AGP Executive Report

Energy & Climate Tech: Engineers are testing “stimulated geologic hydrogen,” using high-voltage pulses to fracture iron-rich rock, inject water, and generate hydrogen on demand—an ARPA-E–backed pivot that could bypass the hunt for rare natural deposits. Water Monitoring: The Winnisquam Watershed Network released two solar-powered, sensor-equipped buoys on Lake Winnisquam to track water quality, bacteria linked to harmful algal blooms, and conditions for safer swimming. Renewables in Practice: UNH and Cornell’s Shoals Marine Laboratory on Appledore Island is showcasing a renewable microgrid (solar plus wind) that powers research and daily operations off-grid. STEM Education & Community Science: Squam Lakes Natural Science Center’s Nature for Everyone Barn Bash raised $165K+ for outdoor nature-based education. Local STEM in Schools: Hanover middle school teacher Derek Butler was named New Hampshire history teacher of the year. Health Science (NH-relevant): A national map highlights where childhood tooth decay is worst, with New Hampshire among the higher-cost states for public college tuition and fees.

Hydrogen From Rock: Engineers are testing “stimulated geologic hydrogen,” using high-voltage pulses to fracture iron-rich rock, inject water, and generate clean hydrogen on demand—an ARPA-E/industry push that could bypass rare natural deposits. Energy & Solar Access: New Hampshire’s “balcony”/plug-in solar momentum continues as a Massachusetts homeowner reports big savings after switching to a small outlet-connected system, while a separate NH story highlights a green microgrid at Appledore Island for renewable-powered research. Water Monitoring in NH: The Winnisquam Watershed Network released two solar-powered buoys to track water quality, bacteria linked to harmful algal blooms, and changing currents—built with sensors and designed for proactive recreation safety. STEM in the Classroom: Hanover’s Derek Butler was named New Hampshire history teacher of the year, and UNH/Cornell’s Shoals Marine Lab marks its 60th year with sustainability-focused operations. Local Science Funding: Squam Lakes Natural Science Center’s Nature for Everyone Barn Bash raised $165K+ for outdoor education. Health Tech & Policy: FDA/CDC inspections continue in the Taylor Farms cyclosporiasis outbreak, with NH among affected states. Education Tech Oversight: New Hampshire’s Screen Time Task Force is back in the spotlight as classroom tech use gets scrutinized.

Water Quality Tech in NH: The Winnisquam Watershed Network released two solar-powered water-monitoring buoys on Lake Winnisquam to track currents and bacteria linked to harmful algal blooms, with sensors for algae indicators, temperature, turbidity, and dissolved oxygen. Clean Energy on the Coast: UNH and Cornell’s Shoals Marine Laboratory is showcasing a renewable-energy microgrid on Appledore Island, using solar and wind plus sustainable operations like composting and rainwater collection. STEM Education Funding: Squam Lakes Natural Science Center’s Nature for Everyone Barn Bash raised $165K+ for outdoor science education tied to its 60th anniversary. Defense Tech & Materials: DARPA selected BAE Systems to continue a project tackling heat removal in next-gen GaN radio-frequency electronics, aiming to boost performance and reliability. Public Health Watch: FDA and CDC began onsite inspections at Taylor Farms’ Mexican plant after a cyclosporiasis outbreak tied to iceberg lettuce spread to 17 states, including New Hampshire. Local Science & Nature: A native-plant guide highlights NH-friendly species for different light and moisture conditions. Weather Outlook: The Old Farmer’s Almanac predicts a colder, wetter-than-normal fall for New Hampshire.

School Tech Policy: New Hampshire’s new School Screen Time Task Force is taking a close look at how digital tech is used in classrooms after the state’s cellphone ban took effect in 2025-26, with recommendations aimed at learning and student well-being. Water Monitoring & Health: The Winnisquam Watershed Network released two solar-powered buoys on Lake Winnisquam to track water quality and bacteria linked to harmful algal blooms, partnering with a Woods Hole-affiliated science team. Energy & Microgrids: Appledore Island’s Shoals Marine Laboratory is showcasing a renewable-energy microgrid—solar plus wind—powered off-grid to support ongoing coastal research. Food Safety: FDA and CDC began inspections at Taylor Farms de Mexico in a widening cyclosporiasis outbreak tied to recalled iceberg lettuce, with New Hampshire among affected states. Local STEM Education/Community Science: Squam Lakes Natural Science Center’s Nature for Everyone Barn Bash raised $165K+ to support outdoor nature education tied to its 60th anniversary. Solar Policy Watch: A new “balcony solar” law starting in 2027 lets homeowners install plug-in panels, but experts warn DIY buyers to verify safety and compliance. Defense Engineering Training: New England Air National Guard civil engineers trained for GPS-denied land navigation and base defense during Patriot Forge II, building expeditionary readiness.

Renewables & Coastal Research: Appledore Island’s Shoals Marine Laboratory is showcasing a renewable, off-grid green microgrid—solar, wind, and sustainable operations—to preview what NH’s energy future could look like. Water Quality Monitoring: The Winnisquam Watershed Network released two solar-powered water-monitoring buoys on Lake Winnisquam to track currents and bacteria linked to harmful algal blooms. Public Health & Food Safety: FDA and CDC began onsite inspections at Taylor Farms’ Mexican plant tied to a cyclosporiasis outbreak now reported in 17 states, including New Hampshire. STEM in the Field (Defense Engineering): About 200 Air National Guard civil engineers from four New England states trained at Fort Devens in GPS-denied land navigation and base defense as part of Patriot Forge II. Science Education Fundraising: Squam Lakes Natural Science Center’s sold-out “Nature for Everyone Barn Bash” raised $165K+ for outdoor nature-based learning tied to its 60th anniversary. Policy & Tech in Schools: New Hampshire’s School Screen Time Task Force is looking beyond the successful cellphone ban to assess how other classroom tech affects learning and well-being. Energy Policy for Homeowners: A new NH law will let people install “balcony solar” panels in 2027, but experts warn DIY users to understand safety and limits before plugging in.

Solar Policy: New Hampshire is moving toward 2027 “balcony” plug-in solar panels, with experts warning it’s not truly plug-and-play and homeowners still need to vet safety and product listings. PFAS Cleanup Tech: 374Water and Arcadis scored a U.S. Defense Innovation Unit Success Memo for AirSCWO, a step toward scaling PFAS destruction infrastructure. Classroom Tech Rules: After NH’s bell-to-bell cellphone ban, the state’s School Screen Time Task Force is now scrutinizing how students use other devices and classroom software. Smart Transportation: Manchester installed AI-enabled traffic-signal tech at 22 intersections, using sensors to adjust timing in real time with federal SMART grant support. Coastal Ecology: Researchers say warming waters are shifting New Hampshire’s marsh life, with blue crabs and other newcomers challenging the lobster’s dominance. Drone Manufacturing: ePropelled is expanding U.S. drone propulsion production with $60M in government funding, aiming to boost capacity for uncrewed systems. Health AI Oversight: The American Hospital Association weighs in on FDA plans for regulating non-device software and AI in healthcare. Research Funding: Dartmouth’s Guarini School announced fully funded graduate scholarships for 2026-27, including stipends and relocation support.

Smart Transportation Tech: Manchester is rolling out real-time traffic-signal optimization at 22 busy intersections using AI sensors, funded by a $2M U.S. DOT SMART grant. Classroom Tech Oversight: New Hampshire’s “School Screen Time Task Force” is reviewing how students use devices beyond the new bell-to-bell cellphone ban, aiming for practical recommendations for the coming school year. AI in Mental Health: Dartmouth researchers are testing Therabot, a generative-AI chatbot designed to support therapy sessions, with published clinical results. Drone Propulsion Manufacturing: ePropelled says it’s expanding its U.S. production footprint with $60M in federal support to scale advanced propulsion for uncrewed systems. PFAS Destruction Validation: 374Water and Arcadis received a Defense Innovation Unit “Success Memo” tied to AirSCWO™ PFAS destruction, clearing a path toward follow-on production awards. Radar Range Boost Research: A DARPA program targeting heat removal in gallium nitride electronics aims to nearly triple radar range. Local Data-Privacy Fight: Flock Safety’s automated license plate cameras face renewed scrutiny as New Hampshire-area towns debate contracts and privacy rules. STEM Community Events: Londonderry and Pelham are hosting hands-on STEM and tech-help sessions, while the Loon Center continues weekly nature talks on loon research.

UNH Oversight Push: A bipartisan group of New Hampshire state senators is asking for an independent performance audit of the University System of New Hampshire, citing rising costs, falling enrollment, and concerns about how money is spent—especially around proposed administrative consolidation. Energy Tech & Policy: New Hampshire’s move to legalize plug-in “balcony” solar is drawing DIY questions, with residents worried that future certification rules could force them into pricier approved kits. Radar Range Upgrade: A Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency program is backing heat-removal advances for gallium nitride radar electronics, aiming to nearly triple radar range by improving thermal limits. Local STEM & Community: Bedford Academy was recognized by the state Senate for FIRST LEGO League work, while Londonderry is offering hands-on STEM activities and tech help sessions. Environment & Public Health: Surry Mountain Lake Beach is reopening after water testing showed fecal bacteria levels returned to safe swimming standards. Coastal Ecology: New Hampshire researchers are tracking how climate change is reshaping Great Bay marsh life, including the northward spread of new crustaceans.

Higher Ed Accountability: New Hampshire lawmakers are asking for an independent performance audit of the University System of New Hampshire as enrollment drops and costs rise, including a look at staffing and proposed UNH consolidation plans. AI in Rural Care: Health leaders say AI “avatars” and AI nurses could expand rural access, but critics warn there’s still limited proof of better outcomes and unclear tracking of results. DIY Solar Rules: New Hampshire’s move to legalize plug-in “balcony” solar has DIY users worried that future certification requirements could force them into pricier approved kits. Coastal Science & Health: Surry Mountain Lake Beach is reopening after water testing showed fecal bacteria levels returned to safe swimming standards. Climate-Driven Wildlife Shifts: Researchers say warming waters are changing New Hampshire’s marsh ecosystems, with blue crabs and other newcomers challenging the lobster’s dominance. Local STEM/Tech in Industry: ePropelled is expanding electric drone propulsion manufacturing with $60M in U.S. government support, aiming to scale motors, controllers, and full propulsion systems. Defense Manufacturing: Lockheed Martin is teaming with Albany Engineered Composites to scale hypersonic weapons production. Space & Skywatching: NASA highlights Aug. 12 as a big stargazing day with a partial solar eclipse and the Perseids peaking under a new moon.

Data Centers & Power Grid: Texas’ new pause on data center grid interconnection could delay about 20% of the US data center pipeline, with Bloomberg NEF warning of billions in potential costs if the audit drags on. Right-to-Know in Local Government: In Laconia, city leaders and volunteers got public records law training after councilors were criticized for improper appointment communications. AI in Healthcare (Rural): A KFF Health News review says states plan to spend a big rural health AI fund, but the peer-reviewed base for patient-outcome benefits is thin, with stronger support for paperwork-focused tools than for direct care. AI Literacy & Safety: A guide on spotting AI-generated video highlights how realistic fakes are getting—and why verification matters before sharing. New Hampshire Science & Environment: UNH-linked researchers and partners are tracking climate-driven shifts in New Hampshire’s coastal crustaceans, including more blue crabs and other newcomers in warming waters. Public Health: NH doctors reiterate measles protection and the importance of MMR as cases rise nationally. STEM Education & Policy: The Trump administration is expanding state flexibility for federal education funds via waivers, affecting how districts can use money.

Drone Manufacturing Boost: ePropelled says it will expand its Laconia, NH facility from 20,000 to 80,000 square feet, supported by $60 million in U.S. government funding, aiming to more than quadruple propulsion output for uncrewed systems. Public Health & Food Safety: CDC-linked salmonella concerns are rising after a jalapeño outbreak tied to Mexico-grown peppers expanded to more states, while the broader lettuce-linked cyclosporiasis situation continues to spread. STEM in the Field: Mount Washington Observatory researchers captured multiple lightning strikes in a single photo as thunderstorms moved through northern New England. Space Science for NH: Multiple outlets break down how to safely watch the Aug. 12 partial solar eclipse across New England, plus the Perseids peak timing. Health Access in NH: A new report highlights growing “maternity deserts” and calls for stronger insurer oversight and clearer cost information for women’s care in rural New Hampshire. Internet Infrastructure: HighSpeedInternet.com ranks New Hampshire among the fastest states for median download speeds, citing year-over-year gains. Community Tech & Safety: New Hampshire Silver Jackets unveiled flood warning signs at Conway recreation sites to help visitors prepare for flash flooding.

Defense Manufacturing: ePropelled says $60M in U.S. DoD funding will quadruple its production space for advanced electric propulsion systems, aiming to boost U.S.-made drone and dual-use supply. Public Health & Food Safety: Sysco is shifting iceberg lettuce sourcing away from Mexico as cyclosporiasis cases spread, with FDA tracing pointing to shredded lettuce from Taylor Farms while lab confirmations remain pending. Healthcare Tech Debate: Rural health leaders are leaning into AI “nurses” and “avatars,” but critics warn outcomes tracking is unclear and patient access gains may be overstated. NH Education & Training: UNH’s College of Professional Studies launches new 90-credit, three-year applied bachelor’s options in management and computer information technology, touting up to $10K tuition savings. NH Hunger Data: Feeding America reports child food insecurity in New Hampshire rose from 36,160 (2023) to 38,430 (2024), with Coös County hardest hit. STEM Outreach: Hampton Beach Children’s Festival returns with free STEM activities and family programming Aug. 17–21. Climate & Weather: NOAA reports July 2026 was the hottest month ever recorded across the contiguous U.S., underscoring intensifying heat trends.

NIH Antibiotics Push: Sen. Maggie Hassan (NH) and Sen. Roger Marshall (KS) introduced the Stop Superbugs Act to speed clinical trials for new antibiotics by directing NIH to help run a dedicated research network. Rural Health Research: Dartmouth Health won an $11.8M federal grant to build a Center for Aging with Serious Illness, aiming to improve care for older adults in rural communities. Solar Industry Win: ReVision Energy, an employee-owned NH/Maine solar installer, topped Solar Power World’s 2026 Top Solar Installers rankings for Maine and New Hampshire. Climate & Heat: NOAA reported July 2026 as the hottest month ever recorded in the contiguous U.S., underscoring how warming intensifies heat extremes. Digital IDs: A guide explains how to add state driver’s licenses and passports to phone wallets where supported. Invasive Species Watch: Spotted lanternfly was reported hitchhiking into the region, threatening vineyards. Local Environment Planning: Lebanon is seeking $15.3M to extend its landfill life by 19 years, with DES comments due soon. Community Science: Brooks Memorial Library announced nature programs on grassland birds and red wolves.

NIH-Funded Aging Research: Dartmouth Health won an $11.8M federal grant to build a Center for Aging with Serious Illness, aiming to improve care for older adults in rural communities. Public Health & Food Safety: The Cyclospora outbreak tied to iceberg lettuce continues to expand, with cases now reported across dozens of states and thousands of illnesses under investigation. Wildlife & Ocean Protection: A New Hampshire man captured whale feeding off the Massachusetts coast, alongside reminders to keep distance and follow marine viewing rules. Local STEM in Action: UNH and partners are supporting STEM tutoring for middle schools, while a Rochester farm spotlight highlights soil microbiology and no-till methods. Energy Tech Watch: A first-of-its-kind small nuclear plant backed by major investors is framed as a potential model for faster, smaller reactors. Health Systems Quality: MaineHealth Waldo Hospital earned an American Heart Association stroke-care award for guideline-based treatment. Policy & Education: The federal government is granting more states flexibility to consolidate education funds and waive certain requirements. Infrastructure Deadline: Lebanon is seeking approval to extend its landfill life with a $15.3M expansion plan.

NIH-funded aging research in NH: Dartmouth Health won an $11.8M NIGMS grant to build a Center for Aging with Serious Illness, aiming to improve care for older adults living with complex conditions, with Geisel School of Medicine adding $2.7M. Public health: The Cyclospora outbreak tied to iceberg lettuce keeps expanding, with cases now reported in 15 states and thousands of illnesses under investigation, including NH. Local environment & infrastructure: Lebanon is seeking state approval to expand its landfill “phase 3,” a $15.3M project that would extend capacity by 19 years. STEM education & policy: The U.S. Education Department is granting more states flexibility to consolidate federal education funds, including South Dakota, as part of a broader push to shift control to states. Health care quality: MaineHealth Waldo Hospital earned an American Heart Association stroke-care award for meeting guideline-based treatment standards. Tech & society: A survey finds more consumers are turning to AI tools for financial advice, challenging banks’ push toward “personalized” service. Sports tech-adjacent: UNH runner Gabby DeAngelis will represent Team USA at the 2026 World Skyrunning Championships in Spain.

Nuclear Power Watch: A first-of-its-kind small nuclear plant, TerraPower’s “Natrium,” is taking shape in Wyoming with $2B in taxpayer support and a goal to start generating power within four years—part of a push to speed up reactor builds for a grid that’s increasingly tied to data centers. Public Health: The Cyclospora outbreak linked to iceberg lettuce keeps widening, now tied to 15 states and more than 25,000 illnesses, with New Hampshire among the affected areas—another reminder that food safety and fast tracking matter. Waste & Environment: Lebanon is seeking $15.3M to expand its landfill (“phase 3”), extending service life by 19 years as it races to get state approval before capacity runs out. Energy & Grid: Regulators and utilities continue shaping the regional energy future, including ISO-NE transmission work that would increase capacity between Maine and New Hampshire. Tech & Privacy: AI note-taking apps are under scrutiny for user privacy concerns, adding pressure on how software handles personal data. STEM Community: UNH is using a $10M grant to bring STEM tutors into more New Hampshire middle schools. Local Science & Nature: Researchers are studying New Hampshire backyard wildlife preferences, while invasive jumping worms are showing up statewide and threatening soil health.