Overview
The Water-Energy-AI Development Committee is monitoring AI developments across the nation and is exploring how NIWR can best support member institutes in this rapidly evolving space. As of now, it focuses on understanding current AI and its infrastructure trends, assessing their relevance to water research and management, and identifying where NIWR can provide guidance, resources, or coordination to help institutes and Federal agency partners adapt effectively.
The Water-Energy-AI Development Committee is growing as national conversations, federal priorities, and institute needs continue to develop. We welcome additional participation, perspectives, and expertise from those interested in shaping NIWR’s role in the future of AI and water research.
Committee Purpose
The Water-Energy-AI Development Committee is guiding NIWR’s emerging strategy for integrating artificial intelligence into the Water Resources Research Act (WRRA) program and broader NIWR activities, such as the 2026 Annual NIWR Meeting. As discussions continue, the committee is focused on several goals to support AI growth and water research.
Goals:
- Policy Strategy: Reviewing national AI and its infrastructure developments and identifying potential policy actions for NIWR, including how AI may be incorporated into future WRRA research purposes.
- Funding Opportunities: Exploring options to increase NIWR’s WRRA budget request and assessment of new AI-focused programs within existing WRRA structures.
- USGS Collaboration: Working closely with USGS partners to understand mutual needs, leverage reciprocal support, and identify unmet research needs where AI and NIWR could contribute.
Current Initiatives
Review of NIWR’s AI Survey Results: Assessing institute needs, current cases, and emerging opportunities.
White Paper Development: Preparing a comprehensive white paper, with versions tailored for multiple audiences including institutes, federal partners, and policymakers.
Policy Analysis with VSA: Working with Van Scoyoc Associates to explore policy options and support potential AI-related research programs within the WRRA framework.
Ongoing Discussions & Resource Development: Continuing discussions from past NIWR meetings to develop strong resources for institutes and the public.
Committee Members
Interested in joining the Water-Energy-AI Development Committee?
Please email Yu-Feng Forrest Lin (yflin@ilnois.edu) to contribute.
| Name | Institute |
|---|---|
|
Yu-Feng Forrest Lin |
Illinois |
|
Sharon Megdal |
Arizona |
|
Linda Weavers |
Ohio |
|
Kendra Kaiser |
Idaho |
|
Frank Tsai |
Louisana |
|
Kevin McGuire |
Virginia |
|
Jonathan Duncan |
Pennsylvania |
|
Ryan Lefers |
South Dakota |
|
Gerald Kauffman |
Delaware |
|
Pouyan Nejadhashemi |
Michigan |
|
Timothy Randhir |
Massachusetts |
|
Stephanie Ewing |
Montana |
