The Urban-Rural Systems Research Coordination Network, housed at Iowa State University, has received a $500,000 National Science Foundation grant from the Dynamics of Integrated Socio-Environmental Systems program to launch a five-year study. The study is led by Dr. Ulrike Passe and aims to investigate environmental and socio-economic challenges in the Mississippi River basin, focusing on urban sprawl, flooding, climate change, and disconnected systems. Researchers explore solutions for improving resilience, health, and sustainability in cities like Minneapolis, St. Louis, and Baton Rouge, with broader applications for urban-rural areas worldwide. Collaborative efforts aim to create transferable models for better land policies, infrastructure, and community health.