The Mississippi River Basin is massive – it covers 40% of the contiguous U.S. and approximately two thirds of that area is farmland. Flooding and water quality are persistent issues across the basin, and experts predict they will only worsen with climate change and increasing intensity of agricultural production.

The two winning papers each represent outstanding research and dedication to environmental engineering and the impact of their research on the environment. While their subject matter differed drastically, the researchers both had a focus on water quality, and the dangers of contaminants in the home.