Come Heck or Hot Water: Resilient Solutions for a Changing World

The Meadows Center for Water and the Environment
  • 5.0 (3)
  • SCIENCE
  • UPDATED SEMIMONTHLY

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.

  1. 07/03/2025

    Salt to Sanctuary: Desalination and Ecology of Bays and Estuaries

    Could 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.

    51 min

  2. 05/08/2025

    From Policy to Pipes: Legislative Considerations for Desalination

    What 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.

    48 min

  3. 03/27/2025

    Shoring Up Potable Sources: Bringing Israeli Technology to Texas

    Water 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.

    35 min

  4. 02/28/2025

    Gearing Up for a Resilient Future: Seawater Desalination 101

    Welcome 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.

    33 min

  5. SEASON 3 TRAILER

    Trailer: Come Heck or Hot Water - Season 3

    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 could mean for our future water security. It’s time to face to face the heat, and make a difference—together.

    1 min

  6. 12/19/2024 · BONUS

    Balancing Priorities: Water Conservation vs. Climate Effect Mitigation

    We’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.

    43 min

  7. 11/26/2024 · BONUS

    Rediscovering Resources: Reliable Rainwater is Just a Roof Away

    This 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.

    52 min

  8. 10/31/2024

    In the Hot Seats: Our Experts Answer Your Climate Questions

    This 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.

    41 min
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Ratings & Reviews

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out of 5
3 Ratings

About

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.

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