The Water Table

Hosted by Jamie Duininck

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Episodes

164

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May 2026

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EN-US

About the show

A place to learn about agricultural water management topics that impact our industry. Jamie Duininck hosts thought-provoking discussions with a wide variety of experts on topics such as drainage best practices, product standards, conservation efforts, land values, crop health, economic impact, system design, and safety issues.

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June 16, 2026Episode 14832 min

What can farmers expect? An Ag economist's perspective

As the chief agricultural economist and senior vice president at Wells Fargo's Agri-Food Institute, Dr. Michael Swanson has a big-picture understanding of energy markets and the economy of agribusiness. He stops by The Water Table to help us make sense of the impacts of the war in Iran and how the markets might continue to react.What can we expect crude oil prices to do? What about commodity prices? How does this situation compare with the Russia-Ukraine war? Michael shares his wisdom on these topics—and an old adage or two—to keep the current situation in perspective and offer encouragement for farmers to seize the right opportunities for success.Note: This episode was recorded on June 5, 2026.Chapters00:00 - Introductions02:10 - Systems thinking and never-ending stories05:28 - Challenging the popular narrative11:02 - An opportunity to make money in this market12:04 - Crude oil costs and stockpiling resources16:10 - Global feedstock and energy markets17:05 - A closer look at the numbers19:10 - Fixing the cash rent problem25:09 - Looking back and ahead30:12 - Final thoughtsRelated Content#144: The Iran war and pipe prices #52: An Ag Economist Tells All: Critical Topics Impacting the Future of Agriculture Find us on social media!Facebook XInstagramListen on these podcast platforms:Apple Podcasts SpotifyYouTube MusicYouTubeVisit our website to explore more episodes and water management education.

May 19, 2026Episode 14723 min

Preserving the soil profile with v-plow installs

Kyle Whitcomb was nine years old when his grandpa started teaching him about the family business. He now runs that business, Whitcomb Farm Drainage, out of Lake Lillian, Minnesota. He’s focused on meeting his customers’ needs, and one way he does that is by using a v-plow to install pattern tiling. This approach minimizes disturbance to the soil, reducing ruts and erosion while preserving topsoil and nutrients.Kyle shares what he’s learned from years of using this trenchless installation method, talks through its pros and cons, what beet farmers especially love about it, and why it’s more commonly used in Europe. On a more personal note, Kyle shares a little about being the third generation in his family to run the business, the paths his siblings have taken, and what the future might look like for his family and business.Chapters:00:00 Introduction01:30 Why a v-plow?03:54 Comparing field heal times04:40 Pattern tiling in no-till systems06:00 Why beet farmers love v-plow installation07:25 V-plow vs straight shank plow09:30 The future of v-plowing in ag drainage12:24 Variations and popularity in Europe14:17 Kyle’s custom intake boxes19:00 The legacy of the Whitcomb family businessRelated Content:#127: Cover Crops and No-Till: A Conservationist’s Perspective #97: Stay Curious– Life Lessons from One Contractor to Another V-Plow for Victory in Rut ReductionFind us on social media!Facebook XInstagramListen on these podcast platforms:Apple Podcasts Spotify YouTube MusicYouTubeVisit our website to explore more episodes and water management education.

April 30, 2026Episode 14640 min

Resin pricing nine weeks into the Iran war… an honest update

Two months into the Iran war, Jamie welcomes back Sleiman Bassila, founder and president of BIC Advisory Group, and Tom Hughes, founder, president, and CEO of Quantum Polymers. These two polyethylene industry experts have been closely watching the events in Iran and the Strait of Hormuz and share their insights into the wide-ranging market effects of the ongoing war.Sleiman and Tom summarize what’s happened since their last visit to The Water Table. The conversation touches on supply shortages, damaged petrochemical plants, unprecedented daily pricing increases, impacts on domestic pipe prices, and what it all means to the fertilizer supply chain. They also talk through the possibilities for recovery and how long it might take for stability to return once the war is over.Chapters:00:00 Introduction01:36 A recap of recent history05:35 Re-exporters enter the market08:58 Impacts of petrochemical plant damage12:00 Recovery possibilities, challenges, and timelines18:30 Material availability, competition, and prioritization22:32 The unprecedented pace of price increases27:13 How lags in resin prices impact domestic pipe costs31:09 Expectations of inflation 32:47 What about the fertilizer supply chain?36:28 How oil prices impact resin re-exports38:54 ClosingRelated Content:#144: The Iran war and pipe prices#124: Who pays? The impact of tariffs on U.S. and Canadian ag#8: Cause and effect: Plastic resin supplyFind us on social media!Facebook Twitter InstagramListen on these podcast platforms:Apple Podcasts Spotify YouTube MusicYouTubeVisit our website to explore more episodes and water management education.

April 21, 2026Episode 14543 min

Putting controlled drainage to the test

Can controlled drainage make that big of a difference in drainage flow, nitrogen loss, and overall yields? A research project in the Midwest has been studying that question since 2017, and the findings might surprise you.Guest host Trey Allis sits down with Jeppe Kjaersgaard, a research scientist studying drainage, nitrogen management, and irrigation. Jeppe traces his journey from the family farm in Denmark to the Minnesota Department of Agriculture, shares results from his controlled drainage field study, and makes a compelling case for collaborating with people across the ag industry.Jeppe and Trey talk through the methods and findings of a controlled drainage comparison study in Wilkin County, Minnesota. The project includes two sites: a 160-acre field used to gather data on controlled drainage and a 65-acre plot used to explore the impacts of a saturated buffer. Jeppe shares what he’s learning about how different water management methods impact drainage flow, nitrogen loss, and overall yields.Trey and Jeppe also discuss the Conservation Drainage Network, an organization made up of researchers, drainage professionals, and interest organizations, as well as federal, state, and local conservation district staff. Jeppe talks about the benefits of such a network and how it can help increase adoption of different conservation drainage practices.Learn more about the Red River Drainage Water Management Project: https://www.mda.state.mn.us/protecting/cleanwaterfund/onfarmprojects/rrvdwmprojectCheck out the Conservation Drainage Network: https://conservationdrainage.net/Chapters:00:00 - Introductions01:42 - From Denmark to Minnesota04:50 - Local differences and global similarities06:45 - Minnesota Department of Agriculture work08:27 - Controlled drainage comparison project13:20 - Highlights and learnings of project17:38 - Measuring drainage flow, nitrogen loss, and yields20:00 - Cost analysis and planning for the future21:58 - Saturated buffer impacts on nitrogen and water flow26:19 - Using project data to set standards27:47 - The Conservation Drainage Network35:47 - Drainage is a key piece of the whole ag picture41:40 - ClosingRelated Content:#142: Minnesota's coolest drainage plots#98: Exploring Discovery Farms: A lesson in doing the homework#110: Bridging the gap between water management research and applicationJeppe Kjaersgaard on the 2026 Discovery Farms Minnesota Controlled Drainage WebinarFind us on social media!Facebook Twitter InstagramListen on these podcast platforms:Apple Podcasts Spotify YouTube MusicYouTubeVisit our website to explore more episodes and water management education.

March 12, 2026Episode 14448 min

The Iran war and pipe prices

Just 11 days into the Iran war, Jamie hosts an in-depth discussion with two experts in the polyethylene market. Joining the conversation are Sleiman Bassila, founder and president of BIC Advisory Group, and Tom Hughes, founder, president, and CEO of Quantum Polymers.With a combined 45 years in the industry, Sleiman and Tom contextualize current events with a brief history of the polyethylene resin market. They discuss the current situation, compare it with the 2021 freeze caused by Winter Storm Uri, cover the significance of the shipping shutdown at the Strait of Hormuz, and share their thoughts on potential short- and long-term challenges ahead for producers and consumers.Chapters:00:00 - Introduction02:45 - Defining terms 03:43 - A brief history of the polyethylene market11:04 - Winter Storm Uri and the 2021 freeze15:05 - A chokepoint on global energy19:02 - Cascading implications22:44 - A dangerous situation24:49 - Global events and impacts at home28:13 - The importance of shipping routes29:23 - Seeing the big economic picture31:46 - Ongoing market volatility33:44 - Understanding the scope of the crisis35:00 - Higher prices, large volume buyers38:45 - Short- and long-term effects41:44 - Potential outcomes for the global economy44:32 - Final thoughtsRelated Content:#124: Who pays? The impact of tariffs on U.S. and Canadian ag#115: How will the 2024 election results impact ag?#8: Cause and effect: Plastic Resin SupplyFind us on social media!Facebook Twitter InstagramListen on these podcast platforms:Apple Podcasts Spotify YouTube MusicYouTubeVisit our website to explore more episodes & water management education.

February 17, 2026Episode 14331 min

Facing it Together: Mental Health in Agriculture

After a near-fatal battle with depression, Mark Meier got the help he needed to recover. That experience inspired him to co-found the Face It Foundation and help other men find connection, understanding, and healing through peer support groups. Mark and Jamie talk about the challenges men face when it comes to addressing mental health issues, as well as the negative impacts of avoiding those struggles. They also discuss how these challenges can show up for farmers, how rural communities may have some unique benefits when it comes to making connections, and the role of faith in recovery. This episode contains content about depression, suicide, and mental health conditions that may be distressing. If you or someone you know is in crisis, call or text 988 to reach the National 988 Crisis Line. Or contact the Crisis Text Line by texting TALK to 741741.For more information on the Face It Foundation visit:https://www.faceitfoundation.org/Chapters:00:00 - Introduction00:30 - Coping with the ups and downs of ag02:54 - Mark Meier and the Face It Foundation03:30 - Mental health crisis leads to new understanding04:15 - Identifying a connection gap and launching Face It05:22 - Group support, deep connections, and big impacts07:02 - Reflecting on generational differences and similarities09:31 - Isolation, social media, and self-esteem11:05 - Making connections in rural America12:30 - Getting support through the Face It Foundation15:12 - Healing through connection with others16:16 - How peer support works17:30 - Partnering with the Masons18:30 - The role of faith in recovery19:40 - The costs of disconnection and depression22:10 - Supporting each other through life’s uncertainties25:29 - Unique opportunities to connect in rural communities27:22 - The power of relationships and vulnerability28:20 - The future of the Face It FoundationRelated Content:#131: Schwartz Farms: A Business Built On Shared Purpose & Embracing Change#121: Navigating the Challenges & Opportunities of Being a Farmer#130: Community-Driven Conservation: Bridging Gaps, Building ResilienceFind us on social media!Facebook Twitter InstagramListen on these podcast platforms:Apple Podcasts Spotify YouTube MusicYouTubeVisit our website to explore more episodes & water management education.

January 20, 2026Episode 14237 min

Minnesota's Coolest Drainage Plots

In this episode, guest host Trey Allis chats with Dr. Lindsay Pease of the University of Minnesota Crookston. An Associate Professor and Extension Specialist in Nutrient and Water Management, Dr. Pease shares insights into her research on drainage, nutrient management, and soil health in northwestern Minnesota. Tracing her roots in the western Lake Erie basin in Ohio to her current work in the Red River Valley, Dr. Pease reflects on the similarities and differences between these two flat glacial landscapes. She shares her experience of getting “deeper and deeper into drainage” and how this interest brought her to her position in Crookston, MN.Since 2019, Dr. Pease has conducted a 60-acre field experiment, studying crop outcomes in alternating drained and undrained sections. Through extreme weather conditions, she’s gathered valuable information about how tile drainage impacts water quality and crop performance. She shares the outcomes of this research and talks about what she’s learned about tile drainage and its impacts on the health of soil, water, and different types of crops.Chapters:00:00 - Introduction00:48 - From one glacial lake bed to another02:14 - Focus on drainage and soil health03:39 - Unique challenges in northwestern Minnesota05:31 - Crop rotation and nutrient cycling08:33 - A 60-acre field experiment10:53 - Drainage and extreme weather patterns12:16 - Wet seasons and nitrogen loss13:37 - Testing in drought conditions16:00 - Sugar beet drainage comparisons19:36 - Phosphorus runoff and water quality22:34 - Conservation practices for runoff control26:06 - Controlled drainage and lift stations30:40 - Future research directions33:18 - Upcoming learning opportunities36:03 - Closing thoughtsRelated Content:The Water Table Episode #69: A City Kid’s Impact on Water Management Education with Dr. Lindsay PeaseFind us on social media!Facebook Twitter InstagramListen on these podcast platforms:Apple Podcasts Spotify YouTube MusicYouTubeVisit our website to explore more episodes & water management education.

December 23, 2025Episode 14116 min

2025 Wrapped: A Year in Ag Water Management

As we close out another year, The Water Table looks back on the conversations that shaped 2025. In this special "2025 Wrapped" episode, we’ve curated highlights from our most impactful discussions—from Ducks Unlimited to the high-tech future of drainage modeling.Host Jamie Duininck and guest host Trey Allis revisit stories of multi-generational family businesses, the critical role of recycled plastics in pipe manufacturing, and the evolving mindset around water as a resource to be managed rather than a problem to be solved. Whether discussing the effects of tariffs on agriculture or the rigorous licensing of contractors in Ontario, this year has been a testament to the growth and professionalism of our industry.Join us for this retrospective as we celebrate another year in Ag water management.Chapters:00:00 - Welcome to 2025 Wrapped00:14 - John Schwartz: Vision and Teamwork in the Swine Industry01:19 - Samantha Ewald: Wetlands as the Kidneys of the Earth03:03 - Jamie Duininck: The Minnesota State Fair Experience03:50 - Lauren Lewandowski Hamer: Recycling and Local Manufacturing in Minnesota04:32 - Jamie Duininck: The Backbone of the Drainage Industry04:50 - Tim & Pattie Krengel: Multi-Generational Legacies06:01 - Toban Dyck: Agriculture Across the Great Plains07:41 - Chad Klotzbach: Managing Water Quality and Quantity08:43 - Jamie Duininck: The First Ever Water Table Live10:59 - Mel Luymes: Legislation and Licensing in Ontario12:24 - Karl Guetter: Insights on the 2024 and 2025 Seasons13:14 - Chuck Brandel: LiDAR Drones and Cost-Effective ModelingEpisodes Featured in 2025 Wrapped:118: Accidental Advocate for the Drainage Industry119: Revolutionizing Drainage: Improving Infrastructure with Technology121: Navigating the Challenges & Opportunities of Being a Farmer122: Drainage in Ontario: Balancing Agriculture & the Environment.123: Drainage Contractors' Questions Answered - Live!124: Who Pays? The Impact of Tariffs on U.S. and Canadian Ag126: From the Ground Up: A Legacy of Breaking Barriers & Land Stewardship131: Schwartz Farms: A Business Built On Shared Purpose & Embracing Change132: Ducks Unlimited: Balancing Wetland Conservation & Agricultural Production135: A Fair Deal: Recycling & Giving Plastics New LifeFind us on social media!Facebook Twitter InstagramListen on these podcast platforms:Apple Podcasts Spotify YouTube MusicYouTubeVisit our website to explore more episodes & water management education.

December 9, 2025Episode 14028 min

Clean Water is Everyone's Responsibility | #140

In the quest for better water quality, farmers and city residents share a vital common goal: protecting our shared water resources by managing runoff. Host Jamie Duininck speaks with Ann Zawistoski and Sophie Wicklund of the Adopt-a-Drain program to draw a direct line between agricultural and urban water management practices. Just as farmers use practices like buffer strips, bioreactors, and controlled drainage to minimize nutrient loss, our “city cousins" clean their local storm drains to prevent urban pollutants like leaves and debris from entering waterways.Adopt-a-Drain empowers the public to take responsibility for stormwater management, recognizing that urban stormwater runoff is a major source of water pollution. The program encourages residents to adopt a storm drain near their home and clean it just twice a month. This simple, hands-on approach transforms the public's understanding of their impact on the watershed, leading to broader behavioral changes. The collective results prove the power of individual action, with over 30,000 adopted drains and nearly one million pounds of debris removed across the country. Tune in to discover the powerful parallels between urban and agricultural water quality practices and how community engagement is successfully working toward clean water for everyone.Chapters:00:00 Introduction00:36 Adopt-a-Drain Guest Introductions01:57 The Urban Stormwater Challenge04:00 How the Adopt-a-Drain Program Works05:40 Nearly 1 Million Pounds of Debris Removed06:35 Behavior Change07:50 Adopt-a-Drain's Origins and Inspiration10:52 Why Small, Frequent Cleanings Make a Big Difference13:56 Engaging Participants Year-Round15:53 Funding and Partnerships19:42 The Parallels to Ag Water Management25:39 Expanding the MovementRelated Content:#138 | Set It & Forget It... Making Controlled Water Management Accessible with Agri Drain#56 | A More Efficient Approach to Water Quality: Batch and Build#14 | Opportunities in Water QualityAdopt-a-DrainFind us on social media!Facebook Twitter InstagramListen on these podcast platforms:Apple Podcasts Spotify YouTube MusicYouTubeVisit our website to explore more episodes & water management education.

November 25, 2025Episode 13928 min

#139 | Right Place, Right Time; Conservation Hitting The Mark

Who can help with funding water quality practices on your land? Guest Host Trey Allis sits down with Rita Weaver, Chief Engineer at the Minnesota Board of Water & Soil Resources (BWSR), to discuss soil health, water management practices, and water-quality programs happening throughout the state. They break down specific projects, funding, and tools helping producers take on water and soil challenges. Learn how opportunities with conservation — adding practices in the right place at the right time — are making an impact. Chapters:00:00 - Intro00:33 - Welcome to The Water Table podcast00:40 - Introducing Rita Weaver01:57 - Chief Engineer Role at BWSR03:05 - Agency Impact on Water Quality03:52 - Major Projects and Funding (Where’s The Money Going) 05:05 - Opportunities With Improvement Projects 08:15 - Larger Scale Conservation Practices and Improvements08:51 - BWSR Water Quality and Storage Program 09:46 - Funding: Grant Application Process 10:52 - Future Funding: How Far Will Funding Go13:35 - Storage Practice End Goal 14:45 - What Does Soil Health Mean To You17:02 - The Effect of Too Much Water, Too Little Water18:00 - Water Quality Issues and Solutions22:20 - How Flooding Affects High Benefitting Areas 24:09 - Did You Always Want To Work For BWSR27:07 - Thank You Rita 27:30 - How To Contact BWSR27:50 - Wrap-upRelated content:#132 | Ducks Unlimited: Balancing Wetland Conservation & Agricultural Production#114 | Crumbling Ag Drainage Infrastructure = Unique Upgrade Opportunities#87 | Who Supports the Boots on the Ground!?! (Hint: it’s LICA)… On the Road#77 | How 5 Million Dollars, 39 Test Sites & 29 Bright Minds are Transforming DrainageFind us on social media!FacebookTwitter InstagramListen on these podcast platforms:Apple Podcasts Spotify YouTube MusicYouTubeVisit our website to explore more episodes & water management education.