Two Cities, One Water Story with Dr. Berneece Herbert

A talk exploring water justice, water governance, access, and funding structures across Jackson and Detroit. Two Cities, One Water Story: Water Governance, Equity, and Community Resilience A conversation exploring water governance, access, and financing in Detroit and Jackson, and pathways toward more equitable, community-informed water systems. Join the University of Michigan School for Environment and Sustainability (SEAS) Detroit Sustainability Clinic for “Two Cities, One Water Story,” a talk by Dr. Berneece Herbert of Jackson State University and the Clinic’s Fall 2026 Urban Sustainability & Justice Faculty Fellow. Drawing on Detroit, Michigan, and Jackson, Mississippi—two majority-Black cities facing distinct but interconnected water challenges—Dr. Herbert will examine critical questions of water governance and equity: Who makes decisions about water? Who bears the costs? And whose voices shape the solutions? Through these two case studies, the talk will explore how governance, infrastructure investment, and community participation shape water access and resilience, highlighting opportunities for more just and community-informed approaches to urban water systems. Event Schedule: 6:00 PM | Refreshments and networking 6:30 - 8:00 PM | Lecture and Q&A with Dr. Berneece Herbert 📍 Location: Dana Building, Room 2315, 440 Church St, Ann Arbor, MI 48109 🚗 Parking: Metered street parking available nearby. The Maynard Parking Structure costs $1.65/hour. Limited free parking is available after 5 PM at the Hill Street Parking Structure. ♿ Accessibility: The venue is wheelchair accessible.