Rural Ripples

EP010 | Valuing Water: Brent Locke on the Critical Need for Public Awareness

With over 50 years in water, Brent is a cornerstone of the industry. As General Manager of the Bistone Municipal Water Supply District in Texas, he ensures reliable, high-quality water delivery through surface and groundwater treatment facility management. Brent's water journey began as a Boy Scout touring a treatment plant—a moment that sparked a lifelong commitment. From installing utility lines to leadership in public works, his career showcases hands-on expertise and unwavering dedication. For the past 33 years, he has led Bistone with a focus on operational excellence and community engagement. Beyond his work at Bistone, Brent mentors the next generation of water professionals, championing workforce development through programs like the AWWA Management and Leadership Institutes.

EP009 | Navigating the Future: Tad Bohannon on Regional Collaboration

This week on Rural Ripples, we realized we can’t dive into rural water without also exploring the critical role large systems play in shaping the future of rural water systems. We do that in Episode 9 with Tad Bohannon, CEO of Central Arkansas Water (CAW). As the leader of the largest drinking water utility in Arkansas — serving 500,000 people — Tad has a unique perspective on regional collaboration and innovation in the water sector. Under his leadership, CAW has increased its service territory through traditional consolidations and also has advanced rural water quality and service through non-traditional collaboration means such as peer guidance, court-ordered recievership, and business partnerships. In Episode 9, Tad shares his views on: 🔹 The public service of water and wastewater work 🔹 Drivers behind successful partnerships with rural systems 🔹 What it takes to build resilient and sustainable water systems for the future and what’s standing in the way

EP008 | Small Town Roots, Big Impact: David Baird On community and economic resilience

In this episode, we’re sitting down with David Baird, someone who’s been at the heart of water and utility management for more than 20 years. David’s a former National Rural Water Association President, now leading the Sussex Conservation District and serving on the Delaware Rural Water Association board. He’s been instrumental in connecting small towns and rural communities to the resources they need to tackle big challenges like workforce shortages, regulatory pressures, and improving water quality. We talk about his career managing small towns, his passion for conservation, and how collaboration between small and large systems can create stronger, more resilient communities. From navigating rural utility challenges to securing millions in funding for agricultural water quality projects, David’s approach is all about making a real, measurable impact.

EP007 | Empowering Rural Systems: Dr. Sophia Oberton on Workforce and Mindset

In this episode, we welcomed Dr. Sophia Oberton, a true powerhouse in the world of rural water management. Dr. Oberton, the Water Superintendent and Special Projects Coordinator for the unique border town of Delmar, Delaware/Maryland, brings a wealth of knowledge and a refreshing perspective on the pressing issues facing small water systems today. She has a fascinating journey into the water industry and a deep commitment to empowering her community and her employees. Dr. Oberton sheds light on workforce development and retention, aging infrastructure, and navigating the complexities of funding. She shares insights on fostering a growth mindset within her team, the role of innovative solutions like SCADA in optimizing operations, and how she’s working with the next generation through pre-apprenticeship programs to inspire future water professionals. Whether you’re in the industry or just passionate about the water that flows into your community, this episode is packed with inspiring stories, actionable insights, and Dr. Oberton’s unshakable dedication to making a difference. Grab your headphones and tune in for a conversation that’s as engaging as it is empowering.

EP006 | Rooted in Water: Juanita Reyher-Colon On Community-Driven Stewardship and Small System Innovation

Aloha! 🌺 Today, we are honored to welcome our good friend Juanita Reyher-Colon. Jeff and I have known Juanita for quite a while now, and we're excited to share her stories with the listeners of Rural Ripples. Hailing from the island of Molokai, where her family has lived for 14 generations, Juanita has deep roots in her community and a profound cultural connection to water. You may know her from her previous role as vice president of the American Water Works Association or her leadership on the Maui County Board of Water Supply. She currently serves as the executive director of the Hawai'i Rural Water Association. In this episode, Juanita shares her insights on the importance of community-driven water stewardship, how her native Hawaiian heritage influences her approach to water management and innovative strategies for addressing the challenges faced by small systems.