54 - Decoding water quality at the Water Sciences Lab

In this episode, we go behind the scenes of the Water Sciences Laboratory at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln. Host Frances Hayes sits down with Research Lab Manager Jennah Duncan to explore the vital work of monitoring our water resources. From the advanced technology of mass spectrometry and isotopic analysis to the real-world impact of agricultural management, we discuss how lab data informs critical water quality decisions. Jennah also breaks down the complexities of emerging contaminants like PFAS—often called "forever chemicals"—and shares insights from her first year leading the lab. Join us as we examine how Nebraska's water quality challenges offer lessons for agricultural regions worldwide and learn why understanding the journey of our water is more important than ever.   Learn more about the Water Sciences Lab: https://watercenter.unl.edu/water-sciences-laboratory/   Learn more about the Know Your Well program mentioned in this episode: https://waterforfood.nebraska.edu/news-and-events/news/2026/06/inside-classrooms-nebraska-students-learn-the-importance-of-groundwater-with-know-your-well-program