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KOSU hired Graycen Wheeler as the station’s first reporter covering water issues in 2022. She hasn’t stopped covering major environmental issues and the lighter side of water since. Here are five of her favorite stories from 2024.
Oklahoma City pulls water from Canton Lake to replenish Lake Hefner
In October, KOSU explored Oklahoma City officials’ decision to draw water from Canton Lake to restore Lake Hefner’s dwindling levels. The move underscored the delicate balance of water resource management in a drought-prone state and left many Canton residents frustrated with the prioritization of urban water needs.
Thousands flock to Pauls Valley for the Okie Noodling Tournament
Oklahoma’s unique noodling tradition drew thousands to Pauls Valley in June for the annual Okie Noodling Tournament. Wheeler captured the event’s lively atmosphere and its cultural significance.
A contentious groundwater metering bill almost becomes a law
Oklahoma doesn’t require farmers and ranchers to meter how much groundwater they pull from wells. This year, KOSU followed as lawmakers considered a bill to change that. Despite longstanding concerns about what metering could mean for Oklahoma producers, the bill gained legislative traction and surprising public support, eventually passing both chambers. But Gov. Kevin Stitt vetoed the bill, calling it “government overreach at its finest.”
Lawton officials scramble to address East Cache Creek issues amid growing concerns
In June, KOSU covered the mounting frustration in Lawton as residents grappled with deteriorating water quality from East Cache Creek. The story explored the human impact of aging wastewater infrastructure and the challenges in getting it updated.
Southeast Oklahomans push back against Kiamichi River hydropower project
In September, KOSU reported on the contentious fight against a proposed hydropower project on the Kiamichi River. Local residents, tribal officials and environmental groups voiced concerns about the project’s potential impact on the river and the people who live nearby. “We’re ready for the fight,” Choctaw Nation Chief Gary Batton told Wheeler.
