Dr. Rister's research efforts with the Texas AgriLife Research and Texas Water Resources Institute are currently focused on the economics of water use, delivery systems, alternative sources (including desalination and conventional municipal water treatment) [principally in the Rio Grande Basin] and economics of watershed management involving identifying most economic efficient Best Management Practices for reducing nutrient and sediment inflows into reservoirs. He is also investigating the economics of two bioenergy feedstocks, algae and high-energy sorghum. Dr. Rister has teaching responsibilities in undergraduate rural entrepreneurship, with his senior-level two-course capstone sequence focused on students developing a comprehensive business plan for a rural business venture of their individual choosing. His Associate Head responsibilities encompass development activities and other assorted issues.