Jaya Hafner seeks to help working lands coexist with healthy watersheds
Jaya Hafner, who grew up in Fairfield, Iowa, is graduating this spring with a master’s in agroecology. In this Q&A, she talks about why she chose the agroecology masters program, her experience on the Agroecology Governance Committee, and her research on watershed health. She plans to continue working in water quality research and data analysis.
Why did you choose your major? What was the most interesting or the coolest thing you learned?
As a child growing up in rural Iowa, I spent almost every summer day in the water. My friends and I loved to play in nearby lakes to escape the muggy afternoons, but they would often close the lakes to swimming because of runoff from farms. The lake’s contamination sparked my interest in the impacts of agriculture on water quality, and my concern grew into a mission to help working lands coexist with healthy watersheds. I chose the agroecology master’s program with research in the biological systems engineering department so I could pursue a career in research that would help stakeholders make informed decisions to improve water quality and protect ecosystems.
What student organizations, groups, and other activities were you involved in?
I am a part of the Agroecology Governance Committee where I led the creation of a virtual “Agroecology Prospective Students Day”. It gives potential graduate students the opportunity to learn about the program, meet professors and current students, and get their questions answered before making graduate school decisions. I’ve also been able to contribute to decisions on new courses and policies. It has been wonderful getting to support such a great program.
What are your future academic and/or career plans, short-term and long-term?
I’m excited to continue working in water quality research, and data analysis to improve watershed health. I hope to join an organization where the questions we ask are guided by the needs of our stakeholders and where I can engage directly with communities.
What were the most valuable and/or meaningful experiences you had in CALS?
One highlight was touring farms across Wisconsin with my agroecology cohort early in the program. It was eye-opening to see the diversity of farming operations—from dairy cows to ice cream, seeds to flour—and to meet the farmers behind it all.
Another unforgettable experience was presenting my research at the Wisconsin Agricultural Water Resources Association annual conference. It was inspiring to connect with researchers from across the state and feel a strong sense of shared purpose and community in tackling water challenges. I left feeling energized to collaborate on water solutions.
When you think about your time here as a student, what are you proud of?
I’ve been really grateful for the opportunities I’ve had to support others—whether it’s through helping with our onboarding process for our lab, organizing group lab meetings, creating the prospective student event for agroecology, or helping to lead outreach activities with high schoolers. I’ve tried to be someone who shows up, pitches in, and creates space for others to feel supported. That’s something I’ve valued throughout my time here and hope to carry forward in whatever comes next.
Do you have any advice you’d like to share with CALS students?
Take the time to connect with people—students and faculty—across all corners of CALS. There are professors and students in this college working on all aspects of agriculture with different perspectives and expertise. Collaborate and get to know as many as you can both inside and outside of your department and research focus.
What do you like most about being a CALS student?
I love the range of interests other students and professors bring to the table. There’s always something new to learn just by talking with someone in the hallway or at a seminar. It’s a great environment for curiosity and collaboration.
If you had to eat one Babcock ice cream flavor for the rest of your life, what would it be and why?
Mocha Macchiato is my favorite! It was the first flavor I tried at Babcock when I visited UW–Madison as a prospective student.
What’s your favorite thing about the city of Madison?
I love the lakes! I love kayaking, biking around them, ice cream floats on Lake Wingra, spotting birds at Picnic Point, and listening to live music by the water.
The sense of community. There’s always something happening—farmers markets, outdoor concerts, parades, festivals, night markets, group bike rides. So many people come together to celebrate, and it makes Madison feel very special and welcoming.