Historic droughts have had a wide-ranging effect on the U.S. West. But, as droughts persist, policy choices and harder – as do temptations to bend or avoid the rules. Anchor Brock Yordy rounds up some of these issues this week. It’s Driller Newscast episode 27.

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We’ve all seen video of flooding in Kentucky, Missouri and other U.S. states. Why can’t we move that water to states suffering from droughts? Can we solve the Western water crisis by building pipelines or canals from water-rich areas? Anchor Brock Yordy explores these issues and talks fire safety. It’s Driller Newscast episode 26.

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Solving water issues for low-income and rural citizens can prove both difficult and rewarding. That’s where the Water Well Trust comes in. The non-profit arm of the Water Systems Council works to coordinate low-cost financing for families to repair or install their home water well. On this episode, we talk to WSC Executive Director Margaret Martens.

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Many of the interstate agreements governing water use are decades old. What does that mean when we get into a drought situation the signers of those agreements couldn’t imagine? This week, anchor Brock Yordy looks at the Colorado River Compact, which went into effect a century ago. Now that the West is decades into the worst dry spell in 1,200 years, what about the Compact needs to change? It’s Driller Newscast, episode 24.

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The Driller attended the recent 2022 South Atlantic Jubilee, and this episode touches on some of our coverage. First up, we talk safety inspections with the NGWA’s Brian Snelton. Then we take to the show floor for a look some of the equipment. We wrap up with an interview with Water Systems Council legal adviser Jesse Richardson, who walks us through his big three water issues to keep an eye on.

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Drilling can be an insular industry, with companies reluctant to share tips, tricks and useful knowledge. So, what’s the benefit of sharing knowledge like that? This week, anchor Brock Yordy talks with former NGWA President Jeff Williams about spreading his wealth of know-how and his tips for hiring new drillers.

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Anchor Brock Yordy this week wraps up his talk with geothermal industry expert Garen Ewbank of Ewbank Geo Testing. Plus, in this week’s safety segment, we look at an alarming rise of trench fatalities in the United States.