NRE 558/CEE 587

3CR

Instructor - MIchael Murray

TTh 6:30pm-8pm

In this course, we will focus on the development of U.S. policies and management approaches addressing water resources. We will examine the historical development of water policies, including earlier efforts at water resources development (in particular in the Western U.S.), the development of laws and programs concerning water quality, groundwater, and water resource challenges in energy, agriculture, and growing urban areas, as well as water for environmental purposes. We will also explore issues in water resource economics, address climate change and water resources,
highlight key Great Lakes water quality and quantity issues, and consider other case studies/large watershed programs as well as integrated and adaptive management. There will be an emphasis on involvement of different (often contested) interests, as well as institutional challenges in water resource management throughout the course. While the emphasis will be on U.S. water policy, there will be opportunities to explore international issues, in particular through case study projects. The class format will be a mix of lectures (augmented with guest lecturers on selected topics),
small group discussions, and student presentations, including on current water resources topics and a group case study project at the end of the term. The course also serves as an approved elective for the Ford School’s Certificate in Science, Technology and Public Policy.