Permanent Forum Of Binational Water
About Permanent Forum Of Binational Water
At the Permanent Forum of Binational Water, the work stays close to the real stuff, shared water, shared borders, and the practical choices communities have to make. Since 2019, it has used applied research, education, and science communication to support border communities and the organizations that serve them. For donors, the case is straightforward: this is an organization built to turn water science into something people can actually use. Its programs reach scientists, policymakers, businesses, universities, public utilities, and community members, which gives its work a rare breadth without losing the local focus.
What stands out here is the mix of research, bilingual education, science communication, and binational convening, all centered on shared water resources along the U.S.-Mexico border. It is built to bring different kinds of people into the same conversation, including through English-Spanish programming and accessible events.
Programs
The concrete work this nonprofit runs. Each program may later become a fundable project.
Applied research for public and private organizations
Designs, develops, and implements research projects to address specific water challenges at local or regional scale.
Education and training
Provides community education and organizational capacity-building, online or in person.
Science communication
Develops initiatives, podcasts, streams, and other media to make science accessible.
Certification programs for businesses
Promotes best water management practices at transboundary scale.
Research and consultancy services
Offers science-based advice on international waters, surface water, groundwater, ecosystems, and transboundary governance.
Water footprint assessment and certification
Assesses, reduces, and manages water footprint for businesses, organizations, and public agencies.
Binational Institute water courses
Provides bilingual water courses for individuals, universities, companies, and public utilities in Mexico and the United States.
Science Talks
Hosts research-focused talks with young professionals and researchers on water challenges and solutions, held once every other month.
Coffee Breaks
Runs bilingual, accessible discussions on water science and policy with experts from both sides of the border.
Transboundary Aquifers Pilot Program
Develops cooperation, knowledge, recommendations, communication strategies, and monitoring for the Allende-Piedras Negras transboundary aquifer.
Women in Water
Produces conversations and podcast content on women shaping water dialogue, cooperation, and decision-making across shared waters.
People, Water and Science working groups
Connects researchers, officials, and professionals in collaborative groups focused on shared water resources.
About this work
In their own words — what they do, who it reaches, and what your dollars actually fund.
Mission
To improve water and environmental resilience of border communities through scientific research, communication, and education.
Who they serve
Scientists, policymakers, businesses, public and private organizations, universities, public utilities, and border communities along the U.S.-Mexico border.
Their impact
- Hosted nearly 10 Science Talks since 2019
- Worked with around 30 scientists in Science Talks
- Hosted nearly 20 Coffee Break events
- Worked with nearly 50 speakers from both countries in Coffee Breaks
- Received $275,345 in donations, grants, and contracts over the past five years
How your donation helps
- Research projects on shared water resources
- Policy advocacy and collaboration with communities on both sides of the border
- Education programs and bilingual water courses
- Science Talks, Coffee Breaks, and other science communication initiatives
Our story
Founded in 2019, the Permanent Forum of Binational Waters began as a binational, multidisciplinary institution of scientists and experts working to improve water resiliency along the Mexico-U.S. border. Over time, it grew into a forum connecting research, education, communication, and collaborative projects on shared water resources.
In their words
These webinars are crucial to understanding the current challenges in water management, not only for experts but for the entire community. They are part of our Coffee Breaks initiatives, where we promote simple and accessible conversations that anyone can follow and participate in.
Events
Science Talks
Once every other monthResearch-focused talks featuring young professionals and researchers on water challenges and solutions.
Coffee Breaks
RecurringBilingual discussions that make water science and policy accessible to experts and community members.
Women in Water
RecurringPodcast and conversation series focused on women in water diplomacy and governance.
Webinars on interconnected surface waters and groundwater
November and December 2024Two webinars held with the International Association for Water Law on hydrologic realities and delusions in water regulation.
Public hearings on shared groundwater
April 9, 2024Public hearings on the Allende Piedras Negras–Maverick aquifer with community participation.
Ways to help
Concrete needs and volunteer roles Permanent Forum Of Binational Water has shared.
Current needs
- Funding to cover fixed expenses and essential program costs
- Sponsors for Science Talks and Coffee Breaks
- Support for research, education, and shared waters initiatives
Recognition & press
Awards & recognition
- 2024 Candid Platinum Seal of Transparency
- 2025 Candid Platinum Seal of Transparency
Press & mentions
Partners & funders
Frequently asked questions
Common questions about this nonprofit and how its work happens.
What kinds of services does Binational Waters provide?
It offers applied research, education and training, science communication, research and consultancy services, water footprint assessment and certification, and bilingual water courses.
Who participates in the Science Talks and Coffee Breaks?
These programs bring together researchers, young professionals, policymakers, business leaders, and community members from both sides of the border, with English-Spanish interpretation in the sessions described.
What is the Transboundary Aquifers Pilot Program?
It is a project focused on the Allende-Piedras Negras aquifer. It develops cooperation frameworks, scientific knowledge, recommendations, communication strategies, and monitoring for shared groundwater management.
Are the educational programs bilingual?
Yes. The programming is described as bilingual, and several events include English-Spanish interpretation.
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