Water in the Western United States
Learn about water management, supply, and sustainability challenges in the American West's unique environment.
Learn about water management, supply, and sustainability challenges in the American West's unique environment.
This course explores the complex water issues in the Western United States, examining the intersection of hydrology, climate, policy, and culture. Students learn about water rights, infrastructure, environmental challenges, and future sustainability in the context of increasing scarcity and competing demands.
4.5
(24 ratings)
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What you'll learn
Understand water supply and demand dynamics in the Western US
Analyze historical and scientific aspects of water management
Identify major water sources and infrastructure systems
Evaluate climate change impacts on water resources
Explore water rights and policy frameworks
Assess environmental and cultural considerations
Skills you'll gain
This course includes:
5.8 Hours PreRecorded video
7 quizzes
Access on Mobile, Tablet, Desktop
FullTime access
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There are 5 modules in this course
This comprehensive course examines water management challenges in the Western United States, focusing on the complex interplay between natural resources, climate, policy, and human needs. The curriculum covers historical water development, current management practices, and future challenges. Students explore topics including water rights, infrastructure, climate change impacts, and sustainability through case studies, particularly the Colorado River Basin. The course emphasizes both scientific understanding and policy implications of water management in arid regions.
Course Introduction
Module 1 · 3 Hours to complete
History, Politics, and Culture of Water Development in the Western US
Module 2 · 2 Hours to complete
Hydrology, Water Demand, and Climate in the Western US
Module 3 · 5 Hours to complete
Case Study: The Colorado River Basin
Module 4 · 4 Hours to complete
Controversial Issues and the Future of Water in the Western US
Module 5 · 7 Hours to complete
Fee Structure
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Instructors
Leader in Science Education and Outreach
Anne Gold is a Senior Associate Scientist at the Cooperative Institute for Research in Environmental Sciences (CIRES) at the University of Colorado Boulder, where she also directs the CIRES Center for Education, Engagement, and Evaluation (CEEE). Her work centers on science education related to climate, water, polar regions, and geosciences, focusing on effective teaching and learning strategies. With a background as a climate scientist, Anne has conducted extensive fieldwork and mentored students while leading research experiences for undergraduates. She is dedicated to translating scientific knowledge into educational opportunities and emphasizes place-based education grounded in solid research. Anne has led numerous NSF, NOAA, and NASA-funded education projects and oversees a team of 24 professionals committed to creating meaningful educational experiences for diverse learners.
Environmental Science Educator and Former Managing Director of the Western Water Assessment
Eric Gordon is a seasoned professional with nearly 20 years of experience in environmental science, policy, and education. He served as the Managing Director of the Western Water Assessment from 2010 to 2015, a NOAA-supported program aimed at bridging climate science with water and natural resource management in the Intermountain West. His contributions include leading the Colorado Climate Change Vulnerability Study and publishing research on the impacts of climate change on watershed dynamics. Eric holds two Master's degrees from the University of Colorado Boulder—one in Environmental Studies and another in Ecology and Evolutionary Biology—as well as a Bachelor's degree in Communication from the University of Pennsylvania.Currently, Eric is a high school science teacher and also teaches "Introduction to Environmental Science" through the University of Colorado Denver. His course "Water in the Western United States," offered on Coursera, delves into critical issues surrounding water management in the context of climate change, making it relevant for both local and global audiences. Outside of his professional commitments, Eric enjoys outdoor activities like biking and skiing, reflecting his passion for the environment he teaches about
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4.5 course rating
24 ratings
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