Erin Bjorklund
Climate change is predicted to decrease freshwater resources while water demands intensify, posing a variety of challenges in the western United States. Drought alone, heightens the supply and demand imbalance for freshwater, increasing the potential for local conflict. However, conflict is not the only plausible outcome; heightened water demands can also create space for cooperation. Although the potential for water conflict may be growing, preliminary studies on water cooperation and conflict tell a different story; internationally, instances of cooperation over shared water far outweigh instances of conflict. The western United States has faced a wide range of challenges as water demands rise and, in some places, overall available freshwater decreases. However, few studies have examined the prevalence of water cooperation or conflict in western states, including Montana. As the impacts of a multi-year drought continues to plague Montana citizens, a question arises: does drought and other water issues promote Montanans to respond with more cooperation or conflict over shared water resources? Therefore, my thesis research will reveal water conflict and cooperation trends in Montana to help water managers and decision-makers predict, monitor, and proactively manage future conflicts and promote cooperation.
Erin Bjorklund is a MSc student in the department of Earth Sciences at Montana State University with a focus in human geography and environmental social science. Erin’s primary research interests lie in the socio-environmental connection between freshwater resources and local communities. She is passionate about multi-disciplinary research and building community partners through local collaboration.
Degree Sought:
M.S. Earth Sciences
Advisor:
Dr. Sarah Church