Episode 404: Jess Kramer
Aug 05, 2026
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Summary:
In this episode of The Produce Moms Podcast, host Lori Taylor welcomes Jess Kramer, Assistant Administrator for the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s Office of Water, for an insightful conversation about one of agriculture’s most essential resources: water.
Growing up on a Christmas tree farm in rural Wisconsin, Jess brings both an agricultural perspective and extensive public policy experience to her leadership at EPA. Together, Lori and Jess discuss why America’s water infrastructure is often “out of sight, out of mind,” the importance of protecting drinking water and wastewater systems, and how reliable water resources are foundational to agriculture, food production, and healthy communities.
The conversation explores the challenges of aging infrastructure, workforce development, water reuse innovation, and the role of cooperative federalism in helping states manage their unique water resources. Jess also shares how EPA is partnering with communities, Tribal nations, and Alaska Native villages to improve access to safe drinking water and sanitation while supporting long-term environmental stewardship.
Whether you’re a grower, consumer, or simply someone who turns on the faucet every day without thinking twice, this episode provides an eye-opening look at the people, infrastructure, and partnerships working behind the scenes to protect America’s water.
Takeaways:
- America’s drinking water and wastewater infrastructure is aging and requires ongoing investment and modernization.
- Water system operators, engineers, and technical professionals play a critical role in protecting public health and supporting communities.
- Agriculture depends on clean, reliable water resources, making collaboration between farmers and water agencies essential.
- EPA is emphasizing cooperative federalism by empowering states to manage their unique water resources while protecting water quality.
- Modern technology, including pipeline inspections and digital monitoring, is improving infrastructure maintenance and reliability.
- Water reuse initiatives are helping communities and industries maximize every drop of water through innovative conservation practices.
- Rural communities, Tribal nations, and Alaska Native villages often face unique water infrastructure challenges that require targeted investments.
- EPA’s technical assistance programs help local water systems improve compliance, strengthen infrastructure, and protect public health.
- Supporting strong water infrastructure benefits agriculture, economic growth, and future generations.
Chapters:
00:00 – Welcome & Introducing Jess Kramer
01:30 – Jess’s Agricultural Roots & Journey to EPA Leadership
04:00 – America’s Aging Water Infrastructure Explained
08:00 – Careers & Workforce Opportunities in the Water Industry
13:00 – How Communities Monitor Water Systems & Infrastructure
16:00 – Why Water Matters to Agriculture & Food Production
20:00 – Cooperative Federalism & State Water Management
24:00 – Improving Water Access for Tribal Communities & Alaska Native Villages
29:00 – Water Reuse, Innovation & Sustainability
32:00 – Looking Ahead: Protecting America’s Water Future
Resources:
Website: U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) | https://www.epa.gov
Website: EPA Office of Water | https://www.epa.gov/water
Website: Water Reuse Action Plan | https://www.epa.gov/waterreuse
Facebook: U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Instagram: @epagov
