits:south-dakota-state-university.