Research Assistantship with the Bill Lane Center: Understanding water disputes in California's Central Coast

Overview

Like much of California, the Central Coast of California has a long history of disputes between stakeholders with competing claims over limited water resources. However, unlike many parts of the state that depend upon imported water, the Central Coast is largely reliant on local surface and groundwater sources, which sharpens the disputes within the region. In recent years, the Central Coast has also experienced significant population growth and changes in patterns of urban and agricultural land use. On top of all of this, climate change is increasing the severity and frequency of droughts, further exacerbating these challenges. While working together to solve problems regionally would seem to offer benefits, conflicts between local actors are still prevalent.

This research assistant role will support the launch of an on-going research project focused on the history and current shape of water disputes in the Central Coast, with a particular focus on Monterey County. A key priority during Summer 2022 will be on understanding the current interests of cities, agricultural actors, environmentalists and other stakeholders in Monterey County, and how these have evolved over time. The research assistant will also produce a review of existing literature focused on water disputes in the South Coast region to inform the direction of this research project.

This project will be advised by Carol McKibben, PhD, BLC affiliate and lecturer in Urban Studies.

Key areas of contribution

• Conduct a literature review and produce a summary of existing literature on water disputes in the Central Coast region, with a particular focus on Monterey County
• Compile documentation about the specific interests of key stakeholders in water disputes in Monterey County
• Assist in organizing and conducting interviews with key informants to understand stakeholder perspectives

Qualifications

• Interest in environmental governance and/or history
• Familiarity with water issues in California preferred
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Strong attention to detail
• Ability to carry out tasks independently