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Training the next generation of food and water system professionals
Why PREE H2O?
Why PREE H2O?
El Paso, TX-Juárez, MX-Las Cruces, NM are located in the Chihuahuan Desert where the availability of natural resources, such as water and soil, must be balanced with the demands of a growing human population and urbanization.
The PREE H2O Program aims to educate students about food-water system issues and create opportunities to implement water conservation solutions for agricultural and urban users, develop new technologies for water treatment, and establish foodways that prioritize local, community-driven food initiatives.
Importance of Food-Water Systems in Our Region
Importance of Food-Water Systems in Our Region
Water is scarce. Yet, agriculture uses ~80% of water and urban outdoor watering uses 10%.
Agriculture is a vital part of our economy and society, occupying over 105,000+ acres and contributing $420 million in sales.
Most of the food crops grown in our region are exported. However, community-based food systems are growing to meet the demand for locally grown, nutritious foods.
20-25% of children living in our region experience food insecurity at some point during the year.
What is PREE H2O?
What is PREE H2O?
The PREE H2O Program is a collaborative effort between The University of Texas at El Paso (UTEP) and El Paso Community College (EPCC) to provide internships to 100 undergraduate students over a five-year period.
The program consists of a Spring Professional Development workshop series (15 weeks x 5 hrs/wk; $600 stipend) and a Summer Internship (10 weeks x 20 hrs/wk; $1,600 stipend).
Program Goals
Program Goals
Students will be encouraged to seek rewarding careers in research, extension, and education professions related to water and agricultural systems.
Students will acquire a transdisciplinary and transborder understanding of the interconnected issues that impact the sustainability of water and agriculture in the region.
Potential Internship Sites
Potential Internship Sites
Blessed to Be a Blessing Farm (New! 2026)
DigDeep (New! 2026)
El Paso County Healthy Food Finance Initiative (New! 2026)
Insights El Paso (2023-2024)
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Google Sites
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