Episode 10.1: The hidden costs of keeping Idaho’s water flowing

Meet Liz Bageant, economist with James A. and Louise McClure Center for Public Policy Research. Liz is going to discuss how Idaho’s growing population, its aging infrastructure and regulations affect the future of drinking and waste water in the Gem state and the jobs that this industry supports.

Email us at vandaltheory@uidaho.edu. 

Do you know where your water comes from?

Tapping into Idaho’s water supply may seem as simple as turning on the tap, but behind every glass of drinking water and every flush of the toilet lies a complex network of infrastructure and people working to keep those systems running. Bagent explains why Idaho faces nearly $1 billion in drinking water and wastewater infrastructure needs due to a combination of rapidly growing populations, aging systems and new regulatory pressures designed to improve water quality.

The conversation shines a light on the workforce that keeps these systems running — plant operators, pipefitters, technicians and administrators. Smaller towns face particularly steep challenges, balancing limited budgets with compliance demands. Gain an eye-opening look at the challenges and opportunities shaping Idaho’s water future — and why investing in this unseen infrastructure is critical for communities statewide.

Music

“Young Republicans” by Steve Combs via freemusicarchive.org, not modified.

“Rhythm and Light” by Alin Oprea via Amphibious Zoo.

Chapters

(0:00) Where does your water come from?
(3:47) Getting to know Liz Bageant
(4:23) What are Idaho’s water needs?
(6:16) How does our water system work?
(9:36) How does population affect water needs?
(12:22) How does aging infrastructure and regulation affect our water?
(14:46) Message to Idaho
(18:06) Financing water
(21:15) The people bringing us water
(25:03) Final thoughts