In this episode of Conservation Stories, host Tillery Timmons-Sims sits down with agricultural legend Jane Dever to explore her remarkable journey from a small West Texas cotton farm to leading agricultural research in South Carolina. Jane shares her family’s deep immigrant roots, the legacy of her grandfather’s 160-acre farm, and the powerful story of how her parents opened their home to foster and refugee children. She reflects on decades in the cotton industry—from improving West Texas fiber quality through public breeding programs to working with FiberMax and championing underserved growers. Their conversation also explores agricultural transitions, from hemp fiber’s challenges to innovative uses of indigo, and the importance of connecting end buyers with producers. Now directing Clemson University’s Pee Dee Research and Education Center, Jane discusses managing diverse research programs, adapting to new crops, promoting pollinator habitats, and seeing conservation in action through wildlife and habitat health. This episode blends history, science, and heart—showcasing how stewardship, innovation, and community shape the future of agriculture.

More about our guests:

Jane Dever, Professor and Director, Clemson University Pee Dee Research and Education Center

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Conservation Stories is presented by The Sandhills Area Research Association (SARA). Subscribe now to hear all the interviews.

Upcoming Episodes Include:
• Leah Duzy, Principal Consultant, Compliance Services International
• Todd Baughman Center Director Texas A&M AgriLife Research & Extension Center
• Joe Martinez, CEO, Cierto, H2A H2B TN Visa Recruiter

In this thought-provoking episode of Conservation Stories, host Tillery Timmons-Sims welcomes hydrologist and University of Texas researcher Dr. Bridget Scanlon, whose global perspective and deep technical insight offer a compelling look at water’s future in West Texas and beyond. Originally from southwest Ireland and now based in Austin, Dr. Scanlon shares her journey from farming roots to cutting-edge research in groundwater recharge, produced water reuse, and climate-smart resource management.

The episode dives into challenges and innovations around water quantity, quality, and treatment—especially as they relate to agriculture and energy production in the Permian Basin. From reusing produced water to recharge aquifers, to expanding local horticulture models like Leighton’s sustainable strawberry farm, Dr. Scanlon and Tillery discuss practical solutions that balance environmental stewardship, economic realities, and community resilience.

With refreshing candor, the conversation also highlights the disconnect between federal programs and local needs, the growing awareness of aquifer depletion, and the importance of farmer voices in policy discussions. This episode serves as both a cautionary tale and a hopeful roadmap for sustainable water use across rural America.

More about our guests:

Bridget Scanlon Research Professor University of Texas at Austin

Contact Bridget

Water Resources Podcast

For more information about SARA, please visit sara-conservation.com

Support the Conservation Stories Podcast

Follow SARA for more updates • Instagram • Facebook • LinkedIn • X/Twitter

Conservation Stories is presented by The Sandhills Area Research Association (SARA). Subscribe now to hear all the interviews.

Upcoming Episodes Include:
• Jane Dever, Professor and Director, Clemson University Pee Dee Research and Education Center
• Leah Duzy, Principal Consultant, Compliance Services International
• Todd Baughman Center Director Texas A&M AgriLife Research & Extension Center

Upcoming Produced Water Society Event: 10th Annual Permian Basin Conference & Exhibition

Dates: August 11–13, 2025
Location: Bush Convention Center, Midland, Texas
Details: Industry leaders gather to discuss produced water management.
Register: Register Here

More About Our Guest

Michael Grossman
Moderator for Panel 5A ("Treat, Discharge, Recharge: Mitigating Risks and Maximizing Benefits of Surface Discharge") at the Produced Water Society’s 35th Annual Conference. He represents Aquafortus Technologies.
LinkedIn: Michael Grossman LinkedIn

The Produced Water Society (PWS) is a 501(c)(3) educational non-profit comprised of oil and gas water professionals focused on improving produced water management through events, workshops, and community.
Website: Produced Water Society Website

Social Media & Online Presence

Follow PWS on: LinkedIn | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram

For more information about SARA, please visit sara-conservation.com

Support the Conservation Stories Podcast

Follow SARA for more updates • Instagram • Facebook • LinkedIn • X/Twitter

Conservation Stories is presented by The Sandhills Area Research Association (SARA). Subscribe now to hear all the interviews.