Environmental Finance Center Network

EFCN
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The Environmental Finance Center Network (EFCN) is a university-based organization originally created by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The EFCN works with states, tribes, local governments, and the private sector to promote sustainable environmental solutions through innovative training and assistance focused on actionable results.

  1. 1 DAY AGO

    Keeping Wastewater Systems Running When Disaster Strikes

    Severe weather events, natural disasters, and power outages pose serious challenges for wastewater public utilities, yet essential services must continue when communities need them most. In this episode of the Environmental Finance Center Network podcast, hosts Anthony Craven, Jason Barrett, and Eric Williams sit down with Mr. David DeWitt of Taylor Power Systems to explore how wastewater utilities can prepare for emergencies and maintain safe, reliable operations during crises. Drawing from his experience in designing generator systems for wastewater and water utility facilities, DeWitt emphasizes that emergency power planning is essential for utility resilience. The conversation covers key considerations for backup power systems, including generator sizing, fuel selection, load planning, routine testing, and long‑term reliability. Together, they discuss how planning and thoughtful design can help utilities respond effectively to hurricanes, tornadoes, flooding, winter storms, and other severe weather events. This episode also highlights the operational, financial, and public health implications of power loss at wastewater facilities and why investing in preparedness before disaster strikes can save time, money, and environmental harm. Whether you are a utility manager, operator, engineer, or local decision‑maker, this discussion offers practical insights into building resilient wastewater systems that protect communities and the environment when emergencies occur.

    38 min

  2. 30 MAR

    Common Board Issues

    Join Brian Bohnsack, Tyler Cotner and John Colcazier from the Wichita State University EFC as they share their experiences working with wastewater and water boards and some of the most common issues they have encountered.

    25 min

  3. 2 MAR

    Navigating Wastewater Funding with Limited Capacity

    This podcast outlines how to frame the funding challenges, how to understand the Funding Landscape, ways to identify funding sources for you utility, the best ways to stay organized, how to manage multiple funding sources, and how Technical Assistance can help. Hosted by Wichita State University EFC Program Manager Analisa Munhall, with Anna Archer, who is also a WSU EFC Project Manager.

    15 min

  4. 26 FEB

    From the Chesapeake Bay Watershed Agreement to Action: BMPs and Workforce Programs

    This episode explores how the Chesapeake Bay Watershed Agreement has evolved since its inception. The conversation breaks down pollution diets and nutrient reduction goals, highlights effective stormwater best management practices, and discusses workforce development programs that are helping small communities move from regulatory compliance to community-focused action that protects local waters and builds long-term capacity. Hosted by Danish Kumar, Program Manager at the University of Maryland EFC, with special guest David Wood, Executive Director, Chesapeake Stormwater Network

    31 min

  5. 28 JAN

    Winter Wisdom: Best Practices for Cold Weather Operations

    Cold weather can pose unique challenges for on-site wastewater systems—but with the right preparation, problems can be prevented before they start. In this episode, host Anthony Craven is joined by Jason Barrett, Associate Professor with the Mississippi State University Extension Service and Director of the Mississippi Water Resources Research Institute, to discuss best practices for maintaining on-site wastewater systems during the coldest months of the year. Listeners will gain practical, research-based tips to help protect systems from freezing temperatures, ensure continued performance, and avoid costly wintertime issues.

    20 min

  6. 23 JAN

    Water and Energy Use of AI Data Centers and Small System Communities

    This episode explores the growing energy and water demands of data centers as artificial intelligence is driving rapid expansion across the country. The discussion highlights how AI-focused data centers differ from traditional facilities, why their electricity and water use is increasing, and what this means for small and rural communities. The conversation also explores how local governments and small water systems can prepare when data centers move into their region. This episode is hosted by Danish Kumar, Climate Change Program Manager at The University of Maryland Environmental Finance Center, with with energy expert Dr. Rakesh Radhakrishnan.

    30 min

  7. 5 JAN

    Small System Challenges and Shared Solutions

    Small water systems are struggling to keep up with compliance and rising costs. In this episode, we explore how new policy tools, partnerships, and restructuring can unlock solutions for the future. This episode is hosted by Danish Kumar, Climate Change Program Manager at The University of Maryland Environmental Finance Center, with Ellen Kohler, Director of Applied Research and Policy at The Water Center at the University of Pennsylvania.

    33 min

  8. 15/10/2025

    An Intro to PFAS with Dr. Clare Pace from Berkeley's Water Equity Science Shop (WESS)

    In this episode, we talk with Dr. Clare Pace (PhD, MPH) a postdoctoral researcher for the University of California, Berkeley Water Equity Science Shop (WESS). Dr. Pace shares insights about PFAS for small and rural water systems. Starting with the basics, we discuss what PFAS are, where they come from, known and unknown health risks, the current PFAS regulatory landscape for water and wastewater systems in the United States, and advice for water systems and policymakers who are thinking about PFAS.

    12 min
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About

The Environmental Finance Center Network (EFCN) is a university-based organization originally created by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The EFCN works with states, tribes, local governments, and the private sector to promote sustainable environmental solutions through innovative training and assistance focused on actionable results.

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